Howard Archer Domestic Quotations

UK imports of goods excluding oil ... rose for a fourth successive month in February, and by substantial 4.5 percent, suggesting that domestic demand may have surprised on the upside in the first quarter.

The Bank of England will not be happy to see that manufacturers output prices rose at an increased rate in December, as it suggests that they could be stepping up their efforts to pass on their higher input costs despite intense domestic and international competition and relatively soft demand.

The clear improvement in economic sentiment in December boosts hopes that domestic demand will increasingly kick in over the coming months to support growth.

The euro zone's upturn is still young and relatively fragile with significant question marks still hanging over the long-term strength of domestic demand.

Relatively subdued consumer spending, intense domestic and international competition, and high input costs continue to dampen ... the sector.