The labour cost index measures developments in labour costs per man-hour worked and is harmonised across Europe. It indicates from a cost perspective the risks to price stability and contributes to the location and competition analyses in a European comparison.

What are households’ expectations? Since 2019, the Deutsche Bundesbank has been investigating this question by surveying households in Germany on a regular basis (Bundesbank Online Panel Households).

Orders received is a leading indicator for cyclical developments. The figures are compiled monthly by the Federal Statistical Office and published both as a value index and as a volume index for the manufacturing and construction sectors respectively. The number of permits granted for structural engineering work also indicates the level of economic movement to be expected in that sector.