Fresh data and a clear outlook from the Paris-based OECD foresees green shoots of recovery in China, paltry growth in the Eurozone and the UK, and the US dangerously hovering close to the recession zone.

Weakening Germany exports have prompted fears that the powerhouse of the European economy will soon plunge into recession – and take the rest of the Eurozone with it. But this analysis is flawed, and our data shows that the risk in coming months is virtually zero.

One widely-watched US economic indicator suggests that the next recession is closer than many people think.

Yes, the University of Michigan consumer confidence survey undershot expectations. But dig a little deeper and you'll find some surprising underlying strength.