Overview

• Official data show 3.025 million registered unemployed in August, up 46,000 month on month and 153,000 year on year, lifting the rate to 6.4 percent.
• BA chief Andrea Nahles said the summer pause contributed to the rise and described a still weak market with only first signs of stabilization.
• The Bundesbank sees little chance of a second‑half rebound, citing weak global trade, low capacity use and eroding competitiveness driven by high energy costs and U.S. tariffs.
• After coalition talks in Würzburg, the government signaled a 'Herbst der Reformen' with proposals such as tax‑free overtime premiums, tax‑favored post‑retirement work, investment incentives and energy relief.
• Industry continues to cut jobs and suppliers are filing for insolvency, while defense and pharmaceuticals add roles and 631,000 vacancies highlight persistent mismatches.