Regional topics

Inflation report - Inflation trending down steadily

Latest trend in the inflation rates in 2023 showed the continued downshift in headline rates that started in 4Q2022 (in Serbia the peak was seen yet in March). Price pressures eased mostly due to global shift down in energy/commodities prices, while as regard prices of food and non-alcoholic beverages, they still stay stubbornly high (even though on a global level the presented a declining trend).

19.05.2023.

Regional topics

Delivery industry - Delivery on a bumpy road

In this report we examine the Courier, Express, Parcel (CEP) industry amid a remarkable growth achieved in previous years and significant transformation of the sector on the back of technological progress and digitalization. With regards to e-commerce segment, OOH (Out-of-home) delivery is the key trend in the industry. The model assumes large network of PUDO (pick-up and drop-off) points and automatic parcel machines, which finally gives flexibility to the customer in collection of parcel.

15.05.2023.

Regional topics

Retail report - Consumer sentiment still in charge

The retail trade in the Adria region at the beginning of 2023 shows mixed picture, with retail in Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia still growing, stagnating in Croatia, and even declining in Slovenia and Serbia, according to 1Q2023 data.

05.05.2023.

Regional topics

Construction and real estate - Public sector driving construction activity in 2023

In 2023, construction sector is set for a more intensive infrastructure activity, driven by public investments, while activity on buildings is expected to moderate as the residential demand cools down and overall economic activity slows which translates to less private investments.

27.04.2023.

Regional topics

Public finance report - Fiscal gaps to widen in 2023

In 2022, public finances were aided by stronger tax intake as the general economic recovery and high inflation boosted VAT and income tax receipts. Looking into 2023, upside surprises to inflation are still a positive element for tax intake.

21.04.2023.

Sectoral analyses

Food franchise industry - fast food defying healthy lifestyle trends

Our report focuses on fast food franchises in the region. We delve into growth drivers, challenges, and characteristics of regional franchises and benchmark their performance to global players. We have considered macroeconomic data, input prices, franchise cost structures and their strategies. We delineate the benefits of franchises for both the franchisor and franchisee and how it feeds into their overall corporate strategy and brand image.

13.04.2023.

Regional topics

Pet industry - short-term profitability pressures, long-term potential

Pet industry was growing steadily in the recent decade, while ongoing demography and lifestyle changes support the expectations of the further growth of the industry. In the analysis we also highlight our view that the industry will continue to grow, albeit with the near-term headwinds from persistently high inflation hitting on discretionary spending by households.

11.04.2023.

Sectoral analyses

Payment processing industry

With transaction processing being the most widely outsourced service in the banking, in this report we focus on the industry trends and Adria region market development vs the EU peers. We also look into the financial results of the key non-bank payment service providers and examine the business prospects.

03.04.2023.

Sectoral analyses

Furniture industry - solid profitability in the Adria Region

The analysis takes a deep dive into the furniture industry in Adria region. It outlines general industry trends as well as the attractiveness of the Adria Region for furniture manufacture. We benchmark the performance of Adria region players (both furniture manufacturers and furniture retailers) with global peers in order to delineate the main drivers and challenges defining the industry currently.

27.03.2023.

Regional topics

Foreign trade of goods - Foreign and domestic demand still supporting trade at start-2023

Foreign trade of goods in Adria region was very intensive in 2022, mainly due to surging prices, especially commodities’ prices and in the first part of the year. All countries posted deficit in merchandise trade, with the highest one being in Croatia (although mitigated by strong services export).

20.03.2023.

Macro outlook

Adria Region Macro Quarterly 2Q 2023 - Better Activity Profile, Inflation Still Weighs

Macro Quarterly Outlook highlights a combination of somewhat better profile for this year's core economic activity, increased inflation forecasts and expectations for more central bank tightening than assumed before. Europe's biggest economies are seeing stronger economic activity than expected before and this is translating into South East Europe as well.

13.03.2023.

Regional topics

Industrial production - Global economic slowdown biting on manufacturing activity in 2023

Adria region industrial production rose in 2022 (except in North Macedonia), but on a slower pace compared with the previous year although 2021 was post-pandemic rebound year. Countries in the region are producing more than in 2019, with North Macedonia as a sole exception, posting 8.5% lower production level compared to 2019.

08.03.2023.