Wake Up to Money Chat GDP
Aug 15, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Catherine Jacob, the CEO of cinema advertising company Pearl and Dean, explores the revival of cinema attendance alongside economic implications. Lucy Cootes, an investment director at J.M. Finn, shares insights on UK GDP growth and the surprising strength of the construction sector. Steve Nolan, a lecturer in economics, emphasizes the impact of rising Premier League ticket prices on fan loyalty. Together, they examine the challenges traditional retailers face amidst changing shopping habits and economic uncertainties.
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Growth Is Modest And Lumpy
- Q2 GDP growth of 0.3% follows a 0.7% Q1 that was inflated by front-loading before tariffs and stamp duty changes.
- The UK shows a subdued recovery rather than a collapse, but momentum remains fragile.
Services Strength May Be Temporary
- Services rose 0.4% in Q2, surprising given recent tax and NI hikes that were expected to dent consumer-facing firms.
- Business investment fell, so services strength may not persist if cost pressures bite further.
Jobs Data Paints A Mixed Picture
- Labour market signals are mixed: employment and vacancies fell but not as sharply as expected.
- That mixed picture supports the view of a sluggish, stabilising economy rather than a strong rebound.