External sector

External sector statistics provide information on a country’s economic relationships with the rest of the world. The data on external transactions and stocks form an important basis for economic policy decisions.

External sector
Germany´s net international investment position shrinks for the first time in eight years

Germany’s net international investment position shrank by €90 billion in the first quarter of 2020 - its first drop in eight years. One factor in this decline was the slide in prices in global capital markets triggered by the coronavirus pandemic. Overall, net international investment position remained at a high level of €2.4 trillion.

Germany´s net international investment position shrinks for the first time in eight years
German purchases and sales of foreign securities during Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic

In April 2020, transactions in foreign securities amounted to €1.4 trillion, having returned to a level considerably below the extraordinarily high activity of the previous month. The strong fluctuations are primarily attributable to trade in foreign shares and other equity.

German purchases and sales of foreign securities during Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic
Direct investment stocks continue to increase in 2018; direct investment flows momentum dips in 2019

Primary and secondary German direct investment abroad at year-end 2018 totalled €1,277 billion. The United States was once again the number one destination. Foreign direct investment stocks in Germany rose to €540 billion. Transaction data for 2019 showed a slowdown in the dynamics of both outward and inward flows.

Direct investment stocks continue to increase in 2018; direct investment flows momentum dips in 2019
Statistical publications: new concept and flexible download options
Blue infographics and 3D bars

As of 16 April 2020, the Bundesbank’s statistical publications will appear in a new format. In future, Statistical Series with partially amended content will be made available instead of Statistical Supplements. A modular publication structure will enable each issue to be updated on an ongoing basis and accommodate flexible download options.

Statistical publications: new concept and flexible download options
Time series
Blue digital binary data on computer screen

Balance of payments, international investment position, external debt, external position of the Bundesbank, international reserves, direct investments, external position of non-banks.

Time series