UK PMI Manufacturing rose to 57.3, up from 55.6, above expectation of 55.9, 37-month high. PMI Services rose to 49.9, up from 47.6, below expectation of 50.5. PMI Composite rose to 50.7, up from 49.0.
Chris Williamson, Chief Business Economist at IHS Markit, said: “The UK economy returned to growth in December after the lockdown-driven downturn seen in November, adding to signs that the hit to the economy from the second wave of virus infections has so far been far less harsh than the first wave in the spring…. Business optimism about the year ahead also remained buoyant, reflecting the light at the end of the tunnel created by the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccines. Optimism waned slightly compared to November, however, largely due to rising concerns over a no-deal Brexit.”
