Sales to Korea, Thailand and Malaysia are picking up. Overall exports are likely to fall this year but will grow in 2000. The 15-member E.U.'s big economies have been slowing, despite aggressive rate cuts by the European Central Bank. But the easier monetary policy is helping and an uptick is near. France and Italy will post steady growth.
Consumer confidence is only slightly weaker than last year.
Consolidation and mergers are likely to increase in most sectors. Europe may do better in dollar terms than in 1998. Paris may get a boost after a three-way bank megamerger. All Rights Reserved. Terms under which this service is provided to you.