Rising real wages are not reaching many households

The point is particularly relevant to how much money households can retain to cover short-term pressures, higher costs, or income losses. A reserve acts as a buffer and reduces reliance on additional borrowing or cutbacks.

The economic recovery in purchasing power and the ability to save therefore do not automatically go hand in hand. Although there has been an improvement for the average employee, individual households may benefit from this development to varying degrees.

Purchasing power and capacity to save are developing in different directions

The assessment Stephan represents underscores the importance of stable financial planning. Reserves for times of crisis can be particularly limited when rising prices leave little room for additional saving.

The figures relate to the situation of households in Germany and were reported by the dpa news channel, dpa-AFX, and DP. According to the available information, there are no separate figures on the level of reserves or on individual household groups.

Assessment and data situation

The facts suggest that the economic situation is not the same for everyone despite a recovery in real wages. The lack of cushions can become apparent when unexpected costs arise or incomes fall.

The warning about a lack of reserves therefore also indicates the limits of the recent income development. It does not describe a broad return to economic security, but a mixed situation with differing financial margins.