Financial markets: Economic indicators
The price of shares and commodities can help show the health of the economy. Find the latest data on the prices of shares, oil and gold.

This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries. This month’s articles: "UK recovery: how strong and how long?" and "Scotland’s currency choices"
Economic Indicators, October 2013 (806 KB , PDF)
This Research Paper series summarises the main economic indicators currently available for the UK, along with comparisons with other major OECD countries.
• GDP grew by 0.7% in Q2 2013, following growth of 0.4% in Q1. Output increased in each of the manufacturing, construction and service sectors.
• Employment was 29.84 million in May-July 2013, up 80,000 on the previous quarter, while unemployment fell by 24,000 to 2.49 million.
• Retail sales, an indicator of household consumption, increased in value by 4.0% in June-August 2013 compared with the same period last year, while consumer and business surveys indicate rising confidence.
This month’s articles: “UK recovery: how strong and how long?” and “Scotland’s currency choices”
Economic Indicators, October 2013 (806 KB , PDF)
The price of shares and commodities can help show the health of the economy. Find the latest data on the prices of shares, oil and gold.
Debt levels affect how much households spend. Find the latest data on UK household debt, mortgage rates and insolvencies.
Unemployment data tells us about the strength of the labour market. Find the latest data on UK unemployment levels and rates.