Eurozone producer prices rise more than expected in December

Eurozone producer prices rose more than expected in December, according to the latest figures released by Eurostat.

Prices increased 0.7% from November, which was ahead of expectations for a 0.4% gain.

Energy sector prices were up 2.1%, while prices for intermediate and non-durable consumer goods were 0.4% higher and capital goods rose by 0.1%.

Excluding energy, prices in total industry were 0.1% firmer.

On the year, producer prices rose 1.6% versus expectations for a 1.3% jump.

In the EU-28 group of nations, producer prices gained 0.9% on the month and 2.4% on the year.