Economic Strain Intensifies for German Self-Employed Amid Declining Orders
A significant portion of self-employed individuals in Germany face existential threats due to a persistent lack of business orders.
- Nearly 18% of German self-employed individuals fear they may have to close their businesses due to insufficient orders.
- The Ifo Institute's business climate index for small businesses and freelancers dropped to -22.0 points in October.
- Almost half of the self-employed surveyed reported a lack of orders, a higher percentage than in the broader economy.
- The economic uncertainty has led larger companies to hold back on placing orders, exacerbating the situation.
- The EU Commission predicts a minimal growth of 0.7% for Germany in 2025, the smallest among Eurozone countries.
Die Rheinpfalz 
Der Tagesspiegel 
Stern 
Die Zeit 