On the 2018 list where Forbes ranked the best countries for business, the United States was 12th, having moved up from 23rd in 2017 thanks to improvements in what areas?

According to Forbes' rankings for best countries for business in 2018, the United States improved its position from 23rd in 2017 to 12th. The improvement can be attributed to several areas, including:

1. Tax Reform: The United States implemented significant tax reforms in late 2017, which aimed to reduce corporate tax rates, leading to better business conditions and increased investment.

2. Economic Growth: The US experienced a strong economic performance in 2018, with increased GDP growth rates and lower unemployment rates, contributing to a more favorable business environment.

3. Innovation and Technology: The United States remains a global leader in innovation and technology, attracting investments and fostering entrepreneurship in various sectors.

4. Financial Market Development: The US has one of the most developed financial markets globally, providing access to capital and financing opportunities for businesses.

5. Market Size: The US has a large and prosperous domestic market, which provides companies with ample growth opportunities and customer bases.

6. Legal and Regulatory Framework: Despite occasional debates, the US legal system is generally considered transparent and efficient, providing a strong foundation for business operations.

These improvements in the aforementioned areas helped elevate the United States' position in Forbes' rankings for best countries for business.

To find out the specific areas in which the United States improved in the 2018 Forbes ranking, we can consult the report and the available data. Here are the steps you can follow:

Step 1: Go to the Forbes website.
Step 2: Navigate to the list of the best countries for business in 2018.
Step 3: Look for the ranking methodology or methodology description.
Step 4: Locate the factors or areas considered for evaluation.
Step 5: Identify the areas in which the United States improved compared to 2017.

By following these steps, you will be able to find the specific areas in which the United States showed improvement in the Forbes ranking.