The Conference Board Leading Economic Index® (LEI) for the Euro Area increased 0.3 percent to 103.6 (2010=100) in January, following a 0.3 percent increase in December, and a 0.2 percent increase in November.
"The Leading Economic Index for the Euro Area increased for a third consecutive month suggesting the European economy will continue to improve in the first half of the year, albeit moderately," said Bert Colijn, Senior Economist at The Conference Board. "While the depreciation of the euro, lower oil prices, and improved business and consumer confidence are having a positive impact on the economic outlook, a persistently sluggish manufacturing sector continues to dampen growth prospects."
The Conference Board Coincident Economic Index® (CEI) for the Euro Area, which measures current economic activity, increased 0.1 percent in January. The index now stands at 100.1* (2010 = 100). The CEI increased 0.1 percent in both December and November.
