-
Japanese private sector economy struggles to gain recovery momentum
The Japanese private sector economy continued its struggle to gain recovery momentum midway through the fourth quarter, with flash PMI survey data indicating a further decline in business activity during November. The deterioration sets the scene for a subdued economic performance in the final quarter of 2020. Demand conditions continued to weaken, with inflows of new busines shrinking further, weighed down by a renewed fall in exports. Other survey indicators also showed worrying signs. Operating capacity remained in surplus amid weak sales, leading to further job shedding. Business sentiment meanwhile slipped to ... (full story)