Journal (english)
With Business
Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift:
With Business
Diamonds, gold and jewels
Diamonds are forever, as the saying goes. And in times of economic turbulence, Russians are looking for long-term investments. Despite the Kremlin's insistence that Russia has only been hit on the periphery by the global economic crisis, many have lost faith in Russia's banks.
Bildunterschrift: Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift: That has been fuelled by the strong dollar, which has put the rouble under huge pressure. A recent survey revealed that around 40 percent of Russians fear for their savings, and are considering alternative forms of investment. Property is seen as a safe bet, but many lack the funds to buy a house or apartment outright. As a result, they are turning to diamonds, gold and jewellery. Some Russian jewellers have reported a 70 percent leap in sales, giving them plenty to celebrate this festive season.
NUMBER CRUNCHER:
Bildunterschrift: Großansicht des Bildes mit der Bildunterschrift: 11,000,000,000 euros: that is how much German shoppers spent on clothes last year. That works out at 140 euros per person. Much of that was spent at high-street clothing chains and department stores. The German clothing industry is also a key exporter. Clothing made in Germany is exported throughout the European continent. And the country also imports much of its clothing, mainly from the Far East and China in particular.
