A survey has shown that German investor confidence has declined and could be affected further by the disaster and nuclear crisis in Japan.
The closely followed ZEW survey of Germany's financial sector resulted in a drop to 14.1 points in March from 15.7 points in February.
The results from investors in Europe's biggest economy were received both before and after the Japanese earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crisis erupted, but the results were in before before the full extent of the crisis was clear.
'The German economy is in a robust shape. Nevertheless, the tragic events in Japan could slow down the dynamics of German economic growth at least in the short run,' the statement quoted ZEW president Wolfgang Franz as saying.
But he said that overall the index showed that financial market experts continued to expect positive economic developments during the coming six months.
Economists had expected the index to remain unchanged in March. The overall indicator, which measures financial market expectations, remains well below its historical average of 26.7 points.
