Czech Republic: Economic sentiment strengthens in May
The economic sentiment indicator, published by the Czech Statistical Office (CSO), rose to 101.8 in May from 100.0 in April.
The business confidence index increased to 107.0 from April’s 103.8. The result came on the back of stronger sentiment in the industry and trade sectors more than offsetting lower confidence in the construction sector. Meanwhile, confidence in the selected services sector stagnated.
On the flip side, consumer confidence fell further in May, with the index decreasing to 75.8 from 81.3 in April, marking the weakest reading since May 2012. The decline reflected an increase in the number of households expecting a worsening in the overall economic situation as well as more downbeat expectations on their personal financial situation and increased worries about unemployment.