The Ifo Business Climate Index for industry and trade in Germany rose to 106.8 points in February from 106.7 points last month. Satisfaction with the current business situation decreased somewhat, but companies expressed greater confidence in future business developments. The German economy is proving robust in the face of geopolitical uncertainty. In manufacturing the business climate indicator rose somewhat.
Manufacturers’ assessments of the current business situation were slightly less favourable than last month. The six-month business outlook improved, however, reaching its highest level since August 2014. International business remains a key driver. In wholesaling the business climate deteriorated marginally. Wholesalers were somewhat less satisfied with their current business situation, but expressed greater optimism about future business developments.
In retailing the business climate index edged upwards. Very good assessments of the current business situation were scaled back somewhat, but the outlook continued to improve. In construction the business climate deteriorated slightly, but the index remains at a high level. Contractors were slightly more satisfied with their current business situation, but the six-month business outlook clouded over somewhat.
