Confidence among small businesses has soared to its highest level in three years, a new report has revealed.
According to the Federation of Small Business (FSB), optimism is up across all parts of the UK and in most sectors.
Its Small Business Index reached 15.9 points in the second quarter, a rise of 9.6 points on the figure recorded at the start of the year and the second highest reading since the Index was launched in 2010.
The highest confidence levels were reported by financial services firms, which is probably a reflection of the recent peak in the FTSE100.
And despite recent contractions in the manufacturing sector, small manufacturers are feeling more positive about their prospects.
The report also found that more companies expect a rise in turnover over the next three months, while a large number of respondents are planning to increase staffing levels over the coming months.
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