German Corporate Insolvencies Rose 23.1% in 2024
Corporate insolvencies in Germany increased by 23.1% to 21,964 cases in 2024, reaching the highest level since 2015. A further rise is forecast for 2025.
In 2024, a total of 21,964 companies filed for insolvency in Germany, marking a 23.1% increase compared to the previous year. This figure represents the highest number of corporate insolvencies recorded since 2015 and the sharpest percentage increase since the introduction of the Insolvency Code in 1999. According to an analysis by information service provider CRIF, insolvency-related losses more than doubled to €55 billion.
CRIF forecasts a continued rise in insolvencies for 2025, projecting up to 26,000 cases, an increase of up to 18.4%. Companies in Germany are facing significant challenges, including high energy costs, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical uncertainties, exacerbated by reduced consumer spending power.
The surge in major insolvencies could trigger domino effects, leading to further company failures. While approximately 90% of German companies remain financially sound, nearly 312,000 companies are currently experiencing financial difficulties.
Berlin recorded the highest insolvency rate, with 114 insolvencies per 10,000 companies, compared to the national average of 71. North Rhine-Westphalia, Bavaria, and Baden-Württemberg reported the highest absolute numbers of corporate insolvencies. Only Bremen saw a decrease in insolvencies compared to 2023.