International trade in services refers to the exchange of intangible services such as financial services, tourism or IT between countries. Unlike in goods trade, no physical goods are exchanged. Globalisation, technological developments and the opening-up of markets have greatly increased its importance.

The Bundesbank is showcasing its new children’s book about payments at the Frankfurt Book Fair. From 7 to 11 October 2026, families and other visitors to the trade fair can come along to the Bundesbank’s exhibition stand to learn about the story “Geli Geldgespenst – Einkauf in der Krümelstube” and the English-language version, “Mona Moneyghost goes shopping at Crumble Corner”. 

German enterprises constitute net debtors vis-à-vis non-residents: Standing at €1862 billion at the end of July 2026, their liabilities arising from financial operations and trade credits, exceeded their corresponding assets of €1605 billion by €258 billion. Compared with the previous month, this is a change of - €13 billion.

The German economy is likely to grow only slightly in the third quarter of 2026, according to the current issue of the Bundesbank’s Monthly Report. It notes that temporary stress factors are putting the brakes on the economic recovery for now. “Growth in the German economy is likely to pick up again in the fourth quarter,” the economists write.

The international importance of a currency is reflected not only in its use as a reserve or anchor currency, but also in its role as an invoicing currency in trade across national borders. In the current issue of the Monthly Report, our experts examine the euro’s international role as an invoicing currency and its potential. 

The statistics on services trade by enterprise characteristics enable a sound assessment of enterprises involved in international trade in services. They provide a valuable foundation for economic policy decisions and analyses.