The European Commission released its economic sentiment index for the Eurozone on Thursday. The index increased to 106.8 in December from 106.1 in November. Analysts had expected the index to remain unchanged at 106.1.

The increase was driven by higher confidence in industry.

The industrial confidence index climbed to -2.0 in December from -3.2 in November, exceeding expectations for a gain to -2.9.

The final consumer confidence index was up to -5.7 in December from -5.9 in November, in line with expectations.

The business climate index increased to 0.41 in December from 0.36 in November. Analysts had expected the index to rise to 0.40.