Barcelona, Abril, 2026 — La Inteligencia Artificial (IA) ya no es una promesa ni un experimento aislado: se ha consolidado como infraestructura operativa dentro de las empresas europeas. Así lo sostiene Rodny A. Coronel, Regional Manager de ELO Digital Office España, quien anticipa que 2026 marcará el punto de inflexión definitivo con la llamada “Segunda Ola” de la IA, una etapa en la que el verdadero impacto dejará de medirse en pilotos para materializarse en resultados de negocio.

Los datos respaldan esta afirmación. En España, la adopción de IA en pymes pasó del 7,4% en 2022 al 23,3% en 2025, con más de 1,6 millones de organizaciones integrando estas tecnologías ya en 2024. Entre empresas de mayor tamaño, el 21,1% utiliza IA en procesos productivos, lo que evidencia un cambio estructural en la gestión de la información. “No es ciencia ficción: es infraestructura en funcionamiento”, afirma Coronel.

El uso empresarial de la IA se concentra principalmente en el análisis de lenguaje escrito (44,7%) y en la automatización de flujos de trabajo (39%), consolidando una tendencia donde la eficiencia operativa y la toma de decisiones basada en datos son prioritarias. Tecnologías como machine learning (33,1%), automatización (25,6%) y IA generativa (20,3%) ya están plenamente integradas en el tejido empresarial.

Impacto tangible en ingresos y productividad

El impacto económico es igualmente significativo. Según Coronel, mercados como Brasil —considerado un “laboratorio adelantado” para Europa— muestran que el 95% de las empresas que adoptan IA reportan crecimiento de ingresos, con un incremento medio del 31%. Además, el 85% espera reducir costes y el 89% prevé acelerar su crecimiento en el corto plazo.

Este salto no responde únicamente a la adopción tecnológica, sino a cómo se integra en los procesos de negocio. “El error de la primera etapa fue usar herramientas aisladas sin conexión con el core empresarial”, explica. La nueva fase corrige ese enfoque.

Europa avanza, pero con brechas

A nivel europeo, una de cada cinco empresas ya utiliza IA, aunque con fuertes disparidades. Países como Dinamarca (42%), Finlandia (37,8%) y Suecia (35%) lideran la adopción, mientras que España se sitúa en torno al 20,3%, alineada con la media de la Unión Europea. Portugal, en cambio, enfrenta un rezago significativo, con un 11,54%.

El principal obstáculo no es tecnológico, sino humano: el 74,4% de las empresas que no adoptan IA señala la falta de conocimiento interno como barrera clave, seguido de costes y regulación.

En este contexto, iniciativas como la AI Factory impulsada desde Barcelona buscan acelerar la innovación. Con una inversión cercana a 198 millones de euros y el respaldo de instituciones europeas, esta infraestructura permitirá a empresas y centros de investigación acceder a capacidades avanzadas de supercomputación para desarrollar modelos de IA generativa a gran escala.

“Barcelona se está consolidando como un nodo estratégico global en inteligencia artificial”, subraya Coronel.

La Segunda Ola: de herramientas a transformación

El concepto central que marcará el futuro inmediato es la “Segunda Ola” de la IA. A diferencia de la primera —centrada en pruebas, demostraciones y entusiasmo inicial—, esta nueva fase implica una transformación integral de los procesos empresariales.

“La diferencia es estructural: pasamos de automatizar tareas aisladas a rediseñar workflows completos”, explica Coronel. Este cambio responde directamente al llamado “paradigma de bajo impacto” identificado por consultoras como McKinsey, donde muchas empresas implementaron IA sin obtener resultados financieros relevantes.

Actualmente, aunque el 88% de las organizaciones utiliza IA en alguna función, solo un 6% logra impactos significativos. Estas empresas —los llamados “high performers”— se caracterizan por una ambición transformadora y por rediseñar completamente sus operaciones.

El foco ahora está en la automatización cognitiva: sistemas capaces de comprender información compleja, aprender y ejecutar decisiones con cierto grado de autonomía. Según previsiones, este mercado superará los 50.000 millones de euros en 2032.

El papel de las plataformas integradas

Para acelerar esta transición, plataformas como ELO ECM Suite 25 buscan integrar la IA directamente en el núcleo documental de las empresas. Desde la captura inteligente de datos hasta la automatización de workflows completos, el objetivo es reducir procesos que antes tomaban días a cuestión de horas.

