Latest Flash PMI ® data signalled a reduction in French private sector output for the sixth consecutive month in August. However, the rate of contraction eased to only a modest pace. The Markit Flash France Composite Output Index, based on around 85% of normal monthly survey replies, recorded 48.9, up from 47.9 in July. Service sector business activity was broadly stable in August for the second month running. Manufacturers meanwhile reported the slowest fall in output since April. The weaker drop in activity reflected a moderation in the rate of contraction of new business during August. The latest fall in new work ... (full story)