world-economy

British Firms Shift to Temp Workers Amid Middle East Turmoil

United Kingdom businesses are increasingly turning to temporary staffing arrangements as geopolitical tensions weigh on economic stability. A closely watched employment survey reveals this trend as companies navigate uncertainty from Middle East conflict. The shift reflects broader economic headwinds rippling across Europe. French firms report similar pressures on growth and inflation according to central bank surveys. UK businesses have also raised prices at the fastest pace in over three years, passing elevated raw material and energy costs to consumers. This pricing surge occurs despite subdued overall demand conditions. Supply chain disruptions linked to regional conflict have forced logistics operators to rapidly adapt deployment strategies. Japanese wage data showed resilience, with real wages rising for a third consecutive month, though analysts noted Middle East developments cloud the broader outlook for growth.