In the fourth quarter of 2023, the German net international investment position (i.i.p.) increased by €146 billion to €2.9 trillion; that equates to 70% of gross domestic product (GDP). German claims on non-residents now stand at €12.5 trillion. This compares to German liabilities amounting to €9.6 trillion.

At the end of 2021, Germany’s primary outward foreign direct investment (FDI) stocks were up 8% on the year at €1,506 billion. Stocks of FDI in Germany show a different picture. A decline was recorded for the first time in a long period, with stocks down 2% to €852 billion. At €169 billion, German FDI flows abroad proved robust for 2022, despite being down slightly on the exceptionally high level of the previous year. By contrast, FDI flows from abroad to Germany almost halved to €44 billion.

The concepts and methodological standards for compiling external sector statistics are set out in numerous international manuals. These are currently being revised.