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[BUSINESS] · United Kingdom · 22 sources

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UK economy grows 0.4% in July, led by services and AI

The United Kingdom economy grew by 0.4% in July, exceeding market expectations of zero growth. This performance brings the annual growth rate to 1.6%, the fastest pace since February 2025. In the first half of 2026, the UK economy expanded by 1%, making it the fastest-growing economy among the G7 nations.

Growth was primarily driven by the services sector, particularly in computer programming, consultancy, and related activities, which saw a 3.5% increase. Analysts noted that activity in artificial intelligence and cloud computing provided a significant boost to these sectors. Additionally, businesses reported that unusually warm weather and the FIFA World Cup contributed to increased turnover in certain industries.

However, the economic recovery remains uneven. While services and manufacturing showed signs of life, the production and construction sectors both contracted by 0.5% in the three months leading up to July. Furthermore, rising energy costs linked to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and high government borrowing costs continue to pose risks to household finances and fiscal stability.

Entities

Bank of England · G7 · John Healey · Liz McKeown · Office for National Statistics · Resolution Foundation · United Kingdom

Claims

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Sources

British economy springs a summer surprise [www.smartcurrencybusiness.com]
UK economy grew by 0. 4% in July [www.credit-connect.co.uk]