From New Zealand to Frankfurt – Tom’s career path shows how international experience and personal values can come together. In his role at the Bundesbank, he works at the intersection of climate change and the financial system. In this story, he explains what motivates him and what his everyday work looks like.

Germany’s current account recorded a surplus of €16.1 billion in December 2025, up €1.9 billion on the previous month’s level. Although the surplus in the goods account decreased, the surplus in invisible current transactions, which comprise services as well as primary and secondary income, increased more strongly.

The Deutsche Bundesbank does not conduct transactions (purchase, vending, etc.) in foreign currencies (banknotes and coins) and precious metals with the general public (including credit institutions).

Fledgling businesses often will not know whether their business model needs to be authorised pursuant to the Banking Act or the Payment Services Oversight Act, which is why they are invited to discuss any issues which might arise in this regard with staff at the Bundesbank's Regional Offices and Central Office.