Romania’s gross domestic product rose 5.2% on the year in the first half in unadjusted terms and 5% in seasonally adjusted data.
For next year, ING analysts estimate a slowdown in GDP growth to 4.3% in the first quarter and 3.4% in the second quarter.
ING expects Romania’s central bank to keep its benchmark interest rate at the current level of 1.75% a year until the third quarter of 2017, when it is expected to increase to 2% and reach 2.25% by the end of next year.
The Romanian leu is seen gaining ground against the euro by the end of 2016, while EUR/RON exchange rate is forecasted to reach 4.4 units, from the current 4.45. ING analysts also believe the leu will continue to strengthen against the euro next year, as well.