The National Bank of Belgium (NBB) released its business survey on Wednesday. The business climate rose to -4.2 in March from -6.6 in February. Analysts had expected the index to rise to -6.0.

All 4 indicators climbed in March.

The business climate index for the manufacturing sector was up to -7.9 in March from -11.2 in February due to a more favourable assessments of total order books.

The business climate index for the services sector rose to 11.2 in March from 10.5 in February due to a more favourable assessment of the current activity and expectations for an increase general market demand.

The business climate index for the building sector increased to -3.9 in March from -4.1 in February due to an improvement of the demand-side components.

The business climate index for the trade sector climbed to -4.1 in March from -5.1 in February due to a rise in employment.