The latest S&P Global Sector PMI™ data pointed to growing signs of weakness across the global economy at the start of the third quarter. Of the 21 sectors covered, 12 posted an increase in output during July, while nine signalled a decrease. There were widespread declines in the Basic Materials category as commodity prices came under pressure, while rising interest rates continued to hamper demand in the Real Estate sector.

Within Basic Materials, decreases in production were seen in the Chemicals, Forestry & Paper Products and Metals & Mining sectors. In fact, Metals & Mining posted the joint-fastest reduction in output of all the sectors covered. Meanwhile, the category was the only one to record a drop in input costs during July.

Equalling the decline in Metals & Mining activity was that seen in Real Estate as interest rate rises in a range of countries dampened demand. Activity was down for the fourth month running as new orders fell sharply. Banks also posted a reduction in activity during the month.

There were growing signs that the post-COVID strength in Consumer Services has faded. Media activity was down for the first time in the year-to-date, while the pace of expansion in Tourism & Recreation slowed to the weakest in the current six-month sequence of growth as new orders rose only marginally.

Tourism & Recreation posted the joint-fastest rise in input costs, however, equal with that seen in Beverages & Food where the pace of inflation remained elevated despite easing. Beverages & Food production rose solidly, but at a softer pace than in June.

Insurance was one of the best-performing categories at the start of the third quarter, and signalled the strongest expansion in employment of those covered in response to solid increases in activity and new business. Overall, 16 of the 21 sectors posted a rise in workforce numbers.