ZEW Indicator of Economic Sentiment - Economic Expectations Slightly Decline

The ZEW Indicator of Economic Sentiment for Germany decreased slightly by 4.9 points in November 2009 and now stands at 51.1 points after 56.0 points in the previous month. This value is still well above the indicator’s historical average of 26.9 points.

The economic expectations for Germany are still on a high level. However, the sentiment of the financial experts has slightly weakened. At present, it is still uncertain how private consumption will evolve. The gradually increasing price level and the uncertain situation on the labour market may dampen consumption. On the other hand, the continuous improvement of German exports feds optimism and strengthens economic growth.

"The upward trend of the economic expectations is interrupted for the time being. The surveyed financial market experts signal that they do not count on a strong boost for economic growth in the next year. It rather seems that economic recovery will proceed in small steps", says ZEW President Prof. Dr. Dr. h.c. mult. Wolfgang Franz.

The assessment of the current economic situation in Germany improved in November. The corresponding indicator rose by 6.6 points to minus 65.6 points. The economic expectations for the euro zone decreased in November by 5.1 points compared to the previous month. The respective indicator now stands at 51.8 points. The indicator for the current economic situation in the euro zone improved by 5.1 points and now stands at minus 70.3 points.

For further information please contact

Dr. Sandra Schmidt, E-mail: s.schmidt@zew.de

Matthias Köhler, E-mail: koehler@zew.de