Lloyds Business Barometer: UK business confidence slides 12 points to 41%, 17-month low
EWU•UK business confidence fell 12 points to 41% in September, a 17-month low. Economic optimism dropped 18 points to 31%, while 52% of firms expected to raise prices over the next 12 months.
1. Confidence falls
Lloyds reported that UK business confidence fell 12 points to 41% in September, its lowest reading in 17 months. The measure remained above its long-term average of 30% but below its 12-month average of 47%.
2. Outlook and prices
Economic optimism fell 18 points to 31%, with higher energy costs tied to renewed Middle East tensions cited as a factor. The trading outlook weakened 8 points to 50%, as firms cited cost pressures and softer demand; 52% expected to raise prices over the next 12 months, up 1 point.
