Consequences of Inflation for Companies
Impact of Inflation on Companies in 2025
- Everything about the method of measuring the inflation rate in Germany
- Learn to distinguish between inflation and deflation with examples
- Current inflation rate in Germany
- Negative effects of inflation on companies
- Positive effects of inflation on companies
- Which companies from which industries are most likely to benefit from inflation?
- What can companies do to combat inflation?
- Protection against inflation: What you can do for your company
Everything about the method of measuring the inflation rate in Germany
The CPI is based on a representative basket of goods that reflects consumer spending. This "fictitious basket" includes various categories of goods such as food, housing, health, education, transport and leisure . The individual goods in the basket are weighted according to their share in total consumer spending.
If, in addition to inflation, the economy grows little or not at all and unemployment rises, this is called stagflation.
To calculate the inflation rate, the current value of the CPI is compared with a base year. The base year always has an index value of 100. The percentage change between the current index value and the base year gives the inflation rate. For example, if the index rises from 110 to 115, the inflation rate is 4.5 percent.
It is important to note that the inflation rate may vary depending on the composition of the basket of goods and the methodology used to collect the data . Therefore, different countries and organizations may publish different inflation rates.
The consumer price index and the inflation rate calculated from it are of great importance for economic policy and consumers . They serve as important indicators for the monetary policy of central banks, as they provide information on price stability in the country. Inflation data is also relevant for companies, as it must be taken into account when setting prices and making investment decisions. Consumers use the inflation rate to better understand the purchasing power of their money and the development of their income.
Learn to distinguish between inflation and deflation with examples
Inflation and deflation are two opposing phenomena that influence price developments and thus the purchasing power of a currency.
Definition of inflation:
Inflation is an increase in the general price level of goods and services over a certain period of time compared to purchasing power. The purchasing power of money decreases because you can buy fewer goods for the same amount of money.
Example: If a product cost 100 euros a year ago and now costs 110 euros, the inflation rate is 10 percent.
Definition of deflation:
This is the opposite of inflation and refers to a decline in the general price level . In a deflationary phase, the purchasing power of money increases because you can buy more goods for the same amount of money.
Example: If a product cost 100 euros a year ago and now only costs 90 euros, the deflation rate is 10 percent .
Impact on debt:
Inflation has a positive effect on debt because the value of debt decreases over time, meaning it can be paid off more quickly.
Example: If someone has a loan of 10,000 euros and the inflation rate is 2 percent, these 10,000 euros will only be worth 9,800 euros in real purchasing power in one year.
Deflation, on the other hand, can make debt a problem, as the value of debt increases. Debt becomes more difficult to repay because it is worth more in real terms.
Example: If someone has a loan of 10,000 euros and the deflation rate is 2 percent, these 10,000 euros are worth 10,200 euros in real purchasing power in one year.
Influence on consumer behavior:
During times of inflation, there may be an increase in demand for goods and services as consumers tend to spend before prices rise further.
When inflation is high, consumers may be inclined to frontload major purchases such as cars or electronics to avoid higher prices in the future.
Deflation can lead to a decline in consumer spending as consumers expect prices to continue to fall. This can lead to a downward spiral as lower spending leads to lower demand and thus further price reductions.
Example: When deflation is high, consumers may hold back on spending in the hope that they will be able to purchase products at lower prices in the future.
Impact on investments:
Inflation can cause investors to look for ways to protect their money from dwindling purchasing power , often investing in tangible assets such as real estate or precious metals.
Example: In times of high inflation, an investor might decide to invest his money in real estate, as it is generally considered to be a valuable asset.
In a deflationary environment, investors are often more cautious as prices fall and demand declines . This can lead to a reluctance to invest and affect economic activity.
Example: In a deflationary period, investors might put their money into safe investments such as government bonds or savings accounts to protect their savings.
Central bank measures:
In times of high inflation, central banks often use monetary policy to control the money supply and reduce inflation. They may raise interest rates to make lending more expensive and dampen demand.
Example: A central bank raises its key interest rate to reduce inflation from 5 percent to the target level of 2 percent.
In times of deflation, central banks can use monetary policy to stimulate the economy and stabilize prices. They could lower interest rates to facilitate credit and stimulate demand.
Example: A central bank lowers its key interest rate to counteract deflation and stimulate the economy.
Current inflation rate in Germany
You can find the latest developments on inflation here.
https://www.destatis.de/DE/Themen/Wirtschaft/Preise/Ververbraucherpreisindex/_content.html
Negative effects of inflation on companies
Cost increase: production and material costs.
