Eurozone Q4 GDP might see an upside surprise

12 February 2015, 13:49
Andrius Kulvinskas
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Pernille Bomholdt Nielsen, SeniorAnalyst at Danske Bank, forecasts eurozone Q4 GDP to print an above consensus (0.2% qoq) figure of 0.4% qoq, aided by a probable high growth in private consumption.

Key Quotes

“Euro GDP growth for Q4 is due for release on Friday. We estimate the economy expanded by 0.4% q/q, which is above consensus of 0.2% q/q.”

“The main driver of our above-consensus expectation is higher growth in private consumption.”

“Retail sales increased each month in Q4, boosted by the lower oil price, lower unemployment and a stabilisation in consumer confidence.”

“Looking ahead, we expect private consumption to increase further and we estimate GDP growth of 1.5% in 2015 (consensus 1.15%).”

“Although investment is likely to have remained weak in Q4, the improved business sentiment and progress in industrial production point to stabilisation.”

“Looking ahead, continued demand from increasing private consumption, fading uncertainty and political initiatives should support higher investment.”