Russia's services sector recorded its fastest expansion in four months in May, driven by rising demand and a surge in new orders, according to a report released Wednesday by S&P Global.
The S&P Global Services Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) rose to 52.2 in May, up from 50.1 in April. The PMI reading staying above the 50 mark indicates overall sector growth, highlighting a stronger pace of expansion compared to the previous month.
This uptick in activity reflects renewed business confidence and improving market conditions. Companies cited increased client demand and a higher volume of new business as primary factors behind the positive momentum. The latest reading marks the highest growth rate for Russia’s services industry since January.
However, despite the improved business environment, many firms reported workforce reductions. The contraction in employment suggests that businesses may be focusing on productivity gains or maintaining cautious hiring strategies amid lingering economic uncertainties.
The services sector remains a key contributor to Russia’s economy, and continued growth in this area could signal broader economic resilience. Analysts will be closely watching whether the upward trend persists, especially as geopolitical tensions and inflation pressures continue to pose challenges.
The report offers a mixed snapshot: encouraging signs of recovery paired with underlying concerns about labor market adjustments. Still, the solid PMI reading suggests that Russia’s services industry is regaining traction after a subdued start to the year.


Bank of Japan Signals Readiness for Near-Term Rate Hike as Inflation Nears Target
Oil Prices Slide on US-Iran Talks, Dollar Strength and Profit-Taking Pressure
Fed Governor Lisa Cook Warns Inflation Risks Remain as Rates Stay Steady
U.S.-India Trade Framework Signals Major Shift in Tariffs, Energy, and Supply Chains
South Korea Assures U.S. on Trade Deal Commitments Amid Tariff Concerns
Russian Stocks End Mixed as MOEX Index Closes Flat Amid Commodity Strength
Dow Hits 50,000 as U.S. Stocks Stage Strong Rebound Amid AI Volatility
Japan Economy Poised for Q4 2025 Growth as Investment and Consumption Hold Firm
RBI Holds Repo Rate at 5.25% as India’s Growth Outlook Strengthens After U.S. Trade Deal
India–U.S. Interim Trade Pact Cuts Auto Tariffs but Leaves Tesla Out
South Africa Eyes ECB Repo Lines as Inflation Eases and Rate Cuts Loom
Trump’s Inflation Claims Clash With Voters’ Cost-of-Living Reality
Asian Stocks Slip as Tech Rout Deepens, Japan Steadies Ahead of Election
Vietnam’s Trade Surplus With US Jumps as Exports Surge and China Imports Hit Record
Gold Prices Slide Below $5,000 as Strong Dollar and Central Bank Outlook Weigh on Metals
Trump Lifts 25% Tariff on Indian Goods in Strategic U.S.–India Trade and Energy Deal
China Extends Gold Buying Streak as Reserves Surge Despite Volatile Prices 



