Business activity in the euro zone slumped in September to the lowest level since just after the attacks on the US in 2001, fuelling fresh recession fears.
The euro zone's purchasing managers' index (PMI), compiled by data and research group Markit, slid to 47 points in September from 48.2 in August, according to an initial estimate.
The drop, which brought the index to its lowest level since November 2001, fell short of an economists' estimate of 47.8. The fall marked the fourth consecutive month of contraction, which is indicated by a reading of less than 50 points.
Meanwhile, the index for activity in the euro zone's vast services sector also retreated, falling to 48.2 points from 48.5 in August, while manufacturing activity dropped to 45.3 from 47.6 in August.
Analysts said the figures confirm that the slowdown the overall euro zone economy is experiencing is severe and will be rather prolonged.
