The HCOB Italy Construction PMI fell to 47.9 in December 2025 from 48.2 in November, showing construction activity continued to contract as the year ended. This also marked the lowest reading since August, with all three sub-sectors remaining in decline. Housing again posted the steepest drop, while commercial and civil engineering activity weakened more modestly. New orders contracted for a second consecutive month at one of the fastest rates of 2025, leading firms to trim purchasing activity. Employment rose slightly, extending the hiring streak at a subdued pace, though subcontractor use fell. Supplier delivery times lengthened amid raw material shortages, and input costs rose at the fastest rate since May due to higher energy and material prices, yet overall cost pressures remained below long-term averages. Business confidence improved modestly on expected new projects in 2026, but sentiment stayed historically muted amid fragile demand.
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Czech Republic Retail Sales Growth at 2-Year Low
The HCOB Italy Construction PMI fell to 47.9 in December 2025 from 48.2 in November, showing construction activity continued to contract as the year ended. This also marked the lowest reading since August, with all three sub-sectors remaining in decline. Housing again posted the steepest drop, while commercial and civil engineering activity weakened more modestly. New orders contracted for a second consecutive month at one of the fastest rates of 2025, leading firms to trim purchasing activity. Employment rose slightly, extending the hiring streak at a subdued pace, though subcontractor use fell. Supplier delivery times lengthened amid raw material shortages, and input costs rose at the fastest rate since May due to higher energy and material prices, yet overall cost pressures remained below long-term averages. Business confidence improved modestly on expected new projects in 2026, but sentiment stayed historically muted amid fragile demand.