UK GDP (Jul MM) 0.4% vs. Exp. 0% (Prev. 0.3%)

ONS: Within services, computer programming was the largest contributor, continuing the strong growth seen throughout the year, with evidence that businesses involved with AI and related technologies helped to boost this sector. Growth remained relatively robust in the latest three months, as ongoing strength in the services sector was only partially offset by falls in both production and construction. Continuing recent trends, research and development and rental and leasing also helped drive growth, while wholesaling saw a notable fall. Looking at the latest month, services also drove growth in July, with computer programming again making the largest contribution. Separately, as in June, some businesses reported that the warm weather and FIFA World Cup had affected their activity, although effects differed across industries, benefitting some businesses while creating challenges for others.