Dr Friederike (Fritzi) Köhler-Geib has been KfW Chief Economist and head of the company's economics department since November 2019. She analyses trends relevant for KfW in the economy, society and on the financial markets and brings a new dynamic to the economic and financial policy debate. The focus of her work lies in the analyses of economic developments and growth trends in Germany. A particular focus is placed on small and medium-sized enterprises and the role of innovation and digitalisation in improving competitiveness, as well as issues related to the goal of a climate-neutral economy. Furthermore, Dr Fritzi Köhler-Geib also actively addresses economic policy connections between Germany, Europe and the world.
"The ifo Business Climate is falling for the third time in a row and it feels like a déjà vu experience. As in the previous year, business sentiment brightened in the spring, but the upswing in sentiment was lost again in the summer. The decline in sentiment could reflect concerns about a possible election victory for “Tariff Man” Donald Trump. However, despite all the risks, there are several reasons to believe that the economic upturn will continue in the current and coming year. In particular, consumption is likely to increase more strongly thanks to the recent gains in purchasing power and there are finally some positive signs again with regard to investment activity in Germany. According to the Bank Lending Survey, demand for credit from companies and households increased again for the first time in the second quarter."
Previous comments from Dr Fritzi Köhler-Geib
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine and the COVID-19 pandemic have shaken the foundations of a rules-based world order and the German economic model. Even amid the necessary short-term crisis management, investments are key to successful adaptation to the changed environment. They make restructuring energy supplies and the green and digital transformation possible – and demand a joint effort by government, the business community and private households. The lion’s share of necessary investment will have to come from the private sector. The current burdens from high energy costs and uncertainties act as additional roadblocks. So it is all the more important to encourage and provide intelligent support for private investment. Government therefore has a key role to play: first, by formulating targets and setting frameworks and incentives and second, by investing in infrastructure and human capital, both of which are required for the productive realisation of private-sector activity.
A boost in investment for the transformation – what exactly is needed?
Further position papers and publications on the coronavirus and the crisis
Rebuilding the economy after COVID-19 and tackling the climate crisis must go hand in hand. For Germany to achieve its target for climate action, it needs to tap into overlooked areas of potential to reduce its CO₂ emissions. In particular, this process will be essential for the transport sector. And there is even more that can be done with innovative building solutions.
30.08.2024 | 12. Fachtagung der Hochschule der Deutschen Bundesbank, Frankfurt
05.09.2024 | Wissenschaft trifft Wirtschaft, Essen
KfW Research, KfW Group, Palmengartenstrasse 5-9, 60325 Frankfurt, Germany,
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