Exporters' Sentiment in Germany Dips Again
Forex - The sentiment among exporters in Germany has deteriorated again after a slight recovery over the past month. According to the survey results conducted by the Ifo Institute for Economic Research, the Ifo export expectations index fell from a revised -5.8 points last month to -6.1 points in December.
Klaus Wohlrabe, Head of Ifo Surveys, stated, "The export economy is not gaining any momentum at the end of the year. Unlike previous years, companies are currently not benefiting from positive economic developments in other countries."
The survey results indicate that a decline in exports is expected across many key industrial sectors. As in the previous month, the metal sector was the most affected. However, textile and clothing manufacturers are also anticipating a drop in foreign orders.
The outlook for the automotive sector has been bleak for six months. In the chemical industry, export activities continue to exhibit sideways developments, as they have throughout the year.
The food and beverage industry continues to expect significant growth in international sales. Looking abroad, electric equipment manufacturers have also become slightly more optimistic recently.