Japan's private sector saw a softer expansion in business activity in September, with growth easing to a four-month low, according to preliminary data from S&P Global published Thursday.

The seasonally adjusted S&P Global Flash Japan PMI Composite Output Index was 52.5, compared with 53.5 in August.

Manufacturers continued to lead the upturn, while both manufacturers and service providers recorded slower growth in output and new orders.

Employment rose at the fastest pace in seven months, while business confidence strengthened to its highest level since February.

Meanwhile, the flash services PMI came in at 51.6, against the prior 52.5.