The State budget had a deficit of 3.35 billion SK in the first quarter 1997.

Consumer prices in March 1997 were 0.5% higher than in the previous month. Compared with March 1996, prices were 6.3% higher (the annual inflation was 5.4% at the end of 1996).

During the first three months of 1997 the average interest rate from short term loans was around 16% whereas in the second half of 1996 it was 13.5%.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. It is therefore not a substitute for specialist advice.

For further information contact Ruth Clamp, Arthur Andersen Bratislava on tel: +421 7 5340 545, fax: +421 7 5340 542 or e:mail directly to ruth.a.clamp@ArthurAndersen.com or enter text search 'Arthur Andersen' and 'Business Monitor'.

c. Business Monitor 1997 - Tel +44 (0) 171 820 7733