In 2024, Germany paid more to the European level than it received by around 0.4 % of its gross national income (€18 billion), as explained in the current edition of the Bundesbank’s Monthly Report. It was thus one of ten Member States that made net contributions to the EU budget and the NextGenerationEU (NGEU) off-budget entity. It was not among the frontrunners, however, as it received significantly more NGEU grants than it did in previous years. Once every year, the Bundesbank calculates the net contributions to the EU budget and NGEU. In addition, the Monthly Report examines the European Commission’s proposal for the next multiannual financial framework.

Three years of intense cooperation, 19 stakeholder central banks, and one clear objective: building central bank capacities in the Western Balkans. The conclusion of phase II of this EU-funded project set a strong example for stability, trust and convergence to European standards. A follow-up project is being lined up and could kick off in February 2026. 

In early summer, a delegation from the Deutsche Bundesbank travelled to the Principality of Andorra to lay the foundations for future cooperation. The visit focused on discussions with public financial institutions about economic and fiscal policy issues and explored potential areas of cooperation. This successful meeting marks a promising first step towards a closer partnership.

It’s been all change lately at the German Embassies in Paris, Rome and Madrid, as the Bundesbank’s previous representatives bid farewell after four eventful years and hand over the reins to their successors. At the same time, we’re delighted to welcome two new members on board in our project management team in Frankfurt. Read on to learn more about our new colleagues and find out what makes them tick.