The Ifo Institute, a primary economics research outfit in Germany, this morning released its German Business Climate Index for March. Overall, the index rose, from 109.7 in February to 109.8 in March, which was better that the consensus estimate of 109.6.
Under the hood, though, the German economy “is losing some of its momentum,” according to Ifo. The index measures business expectations in manufacturing, construction, retailing, and wholesaling. The manufacturing sector’s index fell by 0.3, and construction fell from 3.3 to 2.3. Retailers are the most optimistic about the country’s business climate, jumping the index from 3.7 in February to 10.6 in March. Wholesalers followed the manufacturing and construction sectors, with the index falling from 15 in February to 12.8 in March.
Ifo also surveys the services sector, and in March the index fell from 24.9 to 22.4. The services sector has a dim view of the current business situation in Germany.
The headline number, though, showed an increase and that has boosted European exchanges this morning, and is propping up US index futures.
The Ifo Institute’s press release is available here.
Paul Ausick
Want to Retire Early? Start Here (Sponsor)
Want retirement to come a few years earlier than you’d planned? Or are you ready to retire now, but want an extra set of eyes on your finances?
Now you can speak with up to 3 financial experts in your area for FREE. By simply clicking here you can begin to match with financial professionals who can help you build your plan to retire early. And the best part? The first conversation with them is free.
Click here to match with up to 3 financial pros who would be excited to help you make financial decisions.
Have questions about retirement or personal finance? Email us at [email protected]!
By emailing your questions to 24/7 Wall St., you agree to have them published anonymously on a673b.bigscoots-temp.com.
By submitting your story, you understand and agree that we may use your story, or versions of it, in all media and platforms, including via third parties.
Thank you for reading! Have some feedback for us?
Contact the 24/7 Wall St. editorial team.
Latest from 24/7
