Global stocks fall to lowest in month on US growth worries

NEW YORK: World equity benchmarks hit their lowest levels in a month on Wednesday as signs of a slowdown in U.S. economic growth and weak earnings in Europe fanned fears that the U.S.-China trade war could push the global economy into a recession.

In the United States, the ADP National Employment report showed private payroll growth was lower than expected in September, adding to concerns about softening economic growth. Global stock benchmarks tumbled Tuesday after a measure of U.S. manufacturing fell to its lowest level in more than 10 years, removing one of few remaining bright spots in the global economy just as Europe is seen as close to falling into recession.