1. Bribery the size of Brno
(http://www.cbw.cz/article/bribery-the-size-of-brno.aspx)
High-level overview of article:
The Association of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises and Crafts of the Czech Republic (AMPS) carried out a corruption survey. The biggest surprise is that companies are no longer afraid to speak about their experiences. Some 60 percent of the respondents said they think it is impossible to win a public tender without a kickback or a bribe.
Our take:
This problem is really disgusting and with it breeds a real distrust which is harmful for business.
2. Czech Trade Beats Estimates on Renewed Demand Abroad
(http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-08/czech-trade-balance-posted-13th-consecutive-surplus-in-january.html)
High-level overview of article:
The Czech trade surplus widened more than analysts forecast in January as exports grew faster than imports on renewed demand for vehicles and machinery abroad.
Our take:
Very good news in an export economy!
3. Czech February Inflation Unexpectedly Slowed on Fuel Prices
(http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-09/czech-february-inflation-unexpectedly-slowed-on-fuel-prices.html)
High-level overview of article:
Czech inflation unexpectedly slowed in February as growth in fuel prices was capped, outweighing the higher costs in beverages and housing prices.
Our take:
Fuel prices back up this month so will probably see numbers increase in March report!
4. Czech GDP Won’t Make Central Bank ‘Hawkish’, PPF’s Jac Says
(http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-03-11/czech-gdp-won-t-make-central-bank-hawkish-ppf-s-jac-says.html)
High-level overview of article:
The Czech central bank is unlikely to turn “hawkish” after fourth-quarter data showed a strengthening of the economy’s recovery, Radomir Jac, the Chief Economist at Generali PPF Asset Management, said
Our take:
GDP grows 0.7% in Q4 2009 as opposed to projected -0.6% retraction which had been estimated as late as Feb. 12, 2010. Up, up, up!
Updated/Aktualizováno: July 22, 2014,