Continued slowdown in major economies: OECD

PARIS - A slowdown of economic activity may persist in the coming quarters in most major economies, according to data released Thursday by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD).

According to the composite leading indicators (CLIs), designed to anticipate turning points in economic activity relative to trend, a loss of momentum can be seen in most major OECD and non-OECD economies.

The CLIs continue to point to a slowdown in Italy, China, India and Russia, the OECD said.

In the euro area, the CLIs continue to report sluggish growth in Germany and France. However, indicators show signs of moderate growth above trend in Japan and in the United States.

As to Canada, the CLI continues to point to growth moderating below trend, while in Britain and Brazil, figures indicate tentative growth, but remain below trend.

Although some signs of weakening are observed, Southeast Asia economies show overall resilience, the OECD Development Centre's Asian Business Cycle Indicators suggested.