German investor sentiment rose to a five-month high in July as markets priced in
a growth boost from Chancellor Merz’s reform push, ZEW data showed. The ZEW
expectations index jumped to 26.3 from 10.5 in June, well above the 15.3 median
analyst forecast; the current-conditions gauge also improved. Mannheim-based
Centre for European Economic Research said government growth measures unveiled
earlier this month lifted market optimism. ZEW president Achim Wambach said
export-oriented sectors are expanding and domestic demand remains resilient, but
developments in the Iran conflict and oil-price uncertainty remain key downside
risks to the recovery.