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3i Europe Barometer Q1, 2002

For the first time in two years, Europe's private companies signalled an increase in confidence, according to the 3i European barometer. The survey's index of optimism about the business, economic and political climate jumped to minus 64, compared with minus 109 in November.

The survey found the biggest rise in confidence in Germany, where the index increased to minus 23 from minus 100. The least optimistic private companies were in France, where the index level was still depressed at minus 138.  The findings should come as good news for the private equity community, not just because an economic recovery would improve the present parlous exit conditions but also because a greater degree of stability would help boost deal flow.

Copyright © 2002 3i

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