The October 2021 edition of the Monthly Report contains an article on state government finances in 2020 from the perspective of the temporary impact of the pandemic on the deficit situation and the effect of escape clauses on the building of reserves. Another topic discussed is the development of the global economy during the coronavirus pandemic. The question of how households in Germany view the digital euro is also addressed, with a presentation of initial survey results and interviews. The report additionally features an article on the regulation of remuneration in credit institutions.

In the first half of 2020, the global coronavirus pandemic led to the most severe economic slump in Germany in decades. Governments and central banks around the world have taken extensive measures to stabilise the economy as well as labour and financial markets.

In 2019, the Bundesbank achieved a net profit of 5.8 billion euros. After adjustment of the reserves, the net profit is 5.9 billion euros, the highest net profit since 2008, which the Bundesbank transferred in full to the Federal Ministry of Finance.