GDP 2015: Spain +3,5%, France +1,1%. Contrasted consumption and inflation

The economy of the Spanish country continues to grow steadily: up by 3,5% both in the fourth quarter and in the whole of 2015 – The increase in the French GDP represents the best figure since 2011 – French consumption rebounds, retail sales down in Germany – Inflation up in France, down in Spain.

The growth of the Spanish economy continues at a rapid pace. Indeed, in the fourth quarter of 2015, the GDP of the Iberian country it recorded growth of 0,8% on the previous quarter and 3,5% on an annual basis, accelerating compared to the pace of 3,4% maintained in the previous three months.

Looking at the whole of 2015, however, the Spanish GDP has scored an increase in 3,5% on an annual basis, slightly below the estimates published by the Government. In 2014, the Spanish economy had grown by 1,4%.

It is also growingFrench economy. According to data released by the national statistical institute (Insee), in the fourth quarter of 2015 the transalpine GDP grew by 0,2% compared to the previous quarter. The data marks a slight slowdown compared to the 0,3% growth maintained in the third quarter.

Looking at the whole of 2015, the French GDP recorded an annual increase of 1,1%. This is in line with government estimates, as well as being the best for the French economy from 2011 to date.

Insee has also published data on French consumption, rebounding by 0,7% in December after the 1,4% decline recorded in November. The figure exceeds the forecasts of analysts, stuck at a growth of 0,5%. The increase in household expenses is mainly due to the 4,2% growth in textile clothing consumption.

In Germany, on the other hand, the retail trade slowed down in December, recording a contraction of 0,2% following the +0,4% in November. Disappointed analysts, who expected an increase of 0,5%. On an annual basis, the change was positive by 1,5% against 2,4% in November.

Chapter inflation. In France, consumer prices showed an increase of 0,4% on a monthly basis, after the +0,3% recorded in December, and of 0,2% on an annual basis. Energy prices weigh on a value that is still far from the ECB targets.

In Spain, on the other hand, the consumer price index recorded a decrease of 0,3% on an annual basis in January, against zero in December. The harmonized consumer price index fell by 0,4%, compared to -0,1% in December.