Eurozone’s manufacturing sector remains entrenched in recession as April’s PMI figures highlight ongoing challenges and disparities within the region. The overall Manufacturing PMI for the Eurozone was finalized at 45.7, a slight decrease from March’s 46.1.
Among the member states, Greece led with a PMI of 55.2, though it marked a three-month low for the country. Spain and the Netherlands exhibited positive trends, with Spain reaching a 22-month high at 52.2 and the Netherlands achieving a 20-month high at 51.3. Conversely, major economies like Germany, France, and Italy continued to struggle. Germany’s PMI slightly improved to a two-month high of 42.5, and France’s was a three-month low at 45.3, despite a slight uptick from the flash estimate.
Cyrus de la Rubia, Chief Economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, noted the manufacturing sector is prolonging its drawn-out recession into April.” He highlighted the significant downturn in new orders, which he described as “a rapid decline unmatched in speed over the past four months and devoid of international support.” De la Rubia also pointed out the concerning trends in the capital goods sector, which is usually a bellwether for broader industrial health but has been “hit particularly hard” in the current cycle.
Spain stands out as an anomaly within the Eurozone, continuing to demonstrate economic resilience with sustained growth in its manufacturing sector. This divergence is notable, especially against the backdrop of more subdued economic performances in other major Eurozone economies like Germany, France, and Italy, which have failed to gain similar momentum.
Full Eurozone PMI manufacturing final release here.
UK PMI construction hits 14-month high but hiring trend subdued
UK PMI Construction surged from 50.2 to 53.0 in April, marking its most robust reading since February 2023. According to S&P Global, this growth was primarily driven by increased activity in commercial projects and civil engineering. However, house building experienced a decline, albeit amid improving supply conditions.
Tim Moore, Economics Director at S&P Global Market Intelligence, highlighted the sector’s consolidation of its return to growth, with overall industry activity expanding at the fastest pace in 14 months. This growth was fueled by heightened confidence in the UK’s economic outlook, leading to increased demand for construction services. Despite the uptick in workloads, hiring remained subdued, aligning with broader trends observed across the UK economy.
Full UK PMI construction release here.