Italy hits resistance to softer European spending rules

(Reuters) - Italy and its allies will receive no special leeway in meeting EU budget rules, European officials agreed on Tuesday, as Germany resisted attempts to soft-pedal on long-promised spending reforms.

Euro zone Sentix index shows surprise rise in July

(Reuters) - Sentiment in the euro zone showed a surprise improvement in July with investor optimism boosted by the European Central Bank's growth measures and improved expectations for the global economy, according to the Sentix index survey.

IMF chief hints at cut in growth forecasts

Global economic activity should strengthen in the second half of the year and accelerate in 2015, although momentum could be weaker than expected, Christine Lagarde, head of the International Monetary Fund, said on Sunday, hinting at a slight cut in the fund's growth forecasts.

Portugal Aid Balk Highlights Crisis Tools Built for Show

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble says the euro area’s firewall isn’t there to be used. Portugal has taken the hint.

Irish GDP revision eases debt target

Research and development (R&D) costs and illegal activities have been added into Ireland's GDP for the first time, enlarging the economy by 10bn euros ($13.6bn; £7.9bn).