South East European stocks closed lower on Thursday in line with rest of Europe following the European Commission’s assessment that inflation across the bloc could continue to grow in the coming months. The Commission cut 2023 GDP projection to 1.4% from 2.3%. Inflation is now seen averaging 7.6% this year and 4% in 2023. Meanwhile, the EU’s executive arm lifted its forecast for Romania’s 2022 GDP growth to 3.9% due to strong first quarter and Bulgaria’s to 2.8%. It also affirmed Croatia’s 2022 GDP growth forecast at 3.4%. Bulgaria’s central bank lowered 2022 GDP forecast to 1.9% with inflation seen at 14.7%. Fitch upgraded Croatia to ‘BBB+’ . The Outlook is Stable. In other news, Romania allows Ukrainian grain vessels to pass through Chilia, Bastroe canals.
1. ATHENS – ATHEX -0.86%
2. BELGRADE – BELEX15 -0.67%
3. BUCHAREST – BET -0.86%
4. ISTANBUL – BIST 100 -1.06%
5. LJUBJLANA – SBITOP 0.10%
6. NICOSIA – CSE GI 0.67%
7. PODGORICA – MNSE 10 0.00%
8. SARAJEVO – SASX10 -0.13%
9. SKOPJE – MBI 10 -0.64%
10. SOFIA – SOFIX 1.53%
11. ZAGREB – CROBEX -0.43%