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38 PalletCentral • May-June 2018 palletcentral.com points in a single day, exchange rates wavering and interest rates on the increase. The internet and social media have created an environment where a sneeze by someone in China causes a meltdown in New York. Business owners are challenged to find a relatively calm place to invest their profits and are always concerned about the buying plans of our easily-shaken customers. Finally, the mid-terms are looming. While not making any predictions, Sullivan admits that any election year brings changes that could affect business owners. This year is, of course, no different. With virtually all of Congress up for grounds, this year's mid-terms could potentially see a changeover in Congressional control. The result could mean a re-visiting of tax reform, changes in healthcare and even potential impeachment proceedings against the President. Business people like certainty. We try to avoid surprises. Unfortunately, and considering recent history, there's no certainty when it comes to the U.S. elections. But let's not panic, though OK? Things are good right now. The world is (still) relatively at peace. Capital is very accessible. The economy is growing. A pro-business sentiment pervades in Washington. I get it that these factors, and others, are making most business owners feel confident about the future. But my job is to look at risks and there are quite a few we're all facing in the coming months. Enough to temper my confidence, just a little. Note: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is a client of The Marks Group PC. However, Marks disclaims that no compensation was received to write this piece. PC BLOG Gene Marks is a columnist, author, and small business owner. He writes every day on business, politics and public policy for the Washington Post and weekly for Forbes, Inc. magazine Entrepreneur and the Huffington Post. This post originally appeared on May 11, 2018 in Inc. and is reprinted with permission. Follow Gene Marks in numerous social media channels and read more blogs at www.genemarksblog.wordpress.com. Things are good right now. The world is (still) relatively at peace. Capital is ver y accessible. The economy is growing. A pro-business sentiment per vades in Washington.