【环球财经】英国服务业信心指数创两年半新低 成本压力加剧

Group 1 - The confidence index for business and professional services in the UK dropped from -28 in February to -43 in May, marking the lowest level since November 2022 [1] - Consumer-facing service companies also experienced a decline in confidence, with price increase expectations rising at the fastest rate in two years for business and professional services [1] - Concerns were raised regarding the increase in employer social security contributions by £25 billion (approximately $33.78 billion) and a nearly 7% rise in the minimum wage, both effective from April [1] Group 2 - The profit expectations index for business and professional services fell to -47, the lowest level since February 2020, and lower than the previous quarter's -36 [2] - Investment intentions, business volume, and hiring conditions all showed a decline [2] - The UK services sector's PMI for May recorded an initial value of 50.2, indicating a slow return to growth, despite low confidence in future prospects [2]