Consumer debt in Germany has decreased slightly in 2024, according to Creditreform’s ‘Schuldneratlas.’ However, this decline is attributed to consumer uncertainty and a tendency to save money due to economic fears. Over 5.5 million people are classified as over-indebted, with challenges persisting for low-income groups and single parents. Experts warn that the financial situation might worsen in 2025 as savings deplete. Ratenkredite and ‘Buy now, pay later’ schemes are raising concerns about increasing debt, prompting calls for stricter EU regulations on consumer credit.