Financing requirements grow in line with consumer sentiment

This was determined by CreditPlus Bank, which also asked about financing intentions: these were expressed by around 17% of those surveyed who were planning purchases. 36 percent of 14 to 34 year olds, compared to just 7 percent of over-55s. There are also differences between men and women.

In fact, 18% of men are considering a purchase with financing, compared to only 14% of women. Men have significantly more money available for important, short-term investments, for example 32% have more than 2,500 euros at their disposal. Among female respondents, the figure is only 20 percent. When it comes to additional expenditure, a total of 30% of Germans have a maximum of 625 euros to hand. 35 percent have between 625 and 2,499 euros and 26 percent have more than 2,500 euros.

More earnings, more consumption

Overall, German consumers are in an upbeat mood. 71%, i.e. the vast majority, are optimistic about the development of their own standard of living in the coming months. The Gesellschaft für Konsumforschung (Society for Consumer Research) attributes this primarily to rising income prospects. Employees hope that the excellent situation in many companies will have an impact on wages and salaries. They also believe that the labor market will continue to develop positively.

The greatest improvements can be seen in eastern Germany. The proportion of people who "can afford a lot" or "do not have to restrict themselves in any way" has increased by almost a third compared to last year. For 48% of Germans, their finances are sufficient to "get by". According to GfK, the low level of interest rates also has a positive effect on the buying mood, "making purchases more attractive than investments".