Firms' assessments of their current business situation deteriorated marginally, but remain at a high level. Companies also scaled back their business expectations somewhat. Despite growing uncertainty, the German economy remains robust.

In manufacturing, the index fell. This was due to far poorer assessments of the current business situation, which nevertheless remain way above their long-term average. Business expectations, by contrast, climbed to their highest level since February. Manufacturers plan to ramp up production in the months ahead.

In the services sector, the business climate remained almost unchanged. While service providers were more satisfied with their current business situation, they were less optimistic about their six-month business outlook.