Saudi Arabia: PMI hits near eight-year high in February
The Riyad Bank Purchasing Managers’ index (PMI) came in at 59.8 in February, up from January’s 58.2. February’s result marked the best performance in nearly eight years. As such, the index moved further above the 50.0 no-change threshold, signaling a faster improvement in non-oil sector operating conditions compared to the previous month.
The PMI improved as output, new orders employment and input purchases rose at a faster pace. Demand likely continued to be bolstered by low inflation and the ongoing Saudi Vision 2030 reforms. Looking at prices, input and output inflation rose. Looking at business sentiment, optimism rose to the second-highest level in two years on improved market conditions.