PARIS (MNI) – The following is the text of the overview of the
Bank of France’s December monthly business survey:
The business sentiment indicator in industry* stood at 108 in
December, after 107 in November.
The business sentiment indicator in services* stood at 99 in
December, after 98 in November.
According to the monthly index of business activity (MIBA), GDP is
expected to increase by 0.6 % in the fourth quarter of 2010 (third
estimate, unchanged).
* Calculations are based on survey data smoothed over three months.
SUMMARY:
In December, industrial activity posted a slight increase on the
previous month. The capacity utilisation rate rose slightly, but
remained below its long-term average. Orders books firmed.
Inventories of final goods remained in line with normal levels.
Forecasts point to an acceleration of activity in the coming
months.
With the exception of the transport sector, activity in the
services sectors continued to grow.
Prices appear to have remained unchanged. Staff levels continued to
grow, pursuing the trend that started nearly a year ago.
Forecasts for the coming months suggest continued growth.
–Paris newsroom +331 42 71 55 40, e-mail paris@marketnews.com
[TOPICS: M$F$$$,M$X$$$,M$$EC$,MT$$$$]