Economics

German Economy Looks Ill-Prepared for What’s Coming in 2020

GDP flatlined in fourth quarter, equipment investment dropped
Coronavirus impact could hit Germany’s export-reliant industry

The Long Delayed And Over Budget Stuttgart 21 Railway Project — Photographer: Alex Kraus/Bloomberg

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By Fergal O'Brien and Richard Weiss

February 14, 2020 at 7:08 AM UTC

Updated on

February 14, 2020 at 10:00 AM UTC

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Germany entered 2020 with a flatlining economy and manufacturers in distress, leaving it ill prepared for continued trade uncertainty and the new coronavirus threat.