Newtek Business Services, Inc., The Small Business Authority, announced today the release of the SB Authority Index of small business indicators forJuly 2014 which reached 128.72 points.  Approved SBA lending volumes, the Russell Microcap Index, and Newtek Merchant Processing volume led the increase. The SB Authority Index is up 0.70% from June 2014.  On a year-over-year comparison, the SB Authority Index is up 6.98%.

Barry Sloane, Chairman, President and CEO of The Small Business Authority commented, "The small business economy seems to be picking up a little bit of steam, despite a lack of robust growth in new employment hires. The low interest rate environment continues to make the financing market for equity and debt fertile, as well as encourages consumers to spend instead of save."