The key points from today’s economic news, brought to you by Guardian Stockbrokers.
Euro-zone GDP advanced as expected in 4Q 2018
On a quarterly basis, the seasonally adjusted final gross domestic product (GDP) in the Euro-zone registered a rise of 0.20% in 4Q 2018, compared to a similar rise in the prior quarter. Market anticipation was for GDP to rise 0.20%.
Euro-zone number of persons employed rose in 4Q 2018
On a QoQ basis, the number of persons employed in the Euro-zone climbed 0.30% in 4Q 2018. The number of persons employed had recorded a rise of 0.20% in the previous quarter.
German GDP remained flat in 4Q 2018
In Germany, the seasonally adjusted flash GDP remained flat on a QoQ basis in 4Q 2018, less than market expectations for a rise of 0.10%. In the previous quarter, GDP had dropped 0.20%.
US advance retail sales surprisingly fell in December
In the US, advance retail sales unexpectedly dropped by 1.20% in December on a MoM basis, lower than market expectations for a rise of 0.10%. Advance retail sales had recorded a revised rise of 0.10% in the prior month.
US initial jobless claims unexpectedly rose in the last week
The seasonally adjusted initial jobless claims in the US recorded an unexpected rise to a level of 239.00 K in the week ended 09 February 2019, compared to a revised level of 235.00 K in the prior week. Markets were anticipating initial jobless claims to fall to a reading of 225.00 K
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