France December flash services PMI 50.2 vs 51.1 expected

France's December flash services PMI has come in at 50.2, below the expected 51.1, indicating weakness in the services sector. While the manufacturing PMI surpassed expectations at 50.6 against a forecast of 48.1, the overall economic activity remains stagnant. The HCOB report notes a largely static business environment in the private sector, reflecting a softer expansion manifesting from the previous month. However, manufacturing showed some resilience with improvements in output and foreign demand. Nonetheless, political uncertainties persist as long as the government budget remains unpassed, coupled with subdued consumer sentiment and international competition affecting growth prospects. The aviation sector, however, could provide a glimmer of hope for future growth within manufacturing.