El enfoque también responde a exigencias regulatorias. En Europa, el 42% de la inversión en IA está vinculada al cumplimiento normativo, lo que impulsa modelos híbridos que combinan cloud y on-premise. “No es una decisión técnica, es una cuestión de gestión de riesgo”, afirma Coronel.

Además, la integración con sistemas existentes como ERP y CRM es crítica. “Una estrategia de IA que obliga a reemplazar todo el ecosistema tecnológico está condenada al fracaso”, añade.

Una ventana que se cierra

El mensaje final es claro: el momento de actuar es ahora. “2025 fue el año de las pruebas. 2026 será el de la implementación real”, advierte Coronel. Las empresas que no den el salto a esta segunda fase corren el riesgo de quedar rezagadas frente a competidores que ya han consolidado ventajas estructurales.

En este escenario, el ELO Horizons Barcelona 2026 se realiza el próximo 29 de Abril en Tech Barcelona. Más informaciones: https://www.elo.com/es-es/horizons-barcelona-2026.html
El evento, abierto al público y gratis, se posiciona como un espacio clave para la toma de decisiones estratégicas. Más allá del debate tecnológico, el foco está en cómo convertir la inteligencia artificial en un motor tangible de competitividad.

“El futuro de la gestión de la información no será solo más rápido —será más inteligente, más integrado y decisivamente orientado a resultados”, concluye.

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Cyclical unemployment is a pivotal concept in macroeconomics, representing the fluctuations in the unemployment rate tied closely to the business cycle. It characteristically rises during recessions and declines when the economy experiences growth. This type of unemployment is a key element in understanding the dynamics of the labor market and the broader economy. In this article, we will delve into the causes, implications, and the broader context of cyclical unemployment, comparing it with other forms of unemployment and examining its role during economic downturns such as the 2008 financial crisis.

What Is Cyclical Unemployment?

Cyclical unemployment occurs when there is a lack of demand for goods and services in the economy, leading to a reduction in workforce needs by businesses. This unemployment type is intrinsically linked to the cyclical trends of the economy, where periods of economic decline, such as recessions, lead to higher unemployment rates. The core idea is that when economic activity slows down, businesses experience less revenue, necessitating cost-cutting measures, often through workforce reductions.

A critical aspect of cyclical unemployment is its temporary nature. Unlike structural unemployment, which can result from a mismatch of skills, cyclical unemployment tends to resolve as the economy recovers. Economists closely monitor cyclical unemployment as it provides insights into the health of the economy. When a recovery begins, businesses gradually increase hiring to meet rising demand, thus reducing unemployment rates.

Understanding cyclical unemployment also involves recognizing its relationship with GDP. During expansions, GDP rises, leading to increased production and employment. Conversely, during recessions, GDP falls, and unemployment rises. This relationship underscores why cyclical unemployment is a focal point for policymakers who aim to smoothen economic cycles and sustain employment levels.

One way to gauge the extent of cyclical unemployment is by examining the gap between actual and potential output. When the economy operates below its potential, it signifies underutilized resources, including labor, leading to cyclical unemployment. Conversely, when the economy is booming, this gap closes, and unemployment tends to decrease, highlighting the cyclical nature of such joblessness.

Key Drivers of Cyclical Unemployment

The primary driver of cyclical unemployment is the fluctuation in economic activity as dictated by the business cycle. During downturns, demand for products and services declines, prompting businesses to lay off employees. These fluctuations are a natural part of the economic cycle, characterized by expansions and contractions. Various factors can influence these cycles, including changes in consumer confidence, fiscal policies, and global economic conditions.

Consumer confidence plays a significant role in driving cyclical unemployment. When consumers feel uncertain about the economy’s future, they tend to reduce spending, leading to decreased demand for goods and services. This decreased demand compels businesses to cut back on production and, subsequently, their workforce. Thus, consumer sentiment can amplify the effects of cyclical unemployment during a downturn.

Fiscal and monetary policies are also crucial in managing cyclical unemployment. Governments often deploy fiscal measures like tax cuts or increased public spending to stimulate demand during recessions. Similarly, central banks may adjust interest rates to influence borrowing and spending. These policy tools aim to mitigate the severity of economic downturns and, by extension, cyclical unemployment.

