17:24 - 4.05.2026

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May 4, Fineko/abc.az. The mood in the German automotive industry has deteriorated sharply: The index of business expectations, according to the Ifo Institute, fell to -30.7 points from -15.3 a month earlier.

ABC.AZ informs that the main cause is shortage of helium caused by supply disruptions because of the conflict in the Middle East and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Gas is needed for the production of microchips and automotive components, and its shortage has already led to higher prices.

Major companies, including Volkswagen AG and Mercedes-Benz Group AG, are avoiding shutdowns for now, but have tightened supply controls. The share of companies with shortage of components increased from 1% to 9%.

Additional pressure is created by the threat of new duties from Trump and the risk of stagflation in Europe.