Linde Says Spain May Miss Deficit Goal, Optimistic on Growth

Bank of Spain Governor Luis Maria Linde said the government risks missing its deficit goal this year, is overly optimistic about the economy in 2013 and faces a “serious” decision on increasing pension payouts.

“The information available -- for the central government through August -- shows there is a risk of missing the objective set for this year,” Linde said in testimony to the Spanish parliament’s budget committee in Madrid today. “Given the importance of achieving this, additional measures that would make it possible should be considered.”