European mfg expands at fastest in a decade

European manufacturing growth accelerated to the fastest pace in more than 10 years in February, a further sign the economy is gathering strength.

A gauge of manufacturing in the euro region rose to 59 last month from 57.3 in January, London-based Markit Economics said in an e-mailed report today, confirming a February 21 estimate. That’s the highest since June 2000. A reading above 50 indicates expansion.