China's Industrial Output Soars by 6.6% in November, Surpassing Forecasts

China's industrial output grew 6.6% in November from a year earlier, outpacing expectations and reaching the fastest pace since February 2022. However, retail sales grew 10.1% in November, below estimates of 12.5% growth, suggesting domestic consumption is still recovering and demand remains somewhat weak. Fixed asset investment growth of 2.9% in the first 11 months of the year was also slightly below expectations, indicating continued weaknesses in infrastructure and real estate investment. The unemployment rate remained steady at 5%, showing stability in the labor market but not necessarily strong job creation.