Wed, 15 Feb 2012 09:59:35 GMT
German economy narrowed less than predicted in 4th quarter
Europe's largest economy contracted less than expected in fourth quarter, signalling Germany may avoid crisis despite declining demand across region. German GDP dropped 0.2% in last quarter of 2011 compared to 0.6% growth in the third quarter. Economists questioned by Bloomberg predicted a drop of 0.3%. Meanwhile France's economy unexpectedly in expanded 0.2% in last three months of 2011.