UK economy bounces back in August as GDP ticks up 0.2%

‘Small glimmer of hope’ that recession could be avoided

Valeria Martinez
clock • 2 min read

The UK economy returned to growth in August after a poor July, raising hopes that a recession could be avoided this year.

According to the Office for National Statistics, gross domestic product grew 0.2% during the month, following a 0.6% dip in July — revised down from a 0.5% fall — when wet weather and continued industrial action dented activity.  Output in the services sector rose by 0.4% last month and was the only positive contributing sector to the growth in monthly GDP. Production output fell by 0.7% and construction output dropped 0.5%. In the three months to August, GDP increased by 0.3% when compared with the three months to May 2023, with growth in all sectors.  Chancellor Jeremy Hunt said:...

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 Economics / Markets

Burnham to stick with fiscal rules as power set to flow out of Whitehall

Burnham to stick with fiscal rules as power set to flow out of Whitehall

First speech since PM bid

clock 29 June 2026 • 2 min read
BoE's Alan Taylor: Extended interest rate hold an 'appropriately measured policy response'

BoE's Alan Taylor: Extended interest rate hold an 'appropriately measured policy response'

Geopolitics in the driving seat

Michael Nelson
clock 25 June 2026 • 2 min read
Advisers highlight uncertain political and fiscal future after Starmer resignation

Advisers highlight uncertain political and fiscal future after Starmer resignation

Prime minister’s exit places chancellor Rachel Reeves’ position ‘inevitably’ under scrutiny

Isabel Baxter
clock 22 June 2026 • 5 min read