FX.co ★ Italy’s HCOB Composite PMI Strengthens in August, Signals Firmer Growth Momentum

Italy’s private sector activity gained further traction in August 2026, as the HCOB Italy Composite PMI rose to 53.6, up from 52.5 recorded in July 2026. The latest reading, updated on 3 September 2026, suggests an acceleration in overall business activity across both manufacturing and services.

The improvement in the composite index, which remains comfortably above the 50.0 threshold separating expansion from contraction, points to a more solid growth momentum in the Italian economy as the third quarter progresses. While detailed sector breakdowns were not provided, the continuing rise in the headline figure indicates that underlying business conditions have strengthened compared with the previous month.

With August marking the second consecutive month of the index holding above 52, the data reinforce expectations of a more resilient economic backdrop in Italy, even as global uncertainties persist. Investors and policymakers alike are likely to monitor upcoming releases to gauge whether this upward trend in activity can be sustained into the remainder of 2026.