Global economic conditions can further exacerbate or alleviate cyclical unemployment. For instance, a global recession can depress export demand, affecting domestic industries and leading to job losses. Conversely, global economic growth can boost demand for exports, leading to increased production and employment. Thus, cyclical unemployment is not only a domestic issue but also influenced by international economic trends.

Stages of Cyclical Unemployment

Cyclical unemployment tends to move in waves, following a pretty familiar pattern every time the economy takes a turn. Let’s break it down step by step:

The Downturn Begins

It all starts when the economy hits a snag — maybe a global pandemic, a financial meltdown, or simply consumers losing confidence and spending less. Suddenly, the smooth rhythm of growth starts to slow.

Layoffs Begin to Roll Out

As companies see sales drop and profits shrink, they scramble to cut expenses. Unfortunately, that often means laying off workers. Businesses try to ride out the storm by downsizing, pausing new projects, or freezing hiring.

Unemployment Rises Across the Board

Job losses ripple through multiple sectors. With fewer paychecks circulating, people tighten their budgets, which only deepens the slowdown. The cycle can keep spiraling until government action or a shift in economic conditions breaks the pattern.

Confidence Slowly Returns

After months (or years) of struggle, consumer and business confidence start to rebound. Maybe a stimulus package helps, or interest rates drop, making it easier to borrow and spend again.

Recovery and Rehiring

As demand picks up, businesses open their doors to more workers. People who lost jobs begin to find new opportunities, and industries that were hit hardest finally stabilize.

Growth and Expansion Phase

The economy doesn’t just recover—it often experiences a burst of growth as pent-up demand drives production and spending. Companies expand operations, wages rise, and optimism fuels investment.

Stability and Vigilance

Once the market balances out, the focus shifts to maintaining stability. Policymakers watch for early warning signs of another downturn so they can act quickly to prevent another employment crisis.

Key Causes of Cyclical Unemployment

So, what actually sparks this rollercoaster of job gains and losses? Here are the usual suspects behind cyclical unemployment:

Economic Recession

The classic cause. When businesses face slower sales, they cut back on staff to reduce costs.

Drop in Business Investment

If companies hold off on new projects or expansion plans, fewer workers are needed to get things done.

Falling Industrial Output

When factories or service sectors produce less, they simply don’t need as many hands on deck.

Financial Crashes or Market Shocks

A stock market crash or banking crisis can shake confidence across the board, leading to spending freezes and layoffs.

Global Events

Pandemics, wars, or supply chain disruptions can throw entire economies off balance, halting production and shrinking demand.

Consumer Behavior Shifts

Sometimes, people just change how they spend. For example, if consumers suddenly prefer digital products over physical goods, industries tied to manufacturing might face layoffs before others adjust.

Technological Overlap During Recession

Even though tech advances aren’t the root of cyclical unemployment, automation and digitalization can amplify it during downturns, as companies adopt machines to cut costs while jobs are already scarce.

Cyclical Unemployment in Economic Downturns: The 2008 Financial Crisis

The 2008 financial crisis serves as a classic example of cyclical unemployment, where a severe economic downturn led to widespread job losses. The crisis was characterized by a collapse in the housing market, leading to a cascade of financial institution failures and a sharp contraction in economic activity. As businesses grappled with declining revenues, massive layoffs ensued, resulting in a spike in unemployment rates.

During the crisis, cyclical unemployment surged as businesses across various sectors reduced their workforce. Industries such as construction, manufacturing, and finance were particularly hard-hit, reflecting the pervasive impact of the recession. The severity of the crisis underscored the interconnectedness of global economies, as the downturn spread internationally, leading to a synchronized rise in unemployment rates worldwide.

One of the critical challenges during the 2008 crisis was the slow recovery of the labor market, even after GDP growth resumed. This slow recovery was partly attributed to “sticky” wages, where wages did not adjust downward quickly enough to reflect economic conditions. As a result, businesses remained cautious in hiring, prolonging the period of high cyclical unemployment.

Policymakers responded to the crisis with unprecedented measures aimed at stimulating the economy and curbing unemployment. These included massive fiscal stimulus packages and aggressive monetary policy interventions. The aim was to restore confidence, revive demand, and expedite the recovery of the labor market. The experience of the 2008 crisis highlighted the importance of timely and coordinated policy responses in managing cyclical unemployment.

