The end of 2015 saw the rate of growth in the UK manufacturing sector slow further from the recent peak reached in October. At 51.9 in December, the seasonally adjusted Markit/CIPS Purchasing Manager’s Index slipped back towards its long-run survey average of 51.5. Analysts were expecting slight incline to 52.8.
Over the final quarter as a whole, the average readings for the headline
PMI, Output Index, New Orders Index, New Export Orders Index and Employment Index were all above their respective averages. However, averages over 2015 were in each case below those achieved in 2014.
Sterling is currently being traded around 1.4770 handle. Pair is likely to find support around 1.47 handle and resistance above 1.48 level. Later today, in the US session, ISM Manufacturing PMI figures are scheduled for a release.