Business Survey in Focus: German Economy Robust Despite Lockdown

Despite the continuing lockdown, sentiment in the German economy improved considerably in February. This was reflected in a significant rise in the ifo Business Climate Index Germany from 90.3 to 92.4 points. Assessments of the current business situation were more positive. This was due in particular to the strong industrial economy. In addition, the number of pessimistic voices with a view to the coming months decreased significantly. However, the results on questions about the impact of the coronavirus crisis also showed that those sectors of the economy still affected by closures are facing particularly serious problems.