Bullish sentiment in the carbon market evaporated as the Dec11 EUA contract experienced a steady downward slide before encountering support between €16.95 ($24.57) and €17.05. The outlook for Germany and, by extension, Europe's energy policy meant that carbon experienced a close correlation with German baseload prices. On 7 April, the European Central Bankraised interest rates by 0.25% to 1.25%. This had an impact on carbon prices, as the prospect of reduced investment and industrial activity decreased expectations of emissions growth.