Germany's GDP slumped by the most in four years in Q4 2012, with French, Italian and Japanese growth also contracting more than expected on the quarter.
Germany's AAA credit rating will come under increasing scrutiny this year as investors shift their focus, according to Cosimo Marasciulo, head of government bonds and FX at Pioneer Investments.
European equities have their attractions but the continent's economic position will disappoint investors for years to come, according to Carmignac Gestion's Frédéric Leroux.
The FTSE 100 has reached its highest level since March following positive consumer data from Germany and signs of improving growth in China.
As Greece finds itself making headlines once more, eurosceptic John Redwood has warned a euro break-up is still on the cards.