World Economy

UK Private Sector Momentum Fades as Energy Costs Weigh on Growth

Britain's private sector activity decelerated in September as businesses faced mounting cost pressures, marking a pullback from earlier summer gains. The slowdown reflects challenges from energy shocks constraining expansion. Emerging markets showed mixed results. India's economic activity accelerated in September, with manufacturing reaching a seven-month peak and services activity rebounding. South Africa's central bank confronts persistent energy costs driving inflation concerns even as domestic growth falters. Policymakers must weigh inflation defense against economic weakness. The divergence underscores how energy volatility is reshaping global growth prospects across developed and developing economies.