Global PMI readings for August 2026 show mixed signals

Key developments

1. Sep 3, 2026

   China's manufacturing PMI hovers near the 50 threshold, marking a second consecutive month of contraction amid weak domestic demand and a property slump.

   174 sources on this →
2. Sep 3, 2026

   US services PMI hits a six-month high of 55.4, while Japan, the UK and India also post expansionary readings despite inflation and cost pressures.

   11 sources on this →
3. Sep 4, 2026

   UK construction PMI contracts for a 20th straight month in August, falling to 44.3 as housebuilding activity weakens and firms reduce headcount.

   11 sources on this →

Coverage across the spectrum

Stories in this storyline

Business

US services PMI hits six-month high while global readings diverge

August services activity remained in expansion mode in the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and India, with the U.S. ISM services PMI at 55.4, Japan’s PMI at 52.5, UK services at 52.5, and India at 54.1. While demand and activity are generally firmer, reports note inflation, higher costs, and mixed export demand weighing on near-term prospects.

11 sources

Business

UK construction shrinks for 20th month as housebuilding drags PMI down

The UK construction sector contracted for the 20th straight month in August, with the PMI at 44.3 as housing activity weakened and demand remained subdued. Despite slower input-price inflation and slight resilience in commercial and civil engineering, firms reduced headcount modestly and optimism about output fell amid concerns over the Middle East conflict and weaker domestic prospects.