Consumer Climate: Germans Keep a Tight Rein on Their Money - Purchasing Mood Remains Weak
Expectations regarding the economy have increased. However, consumers continue not to spend more money.
German consumers are showing a weak shopping spirit, which may not significantly support the economic recovery, according to recent studies by GfK and NIM. The latest Consumer Climate Index for November forecasts a slight decline, currently sitting at -30.8 points, down from -22.8 points a year ago. The German researchers note that the consumer sentiment remains far below last year's levels, with expectations of economic growth still present but purchasing readiness and income expectations still showing signs of skepticism.
Despite the introduction of a tank rebate, the stabilization is at a low level, not an improvement. Concerns over rising prices and cautious income forecasts continue to dampen the willingness to make larger purchases, even though the mood remains optimistic about the economic development. The consumer climate has been regularly assessed since 1974, with monthly updates since 1980, based on interviews with 2,000 consumers in Germany from October 1st to October 12th, 2026.
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