UNITED KINGDOM

摘要

GDP was confirmed at 0.5% (q-o-q) in Q3, a slowdown from the 0.7% jump seen in Q2. A strong services sector and domestic spending were partly counteracted by a significant trade drag and continued slowdown in manufacturing. The service industries expanded by 0.7% (q-o-q), helped by consumers who are benefiting from low interest rates by raising borrowing. The borrowing spree is being closely watched by Bank of England officials as higher consumer debt levels spark concerns. Household consumption rose by 0.8% (q-o-q) in Q3, well supported by declining unemployment and higher wages. The unemployment rate fell to 5.3% in the three months to September, its lowest rate for over seven years. Meanwhile, consumer prices edged down again in October, matching September's -0.1% (y-o-y) decrease. Ultra-low inflation has boosted average weekly earnings, which climbed by 3% in the three months to September. Investment in the economy also remains solid, as business investment accelerated from 1.6% (q-o-q) to 2.2% in Q3.