|
The eurozone composite PMI increased from 53.7 to 54.4, marking an acceleration of growth at the start of the second quarter as price pressures fade further. A rebound in services masks weakening manufacturing performance
|
| Pictured: France's business district at La Defence |
|
The PMI sheds a positive light on the economic performance in the eurozone, as a pickup in service sector activity is boosting growth. The increase in the services PMI from 55 to 56.6 was particularly strong and marks the highest reading in a year. The PMI also paints a picture of increasing divergence, though.
The manufacturing output PMI dropped sharply from 50.4 to 48.5 as new orders remained weak and most activity is currently coming from reducing backlogs of work. This reading is in line with production contraction. Overall, it looks like the economy is rebounding from a feeble winter at the moment, but manufacturing weakness remains a concern and dampens the upturn.
Read next: Eurozone consumer confidence continues to improve at low levels| FXMAG.COM
Like last month, the survey indicates that price pressures are easing. In manufacturing, cost pressures are falling quickly on the back of improving supply chain problems and weakening new orders. Service sector inflationary pressures are also coming down, but at a slower pace due to rising wages. For the European Central Bank, this remains the largest concern in tackling inflation right now.
|
|
| Read this article on THINK |
Disclaimer
This publication has been prepared by ING solely for information purposes irrespective of a particular user's means, financial situation or investment objectives. The information does not constitute investment recommendation, and nor is it investment, legal or tax advice or an offer or solicitation to purchase or sell any financial instrument. Read more
