The German government proposes reforms to strengthen the Pfändungsschutz-Konto (P-Konto), a garnishment protection account for indebted individuals. Key changes include extended savings periods, protection for joint accounts, and easier access to higher exemption limits. Learn how these updates aim to provide better financial stability, especially in light of the COVID-19 crisis.…

German Sparkassen have unilaterally canceled at least 321,000 high-interest 'Prämiensparen' savings contracts since 2015, citing low-interest rates. We analyze the legal basis, customer impact, and what affected savers should do. Learn about your rights and the controversial BGH ruling that allows these terminations.…

The Wirecard scandal exposes potential failures in Germany's financial oversight. BaFin and auditor EY now face lawsuits from investors. We analyze the regulatory missteps, the role of the DPR, and what this means for financial supervision, investor protection, and the future of fintech regulation in Europe.…

The planned transfer of oversight for independent financial investment intermediaries (§34f GewO) from local chambers to the German Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) has been postponed again. This raises doubts about the January 2021 start date and highlights industry concerns over costs and effectiveness. We analyze the implications for financial advisors and the market.…

A new DIA study reveals a generational divide in sustainable investing. While only 19% of all German investors have experience with ESG criteria, over 30% of those under 35 prioritize it. Discover the future of ESG investing and how to avoid greenwashing.…

Negative interest rates, or 'penalty rates,' are spreading across German banks for both private and business customers. Learn why banks are charging you to hold cash, how thresholds are dropping, and what strategies you can use to protect your savings from erosion. Essential guide for savers, investors, and business owners.…

A Cologne-based gold investment firm, Bonus.Gold GmbH, is at the center of a potential new financial scandal. Investors face inaccessible accounts after ownership changes. Promises of 22% returns in two years now seem dubious. Learn the red flags, the alleged Ponzi scheme links, and how to protect yourself from similar investment fraud.…

Major US pension funds are suing Allianz Global Investors for billions in damages over losses in Structured Alpha Funds during COVID-19 market turmoil. Learn about the allegations of fiduciary duty breach, the insurer's defense, and the implications for institutional investors and the asset management industry.…

In a low-interest-rate era, how can insurers deliver returns and security? Laura Gersch of Allianz Life explains the shift from rigid guarantees to flexible, diversified retirement solutions. Learn about modern pension products, digital advice trends, and the future of occupational pensions (bAV) in Germany.…

Choosing between a wealth advisor and an asset manager? Understand the crucial legal, operational, and cost differences. Learn about fiduciary duty, fee structures, investment strategies, and how to select the right professional for your financial goals. Get expert insights from Torsten Reidel of Grüner Fisher Investments.…

Despite the Wirecard scandal, the German government is proceeding with plans to transfer oversight of 34f financial advisors from Chambers of Commerce to BaFin. Explore the costs, regulatory rationale, and potential impacts on independent financial advisors and fee-based investment consultants. Get expert insights into Germany's evolving financial supervision landscape.…

The German government plans to transfer oversight of 34f financial investment advisors from Chambers of Commerce (IHKs) to BaFin. Critics, including the Votum association, warn this could force independent advisors to abandon their status and join sales networks, reducing consumer choice. Explore the regulatory debate, potential impacts on financial advice, and the future of independent financial planning in Germany.…

Allianz is reportedly in talks with Telefónica (O2) to create a multi-billion euro joint venture for fiber optic expansion in Germany. This move highlights a major shift by insurers into infrastructure investing for yield and impact. Learn about the strategy and Germany's digital gap.…

Negative interest rates (Strafzinsen) are now charged by over 300 banks in Germany, impacting both businesses and private customers. Discover which major banks are affected, the legal landscape, and strategies to protect your savings from erosion.…

Plans to transfer oversight of independent financial advisors to Germany's BaFin have been scrapped. Discover the reasons behind this reversal, the debate over regulatory standards, and the implications for financial advisors, insurance brokers, and consumer protection.…

Allianz Life board member Laura Gersch explains why life insurance remains crucial for retirement planning. Discover how modern guarantees balance safety with growth, why pure stock investments carry full risk, and how insurers access unique asset classes for client returns.…

German regulator BaFin advises savers to check their long-term premium savings contracts. Learn why banks are canceling these contracts, how to verify your interest calculations, and what steps to take to protect your savings and retirement planning.…

ESG criteria are reshaping wealth management. In an exclusive interview, DWS's Simon Klein discusses the rise of sustainable investing, the role of ETFs, and why ESG is becoming the new norm for retirement planning and long-term investment strategies.…

Former PIM Gold executives face fraud charges in a major investment scandal. Learn how the alleged gold investment scheme operated, the role of financial intermediaries, and crucial lessons for protecting your investments and ensuring ethical financial advice.…

Free checking accounts are becoming rare. Learn why banks are raising fees, how minimum balance requirements impact you, and discover strategies to manage your banking costs effectively. Compare traditional banks, online banks, and new fintech options to optimize your personal finance and budgeting.…