In the second quarter of 2012, compared with the first quarter of 2012, the business investment rate remained nearly stable in the euro area (EA17) and increased in the EU27. In the euro area, the business profit share remained stable, as wage costs increased at the same pace as value added.

Business investment rate up in the EU27, almost stable in the euro area

In the second quarter of 2012, the gross investment rate of non-financial corporations was 20.1% in the EU27, compared with 19.9% in the first quarter of 2012.

In the euro area, the investment rate was 20.3%, compared with 20.2% in the previous quarter. Investment increased (+0.8%) at a higher rate than gross value added (+0.4%). Total stocks (materials, supplies and finished goods) fell for the third quarter in a row.

Business profit share down in the EU27, stable in the euro area

In the EU27, the gross profit share of non-financial corporations was 37.7% in the second quarter of 2012, compared with 37.9% in the first quarter of 2012.

In the euro area, the profit share remained stable at 38.1% in the second quarter of 2012, due to value added growing at the same rate as compensation of employees (wages and social contributions) plus taxes less subsidies on production (both +0.4%).