Eurozone CPI Swings to Deflation
The eurozone’s consumer price index shrank by 0.2% this month, moving the region into deflation for the second time in six months.
#economics
The eurozone’s consumer price index shrank by 0.2% this month, moving the region into deflation for the second time in six months.
Eurostat says the February decline was led by an 8% drop in energy prices. But the EU statistical service notes that inflation rates declined for all categories.
The European Central Bank considers 2% inflation healthy. Negative growth is dangerous because it raises the cost of debt and encourages consumers to put off purchases in hope of lower prices in the future.
Economists say this month’s decline shows that the ECB’s attempts to stimulate the eurozone economy haven’t worked. The central bank plans to revisit its policies next week and is widely expected to step up its efforts to restore growth.
RELATED CONTENT
-
Report Forecasts Huge Economic Upside for Self-Driving EVs
Widespread adoption of autonomous electric vehicles could provide $800 billion in annual social and economic benefits in the U.S. by 2050, according to a new report.
-
VW Warns of Higher Costs to Develop EVs
CEO Herbert Diess says the €20 billion ($23 billion) Volkswagen AG has budgeted to electrify its entire vehicle lineup won’t be enough to meet that goal.
-
Mazda, CARB and PSA North America: Car Talk
The Center for Automotive Research (CAR) Management Briefing Seminars, an annual event, was held last week in Traverse City, Michigan.