UK growth slowdown intensifies interest rate 'dilemma'

Economy still ‘vulnerable’ to Covid shocks

clock • 4 min read

A sharper than expected slowdown to UK growth in October has shown how the economy is “vulnerable” to Covid shocks, while intensifying the Bank of England’s interest rate “dilemma”, it has been warned.

The economy grew by just 0.1% in October, according to figures published on Friday (10 December) by the Office for National Statistics, which highlighted a fall in construction and supply chain issues. Maike Currie, investment director at Fidelity International, said: "The steam has well and truly been taken out of the UK economic recovery." "With the government moving to implement its ‘Plan B' over concerns on the Omicron variant, there is a creeping sense of déjà vu. "Workers are heading back to their kitchen tables and the big festive season that retailers and the hospitality se...

To continue reading this article...

Join Professional Adviser for free

  • Unlimited access to real-time news, industry insights and market intelligence
  • Stay ahead of the curve with spotlights on emerging trends and technologies
  • Receive breaking news stories straight to your inbox in the daily newsletters
  • Make smart business decisions with the latest developments in regulation, investing retirement and protection
  • Members-only access to the editor’s weekly Friday commentary
  • Be the first to hear about our events and awards programmes

Join

 

Already a Professional Adviser member?

Login

More on Investment

A very old saying with a very modern problem: Exploring behavioural biases

A very old saying with a very modern problem: Exploring behavioural biases

'If only the calendar could tell us when to take risk and when to retreat'

Ian Jensen-Humphreys
clock 16 April 2026 • 4 min read
Franklin Templeton launches enhanced indexing equity fund range for UK investors

Franklin Templeton launches enhanced indexing equity fund range for UK investors

Four funds launched

Michael Nelson
clock 13 April 2026 • 1 min read
Risk Warning Review plans aim to address 'negative framing' of investing

Risk Warning Review plans aim to address 'negative framing' of investing

Lowest investment rate in G7

Alex Sebastian
clock 09 April 2026 • 2 min read