11:37 AM EDT, 07/08/2025 (MT Newswires) -- The National Federation of Independent Business' monthly sentiment index declined slightly to 98.6 in June from 98.8 in May, with declines in four of the 10 components, compared with four gains and two unchanged readings.

The largest decrease was seen in the current inventory level, while the largest increase was seen in the earnings trend reading.

"Small business optimism remained steady in June while uncertainty fell," said NFIB Chief Economist Bill Dunkelberg. "Taxes remain the top issue on Main Street, but many others are still concerned about labor quality and high labor costs."

Redbook reported that US same-store retail sales were up 5.9% year-over-year in the week ended July 5, faster than a 4.9% gain in the prior week due to warmer temperatures and Independence Day promotional discounts which increased demand for summer merchandise.

The New York Fed's inflation expectations survey for June showed a decrease in growth estimate in the one-year period, but no change in growth estimates for the three-year and five-year periods.

Commodity price growth expectations rose for gas, medical care, college education, rent and gold but remained unchanged for food.