debt

Chief Economist’s Weekly Briefing – Gently does it

Richard RamseyLeave a comment

pound-414418_1280 (3).jpgDebt looms large not just in the UK but across major economies. So rate hikes have to proceed very gently.

The producers. A decent August for UK production as output rose by 0.2% on the month. If it manages the same in September then production should rise by 0.9% in Q3, about treble its recent pace. Manufacturing is enjoying a mini-renaissance. Output rose 0.4% on the month and turnover is up 6% on the year. It’s an equal opportunity buoyancy too, benefiting common-or garden manufacturers as well as the high-end techie stuff. What’s not to like? Continue reading →

Chief Economist’s Weekly Brief – The fall

Richard RamseyLeave a comment

UK businesses appear in decent shape. Turnover is up as are Corporation Tax receipts. Yet sterling has lost roughly one-tenth of its value since June and that’s raising input costs and squeezing profits. A long summer of falling costs boosting profits is coming to an end. Continue reading →

Chief Economist’s Weekly Brief – Wait and see

Richard RamseyLeave a comment

The first full post-referendum week was nothing if not eventful. Financial markets were volatile and uncertainty about economic policy has jumped. We await tomorrow’s publication of the Financial Stability Report and yet another opportunity for the Bank of England’s policy makers to offer their views. Continue reading →