Newtek Business Services, Inc., The Small Business Authority, announced the release of the SB Authority Index of small business indicators for September 2012 reaching 113.98 points. The SB Authority index is up .44% from August 2012.  Newtek proprietary's merchant processing volume, retail sales and the Russell Microcap Index data led the increase.

President and CEO, Barry Sloane said, "The September economic data continues to point towards steady but slow growth in the economy across the nation.  Clearly an increase in equity prices as generated from the Russell Microcap Index and increases in spending primarily from the consumer are propelling the economy forward.  We are very concerned about the fourth quarter results as the effects of Hurricane Sandy will dampen any momentum that the economy currently has."