Soon 3 euros per liter? Rising fuel prices, inflation and impact on your investments
Gasoline and diesel are more expensive than ever. These record prices weigh heavily on households and businesses. But what is the concrete impact of these expensive fuels on inflation, consumption and private investment? Our expert explains the essential points to take into account.
2,27 €
Historical record per liter2,45 €
Strong carrier pressure3,3 %
2.9% in Germany (August)The prices of gasoline and diesel continue to rise. The Super E10 will reach an all-time high of €2.27 per liter in mid-September 2026, while the diesel will cost €2.45. The main reason: the surge in oil prices due to the tense geopolitical situation in the Middle East.
But this situation has much bigger repercussions than your next tank of gas. Rising fuel prices erode purchasing power, squeeze corporate profits and fuel inflation. In August, inflation in Germany reached 2.9% and in the Eurozone it even climbed to 3.3%. In addition, the oil shock could also impact your personal investments.
3 questions about money for our chief economist
Chief Economist Dr Ulrich Kater explains which factors are actually relevant for consumers and businesses and reveals how you can now protect your cash flow and wealth.
Q1. Dr. Kater, how big an oil shock can the economy withstand – and when does it become truly dangerous?
A recession is not imminent, but rising energy prices could slow economic growth. In fact, these prices are likely to persist during the winter, or even get worse. The occurrence of a recession depends above all on the extent of this increase. It will become problematic if the price of crude oil remains above $140 per barrel for several weeks. Furthermore, it will also depend on the emergence of other factors, in addition to energy prices, such as export demand, interest rates, employment and consumption.
Q2. What will become more expensive for consumers and businesses, and where can the cost shock still be lessened?
If energy prices remain high for a long time, households and businesses will have to adapt their spending and their production structures. Many households will have to reduce their consumption. However, this will also encourage households and businesses to continue their efforts and investments in the energy transition.
Businesses, in particular, will continue to adapt: saving energy, but also passing on costs, optimizing supply chains, electrifying processes, or even relocating their activities.
Q3. And what does this price shock mean for private investments: where are the risks hiding – and which investments can cushion them?
As with any risk, a well-diversified portfolio offers the best protection. Stocks can be a good hedge against inflation when rates remain low (below 10%), especially for companies with strong balance sheets, recurring revenue and pricing power.
On the bond side, investment has become attractive again after a long period: yields have increased to the point that investments in fixed income securities can once again generate substantial gains, despite inflation. Finally, real assets such as real estate, infrastructure or certain commodity investments can complete a diversified portfolio.
How to structure your investments in the face of inflation?
Pricing power
Companies with robust balance sheets capable of passing on rising costs in their selling prices without losing market share.
Real returns restored
Bonds and term deposits benefiting from restored interest rates, offering attractive coupons in the face of inflation.
Infrastructure & Raw Materials
Corporate real estate, energy networks and raw materials which appreciate mechanically in inflationary periods.
Need to optimize your company's cash flow in the face of inflation?
Our business investment specialists advise you on how to preserve your margins and secure your surpluses.
