In a comprehensive overview of current financial and economic news, several topics hold particular significance: Firstly, German economic institutes have drastically lowered their growth forecasts for the year 2025. Instead of an expected GDP increase of 0.8 percent, growth is now projected to be only 0.1 percent. The causes for this include structural problems such as a shortage of skilled workers, high bureaucratic costs, and rising energy prices. Additionally, the protectionist trade policy of the USA contributes to uncertainty. Secondly, the announcement of broad U.S. import tariffs by President Donald Trump has led to a worldwide economic reaction. After initial losses, the DAX recovered to over 21,000 points due to a tariff pause. The tension in the global trade conflict could be further heightened by Chinese countermeasures. Thirdly, the new federal government in Germany has presented a coalition agreement aimed at relieving companies through tax benefits and bureaucratic reduction. Plans include, among other things, higher depreciation options and a reduction in corporate tax. Fourthly, rising energy prices are heavily burdening consumers in Germany. The price of natural gas rose by 40 percent, while electricity prices increased by over 111 percent. These developments have far-reaching consequences for economic growth, job markets, and consumer prices worldwide.
11.04.2025