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The economic situation for small and medium-sized enterprises has improved significantly since spring

Key figures for turnover and profit improved significantly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the second quarter of 2026. This is shown by the latest SME Barometer published by the IfM Bonn. Nevertheless, companies are still holding back on investment.

Aug 4, 2026, 12:39:04 PM
Dr. Jutta Gröschl , Institut für Mittelstandsforschung (IfM) Bonn

After the key figures for turnover and profit among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) had declined at the start of 2026, the second quarter of this year showed a marked improvement in both turnover and profit, both in Germany and in the euro area. But the willingness to invest shows no sign of improvement. This is likely due to the continuing (geopolitical) uncertainties. Overall, the economic situation of SMEs in Germany continues to lag behind that in the euro area. Researchers at the IfM Bonn use the Europe-wide business survey “Survey on the Access to Finance of Enterprises” (SAFE for short), which has been conducted since 2009 on behalf of the European Commission and the European Central Bank, to report regularly on the current economic situation and the challenges facing small and medium-sized enterprises in Germany and selected EU countries. The development of the SME Barometer over recent months is available on the website of the Institute for SME Research (www.ifm-bonn.org).