The positive trend in the German economy seen since early 2005 ground to a halt in mid-2008. The cause was the financial market crisis coupled with a surge in many commodity and food prices. To this extent the falling oil price could provide a decisive boost for the re-acceleration of the German economy. Private consumption should benefit from falling oil prices, while investment activity will probably not tail off sharply in the months ahead. The prospect of a continuation of the upswing hinges not least on economic policy. A reduction in taxes and levies, particularly for low and middle earners, could give a boost to private consumption. It is also essential that the reform momentum on the labor market seen in recent years is maintained. / Only available in German.