In addition to the regularly recurring questions on enterprise metrics, expectations and access to loans, the Bundesbank frequently asks enterprises questions on various current issues. A selection of the results is presented here.

Expected changes in sales over a 12-month horizon

In the first quarter of 2025, firms were asked about their short-term sales expectations. The median for the corporate sector as a whole stood at 3.3%. In sectoral terms, firms in the information and communication sector expected the largest increase in sales over the next 12 months (an increase of 5.3%), while firms in the wholesale and retail trade sectors expected the smallest increase (a rise of 2.0%).

Hedging against exchange rate fluctuations

In the first quarter of 2025, firms reporting that exchange rate fluctuations would affect their costs and/or revenue were asked whether they would hedge against exchange rate fluctuations using financial instruments. The majority of firms said no, with only 8% stating that they would hedge accordingly using financial instruments.