Overview
The HSBC India Services PMI was revised lower to 58.5 in January 2026 from a preliminary estimate of 59.3. However, the latest figure remained above the December reading of 58.0, which marked the softest expansion in 11 months, supported by faster growth in output and new business. Rising new orders prompted service providers to resume hiring staff, though job creation increased only marginally. On the price front, input cost inflation accelerated to a four-month high, driven by higher prices for eggs, electronic items, meat, paper, parts, and vegetables. Meanwhile, selling prices rose at the fastest pace in three months, as firms sought to better balance cost pressures and profitability. Looking ahead, business sentiment improved to a three-month high, supported by optimistic forecasts for efficiency gains, marketing efforts, and new client wins.