German Output Picks Up as Economy Enters ‘Fast Lane’

Germany’s economy gathered speed in March, signaling that Europe’s economic powerhouse outperformed the rest of the region once again in the first quarter.

Markit Economics said a Purchasing Managers Index for manufacturing and services advanced to 55.3 from 53.8 in February. Economists forecast an increase to 54.1. The current spell of growth -- marked by readings above 50 -- now stretches to 23 consecutive months, and the latest expansion was the fastest in eight months.