Eurozone August Economic Sentiment Index rises to 98.4, hitting a seven-month high

⑴ The Eurozone's Economic Sentiment Index rose from 97.1 in July (revised) to 98.4 in August, marking the fourth consecutive month of increases. This figure surpasses market expectations of 97.5 and is the highest since January. Businesses and consumers remain hopeful for a resolution to the prolonged six-month conflict between the US and Iran.⑵ Confidence improved across all sectors: manufacturing, services, consumers, retail, and construction all showed stronger sentiment. Inflation expectations varied, with consumer expectations rising while manufacturers' sales price expectations declined. Among major economies, confidence improved in France, Germany, and Italy, remained steady in the Netherlands, and declined in Spain.