Based on the Sentix survey results, investor sentiment in the euro area improved significantly, beating analysts’ expectations.

According to estimates, the December surge in the Sentix eurozone investor sentiment index was driven by the expectation of economic growth. The approval of several COVID-19 vaccines and hopes for their successful rollout became the reason for such optimism.

The Sentix eurozone investor sentiment index jumped to minus 2.7 in December from minus 10 in November. Meanwhile, the Sentix expectations index advanced to 29.3 in December from 15.3 in November, notching its highest level since April 2015.

Patrick Hussey, Sentix Managing Director, believes that 2020 will be a decisive year for the development of effective vaccines against COVID-19. A possible breakthrough in this field reflects the improved future prospects for the global economy. Against this background, the indicator of the current investment environment improved to minus 30.3 points from minus 32.3 points, the highest level since March 2020.