China’s Manufacturing Sector Shows Signs of Recovery
The Chinese manufacturing sector demonstrates encouraging signs of improvement, as the Caixin manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) for December surpasses expectations at 50.8. This exceeds both the market forecast of 50.4 and November’s 50.7, marking the fourth increase in factory activity over the past five months. The upswing is attributed to a surge in new orders and enhanced sales, leading to a seven-month peak in output as demand continues to rebound. Despite these positive developments, supply chains face pressure due to the unavailability of certain raw materials and overtaxed suppliers.
German Manufacturing Follows Suit
Drawing inspiration from China, the German manufacturing sector exhibits positive momentum, with the HCOB manufacturing PMI reaching 43.3 in December. Although still indicative of contraction, as the PMI is below 50, this figure surpasses analyst expectations of 43.1 and represents an improvement from November’s 42.6. The slowdown in the decline of new orders over eight months and a rise in business expectations instill optimism that the sector is overcoming its challenges. However, employment continues to decline at the fastest rate since October 2020, reflecting adjustments to lower demand and capacities.
UK Manufacturing Faces Year-End Challenges
In contrast, the UK manufacturing sector concludes the year on a less optimistic note, with the S&P Global UK manufacturing PMI for December registering at 46.2, falling below market expectations of 46.4. Following November’s seven-month peak of 47.2, weakening in the intermediate and consumer goods sector contributes to manufacturing activity declining for the tenth consecutive month. Overseas demand and new business intakes also show lackluster performance, with new orders falling for the ninth consecutive month. Employment continues to decline, reaching a 15-month low, while decreased input prices offer only slight relief to selling prices.
Factors Affecting UK’s Manufacturing Downturn
Various factors contribute to the UK’s manufacturing challenges, including geopolitical issues such as the Russia-Ukraine war and the Israel-Hamas conflict, which potentially dampen sentiment. Business optimism plunges to a one-year low due to soaring interest rates, persistent high inflation, economic instability, and client closures. Investors hold onto hopes for rate cuts by major central banks like the US Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank in the coming spring or summer. However, caution prevails as banks emphasize potential pitfalls associated with cutting rates prematurely or excessively.
SOURCE: Image Ref from Reuters
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