Global Economy in Crisis Mode
The Middle East conflict is having a tangible impact on the global economy - hopes for an economic recovery have been dashed.
After a brief glimmer of hope in fall 2025, economic expectations have deteriorated globally: only 21% of companies still expect better economic development at their international locations, while 32% anticipate a worsening.
The business situation remains robust for now: 39% rate it as good, 13% as poor. Although business expectations overall remain positive, momentum has slowed considerably (business expectations: 15% worse, 43% better). Due to the current crises, the outlook for the coming year is clouding over.
Shockwaves from the Middle East Hit the Global Economy – German Companies’ Overseas Business Remains Resilient Despite Pressure
The conflict in the Middle East has abruptly halted the fragile recovery of the global economy. Following a brief glimmer of hope in the Fall of 2025, global economic expectations among German companies operating abroad are once again declining significantly. This is shown by the latest AHK World Business Outlook Spring 2026 from the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), based on feedback from more than 4,500 German companies surveyed worldwide through the networks of the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs).
About the Spring World Business Outlook:
The AHK World Business Outlook is based on a regular DIHK survey of member companies of the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad, delegations and representative offices (AHKs). In spring 2026, it gathered feedback from over 4,500 German companies, branches and subsidiaries worldwide, as well as companies with close ties to Germany. The survey was conducted from 16 March to 10 April 2026.