Recovery Subject to Lasting Uncertainty. Economic Outlook for 2013 and 2014

Although demand and output in Austria virtually stagnated in the second half of 2012, the odds are for growth to resume in the first quarter of 2013. The majority of leading indicators suggested an end to the downward trend already as of last November. The economy has thus probably passed the cyclical trough early this year. From the domestic perspective, the conditions for a lasting and broad-based upswing remain in place. Yet, the external environment continues to hold important risks. After an increase by 0.8 percent in 2012, Austria's GDP is projected to grow by 1.0 percent in 2013 and 1.8 percent in 2014.