Those who still recall Deutsche Börse CEO Theodor Weimer's harsh criticism of Germany as a location might find Deka CEO Georg Stocker's words to be quite a contrast. Weimer referred to Germany disparagingly as a „junk shop“ and a „developing country“. „There's pessimism everywhere“, laments Stocker, referring to news about Germany as a business location. While criticism is „justified“ and „necessary“ in some areas, Stocker explained in a welcome address on Monday evening, one-sided negative talk about the location unsettles people across the country.

Although the CEO of Deka does not mention his colleague from Eschborn by name, the reference seems clear after the media storm following Weimer's „rage speech“. Stocker implies that corporate leaders should not express themselves too one-sidedly. Instead, they should focus on identifying solutions. This responsibility lies not only with the media and politics but also with the business community.

Political statements are a tightrope walk for business representatives. Although the perspective of companies is important in various political debates, and the experiences of the business side should be visible and audible to weigh political decisions, companies are not political organizations. Their purpose is to provide goods and services.

Therefore, economic leaders should speak with restraint unless their area of expertise is directly concerned. Weimer went too far with his attacks on Green Federal Minister of Economics Robert Habeck, his criticism of „do-goodism“ in immigration policy, and his advocacy for large company cars.

And Stocker? He is likely relieved to leave a sensitive political issue to others in the financial group: dealing with AfD politicians who, as local representatives, will increasingly oversee savings banks. How comparatively easy the Deka group has it in its fields of conflict! The fight against a ban on commissions in investment advice, the defence of investment certificates against overly general criticism, or the promotion of a securities culture are all related to the business of the savings bank group. A blanket criticism of Germany as a business location is not necessary.