EUROPE: (2) The ZEW’s Economic Sentiment Index (ESI) fell for a fifth
successive month in February, dropping by 2.1 points to stand at +45.1,
its lowest level since July 2009. Nevertheless, it remains well above
its historical average of +27.1. Meanwhile, the counterpart current
conditions indicator posted a ninth successive rise in February,
rising by 1.8 points to -54.8, its highest level since November 2008.
For March, the ESI is expected to see a further fall to 43.6, while the
current conditions indicator is expected to see its tenth successive
rise in March, to -52.0. Back in Europe at 1445GMT, ECB Executive Board
member Juergen Stark delivers a speech at the European Parliament.