Citi(US:C) Hua Er Jie Jian Wen·2025-07-23 08:47Core Viewpoint - Citigroup analysts warn that the impact of tariffs on the Eurozone economy may be more severe than generally expected, with a potential slowdown in growth anticipated in the coming quarters [1][2][4]. Economic Impact of Tariffs - The "export rush" effect from tariffs has positively contributed approximately 0.5 percentage points to GDP growth in the first half of the year, but this effect is expected to reverse in the second half, leading to a similar level of drag on growth [1][4][6]. - Under a baseline scenario of 20% tariffs, Eurozone growth could cumulatively decrease by 1 percentage point over six quarters, while a 30% tariff could lead to a mild recession [2][9]. GDP and Inflation Forecasts - Citigroup has slightly downgraded its inflation forecast for the Eurozone to 1.5% for 2026, down from an average of 2.0% in 2025, and expects inflation to be slightly below the 2% target in 2027 [2]. - The report outlines GDP growth forecasts, indicating a slowdown to near 0% growth in the next three quarters, primarily due to weak exports and investment [1][14]. Export and Investment Dynamics - The report highlights that weak export performance threatens investment prospects, with a 1 percentage point change in export growth leading to a 0.7 percentage point change in corporate investment over the following two quarters [10]. - Despite strong investment performance in the first quarter, the outlook for exports remains weak, which is expected to negatively impact investment decisions and hiring in the coming months [12][14]. Domestic Demand and Consumer Confidence - Private consumption in the Eurozone is expected to recover, supported by real income growth and high savings rates, but this may not fully offset the negative impacts of tariffs [13][14]. - Recent declines in consumer confidence and reduced hiring intentions among businesses raise concerns about the overall domestic demand's ability to prevent a slowdown in growth [14].