Germany Embraces Fiscal Expansion with €400B Investment Drive, Earns ECB and IMF Praise
European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde hailed Germany's departure from fiscal restraint during IMF meetings in Washington. "Fiscal policy will play a more supportive role," Lagarde noted, specifically applauding Berlin's military and infrastructure spending plans. The €400 billion initiative marks a historic shift for Europe's largest economy.
IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva joined the chorus of approval with repeated "bravo" declarations. The spending surge—spearheaded by Chancellor Friedrich Merz before taking office—will rebuild critical infrastructure and modernize defense capabilities over three years. Lagarde's remark captured the surprise: "Agent of change Germany—who WOULD have thought?"