Business

Business Briefs

Bull China

China’s official manufacturing purchasing managers’ index hit a 16-month high in August — 51.0 vs. 50.3 in July — suggesting the world’s second-largest economy may prove slightly stronger than expected in the third quarter.

Gold run

Hedge funds and other speculators are making the biggest bet on a gold rally since January amid mounting signs that the US will lead a military strike against Syria, driving prices to a three-month high.

Car service

Ford is recalling 355,000 cars in the US due to potential corrosion to their steering shaft that may result in loss of steering. No incidents or injuries have been reported. The recalls include 2005 to 2011 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Cars.

A good bet

Dealers at Foxwoods Resort Casino overwhelmingly ratified a contract that raises salaries and preserves what the union says is the dealers’ right to decide how to distribute tips. Local 2121 of the United Auto Workers said on its website that dealers voted 908 to 102 in favor of the contract. The union represents nearly 2,000 dealers.