The German Federal Government has acknowledged widespread interest calculation errors in long-term premium savings contracts offered by Sparkassen and banks. Following a parliamentary inquiry, the BaFin (Federal Financial Supervisory Authority) is investigating numerous institutions. Consumers may be owed significant back payments. Learn about the faulty clauses, the ongoing class-action lawsuit, and what this means for your savings. Essential reading for financial advisors and consumers.…

The German Bundesrat has approved a significant increase in home savings premiums (Wohnungsbauprämie) starting in 2021. Discover the new higher subsidy rates, increased income limits, and how these changes can benefit your homeownership goals.…

New data reveals a stark inequality in Germany's inheritance tax system. While average earners face high tax rates, heirs to fortunes over €100 million paid an average of just 0.2% tax in 2018. Discover the loopholes, the debate, and what this means for wealth distribution.…

The Consumer Center Baden-Württemberg has published a list of nearly 140 savings banks and cooperative banks suspected of underpaying interest on premium savings and Riester plans. Learn if your bank is listed, understand the invalid clauses, and discover your rights to reclaim lost interest.…

A major IT failure at Landesbank Hessen-Thüringen (Helaba) caused widespread payment issues for Sparkassen customers. Learn about the impact, the bank's response, and what this incident teaches us about financial system vulnerabilities and consumer protection.…

How are German building societies surviving the low-interest rate environment? Explore the case of Debeka Bausparkasse, which used €44M from its risk reserve fund and a €150M capital injection from its parent company to post a profit. Learn about Bausparkasse challenges, customer contract cancellations, and financial stability in the savings and loan sector.…

Learn how the leverage effect can amplify your real estate investment returns. This guide explains using mortgage debt to boost equity returns, includes key formulas, and compares leveraged property investment to traditional savings. Understand the risks and rewards of using leverage for wealth building.…

Allianz Capital Partners raises its first infrastructure fund target from €500M to €860M due to massive investor demand. Explore why insurers are turning to infrastructure investing for yield and what it means for the market.…

High investment fees can destroy your returns. Learn actionable strategies to reduce costs on funds, ETFs, and brokerage accounts. Discover how family offices and wealthy investors negotiate better rates for higher net worth.…

German Sparkassen terminated over 200,000 lucrative savings contracts in 2019. Discover why banks are canceling these 'Prämiensparen' plans, the legal battle over miscalculated interest, and what affected savers can do to protect their retirement funds.…

Germany's 2019 Debtor Atlas reveals a 45% surge in over-indebted seniors, while young adults face the highest rates. Learn the causes, the difference between 'hard' and 'soft' debt, and get strategies for debt prevention and financial planning at any age.…

A 'negative interest rate wave' is hitting German bank customers. Over 190 institutions now charge fees on high savings balances. Discover why this is happening, learn how to protect your savings, and understand the ongoing legal debate about the legitimacy of these charges.…

A new survey shows alarming gaps in financial knowledge among Germans. Many can't explain key terms and hold misconceptions about savings. Learn the essential financial concepts for better retirement planning, investment strategies, and insurance decisions.…

German Sparkassen have terminated over 280,000 high-interest savings contracts, impacting retirement plans. Learn why this is happening, your legal rights, and discover alternative investment and insurance strategies for secure long-term savings.…

A new survey reveals deep financial fears during the coronavirus crisis: 33% worry about their private pension losing value, while 1 in 4 fear not getting refunds for canceled trips. Discover the data on income anxiety, government aid gaps, and what this means for retirement planning.…

In a major win for consumers, the Dresden Higher Regional Court ruled against Leipzig Savings Bank in a model declaratory action. The bank miscalculated interest on long-term savings plans. Discover what this means for affected savers nationwide and how to claim your money back.…

A new study reveals over 50% of German banks now charge fees for contactless card payments. Discover which institutions have the highest costs, how to avoid hidden charges, and what this means for basic account holders. Essential consumer advice for managing banking fees.…

French insurer AXA slashes its 2019 dividend proposal by nearly half in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover why AXA made this decision, how it compares to German competitors like Allianz, and what a potential year-end special payout means for investors. Essential analysis for insurance shareholders and financial advisors.…

The planned transfer of supervisory authority for §34f financial investment intermediaries from German Chambers of Commerce (IHKs) to the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) faces delays. Discover the political debate, cost implications for advisors, and the future of financial regulation in Germany. Essential reading for financial intermediaries and insurance brokers.…

Explore the findings of the Global Wealth Report 2019. Discover how global private wealth grew to $226 trillion, why Germany ranks 7th with 400,000 millionaires, and the stark realities of wealth inequality. Essential insights for financial advisors and investors understanding global asset growth and distribution.…