US small business optimism deteriorates amid Covid-19

Small business sentiment in the US deteriorated in July as coronavirus cases rose, according to the latest survey from the National Federation of Independent Business.

The small business optimism index fell to 98.8 from 100.6 in June, missing expectations for a reading of 105.9.

NFIB chief economist Bill Dunkelberg said: "This summer has been challenging for many small business owners who are working hard to keep their doors open and remain in business."