Corporate Insolvency Filings in Germany Reach Highest Level in 13 Years
Corporate insolvencies in Germany rose by 6.7 percent to 12,812 in the first half of 2026, while experts point to economic pressures behind this increase.
According to data from the German Federal Statistical Office, corporate insolvency filings in the first six months of 2026 increased by 6.7 percent compared to the same period of the previous year, rising to 12,812 and recording the highest first-half rate in the last 13 years.
Rise in Insolvencies in the First Half of the Year
According to official data released by the German Federal Statistical Office, 12,812 businesses filed for insolvency in the first half of 2026. This data was recorded as the highest level seen for first-half periods since 2013.
Main Causes of the Insolvency Wave
Experts point to the long-stagnant domestic economy, increases in energy and labor costs, and intense bureaucracy as the main reasons behind the wave of insolvencies. Filings in June also increased by 15.8 percent compared to the same month last year.
Most Affected Sectors
In the January-June period, 36.2 out of every 10,000 companies declared bankruptcy, with the highest rate seen in the transportation and storage sector at 71.6 cases per 10,000. This sector was followed by the accommodation and construction branches.
Personal Bankruptcies and Startups
Alongside corporate insolvencies, 38,932 debtor consumers filed for bankruptcy. In contrast, the number of newly founded startups in the first six months increased by 52 percent, reaching a historical peak of 3,053.