A new study by Goldman Sachs has revealed that 75% of small businesses are optimistic about their finances in 2024, despite concerns about inflation and capital access. Despite these concerns, 62% of small business owners expect profits to increase this year, and 57% expect to create jobs. The economy is rated as good or excellent by 28%, a 9% increase from three months ago. The study also highlights concerns about accessing affordable capital, such as business loans and lines of credit. If access to capital tightens further, 86% of small businesses believe it will impact their growth forecast. Businesses may be forced to take actions such as halting expansion plans, layoffs, ending strategic investments, and closing their businesses. Only 32% of small business owners believe they can afford to take out a loan, and 79% of those who applied for a loan found it difficult to access affordable capital.