“The order backlog has risen, and this is supporting manufacturing. Exports should continue to drive growth while the domestic economy remains weaker.”
“Even if the negotiations on a grand coalition are successfully concluded ... we expect this government will stay in power for only a short period of time.”
“Made in Germany is a big trademark, and the products are heading to the U.S., Eastern Europe and Asia. Germany still depends on sales abroad, but the recovery is broadening.”
“The agreement is lower than expected and it's good news for Germany and for the euro zone because the ECB will have one reason less to raise interest rates. The whole package entails a total rise of 5.1 percent over 24 months, so for German standards that is a really good agreement.”
“German companies will start feeling the pressure on their margins. It was a long winter, consumers used more energy and the same applies to companies. We expect energy prices to retreat somewhat in the second quarter.”