The Good Fight Wolfgang Münchau on German decline
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Feb 19, 2025 
Wolfgang Münchau, Director of Eurointelligence and author of 'Kaput: The End of the German Miracle,' dives into Germany's pressing issues. He discusses the decline of the automotive sector, emphasizing its lag in electric vehicle innovation and systemic issues. As the nation prepares for elections, Monster outlines the political shifts, including the rise of the AfD party and potential implications for Germany's future. He critiques the export-driven economy and stresses the urgent need for reforms to rejuvenate the nation's competitiveness.
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Germany's Failing Economic Model
- Germany's economic model, focused on industrial exports and surpluses, influences its foreign policy and energy decisions.
- This model, based on older technologies, is now failing in the 2020s, as symbolized by the declining car industry.
The German Car Industry's Tech Deficit
- German car industry decline isn't solely due to higher costs, but a lack of technological leadership in electric vehicles and software.
- While cost-cutting is possible, the bigger issue is the absence of innovation and investment in key technologies like AI.
Germany's Lack of Dynamic Tech Companies
- Germany lacks dynamic tech companies like Google or Amazon; its most valuable tech company, SAP, is from an older generation.
- Germany underinvests and falls behind due to a lack of private sector investment, hindering its ability to compete globally.