Inflation can lead to rising costs for raw materials, energy, labor, and other operating expenses . Keep an eye on your cost structure and regularly analyze how these changes affect your profits.
Increased borrowing costs:
Higher interest rates:
During inflation , central banks typically raise interest rates to control the money supply and curb inflation. Higher interest rates often lead to higher interest rates on loans and advances from banks. If companies need to borrow money for investment, expansion, or other purposes, they could face higher interest costs.
Declining purchasing power and price changes:
When inflation rises, consumers' purchasing power decreases, leading to a reduction in their real incomes. This can cause companies to face falling demand as customers may spend less or switch to lower-priced alternatives. At the same time, however, the costs of raw materials, energy and labor often also rise, leading to higher production costs. Companies must therefore adjust their prices to compensate for rising costs , which in turn can affect consumers' purchasing decisions . This interplay of declining purchasing power and price changes can affect the profitability and growth of companies during inflation.
Currency risks due to changes in exchange rates also play a role:
During periods of high inflation, exchange rates can fluctuate widely and are highly volatile. Companies doing business with foreign countries need to be aware of the potential impact of this volatility on their finances.
Sudden exchange rate fluctuations can affect the cost of imported goods and services and the value of export earnings.
Companies can hedge against currency risks by using instruments such as forward exchange contracts or currency options . A careful hedging strategy can help minimize potential losses from exchange rate fluctuations and ensure the company's financial stability.
Agreements concluded in a specific currency can lead to additional financial risks in times of high inflation and exchange rate fluctuations. Flexibility in currency clauses can be an advantage here.
Inflation and exchange rate changes can increase the cost of imported raw materials and components. Companies must factor these additional costs into their pricing to ensure profitability. Otherwise, they could run into financial difficulties.
Sound financial planning and effective risk management are crucial for companies during inflation. It is important to To analyze the impact of exchange rate fluctuations and inflation on the company's finances and to take appropriate measures to mitigate risks and exploit opportunities.
Employees’ wages are rising:
Even if wages are gradually increased, they may still lag behind the actual costs of daily living.
This is often related to increased operating costs:
For companies, inflation means that they often face rising costs, such as raw materials, energy and rents. If employee wages do not rise at the same rate as costs, this can lead to a deterioration in the financial situation of employees.
Materials and supplies are reduced:
- Excess demand: When inflation rises, consumer prices rise too, which can lead to people trying to rush their purchases before prices rise further, which often cannot be met quickly enough.
- Supplier shortages: If suppliers increase their prices or face shortages/delays in the supply chain themselves, this may cause the company to struggle to obtain adequate supplies.
- Uncertainties and wait-and-see attitude: During times of high inflation, companies may be more cautious in their investments and inventory management. They may try to reduce their inventories to minimize financial risks in case the economic situation worsens.
- Liquidity constraints: Inflation can also cause liquidity constraints, as businesses may need more money to purchase goods and services, but their financial resources are limited, which may prevent them from keeping enough inventory in stock.
- Impact on production: When labor and input costs rise, it can cause companies to limit or slow down production, which in turn reduces the availability of goods.
Credit availability:
Rising interest rates can also affect credit availability . If interest rates rise sharply, some businesses may struggle to obtain cheap credit , particularly if they are considered high-risk. This can affect businesses' financing options and growth plans.
debt repayment:
Companies that have already borrowed money may have to pay higher interest rates to repay their debt during a period of inflation . This can strain their margins and limit financial flexibility.
investment decisions:
The increased cost of debt could also affect companies' investment decisions . Higher interest rates may make some projects appear less profitable, which may prompt companies to postpone investments or be more cautious about raising debt.
Impact on competitiveness:
- Companies that rely heavily on debt capital may be at a disadvantage in an environment of higher interest rates and more difficult credit availability compared to competitors that have solid equity structures and are less dependent on debt financing. The company will receive protection from enforcement measures and gain time to prepare an insolvency plan.
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The continuation of the company is encouraged, which is often more advantageous than breaking up the company.
Positive effects of inflation on companies
But inflation can even have positive effects for companies . Here are some of the most important factors.
1) Incentive to invest through moderate inflation:
Moderate inflation may discourage businesses and individuals from simply holding cash because it could lose value, increasing the incentive to invest the money to earn potentially higher returns.
2) Increased lending:
During periods of moderate inflation, interest rates will typically be higher than during periods of low or negative inflation. Banks can benefit from this as they can charge higher interest rates on loans, which in turn can encourage more investment in companies and projects.
