Economic growth in the euro area [What Think Tanks are thinking]

The European Commission upgraded its growth forecast for the euro area on 5 February 2015, saying that cheaper oil, a weaker euro and more expansionary policy of the European Central Bank should stimulate economic expansion. Presenting its winter forecast , the Commission said it expected the euro area’s gross domestic product (GDP) to grow by 1.3% and 1.9% in 2015 and 2016 respectively, up from its previous forecasts of 1.1% and 1.7%. In the whole European Union, growth is expected at 1.7% and 2.1% in 2015 and 2016 respectively.

Researchers and analysts in outside think tanks paint many different pictures when they assess the economic situation and prospects for future of the euro area. Their various diagnoses of the currency area’s economic sluggishness include overregulation, insufficient investment in innovation, ageing populations, excessive austerity, inadequate action by the European Central Bank, flaws in the euro area’s governance and fiscal irresponsibility of certain governments.

This ‘At a glance’ note offers links to a selection of commentaries, studies and reports by some of the major international think tanks and research institutes that analyse prospects for growth in Europe and related issues.

• Primary Source

ESO: Background information: Winter Economic Forecast: outlook improved but risks remain http://www.europeansources.info/record/press-release-winter-economic-forecast-outlook-improved-but-risks-remain/

ESO: Background: Find information on the Austerity v Growth debate http://www.europeansources.info/advSearchLink?keyword=austerity%20growth%20economic%20%20&searchOption=all

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