Asian factory output slumps as China’s recovery teeters

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“The rate of inflation was robust and the strongest seen in the year to date amid reports of higher raw material prices, notably those linked to oil,” said Usamah Bhatti, economist at S & P Global Market Intelligence, in a statement accompanying the South Korean data. Mr Bhatti also noted that firms had mentioned unfavourable exchange rates as their currencies came under pressure, leading to higher input costs. Increased volatility Although oil prices are beginning to cool again, the war in the Middle East has led to volatility over the month – just as many Asian factories had begun to...