Euro nations are finding themselves in the same pickle we’re in: combating problems that might be helping exchange traded funds (ETFs) and other investments, but causing the economy to feel a pinch as consumer spending slows.
The yearly inflation in euro nations hit a record 4% in June, reports Aoife White for the Associated Press. That’s led the European Central Bank to consider raising the key interest rate from 4% to 4.25% to cool things off.
Inflation in those countries is at its highest point in 16 years, and consumers are shying away from making big purchases.
While not a euro country, the outlook toward Sweden’s economy is especially sour, even as Sweden and Norway create a joint financial market in an effort to boost investment in electricity production in renewable resources. When the economy throws out lemons, the Scandinavians know how to make lemonade, as evidenced by the partnership.