Germany’s inflation rose to 2.9% in August, driven mainly by higher energy and fuel costs, marking a step up from July and June.

In India, the RBI kept rates steady with a cautious tilt toward tightening only if price pressures broaden beyond food and fuel, with market expectations signaling no rate hike before next year.

A Reuters poll of 44 economists projects August CPI to be in a broad 4.40%–5.05% range, with official data due mid-September.

The report emphasizes that the information is informational and not investment advice.

The piece places German politics in context, noting AfD gains and collaborations with civil-society groups, alongside links and broader commentary on policy and debt sustainability.

Policy recommendations include targeted, time-limited support for vulnerable households and energy-intensive businesses, tighter fuel-market supervision, and accelerated investment in renewables, storage, grids, and a competitive electricity market.

Analyst cautions against pursuing full energy independence, advocating a gradual, measurable reduction of dependence to avoid repeating crises.

Upcoming economic data could shape expectations for central banks’ future rate decisions.

Despite robust confidence and employment, persistent price pressures could temper consumer spending.

Infrastructure investment remained strong ahead of the recovery plan deadline, helped by EU funds and AI-related investment gains, offsetting weakness in housing investment.

Geopolitics dominate the backdrop as the G20 meeting begins, with the U.S. pushing partners to cut economic ties with Iran to back actions against the country.