China Leading Indicator Shows Economy Maintaining Momentum

A Chinese leading indicator climbed, adding to evidence that the world’s second-biggest economy is withstanding Europe’s debt crisis and faltering growth in the U.S.

The index rose 0.6 percent to 158.6 in July, The Conference Board said on its website today, citing a preliminary reading. The gauge is designed to capture prospects over the coming six months. June’s index was revised to a 0.9 percent gain from a previous 1 percent increase.