Analysts were unprepared for a higher-than-predicted leap in German investor optimism in January, despite continued signs of downsizing in German industry. German investor confidence jumped unexpectedly in January, a key indicator released on Tuesday showed. It signals hope that signs of an economic recovery could emerge as the year...

The government has announced a second package of measures to encourage banks to lend to individuals and businesses. The long list of policies includes a scheme to offer insurance against banks losing more money from the bad debts that started the credit crunch. Prime Minister Gordon Brown said the...

The EU is facing a “deep and protracted” recession, according to forecasts made in Brussels and released on Monday, Jan. 19. More economic contraction and rising unemployment are on the horizon, Brussels said. The 16 nations which use the euro will see their economies shrink by 1.9 percent, while...

The worldwide economic crisis has significantly shaken Europe’s economies. No country can sit back and wait it out. With a series of economic stimulus packages, nations hope they can weather the storm. At their summit in December, the EU countries’ heads of state agreed to launch economic stimulus packages...

The three parties of Germany’s grand coalition have agreed on a fresh round of stimulus measures worth billions to protect the weakening economy. But some already worry the package will not offer the help that’s needed. In talks held late into the night on Monday, Jan. 12, the governing...