German businesses start optimistically into the new year

摘要

The major part of Germany's industry federations are fairly confident about the year that lies ahead. Most of them expect business to improve for their member companies and investments to rise slightly compared to last year. 26 out of the total of 48 federations surveyed by the Cologne Institute for Economic Research (IW) said that the overall mood in their member companies was more positive at the turn of 2013 than a year before. Business sentiment deteriorated in only seven industries. The general mood became even brighter with a view to the future - companies in 34 out of a total of 48 sectors said they forecast production and sales to go up in 2014 compared to the past business year. Prof. Michael Huther, IW director, said: "The figures are pleasing. The outlook for the future of Germany's businesses has not been that positive in years."