Norisbank Survey: Germans Prioritize Saving and Conscious Spending in 2026

Bonn – Despite ongoing high prices and economic uncertainty, many Germans are entering the new year with clear financial resolutions for 2026. Norisbank's latest survey indicates a significant trend: saving is a priority, consumption is more conscious, and individuals are increasingly relying on their reserves rather than seeking credit. The younger generation is leading this shift, demonstrating proactive and digital financial planning.

Saving has once again emerged as the top financial goal for 2026. Nearly a quarter of Germans (24.1%) aim to save as much as the previous year, with an additional 22.9% planning to increase their savings. This trend is particularly pronounced among younger respondents aged 18-29, where 40.9% intend to boost their savings efforts. Saving is increasingly viewed not as deprivation, but as proactive financial management, often facilitated by systematic approaches like standing orders. Over half of respondents (51.2%) plan to reduce unnecessary expenses, although a small percentage (8.3%) intend to consciously indulge more despite inflation.

Investing in personal health is another significant resolution for 2026, with 19% of respondents planning to allocate funds towards sports, wellness, or healthy eating. This figure remains consistent with previous years. Younger adults, particularly those aged 18-39, show a strong motivation to enhance their well-being. Building future wealth also remains a focus, with 14.4% planning to increase their assets through savings accounts or investments. The 18-29 age group is most driven in this area, with over 32% aiming to build wealth.

The desire for major purchases and travel appears to be waning. Only 12.1% are planning significant acquisitions, and 11% intend to travel, both down from the previous year. A notable shift is the avoidance of debt, with only 6.9% planning to take out a bank loan. Instead, 46.4% intend to utilize their existing savings, a marked increase from the prior year. This cautious approach highlights a general desire for financial security in uncertain economic times.

Germans plan to implement their resolutions through various means: reducing unnecessary spending (51.2%) and setting up regular savings transfers (28.4%) are the most common strategies. Seeking additional income sources (17.2%) and creating detailed budgets (13.6%) are also popular methods. The use of digital tools, such as apps, for financial management is also becoming more prevalent, with 11.5% utilizing them.