German Business Outlook at Worst Since 2023 on Iran War Hit

Germany’s business outlook deteriorated more than expected, adding to fears that higher energy costs stemming from the Iran conflict will derail the country’s economic revival.

An expectations index by the Ifo institute dropped to 83.3 in April from a revised 85.9 the previous month — the lowest level since August 2023. That was well below the 85.5 median estimate in a Bloomberg survey. A gauge measuring current conditions also worsened more than anticipated.