China's business confidence, recruitment hit record lows

China's business confidence and recruitment activity slipped to record lows in January, a survey showed, adding to signs of weakness in the world's second-largest economy that could prod policymakers to roll out more support measures.
The Sales Managers' Index, compiled by London-based World Economics, fell to 51.0 in January from 51.7 in December.
"The Headline SMI index fell slightly in January, but continues to suggest ongoing, albeit modest growth in economic activity," World Economics Chief Executive Ed Jones said.
The index has averaged 51.4 since the second half of last year, indicating China's economic activity is still growing steadily, albeit at a much slower rate than a year ago.