Australian flash PMIs for February 2023 by way of Judo Bank / S&P Global

Manufacturing 50.1

Non-manufacturing 49.2

Composite 49.2

Some of the feedback from Warren Hogan, Chief Economic Advisor at Judo Bank:

  • “We nonetheless look like on the slender path to attain a mushy touchdown for the financial system in 2023.
  • “Labour demand additionally eased in February throughout each the providers sector and manufacturing industries. Overall labour demand stays in optimistic territory in line with the hoarding of labour because the financial system slows. This ought to hold unemployment low at the same time as financial coverage makers induce a crucial financial slowdown in 2023/24.
  • “Prices pressures eased additional within the service industries but stay elevated, whereas manufacturing worth indicators barely moved in February. Despite the moderation, the worth indicators proceed to level to above goal inflation in 2023.
  • “The February numbers highlight a further improvement in supply chain function within the Australian economy.
  • “At this stage the Judo Bank PMIs are pointing to a welcome slowdown in the economy that may help take upward pressure off interest rates. While this will do little to alter the RBA’s intentions to raise interest rates further over the months ahead, it does indicate that we may be close to the point where the RBA Board can pause the current tightening cycle.”