Reported 5 days ago
Japan's factory activity experienced a slower contraction in December, signaling a potential stabilization. The manufacturing purchasing managers' index (PMI) rose to 49.6, marking the mildest decrease in three months. Although production and new orders continued to decline, the rate of reduction eased, with employment increasing for the first time since November due to labor shortages. Firms attributed the subdued orders to weak domestic and overseas demand, particularly in the semiconductor market, while also facing higher input prices and inflation from a weak yen.
Source: YAHOO