The Aporia
The Aporia
Saker-Clark, H. (2026, October 23). UK business activity grows at fastest pace for eight months. Evening Standard. https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/chris-williamson-pmi-budget-middle-east-ukraine-b1302066.html
Saker-Clark, Henry. “UK business activity grows at fastest pace for eight months.” Evening Standard, 23 Oct. 2026, https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/chris-williamson-pmi-budget-middle-east-ukraine-b1302066.html.
Saker-Clark, Henry. “UK business activity grows at fastest pace for eight months.” Evening Standard, October 23, 2026. https://www.standard.co.uk/business/business-news/chris-williamson-pmi-budget-middle-east-ukraine-b1302066.html.
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As of October 23, 2026, the UK's business activity grew at its fastest pace in eight months, with a reading of 53.1 on the S&P Global flash UK composite purchasing managers’ index (PMI) for October, an improvement from September’s 52. This indicates significant growth since February and was stronger than economists' forecasted rate of 51.7. The PMI score above 50.0 signifies growing activity, with both manufacturing and services sectors contributing to the increase. New work across the private sector increased at its fastest rate since September 2024 due to a recovery in customer demand, supported by AI investments and technology service demands. However, businesses still face uncertainties related to domestic economic policy before the Budget, as well as geopolitical tensions and higher borrowing costs, which could affect further growth.
