Euro zone business activity has grown at its fastest pace this year in August, buoyed by stronger new orders - particularly in manufacturing - and a return to export growth, according to a survey which also showed easing price pressures. That suggests the economy has remained resilient this quarter despite the Middle East conflict, after expanding 0.4% in the second quarter.
The S&P Global Flash Euro zone Composite PMI Output Index has risen to 52.1 this month from July's 52.0, its highest since November and above a Reuters poll expectation of 51.7. Readings above 50 indicate growth.
