Eurozone braces for slower growth

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The euro area is facing fresh headwinds as growth risks tilt downward. Domestically, Germany’s sluggish performance has rattled confidence and corporate profit margins are feeling the squeeze. Firms seem unwilling to absorb higher wages – or let go of valuable workers – which adds another layer of pressure to both growth and inflation. Externally, China’s below-trend outlook and possible US tariffs could further hamper Europe’s fragile recovery.