3) Increase in company sales:
Inflation can cause consumers to increase their spending to avoid future price increases. This can lead to an increase in corporate sales and profits, which in turn can lead to increased investment in production capacity and expansion.
4) Increase in value of material assets:
Inflation often causes prices of tangible assets such as real estate and commodities to rise. Investors may therefore invest in these assets to benefit from their potential increases in value.
Which companies from which industries are most likely to benefit from inflation?
There are certain industries that have high demand regardless of the economic situation. For example, the clothing and food industries are essential despite inflation and can raise prices (while maintaining the same quality) without losing too much demand. This does not apply to the luxury segment, of course, although there are exceptions here too.
Other industries / services / goods that are likely to continue to make a profit despite inflation:
• Drug manufacturers
• Financial advisors and financial service providers
• The insurance industry
• Security industries
• Healthcare: Specialists and consultants
• Energy suppliers
• telecommunications industry
• Education sectors
What can companies do to combat inflation?
Price adjustments:
Review your prices periodically , taking inflation into account. If your costs increase, it may be necessary to adjust your prices accordingly to maintain profitability.
Customer demand:
Inflation can affect your customers' purchasing behavior . Monitor how demand for your products or services evolves and respond with targeted marketing strategies if necessary.
Liquidity management:
Rising prices can lead to an increased need for working capital . Make sure you have sufficient liquidity to meet short-term obligations and avoid potential bottlenecks.
Contracts and agreements:
Review existing contracts and agreements with suppliers , customers and employees. Inflation can affect long-term contracts, so it is important to consider possible adjustment clauses.
Investments:
When planning investments, you should take inflation into account. Make sure that the expected return on your investments exceeds the inflation rate to ensure real capital growth.
Steer:
Inflation can also have tax implications. Higher prices can lead to higher sales and therefore higher taxes. Keep an eye on your tax situation and consult a tax advisor if necessary .
Currency risks:
If your business operates internationally, inflation may vary in different countries. Keep an eye on possible currency fluctuations and exchange rate risks to hedge your international business.
Protection against inflation: What you can do for your company
Pass on higher costs:
During a period of inflation, companies may need to pass on higher costs to consumers without losing them. Here are some possible strategies that can help:
Transparency and communication:
Be open and honest with customers about the reasons for price increases . If inflation leads to higher costs for raw materials, transport or energy, most customers will understand if they are attached to your offerings and brand. Clear communication can help build trust and increase customer loyalty.
Gradual price adjustments:
Rather than making drastic price increases quickly, it may be better to adjust prices gradually . Smaller and more frequent increases are often less noticeable for customers and are more likely to be accepted.
Additional services and added value are offered by:
Offer customers additional benefits or added value to justify the price increase. This could be improved product features, expanded services or more exclusive offers that provide customers with added value.
Pricing in comparison:
Monitor price trends in your industry and pay attention to how competitors deal with inflation . If other companies also make price adjustments, it is likely to be easier for customers to accept.
Customer loyalty and loyalty programs:
Reward your regular customers with loyalty programs or discounts to reward their loyalty. Customers who feel connected to your business may be more willing to accept price increases. Redeemable coupons or bonus points for the future can also have a positive impact.
Offer of alternatives:
Make sure you offer customers alternative products or services that fit different price points. Customers may be willing to switch to lower-cost alternatives rather than abandon your business entirely.
Quality focus:
Make sure the quality of your products and services remains high even as you adjust prices. Customers are more willing to pay for good quality and are more likely to return if they are satisfied with the product.
Conclude flexible contracts:
During a period of inflation, more flexible contracts can help your business cope better . By incorporating flexible clauses that take price and cost increases into account, you have the opportunity to implement price adjustments more quickly and effectively to offset rising costs . This will help you stay competitive and minimize losses due to inflation. More flexible contracts also allow you to adapt more quickly to changing market conditions, making your business more agile and resilient.
Reduce costs:
Identify inefficient processes and workflows in your company and optimize them. Automation, process optimization and more efficient working methods can reduce costs without compromising performance.
Talk to suppliers to negotiate better terms and prices . Compare offers regularly and check the possibility of volume discounts or long-term contracts to reduce costs.
Always keep an eye on your costs and regularly analyze your budget. Identify and avoid unnecessary expenses to save financial resources.
Invest in technology and digital solutions that optimize your work processes and make them more productive. Modern technologies can help reduce costs and increase efficiency.
A motivated and engaged workforce can help increase productivity and reduce costs in the company . Make sure your employees are properly trained and motivated to deliver the best possible performance.
