MNI BRIEF: German Exporters More Optimistic in Jan: Ifo

Germany's exports improved in January, with the Ifo Institute's export index rising to 6.0, up from 1.9 in December, indicating increased optimism at the start of the year. This marks the highest level since October, with the uptick mainly driven by more clarity regarding Brexit, U.S. elections, a robust industrial economy and the start of the vaccination campaigns.

Computer and electrical equipment producers forecast strong increases in exports, while manufacturers of mechanical engineering and the chemical products are also more confident about future exports. Food and beverage manufacturer's export expectations improved as well to a stable outlook. On the other hand, the clothing industry is still struggling and furniture producers expect their international sales to drop.