KOF Economic Barometer: Slightly improved outlook

The KOF Economic Barometer increases by two points in January to a level of 101.6 points (after revised 99.6 in December). The majority of the production-side indicator bundles included in the KOF Economic Barometer show positive developments. Particularly, the indicator bundles for manufacturing, other services, financial and insurance services, and hospitality contribute to the increase. The construction industry indicator bundle, however, weakens. The demand-side indicator bundles included in the KOF Economic Barometer are under pressure. Both, the indicator bundles for foreign demand as well as for private consumption indicate a downward tendency.

In terms of the sub-indicators for different aspects of business activity within the producing industry (manufacturing and construction), the outlook for the sub-indicators for exports, for the assessment of production barriers, as well as for production activity is particularly favourable. The sub-indicators for order backlogs, for the competitive situation, and for the general business situation, however, experience a setback.

The developments within the manufacturing industry are mixed. The paper and printing industry as well as the metal industry are particularly under pressure. This is cushioned in particular by the textile industry, machinery and equipment manufacturing, and the electrical industry which all indicate an improved outlook.