Review your suppliers and look for lower-cost alternatives . A diversified supplier base can help you get better prices and minimize the risk of price fluctuations.
Outsourcing:
Consider outsourcing certain business functions or services to reduce costs and increase efficiency. Outsourcing can allow you to focus on your core business while reducing costs.
Rely on a broader supplier base:
Look for new suppliers who meet your requirements and possibly offer more favorable terms.
Negotiate with potential suppliers to obtain better prices and conditions.
Diversify your supplier base by spreading procurement across multiple suppliers to minimize the risk of supply shortages and price fluctuations.
Rely on satisfied team members in the company
Make sure that employees identify with your company:
If employees identify more strongly with the company, they tend to work harder to achieve success. This leads to higher productivity in the company, which makes it possible to work more efficiently despite rising costs and mitigate the potential effects of inflation.
Keep employees happy to reduce turnover.
If your employees are happy with their work environment and the opportunities offered, they are more likely to stay with the company. This reduces employee turnover and the costs of recruiting and training new employees, which could be an additional burden during a period of inflation.
Create an environment of creativity and trust:
This makes your employees more willing to contribute new ideas and drive innovation despite difficult times. The ability to adapt and explore new paths during a period of inflation can ensure the long-term success of a company.
>> Find out more about insolvency for companies here.
Some well-known companies are already feeling the effects of current problems caused by inflation and are declaring bankruptcy.
Current examples of ongoing corporate insolvencies:
- The well-known Dutch fashion brand Scotch & Soda has filed for bankruptcy .
- The luxury sector in the delicatessen segment is also struggling. Delicatessen retailer Schlemmermeyer based in Munich.
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Häufige Fragen zur Insolvenzberatung und Schuldenregulierung
Was ist ein Insolvenzverfahren?
Ein Insolvenzverfahren ist (einfach ausgedrückt) ein gerichtliches Verfahren, dass ein Schuldner beantragen kann, wenn er nachhaltige finanzielle Probleme hat. Dabei wird auf Antrag beim zuständigen Amtsgericht ein Verfahren eröffnet, dass zum einen alle Schuldverhältnisse, aber auch alle Vermögensgegenstände beinhaltet und mit Hilfe eines vom Gericht eingesetzten Verwalters eine Entschuldung vornimmt. Dieses Verfahren ist mit Auflagen und Mitwirkungen verbunden, hat aber am Ende die "Entschuldung" zur Folge, so dass ein finanzieller Neustart für den Betroffenen möglich ist. Die Möglichkeiten und Grenzen erklären wir gern ausführlich in dem kostenlosen Erstgespräch.
Kann jeder ein Insolvenzverfahren eröffnen?
Im Prinzip ja. Es muss allerdings eine finanzielle Situation vorliegen, die ein solches Verfahren rechtfertigt d.h. laufende Einnahmen und vorhandene Vermögenswerte sind nicht mehr ausreichend vorhanden, um die Zahlungsverpflichtungen zu erfüllen (Überschuldung). Auch müssen die Schulden höher als die Verfahrenskosten sein. Eine nicht bezahlte Fitness-Mitgliedschaft allein erfüllt diesen Sachstand meistens nicht.
Welche Unterlagen werden bei einer Beratung benötigt?
- aktueller Einkommensbescheid(e)wie Lohn-/ Gehaltsnachweis Bewilligungsbescheid; Rentenbescheid; Beihilfe usw. Hat man mehrere Einkommen werden alle Einkommensnachweise/ Bescheide benötigt (z.B. bei ergänzenden Leistungen ALGII)
- evtl. Kindergeldbescheid
- alle Mahn- und Vollstreckungsbescheide (gelbe Briefe)
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HINWEIS: Diese Unterlagen müssen nicht vorsortiert sein, wir verstehen, wenn du mit der Situation überfordert bist und öffnen/sortieren deine Briefe für dich.
Gibt es unterschiedliche Insolvenzverfahren?
Ja. Zum einen das Verbraucherinsolvenzverfahren zum anderen das Regelinsolvenzverfahren. Beide Verfahren sind insoweit identisch, als dass beide eine Entschuldung, den Schuldenerlass zum Inhalt haben.
- Das Verbraucherinsolvenzverfahren (VI) gilt für alle unselbständig Tätigen (Arbeiter, Angestellte, Rentner, Arbeitslose usw.) aber auch für ehemals Selbstständige, die weniger als 19 Gläubiger haben. Bei diesem Verfahren ist es rechtlich vorgeschrieben, dass vor Antragstellung eine anerkannte und zugelassene Insolvenzberatungsstelle einen außergerichtlichen Einigungsversuch mit den Gläubigern unternimmt und bei dessen Scheitern eine s. g. Negativbescheinigung für den konkreten Fall ausstellt. Wir sind eine solche Stelle und können diese Bescheinigung ausstellen.
