ZEW Indicator of Economic Sentiment - Economic Sentiment Declines Slightly

In April 2015, the ZEW Indicator of Economic Sentiment for Germany fell for the first time since October 2014. Compared to the previous month, the indicator has declined by 1.5 points to a reading of 53.3 points (long-term average: 24.8 points).

"The German economy is in good shape. A stable labour market and increasing wages are strengthening confidence and boosting consumption. However, the current weakness of the world economy is dampening export prospects and reducing the scope for further improvements of the economic situation in Germany," says ZEW President Professor Clemens Fuest. The assessment of the current situation in Germany has improved notably. Increasing by 15.1 points, the index now stands at 70.2 points.

The financial market experts' sentiment concerning the economic development of the Eurozone is improving. ZEW’s Indicator of Economic Sentiment for the Eurozone has increased by 2.4 points to a reading of 64.8 points. Gaining 8.3 points in April 2015, the indicator for the current situation in the euro area has reached a value of minus 28.3 points.     

For more information please contact

Dominik Rehse, Phone +49 (0)621/1235-378, E-mail rehse@zew.de

Jesper Riedler, Phone +49 (0)621/1235-379, E-mail riedler@zew.de