2014.04.2315:02:00UTC+00Uk Data Suggests Growth of Around 0.9% Q/q in Q1-2014

Quotes from Standard Chartered:

- The UK economy continues to strengthen, with data suggesting growth of around 0.9% q/q in Q1-2014 (GDP data to be released on 29 April) and surveys pointing to momentum carrying through to Q2.

- Bank of England policy makers expect demand to be boosted by stronger business and consumer confidence and easier credit conditions. Activity is rebalancing towards investment, which we expect to grow by close to 10% in 2014, supporting our GDP growth forecast of 3.2%.

- The UK's external sector remains a concern and the BoE highlighted weaker China data as a risk to global activity. But we are more upbeat on China's prospects, and see stronger euro-area and US growth also as being positive for the UK outlook this year.