Measured by nominal gross domestic product (GDP), Germany’s net external assets grew from just under 20% at the start of 2007 to around 60% by the end of 2017. Enterprises and households recorded the highest increase in assets, with portfolio investment being a key factor. As noted in the April 2018 Monthly Report, "For the first time in over 30 years, residents’ holdings of foreign securities are larger than non-residents’ holdings of securities issued in Germany".