European stock market and funds review – eurozone inflation drops more than expected

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With eurozone inflation lower, we consider whether the European Central Bank (ECB) could cut interest rates sooner than expected. In our latest review, we also take a look at stock market and fund performance.

This article isn’t personal advice. If you’re not sure whether an investment is right for you please seek advice. If you choose to invest the value of your investment will rise and fall, so you could get back less than you put in.

Published on 18 December 2023

It was correct at the time of publishing. Our views and any references to tax, investment and pension rules may have changed since then.

2023 has been a tough year for many economies. Higher inflation and rising interest rates mean the cost-of-living crisis is hurting many. The ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the devastating Israel-Hamas war is also impacting both livelihoods and sentiment.

All of this has increased the risk of recession in some regions and the eurozone has already teetered on the brink.

Official figures showed the eurozone economy contracted by 0.1% in the three months to the end of September 2023. Higher interest rates, declining consumer spending, weaker exports, and recession in Germany, have all fuelled slow growth.

On top of this, the European Commission lowered its growth forecast for the eurozone economy from 1.1% to 0.8% in 2023, and 1.6% to 1.3% in 2024.

So,