Investing.com - The ZEW index of economic sentiment for Germany rose in December, but remained in negative territory, while the view of the current economic situation deteriorated again, a closely watched survey on Tuesday showed.
The Mannheim-based ZEW research institute said its economic sentiment index climbed to a negative 17.5 this month from minus 24.1 in November. That was compared to the consensus forecast for a reading of minus 25.0.
A separate gauge measuring investors’ assessment of the economy’s current conditions fell to 45.3 from 58.2 in November and worse than expectations for a reading of 55.8.
“Although the rise in economic expectations is a welcome one, it should not be over-interpreted. The assessment of the economic situation has worsened dramatically for both Germany and the euro zone," said ZEW President Professor Achim Wambach.
"This is indicative of relatively weak economic growth in the fourth quarter. In addition, uncertainties also remain in terms of the looming international trade dispute and Brexit, which have a particularly negative impact on private investment and Germany’s exports.”
The ZEW’s index of euro zone economic sentiment increased to minus 21.0 in December from minus 22.0 a month earlier. Analysts had expected the index to fall to minus 23.2.