U.S. Markit flash PMI moves lower in July

The Markit Economics flash manufacturing purchasing managers index for the U.S. fell to a 56.3 reading in July from a four-year high of 57.3 in June. The index, similar in design to the Institute for Supply Management manufacturing index, is at its lowest level in three months. Job creation slid to its lowest level since last September, which reflects concerns that current sales growth may not be sustained, said Chris Williamson, chief economist at Markit. New export orders were also subdued. The flash index is based on 85% to 90% of typical monthly responses