ROME: The eurozone economy expanded for a 22nd consecutive month in April, a private sector report showed, but the modest pace of growth disappointed some analysts looking for more vigor resulting from the European Central Bank’s bond-buying program.
Purchasing managers across the 19-member euro currency zone reported growth in services and manufacturing, according to a survey conducted by Markit Economics, a data analysis firm. Markit said its composite output index slipped to 53.5 in April from 54.0 in March. A reading below 50 indicates contraction, while a number above that level suggests expansion.
A woman disrupted the European Central Bank’s news conference by jumping onto Mario Draghi’s desk, shouting “end E.C.B. dictatorship” and showering him with confetti. Security guards took her away.E.C.B. Sees Early Progress From Its Bond-Buying ProgramAPRIL 15, 2015
The market consensus had been for a small increase in the index. The lackluster report might reflect concerns about the economic crisis in Greece, though the figure was still close to an 11-month high, said Jessica Hinds, an economist in London with Capital Economics. She added that the April index level appeared consistent with quarterly economic growth of about 0.4 percent, or about 1.6 percent on an annualized basis.