Why Cyclical Unemployment Matters

Cyclical unemployment doesn’t just show up on charts—it hits real people and real businesses hard. Here’s why it’s such a big deal:

Loss of Income – Families have less money to cover essentials, which leads to reduced overall spending in the economy.

Shaky Consumer Confidence – When people are worried about their jobs, they delay big purchases like cars, houses, or vacations. That hesitation keeps demand low.

Long-Term Damage – If unemployment drags on, workers can lose valuable skills or drop out of the workforce completely. That makes recovery even slower once the economy bounces back.

Wider Social Impact – Rising unemployment can lead to more stress, reduced mental health, and greater inequality between those who stay employed and those who don’t.

How to Reduce Cyclical Unemployment

Here’s the good news: governments and communities aren’t powerless. There are proven ways to soften the blow and help economies recover faster.

1. Government and Central Bank Action

Policymakers have several tools to keep the economy moving:

• Lowering Interest Rates (Monetary Policy) – When borrowing is cheaper, businesses are more likely to invest and hire.
• Fiscal Stimulus – Governments can inject money into the system through tax breaks, public projects, or direct payments to citizens, boosting demand and encouraging companies to rehire.
• Quantitative Easing – Central banks can buy financial assets to pump liquidity into markets, keeping credit flowing and restoring confidence.

2. Boosting Consumer Confidence

When people believe the future looks bright, they start spending again. Encouraging confidence through clear communication, job security initiatives, and visible recovery efforts helps restart the economic engine.

3. Job Retraining and Upskilling

Helping people adapt is key. By providing access to training programs, workers can transition into new or growing industries more easily when the economy starts to recover.

4. Support for Vulnerable Groups

Unemployment benefits, small business loans, and food or rent assistance can prevent families and companies from collapsing during downturns. Safety nets buy time until conditions improve.

5. Promoting Innovation and Small Business Growth

Encouraging startups and innovation can breathe life into struggling economies. New ventures often create fresh job opportunities and help diversify markets, making future downturns less severe.

6. Strengthening Global Cooperation

In an interconnected world, one country’s downturn can ripple across borders. International cooperation on trade, supply chains, and crisis management can help stabilize employment worldwide when recessions hit.

Comparing Cyclical Unemployment With Other Types

Cyclical unemployment is just one of several types of unemployment that economists study. To fully understand it, it’s essential to compare it with other forms like structural, frictional, and seasonal unemployment. Structural unemployment arises from a mismatch between workers’ skills and job requirements, often due to technological advancements or shifts in the economy. Unlike cyclical unemployment, structural unemployment can persist even in a booming economy.

Frictional unemployment, on the other hand, occurs when individuals are temporarily unemployed while transitioning between jobs. This form of unemployment is considered natural and even beneficial as it allows for better matching of jobs and skills. Unlike cyclical unemployment, frictional unemployment exists irrespective of the economic cycle and tends to be short-term.

Seasonal unemployment is another distinct category, driven by changes in demand at different times of the year. For example, industries like agriculture and tourism experience seasonal fluctuations in employment. While cyclical unemployment is influenced by broader economic trends, seasonal unemployment is predictable and occurs regularly.

By understanding these differences, we can appreciate the unique challenges posed by cyclical unemployment. While other types of unemployment may require targeted interventions, cyclical unemployment often necessitates broad economic policies aimed at stimulating demand and restoring growth. This distinction is crucial for policymakers in devising effective strategies to address unemployment.

Policy Responses to Cyclical Unemployment

Addressing cyclical unemployment requires a range of policy responses designed to stimulate economic activity and boost employment. Governments and central banks play a pivotal role in implementing these policies, which can include both fiscal and monetary measures. The goal is to smoothen economic cycles and mitigate the adverse effects of downturns on the labor market.

Fiscal policy is a key tool in combating cyclical unemployment. During recessions, governments may implement expansionary fiscal policies, such as increasing public spending or cutting taxes, to inject demand into the economy. These measures aim to boost consumer spending and business investment, thereby reducing unemployment rates.

Monetary policy also plays a crucial role in managing cyclical unemployment. Central banks can lower interest rates to make borrowing more attractive, encouraging both consumer spending and business investment. Additionally, unconventional measures like quantitative easing can be employed to increase money supply and liquidity in the financial system.

Coordinated international efforts can further enhance the effectiveness of policy responses. Since cyclical unemployment can have global implications, collaborative actions among countries can help stabilize the global economy. Such coordination can involve synchronized policy measures or agreements to boost trade, which can support economic recovery and employment.

