UK economy grows by 0.4% in second quarter as some businesses helped by World Cup and hot weather – business live
Live, rolling coverage of business, economics and financial markets as GDP rises in June despite Iran war after stagnating in May European stock markets have opened. The FTSE 100 in London has dipped marginally, down 0.1% in the first few minutes of trading. Intercontinental Hotels Group is the biggest riser, up 1.8% after results earlier this week. Continue reading...
UK economy experienced a growth of 0.4% in the second quarter of 2026 as households spent more than anticipated, and the football World Cup contributed to stronger retail, hospitality, and advertising revenues. The services sector saw a 0.5% increase, while the construction sector grew by 0.3%. Production output remained unchanged.
Despite global uncertainties, such as the conflict in Iran, UK businesses remained active, and the economy is now estimated to be 1.2% larger than it was a year ago. However, some slowdown is expected in the upcoming quarter due to energy crisis and higher pump prices, which will put pressure on real disposable incomes.
Written by urgent.news from Guardian Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
