Latest business survey results signalled a slight slowing in the rate of business activity growth in Germany at the start of the second quarter. Moreover, companies grew more cautious about their hiring policies, as levels of work-in-hand fell for the first time since last July. Meanwhile, new order intakes increased further and businesses reported ongoing optimism towards their 12-month outlook for activity. German service providers reported a further marked rise in business activity in April. At 54.5, down from 55.1 in March, however, the seasonally adjusted final Markit Germany Services Business Activity Index ... (full story)