Overview of the latest economic events in the Czech Republic
The Czech government has lowered its GDP growth estimate for 2025 to 2.0 % from the previously expected 2.4 %. This is due to a drop in investment and exports, especially in the automotive sector, as a result of the new US tariffs. Domestic consumption remains the main driver of growth.
The Prague Stock Exchange recorded a significant growth and surpassed the 2000-point mark. This development is attributed to positive investor sentiment and expectations of market stabilization after the recent turbulence.
According to Swiss Life Hypoindex, the average mortgage offer rate fell to 5.01 % in April 2025. This decline may affect consumers' decisions on property financing, especially those who are coming to the end of a five-year fixation with lower rates.
Parking at Prague Airport can be more expensive than the ticket itself, especially during Easter when there is a surge in passengers. This situation highlights the need to consider alternative transport options to the airport.
Food prices during Easter 2025 rose by an average of 6 % over the previous year. These price increases affect consumer spending and may have an impact on inflation.
Women in the Czech Republic still face inequalities in the labour market, including lower pay and fewer opportunities compared to men. This situation points to the need for measures to improve equality in the labour market.
2N Telecommunications and CTP have become key partners of the Czech participation at the EXPO 2025 World Exhibition in Osaka, Japan.2N will supply security and access control systems for the Czech pavilion, while CTP will be the main national partner and provide facilities for business meetings. This cooperation strengthens the international visibility of Czech technology and development companies.
The Presidents of the Czech Republic and Ghana met at a business forum in Accra to discuss strengthening cooperation in the areas of trade, investment and technological development. Both countries expressed interest in deepening their economic relations.
Foreign investments and acquisitions
EP Group, owned by Czech billionaire Daniel Křetínský, has received all regulatory approvals for its takeover of International Distribution Services, the parent company of the UK's Royal Mail. The deal, worth £3.57 billion ($4.58 billion), is due to be completed by April 30, 2025.
De La Rue, a British company known for producing banknotes, has accepted a £263m takeover bid from US firm Atlas Holdings. The acquisition is part of a wider trend of consolidation in the printing and security technology sector.
Significant events outside the Czech Republic with global impact
OPEC cut its forecast for global oil demand growth to 1.3 million barrels per day for 2025, down from previous estimates. This is due to the negative impact of US tariffs on the global economy.
At the Canton Fair, Chinese exporters pointed to a dramatic drop in orders from the US as a result of the new US tariffs. Many companies are looking for alternative markets but face obstacles to shifting production.
Current exchange rates according to the CNB and Google Rates
| Currency | Czech National Bank exchange rate (CZK) | Google Rate (CZK) |
|---|---|---|
| EUR | 24.92 | 24.9261 |
| USD | 21.909 | 21.8711 |
| PLN | 5.835 | 5.839 |
| HUF | 0.06167 | 0.0615 |
| GBP | 29.328 | N/A |
| CHF | 26.538 | 26.5567 |
| CNY | 3.012 | 2.9972 |
| JPY | 0.15358 | 0.1538 |
| RUB | N/A | 0.2666 |
Source about precious metals and Bitcoin: tradingeconomics.com
gnews.cz - GH
