Why Germany's and Europe's Business Model Is in Danger

The Order of the Day: Reorientation

The current crises and geopolitical changes are forcing the German and European economies to reorient themselves with regard to energy policy, international economic ties, and in public finances. Some industrial companies have already started to consider withdrawing activities from Germany. The policy solutions so far, such as the gas price brake and the fuel tax cut, are highly controversial.

Prof. Clemens Fuest, President of the ifo Institute, will discuss these and other questions with you, among others:

• How can we manage to make the energy supply available to industry and households at a sustainable price over the long term?
• How do we finance the new spending on defense spending?
• What partners should Germany and Europe seek for trade in order to avoid becoming dependent?

General Information on the Presentation

The event was part of the series "Business Model Germany - Do We Have to Reinvent It?"

Germany's business model will no longer be able to secure prosperity in Germany in the coming years. Until now, we have been a strong export nation with a strong focus on China. Germany has put the country's security in the hands of the U.S. and has preferred to spend its resources on social security rather than on armaments. In terms of energy policy, we have taken a special path and at the same time made ourselves dependent on Russia for supplies. Since the framework conditions have changed radically in a short time, this orientation must be fundamentally reconsidered.

• Which foreign trade partners should Europe look for in a geopolitical constellation where China is increasingly isolating itself?
• How can the competitiveness of German industry be restored in an environment of sharply rising energy prices?
• What does it mean for the economy and society if new priorities have to be set in budgetary policy?
• Is inflation leading to social discord?

Moderator: Judith Wittwer, Editor-in-Chief of Süddeutsche Zeitung

Presentation language: German