U.S. business activity accelerated to its fastest pace in more than five years

In September, the growth rate of U.S. business activity reached its highest level in over five years, driven by increased demand and improved business confidence, prompting companies to expand output at the fastest pace in over five years. The U.S. economic growth rate for the third quarter is expected to reach around 4%, with further acceleration in economic growth in September. The inflation rate of business input costs has risen to its highest level in nearly four years, with rising fuel prices increasing cost pressures, and the rate of increase in business selling prices has also accelerated further.