German consumer confidence rises

German consumer confidence is improving slightly, but inflation remains a big concern of shoppers, a report has said.

The latest forward-looking consumer climate index from the GfK research institute edged up to 4.6 points for April from the previous level of 4.5.

Germans now have a "slightly improved" view of the economy, said GfK, which interviews 2,000 people each month.

Its findings come a day after a separate study showed a surprise rise in German business confidence.

It was the third month in succession that the IFO business climate index had risen.

'Very robust'

Analysts said the two surveys indicated that the German economy remains resilient to the continuing global market turbulence and credit squeeze.

"Sentiment in Germany is very robust," said West LB economist Joerg Lueschow.

"That proves that the German economic situation is stable despite the many encumbrances."

German inflation is currently at 2.8%, above the 2% target level.

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