German corporate insolvencies rise to highest level since 2013

The number of corporate insolvencies in Germany is projected to reach 12,900 by the end of the first half of 2026, a 6.1 % increase over the same period last year and the highest level since 2013 (13,310). Creditreform data shows an insolvency rate of 88 cases per 10,000 firms, above the national average of 82. Regional figures include 3,290 filings in North Rhine‑Westphalia, 1,780 in Bavaria, 1,630 in Baden‑Württemberg and 1,100 in Lower Saxony. The surge is attributed to high energy prices, restrained consumer demand, bureaucratic burdens and the impact of the Middle‑East conflict, particularly the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, which has delayed the expected economic rebound. Creditreform’s research head Patrik‑Ludwig Hantzsch warned that the peak of bankruptcies has not yet been reached and that stabilization may not occur until at least 2027. Personal insolvencies also rose 2.3 % to 38,800 cases.