The general business climate index for the agricultural machinery industry in Europe has risen further but continues in deep negative territory. In December, the index increased from -43 points to -37 points (on a scale of -100 to +100).The general business climate index for the agricultural machinery industry in Europe has risen further but continues in deep negative territory. In December, the index increased from -43 point to -37 points (on a scale of -100 to +100). Overall, future expectations with regard to both incoming orders and turnover have improved once again. Less negative turnover expectations for the coming six months are for the fourth time in a row the main reason for the improvements in the general business climate, while current business evaluations are basically continuing close to record low levels. With a view to the market side, the confidence index for almost all European markets has improved, with some countries back in or close to positive territory for the first time since the start of the recession period. The survey participants are possibly encouraged by the fact that incoming orders were slightly less negative in the last months. The manufacturers seem to be at least rather confident with regard to the coming year. For the full year of 2025, the survey participants expect their company's turnover to slightly increase on average (median +3% and arithmetic mean +2%).
