In a recent editorial, Aki Kangasharju, the CEO of the Research Institute of the Finnish Economy, expressed an optimistic perspective on the Finnish economy, asserting that the long economic downturn is shifting towards growth. He urges the public to celebrate this turning point, as evidenced by an increase in employment rates during the last quarter of the previous year compared to earlier periods. The growth in the workforce, especially noted from the fourth quarter to the first quarter of the current year, reflects an upward trend in the labor market.

Kangasharju further highlights additional indicators of economic recovery, particularly citing data from Statistics Finland. The nation's GDP reportedly grew by 0.6% in the last quarter of the year compared to the previous quarter. This positive growth is underpinned by strengthening expectations across various sectors, rising business confidence, and an upturn in housing sales, all of which suggest a renewed vigor in the economy. These shifts not only boost consumer optimism but also signal potential for more investments in the near future.

Moreover, the rise in new business orders and overall economic activity presents a hopeful forecast for Finland’s economic landscape. As various sectors recuperate from past downturns, policymakers will need to focus on sustaining this momentum to ensure that the country does not revert to previous hardships. The editorial is a clarion call for the nation to embrace this new economic chapter, reflecting on the resilience of the market and the spirit of its workforce.