The Office for National Statistics released data on Friday showing that the UK’s gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.1% in February, indicating a second consecutive month of expansion for the economy.
Previously reported as 0.2%, January’s growth figure was revised upward to 0.3%, further underlining the positive trajectory of the UK economy.
The growth observed in February, aligning with analysts’ expectations, is a promising development following the country’s recent recession, characterized by two consecutive quarters of economic decline.
The primary driver of growth in February was the production sector, which expanded by 1.1% after a 0.3% decline in January. However, the services sector saw more modest growth, increasing by 0.1% compared to January’s 0.3%.
On the flip side, construction output experienced a 1.9% decrease, largely due to adverse weather conditions.
Despite the economy’s modest growth, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt described the data as a “welcome sign” that the UK is on the path to recovery.
Last year’s recession posed a challenge for the ruling Conservative party, particularly as they prepare for the anticipated general election in 2024.
The positive economic indicators from Friday’s announcement may alleviate pressure on the Bank of England to implement interest rate cuts promptly. It is now anticipated that the Bank will begin reducing borrowing costs from their current 16-year high of 5.25% in June.
The recent uptick in economic growth raises hopes of a smooth transition out of the recession, with efforts against inflation likely to remain effective without triggering a sustained economic downturn.
Economists are cautiously optimistic about the UK’s economic outlook, with today’s GDP figures providing encouragement that the country may have avoided a contraction in the January-March quarter.
However, the 0.1% growth in February suggests that the recovery remains fragile.
In addition to domestic factors, global economic trends, particularly the Federal Reserve’s approach to interest rates in the US, are also influencing market sentiment and projections for central bank policies worldwide.
Goldman Sachs has adjusted its forecast for Bank of England rate cuts, now expecting four cuts this year instead of five, with the first cut anticipated in June, followed by a slower pace of reductions thereafter.