Easing Covid-19 restrictions, a bounce in business activity
Discover key economic and financial metrics, and what to look out for in the week ahead.
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Here we look at the leading indicators in the world of economics. Download the dashboard for in-depth analysis into commodities, trade, equities and more.
The end of an era?
This week sees the removal of Covid-19 restrictions in the UK, while border and travel constraints are easing across the world. We expect this to be one of a number of factors that will help unlock global investment in commercial real estate this year. Indeed, as highlighted in our Active Capital research, we predict 2022 will be a record year for cross border capital flows.
UK business activity rebounds sharply in February
Coming in at 60.2, the latest PMI data overwhelmingly outstripped expectations in February and showed a rebound in business activity across the UK. This positive momentum is reflective of a desire for expansion, particularly amongst services firms, and we expect this to translate into (further) growth in occupational demand for office space.
Borrowing hits a surplus
UK borrowing levels recorded a £2.9bn surplus in January, the first monthly surplus since the pandemic started. While overall borrowing remains elevated at £138.5bn, this is £20bn less than the OBR’s forecast. With Rishi Sunak’s spring statement due next month, we expect part of this windfall will be focused on addressing cost of living issues.
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