German Inflation Slows in December

German inflation slowed for the first time in five months in December, due to the strong euro. The currency’s appreciation helped keep costs down, and retailers were less likely to raise prices with consumers reducing their spending. The inflation rate fell to 1.1 percent from 1.3 percent in November, according to federal statistics. Prices rose 0.8 percent in the month, mostly on the back of higher package-tour prices and vacation home rents ahead of the Christmas holidays. Both figures were in line with forecasts, Bloomberg News said.