French Manufacturer Confidence Up Slightly

Recovery expected to continue

Confidence among French manufacturers improved slightly in October, reflecting better assessment of recent business activity and a further improvement in order books, reinforcing expectations that the economic recovery would continue in the third quarter.

Survey data released by statistical office INSEE on Wednesday showed that the business confidence indicator for the manufacturing sector climbed to 98 points from 97 points in September, indicating a broadly stable business climate. The October outcome matched expectations.