The Chinese service sector showed signs of softening growth in June, according to latest PMI data. Business activity and new orders both expanded at notably slower rates than seen in May, as some firms reported softer than expected market demand. Cost pressures meanwhile remained relatively subdued, with input cost inflation remaining below the series trend, while output charges rose only slightly. Despite the softer increase in activity, firms added to their staffing levels and at the quickest rate for three months. Recruitment in the sector was supported by a more positive outlook for the year-ahead, with overall ... (full story)