In conclusion, cyclical unemployment is a dynamic and complex component of the labor market, deeply intertwined with the broader economic cycle. Understanding its causes, implications, and policy responses is essential for navigating economic fluctuations and fostering sustained employment growth. By recognizing the unique characteristics of cyclical unemployment and employing targeted policy measures, we can mitigate its impact and support a more resilient economy.

Janet Ekelt

Janet Ekelt is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Janet has also been Editorial Writer at The Irish Times, a leading Irish English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.

Photo by Vlad Busuioc on Unsplash

Are you‍ ready‍ to dive into the ever-changing world of economics? Grab your surfboard and get ready to ride the wave of the latest economic⁢ trends! From stock market fluctuations to global trade agreements, there’s ‌a lot to unpack when it comes ‌to understanding the economy. In this article, we’ll explore what these trends mean for you and‍ how you can navigate the ⁤ups and downs of the financial ⁣landscape. Firstly, get yourself a cup of coffee, get comfortable, and let’s embark on this journey together..

– The Rise​ of the Gig‍ Economy: How Freelancing is Reshaping the Workforce

The‌ gig economy‌ is on the rise, transforming the way people work and the traditional concept of employment. With more and more individuals opting for freelancing over traditional 9-5 jobs, it’s important to understand the latest economic trends shaping this shift.⁢ As we explore how ⁣freelancing is reshaping the workforce, it’s essential to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape of work opportunities.

One ⁤of the key trends driving ‍the gig⁤ economy is the desire for flexibility and autonomy. Freelancers have​ the freedom to choose their own projects, set ‌their​ own ​schedules, and work from anywhere in the world. This flexibility allows individuals to pursue their passions, balance work and personal⁢ life, ‍and‍ take control of their career paths. Additionally, the rise​ of online platforms and marketplaces has made it easier than ‍ever for freelancers to connect with clients and ⁢find new opportunities. The gig ⁤economy⁣ is not just a trend – it’s a⁣ fundamental shift in how ⁢we view work⁣ and employment.

– Investing in Tech: Navigating the Booming Tech Sector for Financial⁢ Success

The⁤ tech sector is undeniably one of the most⁢ lucrative industries to invest in today. With rapid advancements in technology and innovation, there are endless opportunities for financial success for those who choose ⁤to ride the wave⁢ of this booming sector.‍ From artificial intelligence and blockchain to e-commerce and cybersecurity, the possibilities are truly endless.​

To navigate the ever-evolving tech landscape successfully, it’s crucial to⁤ stay informed about the latest economic trends and market developments. Keeping a close eye on key indicators such as ‍stock performance, industry news, and consumer ‍behavior can provide valuable insights into where the industry is headed. Additionally,​ diversifying your investments across⁤ different tech subsectors can help mitigate‍ risk and maximize returns. Here are some key strategies to consider when investing in tech:

• Conduct​ thorough research on potential investment opportunities
• Stay informed‌ about market trends and developments
• Diversify your portfolio to ⁢minimize risk and maximize returns
• Consider consulting with a financial advisor for personalized guidance.

-‍ Green is⁤ the New Gold: Sustainable Investing Strategies for a‌ Brighter Future

As we navigate‍ through the ever-changing economic landscape,⁣ one​ thing is becoming increasingly clear ⁢- sustainability is the way forward. With a growing emphasis on environmental and social responsibility, investors are now looking beyond ‌traditional financial metrics to make informed decisions that not only benefit their portfolios but also the planet.

By incorporating sustainable investing ⁤strategies into​ your financial plan, you not only have ⁤the opportunity to generate returns but ‌also make a positive impact on the world. Whether⁤ you’re looking to invest in ​renewable energy, green technology, ​or socially responsible companies, there are a variety of options‍ available to align your investments⁤ with your values. Here are a few key trends to keep an eye on:

• Impact Investing: Investing in companies that aim to generate measurable social and environmental impact alongside⁤ financial returns.
• ESG Integration: Incorporating​ environmental, social,⁣ and governance factors‌ into ‌investment decisions to identify risks and opportunities.
• Climate Change Resilience: ‌Investing ‌in companies that are well-positioned to adapt to the challenges of climate change and transition to a more sustainable future.‌

By staying informed and proactive, you can ride the wave of sustainable investing trends and contribute to a brighter future for generations to come.

