The German trade association BGA has painted a bleak outlook for the country’s foreign trade sector in 2025, with an anticipated 2.7% decline in turnover compared to 2024. Nearly 80% of businesses involved in foreign trade are expecting a further drop in sales this year, reflecting a challenging economic climate. …
Read More »Financial Markets Weekly Reap: Q4 Earnings, CPI In Focus
Wildfires Ignite Inflation Fears as Economic Headwinds IntensifyThe recent wildfires in Los Angeles have ignited concerns beyond the immediate human and environmental toll. Economists warn that these infernos will not only scorch the land but also fan the flames of inflation, further complicating the Federal Reserve’s fight to bring prices …
Read More »Germany’s Economy Contracts for the Second Consecutive Year in 2024
Germany’s economy contracted by 0.2% in 2024, marking its second consecutive year of decline after a 0.3% contraction in 2023, according to data released by the Federal Statistics Office. The economy also shrank by 0.1% in the final quarter of the year, showing limited signs of recovery amidst ongoing economic …
Read More »Germany’s Exports and Industrial Production Beat Expectations, but Economic Challenges Persist
Germany, the eurozone’s largest economy, delivered better-than-expected export and industrial production data for November. However, underlying indicators suggest that the outlook remains subdued. Key Data Highlights Exports: German exports rose by 2.1% in November, slightly exceeding the forecasted 2.0% increase. Trade with non-EU countries was the primary driver, with exports …
Read More »German Inflation Rises Beyond Expectations in December Amid Higher Food Prices
Germany’s annual inflation accelerated more than forecast in December, driven by surging food prices and a smaller decline in energy costs compared to recent months. Preliminary data from the federal statistics office revealed that the annual consumer price inflation rate climbed to 2.8%, surpassing the 2.6% predicted by analysts polled …
Read More »Corporate Bankruptcies In Germany Touch 2008’s Levels, Record High In Switzerland
A survey conducted in December 2024 revealed a decline in German corporate confidence. Corporate bankruptcies in Germany have risen to levels comparable to those seen during the 2008 financial crisis. German corporates are in a range where some months could easily reach their highest levels in 20 years. During the …
Read More »Dollar Strengthens to Two-Year High as Yen and Global Currencies Struggle
The U.S. dollar ended the week on a high note, hitting a two-year peak as hawkish signals from the Federal Reserve continued to bolster its appeal. In contrast, global currencies faced significant pressure, with the yen, sterling, and commodity-linked currencies like the Australian and New Zealand dollars recording steep losses. …
Read More »U.S. Dollar Holds Firm Ahead of Fed’s Policy Decision Amid Global Currency Shifts
The U.S. dollar maintained its strength on Wednesday as investors braced for the Federal Reserve’s highly anticipated policy decision. The central bank is expected to implement a “hawkish cut,” reducing interest rates by 25 basis points while signaling a more restrained approach to easing in 2025. Markets are keen to …
Read More »Gas and Electricity Prices Surge: A Perfect Storm Brewing
The global energy landscape is facing a perfect storm of soaring gas and electricity prices, driven by a confluence of factors that are set to impact consumers and businesses worldwide. As winter approaches, the situation is expected to worsen, with potential consequences for economies and societies.The Power CrisisThe recent spike …
Read More »German Business Morale Drops as Industrial Slump Deepens, but Investors Eye Optimism
German business sentiment deteriorated more than expected in December, as companies grappled with geopolitical uncertainty, industrial stagnation, and broader economic headwinds in Europe’s largest economy. Ifo Business Climate Index Falls The Ifo Institute’s business climate index fell to 84.7 in December, down from a downwardly revised 85.6 in November. This …
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