Austria

Living standards in Austria are high, and income inequality and poverty low. The economy has picked up markedly, accelerating to 3 percent in 2017, and 3.1 percent (y/y) in 2018: Q1. This provides an opportunity to implement reforms to raise the economy’s potential output, reduce unemployment further, and ensure long-term fiscal sustainability. Also, further strengthening the financial system would guard against a less benign global financial environment.