– Inflation: Understanding the Impact on Your Wallet and How to Protect Your Finances

In today’s⁤ rapidly changing economic landscape, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about the latest ‌trends‌ that⁢ could impact your ‍financial well-being. With ⁤inflation rates⁤ on the rise, understanding the impact on your wallet and how to protect your finances is crucial. ⁤By staying informed and ⁣taking proactive steps, you⁢ can navigate these uncertain times⁤ with confidence.

One⁣ key strategy for ​protecting your finances ‌in the face of inflation is to diversify your investment portfolio. By spreading your investments ‌across a variety‍ of ​asset classes, you can help‍ mitigate the‌ risk of inflation eroding your purchasing⁢ power. Consider investing⁤ in real ⁣assets such as real estate ‌or ​ commodities, which have historically ⁤proven to be effective ⁣hedges against inflation. Additionally,​ it’s important to regularly review⁢ and adjust your‌ investment strategy to ensure it aligns with your financial⁢ goals and ‍risk tolerance.⁣ By staying proactive and informed, you can ride the wave of economic trends and secure a more stable financial future. ‍

In Conclusion

So there you have⁣ it, folks! The ⁤economic landscape is constantly changing, and ⁢it’s important to stay informed and adapt​ to the‍ latest trends. Whether you’re a business owner, investor, or ⁢just someone interested in the world of economics, riding the wave of these trends can help you navigate the ever-evolving​ financial world with confidence ⁤and success. So keep your eyes on the horizon, stay curious, and keep exploring the latest ⁤economic trends – the possibilities ⁣are endless!

Janet Ekelt

Janet Ekelt is a seasoned content writer and SEO expert, with experience in digital media. She has held various senior writing positions at enterprises like CloudTDMS (Synthetic Data Factory), Barrownz Group, and ATZA. Janet has also been Editorial Writer at The Irish Times, a leading Irish English language news platform. She excels in content creation, proofreading, and editing, ensuring that every piece is polished and impactful. Her expertise in crafting SEO-friendly content for multiple verticals of businesses, including technology, healthcare, finance, sports, innovation, and more.

German business confidence improved again in February, rising for the fourth consecutive month in the latest sign Europe’s largest economy was recovering from last year’s third quarter slump.

The business climate index, which is derived from a monthly survey of 7,000 companies, rose to 106.8 from 106.7 in February, the Munich-based Ifo Institute reported on Monday. Economists forecast a bigger rise to 107.7.

The assessment of the current business climate improved further in February, rising to 102.5 from 102.0. The current assessment index declined slightly to 111.3 from 112.7.

“Satisfaction with the current business situation decreased somewhat, but companies expressed greater confidence in future business developments,” said Ifo president Hans-Werner Sinn in a press release. “The German economy is proving robust in the face of geopolitical uncertainty.”

Business conditions improved somewhat in manufacturing, with the six-month business outlook reaching its highest level since August 2014. Business conditions in wholesaling and construction deteriorated slightly this month, Ifo data showed.

The figures provided added assurance that Europe’s largest economy was regaining momentum despite geopolitical uncertainties, euro area deflation and the growing threat of a Greek default.

Germany’s gross domestic product rebounded sharply in the fourth quarter of last year, growing 0.7 percent. That was more than double the rate of forecasts and well above the Q3 rate of just 0.1 percent. Year-on-year, Germany’s economy grew 1.6 percent. The Federal Statistics Office will release updated fourth quarter GDP figures on Tuesday.

According to analysts, Germany is on pace for around 0.4 percent quarterly growth in the first three months of 2015, having benefited from cheap oil and a weaker euro. However, the German economy is expected to remain subdued this year, according to a January forecast by the International Monetary Fund. The international lending institution said it expects Germany to grow only 1.3 percent in all of 2015, followed by a 1.5 percent growth pace next year. By comparison, euro area growth will average only 1.2 percent this year and 1.4 percent next year.

Eurozone GDP disappointed in the fourth quarter, growing only 0.3 percent quarter-on-quarter. France expanded only 0.1 percent, while Italy stagnated and Greece slipped back into contraction.

The euro was back on its heels Monday, touching an intraday low of 1.1294 US. It would subsequently consolidate at 1.1323 US, declining 0.5 percent.

The euro also declined against the British pound, falling 0.65 percent to 0.7348 GBP.

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