Oil prices spark economic growth concerns

Islamist militant gains in Iraq sent world oil prices higher Monday, sparking concerns that this could hurt global economic growth, especially in Europe where the recovery seems to be faltering.

by. Mark Thompson

 

Crude oil prices in London and New York touched levels not seen since last September after militants from the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) seized city after city over the weekend as they continued their march towards Baghdad.

Costlier energy could spell trouble for European economies still struggling to regain momentum after the region’s debt crisis.

Growth in the eurozone has slowed to its weakest pace in six months, according to a June survey of purchasing managers released Monday. Companies across manufacturing and services reported higher input prices.

“Both sectors reported higher oil prices as a key cause of rising costs,” survey compiler Markit noted.

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