Germany’s first-quarter economic growth exceeds expectations, but recovery still faces energy risks

```htmlGolden Ten Data reported on April 30 that the German Federal Statistical Office released preliminary data on Thursday showing that, despite geopolitical shocks caused by the Iran conflict, Germany’s GDP exceeded expectations in the first quarter, driven mainly by household consumption and government spending. The economy grew by 0.3% compared to the previous quarter, while the market had anticipated a 0.2% increase. Preliminary figures also indicated a rebound in exports. As Europe’s largest economy, Germany has struggled to regain momentum since the COVID-19 pandemic, facing increased international competition and rising energy prices, which put pressure on its export-oriented economic model. The first quarter data sends a positive signal, but the latest surge in energy prices presents a further threat to the long-awaited recovery.```