U.K. Services Grow Least in 19 Months as Economy Loses Steam

Growth at U.K. service companies slowed more than economists forecast in December, adding to signs the economy lost momentum at the end of 2014.

Markit Economics said its Purchasing Managers’ Index fell to 55.8 from 58.6 in November. That’s the lowest since May 2013 and compared with the median estimate of economists for 58.5. A reading above 50 indicates expansion.