Overview

• A Verivox-Innofact survey shows 56% of Germans now accept private investments in defense firms, reversing majority reservations recorded in 2022.
• Male respondents are more receptive to arms investments, with around 64% finding them acceptable compared with a minority of women.
• Public opinion is divided on sustainable funds buying defense stocks, with 44% in favor and 37% opposed.
• Since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, shares of arms manufacturers have surged as investors anticipate higher government procurement.
• The upcoming NATO summit in Den Haag will consider US-driven calls for member states to set defense budgets at 3.5% of GDP.