Granted, the headlines are not pretty. Our government seems committed to making the greatest number of mistakes possible. But I am here to tell you that underneath all of that, small businesses are really making things happen! That is a VERY good thing.
At J. Eggers & Associates, we are busier than we ever have been, and since most of my loans are to small businesses, this is a positive for the economy. Many of the CDC's I know are also having very good years (CDC's are companies that administer the seconds on SBA 504 loans). If the SBA is busy, then again, small businesses are working. There is almost a mini-boom happening in franchising right now. It seems like every franchise out there is very busy which again, means new businesses are starting. This means jobs are being created. I am seeing another big trend-a lot of boomers are quitting corporate America for good, cashing out or rolling over their IRA's and, starting their own businesses. Now financial planners may cringe at that point, but the owners I speak to are putting it this way, "These large companies I have invested in don't seem to be very "with it" and with so many risks, I feel better controlling my own destiny".
I say all of this not to debate investment strategy but, to share what I am seeing in the front lines, in the trenches of this economic battle. There are warriors out there, small business men and, women and they are cautious but, they are determined and they are not backing down. As a small business owner myself, I acknowledge that there are dangers ahead, not the least of which is our Government's essential bankruptcy but, I also see opportunities everywhere. I am attacking those opportunities because sometimes, the best defense is a strong offense. I am not alone.
So take what you hear on the news with a grain of salt and, know that there are people fighting the good fight. Maybe you are one of us. Take heart! Because behind the news, on every street corner, the fight goes on. These warriors will find a way to win. Opportunities abound today, in spite of or possibly because of, the broader economic news. Properties are cheap, rates are low and, there are some people doing very well. Those stories are all around you and, THAT is what will keep America going. Entrepreneurship lives on and with it, lays the hope of this economy. We are America, and we are not dead yet!
Talk soon :)
Jim
P.S. - If you happen to be one of those boomers looking to cash out the 401k or IRA... let's talk first. Because we at JEA might have a better solution than exposing yourself to tax liability. Our SBLOC can work for you as a Business Line of Credit. Roll the 401k into something self-directed is the advise I hear from our lending partners. Call us today at 239.8787.7873.