- Das Regelinsolvenzverfahren (RI) ist ein Verfahren für Selbstständige und Freiberufler, die aktuell ihre Selbstständigkeit aufrechterhalten oder für ehemalige Selbstständige die Forderungen aus Arbeitsrechtsverhältnissen ehemaliger Arbeitnehmer*innen oder mehr als 18 Gläubiger haben. Bei diesem Verfahren ist es nicht zwingend vorgeschrieben eine Insolvenzberatungsstelle hinzuzuziehen, unsere Erfahrungswerte zeigen allerdings, dass mit Einbindung einer (unserer) Beratungsstelle die Erfolgsaussichten höher sind und vor allem Fehler vermieden werden, die zum Scheitern des Verfahrens führen können.
Was heißt: Außergerichtlicher Einigungsversuch?
Gesetzlich ist geregelt, dass einem Antrag auf Verbraucherinsolvenz immer der Versuch einer außer (vor-) gerichtlichen Einigung mit allen Gläubigern durch eine anerkannte Insolvenzberatungsstelle vorauszugehen hat. Das bedeutet, dass der versuchen muss, mit allen Gläubigern eine Einigung / Vereinbarung zu erzielen. Basis des dabei zu erarbeitenden Schuldenbereinigungsplans ist das pfändbare Einkommen und die Vermögenswerte des Schuldners, möglicherweise auch ergänzt um freiwillige Zahlbeträge.
Wie ist der weitere Ablauf bei Gericht?
Ist der Antrag auf Verbraucherinsolvenz, ergänzt um die Anträge auf Restschuldbefreiung und Stundung der Verfahrenskosten, bei Gericht eingereicht, so wird als erster Schritt geprüft, ob alle Angaben und Anlagen soweit vollständig vorhanden sind. Der Insolvenzrichter wird in der Folge über die Eröffnung des Verfahrens entscheiden (im "Normalfall" wird ein s. g. Eröffnungsbeschluss erfolgen).
Im Zuge dessen wird durch das Gericht ein Verwalter / Treuhänder eingesetzt, der in der Folge verantwortlicher Ansprechpartner ist, der auch mit der Verwertung möglicherweise vorhandener Vermögenswerte beauftragt wird, dem der Schuldner auskunfts- und rechenschaftspflichtig ist, der während der nun folgenden Wohlverhaltensphase dem Gericht berichtet, der letztendlich auch das Schlussgutachten erstellt und damit das Gericht in die Lage versetzt die Restschuldbefreiung (Schuldenerlass) zu beschließen.
Entstehen für mich im gerichtlichen Verfahren auch Kosten?
Ja. Im Insolvenzverfahren entstehen Kosten seitens des Gerichtes (Gerichts-, Verfahrenskosten) und Kosten für den Verwalter / Treuhänder. Es sollte vorsichtshalber ein Antrag auf Kostenstundung gestellt werden, falls die Insolvenzmasse nicht ausreichend ist um diese Kosten zu begleichen.
Wie lange dauert ein Verbraucherinsolvenzverfahren?
Ein Verbraucherinsolvenzverfahren dauert seit Januar 2021 nur noch 3 statt wie bisher 6 Jahre.
Was kann ich machen, wenn ich keine Unterlagen zu meinen Schulden mehr habe?
Wir können Ihnen Vordrucke zur Verfügung stellen, mit denen Sie bei der Schufa, bei anderen Auskunfteien, beim Schuldnerverzeichnis und bei Gerichtsvollziehern um Auskunft ersuchen. Die Ermittlung bei den Gerichtsvollziehern muss aber durch Sie erfolgen. Wir beraten Sie, wie Sie das am besten organisieren. Sprechen Sie uns in dem Beratungsgespräch einfach darauf an.
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Präsident: W. Seelig
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D-70771 L.-Echterdingen (Nähe Stuttgarter-Flughafen/Airport)
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SIC SCHULDNER-INSOLVENZ-CENTRUM E.V.
Präsident: W. Seelig
Hauptstr. 115
D-70771 L.-Echterdingen (Nähe Stuttgarter-Flughafen/Airport)
Tel.: +49 (0)711-933 42 115
Fax: 49 (0)711- 46914839
WhatsApp: 015732478936
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