This exceeded the expectations of economists. These had only expected an increase to 116.5 points.
In view of the easing measures in the pandemic, the mood improved sustainably, especially among service providers. But it also brightened in industry, retail, construction and among consumers.
In Germany, the barometer reached a record level with an increase of 5.0 points. The mood also improved in Italy, the Netherlands and France, while things went slightly downhill in Spain.