International

UK Economy Shows Modest Growth in November Amid Stagnation Concerns

In November 2024, the UK's economy experienced a modest growth of 0.1%, following two months of contraction.

This increase fell short of the 0.2% growth anticipated by analysts, intensifying concerns about economic stagnation.

The services sector was the primary contributor to this slight uptick, with notable improvements in wholesaling and IT services. In contrast, the manufacturing sector continued to decline, and the oil and gas industries faced challenges. Construction output saw a modest rise of 0.4% in November, following a 0.3% decrease in October.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves emphasized the government's commitment to fostering long-term economic growth, acknowledging that tangible improvements would require time. She stated, "I am determined to go further and faster to kickstart economic growth."

Financial markets responded to the GDP data with a slight depreciation of the pound, while the FTSE 100 and FTSE 250 indices recorded gains. The recent decline in inflation to 2.5% has led to expectations of an interest rate cut by the Bank of England.

Looking ahead, increased government spending is projected to potentially boost growth in 2025. However, risks such as potential trade conflicts and tax hikes could impede this outlook. Economists caution that prolonged stagnation may persist, influencing future fiscal policies.

In summary, while the UK's economy showed slight growth in November, it remains below expectations, with ongoing concerns about stagnation and the effectiveness of current fiscal strategies.