The economy sustained its dynamic recovery from the pandemic into 2022. GDP surpassed the pre-pandemic level in the first quarter and growth averaged 6.7 percent for the year—among the highest in the euro area. The momentum continued through early 2023 with growth at 2.5 percent (year-on-year) in Q1. While headline inflation peaked in late 2022, core inflation has been stickier amid limited economic slack, high profit margins and tight labor markets. Wage growth has accelerated, partly reflecting minimum wage hikes and labor shortages.