Business pulse beats faster - sort of

The SunTrust Banks Business Pulse Survey is the latest example of a rebounding economy.

To wit: More than four of 10 small businesses with annual revenues of $2 million to $10 million plan to introduce a new product or service, up from 31% in 2015, the survey reports. At least one-third, 36%, of middle market companies with annual revenues of $10 million to $150 million are exploring mergers and acquisitions, up from 25% last year. And 80% of survey respondents say their businesses are strong and they are confident about their company's finances.

Another shift: Nearly three of 10 middle market companies, 29%, want to expand into international markets, while 32% of small businesses seek to grow their business domestically.