Business confidence

In November 2014 the composite business confidence climate index (IESI, Istat Economic Sentiment Indicator) decreased to 87.7 from 89.1 in October.

The confidence index in manufacturing rose to 96.3 from 96.1. Assessments on order books remained stable (to -25) and production expectations improved (from 2 to 3); inventories decreased (from 3 to 2).

The confidence index in construction fell to 74.0 from 77.3. Employment expectations worsened (from -21 to -28)  but  assessments on  order books  and construction plans improved (from -50 to  -49).

The market services confidence index fell to 88.7 from 89.2. The index increased in Transportation and storage (from 85.1 to 90.6) and in Business services and other services (from 83.9 to 90.3), while it decreased notably in Tourism services (from 83.5 to 66.7) and in Information and communication (from 92.9 to 84.9).

The retail trade confidence index rose to 97.6  from 94.2. The confidence increased in the large-scale distribution (from 91.8 to 95.0) and in small and medium scale distribution (from 97.0 to 101.2).