How is Germany doing?

Germany leads eurozone factories according to a survey reported by the BBC.

Manufacturing in Europe is continuing to expand, with Germany - once the worst performer on the continent - leading the way, a new survey says.

The eurozone Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) issued by Reuters, showed growth in December in the 12-nation eurozone's eight biggest manufacturing economies.

The index showed the best level since January 2001.

But factories remain reluctant to boost hiring, the survey indicated, while the strong euro is still hitting exports.

The jobs index stayed at a level which indicates contraction rather than expansion, for the 31st month in a row.

Differences The PMI survey measures manufacturing activity in Austria, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain.

Between them, the eight nations account for more than 90% of the eurozone's manufacturing...

Germany's performance was one of the key drivers in the continued health of manufacturing, the survey said, with more output and an improving list of new orders.