What are the chances of economic growth in Q1?

The markets hit hard as early as last year, such as the auto and the constructions industry, which amounted to 3 billion euros after the first quarter of the year, exceed even the most pessimistic expectations, falling by 50%.
On the other hand, NBR deputy governor, Cristian Popa, believes the economy could see modest growth in the first quarter of the year, but says he is “cautiously optimistic about economic growth for this year,” in the context where the Romanian authorities and experts of the International Monetary Fund expect a 1.3% growth for 2010.
“I am cautiously optimistic, considering that quarterly expectations for 2010 are linked to the fourth quarter of 2009 that was weaker than anticipated. There will be a modest growth in 2010, followed by the prospect of more significant increases in the next few years,” Popa said.
Asked if the economy would grow in the first quarter of 2010, Popa said: “I think so. But we are discussing a basic scenario, with big doubts. The figure is modest and positive.”