Economic Signals Show Rising Inflation and Slowing Growth in 2025
Consumer confidence, employment, and manufacturing activity dip as inflationary pressures and policy uncertainties shape the economic outlook.
- U.S. consumer sentiment fell in January for the first time in six months, driven by inflation concerns and political polarization following President Trump's inauguration for a second term.
- The U.S. services sector slowed unexpectedly, while manufacturing expanded slightly after seven months of contraction, reflecting mixed economic momentum.
- In the UK, businesses face challenges from tax hikes, leading to job cuts and rising inflation, with economists warning of a potential stagflation scenario.
- Eurozone business activity showed modest growth, with improvements in manufacturing offset by sluggish demand and political uncertainty in countries like France.
- Global inflation concerns persist, with central banks, including the Federal Reserve and Bank of England, balancing rate cuts against the risk of entrenched price pressures.