German Business Sentiment Rises, Giving Rare Boost to Ailing Economy

JERMAN - BERLIN. German business morale improved more than expected in October, a survey showed on Friday, offering hope for some respite towards the end of the year in the economy's grinding battle with industrial woes and weak global demand.

The Ifo institute said its business climate index increased to 86.5 in October from 85.4 the previous month. Analysts polled by Reuters had forecast a reading of 85.6.