Economic Comment
The Eurozone economy grew by 0.1% in the final quarter of 2019. For 2020 we expect growth to remain lackluster. Domestic demand will slow as the business cycle has substantially advanced, whilst the external environment will remain weak.
Economic Comment Dutch version
European trade commissioner Phil Hogan has concluded his visit to the US. The joint proposal to reform the WTO has been a major achievement but there has been little progress on US tariffs on European goods.
Economic Comment
Now that the phase one trade deal between the US and China has been signed, the US will shift its focus to the EU. US frustrations related to EU trade policy have been mounting recently. In addition, little progress has been made on US requests related to defense spending and the EU’s China policy.
Economic Comment
The Eurozone economy grew with 0.2% in 19Q3. At first sight maybe little to cheer about, but given the trade tensions and ailing manufacturing sector, worth a minor celebration. Maybe more importantly, for now this is as good as it gets.
Economic Comment
In the third quarter of 2018, the Eurozone economy grew by 0.2 percent compared to the previous quarter. October PMI indicators showed a sharper drop than expected, indicating that growth in Q4 will probably remain low.
Economic Comment Dutch version
Despite deleveraging in recent years, private sector debt remains high in many Eurozone countries. The private sector in Cyprus, Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, Finland and Luxembourg is most vulnerable to higher interest rates.
Economic Comment
The Eurozone economy finished 2017 at a high note, with annual growth coming in at 2.5%, the highest figure since 2011. The outlook for 2018 looks good as well, likely prompting us to upwardly revise our forecasts soon.
