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UK Economy Grows 0.5% Amid Global Recession Warnings

4/16/2026

28 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The UK economy grew 0.5% in February, beating the 0.1% forecast and led by services and production.
January growth was 0.1%, marking a modest start to the year.
Analysts, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), say February figures are outdated due to energy-market disruptions after the February 28 onset of the US-Israeli war with Iran.
The IMF warns the UK could face severe challenges and a potential global recession.

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Story summary

The UK economy grew 0.5% in February, beating the 0.1% forecast and led by services and production.
January growth was 0.1%, marking a modest start to the year.
Analysts, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), say February figures are outdated due to energy-market disruptions after the February 28 onset of the US-Israeli war with Iran.
The IMF warns the UK could face severe challenges and a potential global recession.