With the start of 2025, numerous developments in the financial and economic sectors hold major significance. The European Union is intensifying efforts to integrate environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria into the financial sector. Banks are now required to disclose their taxonomy compliance ratio, and a revision of the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation is also anticipated.
In Germany, weak economic growth is being recorded. Forecasts predict a growth of only 0.1 percent of the gross domestic product in 2025. The reasons include global uncertainties and structural challenges such as sluggish digitalization.
The trade conflict between the USA and China is escalating further, with increased tariffs on both sides. This has not only negatively impacted stock markets but has also raised concerns about dumping prices for key German industries.
In light of these uncertainties, gold prices have risen by 19 percent in the first quarter of 2025, reaffirming its status as a safe haven.
The German government plans a massive investment package of one trillion euros for defense and infrastructure, which has also raised concerns about national debt.
These events are central topics for investors and markets in 2025, highlighting the global and national economic challenges.