News that the economy returned to growth in the July-September quarter sent share prices higher in Tokyo. The data showed improvements in private consumption, the main driver of growth, and exports, including vehicles and auto parts. The economy shrank 8.2 per cent in the April-June quarter; 0.6 per cent in January-March and 1.8 per cent in October-November 2019, according to Monday's data. Growth was flat in July-September 2019, underscoring stagnant conditions even before the pandemic. Many stores and restaurants are still open, and schools and government offices are mostly running as usual, despite widespread efforts in the private sector for remote working.

Source: Mint November 16, 2020 01:18 UTC