Sentix investor confidence index rises for first time in four months

A key gauge of investor sentiment in the eurozone has improved for the first time in four months, as the region attempts to emerge from a prolonged period of stagnation, with confidence helped by stimulus measures in China.

The Sentix investor confidence index rose to -13.8 in October, from -15.4 in September. The index was last in positive territory, at +0.3 in June, before three straight declines.

While the current situation gauge sank to a four-month low of -23.3 from -22.5 the month before, the expectations indicators rose to -3.8 from -8.0.

"The downward trend in the economy has stopped for the time being. There are signs of easing in all regions of the world," the Sentix survey said.

"The new economic stimulus in China is showing its first effect – albeit only to a manageable extent so far. The global economic trend reflects a clear relaxation. There is a positive dynamic in Asia excluding Japan (China) in particular. But the USA and Japan regions are also signalling an economic revival."