[HIGHLIGHTS] PMI up from 45.3 in December to 48.5 in January - Business

PMI up from 45.3 in December to 48.5 in January, according to the PMI HBOC indices. The figure is higher than economists' expected and reflects a rise in manufacturing activity in Italy.

HBOC economist Tariq Kamal Chaudhry said "there is optimism for the future if the upward trend continues" ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © Copyright ANSA. All rights reserved. Italy's Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) was up from. 45.2 in December.