Ifo Business Survey for February 2012 in Brief

The Ifo Business Climate for German trade and industry improved in all four industry sectors surveyed in February. More companies reported a favourable business situation than in January and their business expectations are more optimistic for the fourth time in succession. The German economy seems to be recovering somewhat from last autumn’s economic slowdown. The Ifo Employment Barometer remained almost unchanged at a high level in February. Companies in Germany are still planning to increase their staff base. The German labour market remains robust despite difficulties in Europe.