In September, Germany's inflation rate fell to 1.6%, marking the lowest level in over three years. This decline is largely attributed to a significant reduction in energy prices, which were 7.6% cheaper compared to the previous year. However, the cost of food increased by 1.6%, and services became 3.8% more expensive due to high wage settlements.
The European Central Bank responded to the changing economic landscape by lowering the key interest rate to stimulate the economy and support the declining inflation. Despite these measures, consumers have faced a loss in purchasing power, primarily driven by the energy crisis and the rising costs of food items like butter and olive oil.
Germany is currently in a recession, and the government has revised its economic forecast for 2022 into negative territory. Given these circumstances, private consumption remains a crucial hope for economic recovery. Economists anticipate that inflation will stay below 2% initially but might rise towards the end of the year as the effect of falling energy prices wanes.
The Statistical Office of Germany confirmed these figures, highlighting that while energy costs have decreased, other areas such as district heating and various food items have seen prices surge. The overall economic environment is challenging, but there is cautious optimism that private consumption could help steer Germany towards a more stable economic path.
