Newtek Business Services, Inc., The Small Business Authority, announced today the release of the SB Authority Index of small business indicators for June 2014 which reached 127.83 points.  The Russell Microcap Index, approved SBA lending volumes and new business formations led the increase. The SB Authority Index is up 0.32% from May 2014.  On a year-over-year comparison, the SB Authority Index is up 7.07%.

Barry Sloane, Chairman, President and CEO of The Small Business Authority® commented, "The small business economy continues to mirror the overall trends seen in the U.S. economy. We are still experiencing a jobless recovery where most growth is driven by higher stock prices and an increased need for banks to lend money. We finally are seeing a small lift in new business formations. If and when hiring activity starts to increase, we would foresee a more robust small business economy, which would be great for all of our independent business owners and operators."