#UK: Britain's #tradedeficit shrinks as fall in #oilprices cuts #importcosts

Dramatic fall in oil prices contributes to improved trade balance but higher pound and fall in exports to eurozone limit gains

The narrowing of the deficit reflected a £2.5bn drop in imports, almost half of which was due to lower imports of oil. Photograph: Christian Charisius/Reuters

Britain’s trade balance improved in January after a dramatic fall in oil prices cut the cost of imports.
But the higher pound and a fall in exports to the eurozone limited the gains from cheaper energy supplies brought into the UK... (Read more)

EXTERNAL EXPANSION LTD., www.externalexpansion.net

EFFECTS ON #WORLDTRADE... WHERE WILL IT ALL END?

Although in this article we will discuss today focusing primarily on Russia, before we do a review of previous records that have a lot to do with the current reality. Also worth mentioning, that the facts could happen faster than anyone could imagine and it is therefore important to review past events. Do not forget to read the integrity of the article and leave your opinions which will surely be of great contribution...

(Read more)

EXTERNAL EXPANSION LTD., www.externalexpansion.net

#Germany raises its #economic forecast

Move come amid rising confidence over oil prices and quantitative easing

A shopping centre in Berlin. German consumer prices are forecast to increase by an average 0.8 per cent this year, with gross wages rising an average 3.2 per cent,

Germany lifted its economic growth forecast for this year amid rising confidence in the benefits of low oil prices and the European Central Bank’s stimulus plans.

Germany’s economy will grow by about 1.5 per cent this year, compared with 1.3 per cent forecast in October, as growth in consumer spending and wages accelerates, the economy ministry said in its outlook published on Wednesday... (Read more)

EXTERNAL EXPANSION LTD., www.externalexpansion.net