German consumer confidence falls to lowest level since February 2023

8 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 27

The consumer-climate index dropped 5.2 points to minus 33.3 for May, its sharpest decline since October 2022, amid the Iran war and surging energy prices.
Income expectations plunged 18.1 points, while inflation rose to 2.8% in March. The willingness to buy weakened, and economic expectations neared April 2022 lows.
Consumer sentiment had been stabilizing after government stimulus and modest growth in 2025, but the Iran conflict now threatens recovery, raising fears of a renewed economic setback if instability persists.

Can temporary government aid truly shield German consumers from a historic cost-of-living crisis?

With its economy faltering, can Germany afford both massive stimulus and a green transition?

Is the Iran crisis pushing Germany towards de-industrialization or a green energy revolution?

How will the largest energy supply shock in history permanently alter global trade and alliances?

Will soaring fuel costs finally force the mass adoption of electric vehicles in Europe?

Is the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz the beginning of a wider global conflict?