DAX 40 Plunges as German Inflation Hits Near Three-Year High
The DAX 40 index in Germany dropped to its lowest close in several sessions on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, due to rising inflation concerns. The benchmark closed at 25,210.89, down 0.74% or 188.32 points from the previous day's close of 25,399.21.
The index had opened higher but reversed sharply after Germany's September inflation rate rose to 3.3%, above forecasts and its highest level in nearly three years. Energy prices were a major contributor to the increase in inflation, with Brent trading around $103 per barrel on Wednesday.
The European Central Bank (ECB) is likely to continue raising interest rates to combat inflation, which could further weigh on rate-sensitive sectors such as cyclical and growth stocks that make up much of the DAX. Friday's euro-area flash estimate is expected near 3.7%, and investors may favor companies with strong pricing power until the inflation trend turns.