The UK economy demonstrated unexpected resilience at the end of last year, posting stronger-than-forecast growth in November. According to the latest official data, the nation's gross domestic product (GDP) increased by 0.3% during the month.
Stronger Growth Defies Expectations
This positive performance marks a significant rebound from October, when the economy contracted by 0.1%. The November growth figure of 0.3% comfortably exceeded the predictions of City economists, who had anticipated a more modest expansion of just 0.1%. The data, released by the Office for National Statistics (ONS), provides a welcome boost amid ongoing concerns about economic stagnation.
Revised Figures Paint a Brighter Picture
In a further encouraging development, the ONS revised its earlier estimate for September's economic performance. Initially reported as a 0.1% contraction, the figures have now been upgraded to show growth of 0.1% for that month. This revision means the economy did not shrink in September after all, altering the recent growth narrative.
The ONS confirmed the details, stating: "Monthly GDP is estimated to have grown by 0.3%, following an unrevised fall of 0.1% in October 2025 and a growth of 0.1% in September 2025 (revised up from our initial estimate of a fall of 0.1%)."
Implications for the Economic Outlook
This combination of stronger November growth and an upward revision for September will be closely analysed by policymakers and markets. The data reduces the likelihood that the UK entered a technical recession in the latter part of the year, typically defined as two consecutive quarters of contraction. While a single month's data does not define a trend, the figures suggest underlying economic momentum may be more robust than previously thought.
Analysts will now scrutinise the sectoral breakdown, due to be published, to understand which parts of the economy drove this growth. The performance will also influence the Bank of England's deliberations on future interest rate decisions as it balances the fight against inflation with supporting economic activity.
