Hiring in the U. S. slowed by noticeably more than expected in April, alongside lower than expected wage growth.
Services activity in the States shrank unexpectedly at the start of spring, marking the first contraction since December 2022.
Norway's central bank kept interest rates on hold at 4. 50% on Friday, in line with expectations, adding that a tight monetary policy stance may be necessary longer than planned to curb inflation.
UK service sector output grew in April at its fastest pace since May 2023, according to a survey released on Friday.
Pennon Group worked to assure the market that its acquisition of Sutton and East Surrey Water (SES Water) would avoid a deeper competition probe on Friday, telling shareholders that it planned to offer “appropriate undertakings” to regulators.