Increase in industrial production in the United States
In December 2024, industrial production in the United States registered a significant increase of 0.9% on a monthly basis, exceeding analysts’ expectations, who expected a smaller increase of 0.3%. This figure, published by the Federal Reserve, marks a significant step towards the country’s economic recovery.
The previous month, production had shown a revised increase of 0.2%, after an initial decline of 0.1%.
On an annual basis, industrial production showed a negative change of 0.6%, but this represents an improvement compared to the drop of the same value recorded the previous year.
Manufacturing production increased by 0.6% compared to the previous month, exceeding the analysts’ consensus set at 0.2%.
Growing use of industrial capacity
During the same period, industrial capacity utilization in the United States increased to 77.6%, exceeding analysts’ estimates who expected a figure of 77%. This improvement reflects greater efficiency and optimization of industrial resources in the country. The previous month, usage was at 77%, highlighting a positive trend that could continue in the near future
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Global economic prospects and tourism in Europe
The International Monetary Fund expects stable global economic growth at 3.3% for this year and next, in line with the forecasts of the World Economic Outlook. Inflation is falling, encouraging the normalization of monetary policies. In 2024, tourism in Europe reached an historic peak with almost 3 billion overnight stays, surpassing the 2023 record. However, France did not benefit from the Olympic effect, registering a decline in tourism, while Spain saw a significant increase, accompanied by protests against overtourism
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Eurostat data show an increase of 50% since 2009, despite the slowdown in domestic tourism. Eurozone inflation rose in December, with consumer prices rising by 2.4% year-on-year, while core inflation grew by 2.7%. These data suggest a complex economic environment, but with signs of recovery in some key sectors.