Rolling coverage of the latet economic and financial news Just in: The UK services sector has recorded its fastest upturn in output since April. Data provider S&P Global has reported that firms experienced a “moderate” increase in business activity last month, partly thanks to a rise in new work. “August data highlighted improving operating conditions across the UK service economy. Business and consumer spending saw further gains after declining during the second quarter of 2026, which led to the fastest expansion of output levels since April. Service providers are increasingly optimistic about the year ahead business outlook, with confidence levels now close to those seen just prior to the Middle East conflict. However, business activity growth projections were still subdued in comparison to long-run trends amid lingering worries about inflationary pressures and geopolitical tensions. Continue reading...