With Germany representing more than a quarter of the euro zone's production and a major link in the bloc's supply chain, all eyes are on the economic prospects for Europe's powerhouse. Judging from the latest results and recent data releases, the picture is somewhat puzzling. Although GDP preliminary numbers showed only a humble acceleration in the German economy in the third quarter, the ZEW Index raised optimism in Europe's number one economy in November. However, with November's preliminary PMI results quashing hopes once more, the new IFO survey results are anticipated with great interest. Even so, expectations ... (full story)