Analytical Report: German Consumer Confidence Stabilization (December 2025)

This analysis is based on the Wall Street Journal report [2] (content unavailable) and supplementary data from Reuters [1]. The GfK/NIM consumer sentiment index rose to -23.2 in December 2025, up from November’s -24.1. Key components include: willingness to buy increased by 3.3 points to -6.0 (same as December 2024), readiness to save fell by 2.1 points, and economic expectations dipped by nearly 2 points to -1.1 (still 2.5 points higher than last year). The survey period was October 30 to November 10, 2025 [1].

1. The two consecutive monthly gains indicate a tentative stabilization trend, aligning with December 2024 levels.
2. The link between reduced saving readiness and increased buying willingness suggests short-term spending may rise, particularly for holiday sales.
3. The slight dip in economic expectations reflects lingering uncertainty despite the overall index improvement.
4. The data correlates with Germany’s 2025 growth forecast of 0.2% after two years of contraction [1].

: Muted economic expectations and income prospects limit a strong recovery; geopolitical and structural challenges continue to weigh on growth [1].
: Stable Christmas sales for retailers (as per Rolf Buerkl, head of consumer climate at NIM) [1]; reduced saving readiness may boost short-term retail spending.

• December 2025 index: -23.2 (up from November -24.1)
• Willingness to buy: -6.0 (3.3 point increase)
• Readiness to save: 2.1 point decrease
• Economic expectations: -1.1 (2 point dip, up 2.5 from last year)
• Survey period: October 30–November 10, 2025
• 2025 growth forecast: 0.2% [1]