Today, Eurostat released the European Statistical Monitor, a dashboard with short-term indicators covering different areas, such as economy, environment, business, health and work.
This monthly updated dashboard is designed to track developments within the EU as a whole and its members, as well as the EFTA countries, providing a holistic overview of key developments. It focuses on monthly and quarterly indicators, ensuring up-to-date insights and includes a commentary, focusing on recent changes and trends.
The EU economy shows moderate expansion, alongside easing inflation and rising house prices
The latest monthly data show that the EU economy is in moderate expansion. Industrial and services production increased, supported by continued growth in retail trade and an increase in international trade in goods. At the same time, economic sentiment edged down slightly, as improved confidence in industry was offset by weaker confidence in retail trade.
Inflation continued to ease, while house prices rose further to reach a historic high.
Stable and low unemployment indicated favourable labour market conditions. Meanwhile, the number of first-time asylum applicants continued its recent increase. (....)