During the first three months in 2015 a total of 5,341 businesses shut down in Greece, which translates to about 59 closures per day, according to data supplied by the central union of chambers, with the National Confederation of Hellenic Commerce (ESEE) warning that there may be more than 8,500 closures in the first half of the year. ESEE president Vasilis Korkidis warned that the extensive negotiations between the Greek government and its creditors is further exacerbating the dire situation, with the market continuing to suffer, hinting towards a new wave of closures. This in turn will cause the rate of unemployment to rise. According to ESEE, the main causes are: – Lack of liquidity – Banking pressure – Over-taxation – Reduced turnover (source: ESEE, ana-mpa)