Germany's DAX giants unleash €54.6 billion in record share buybacks
German corporate giants are launching record share buyback schemes to bolster their stock prices. Over half of the DAX-listed companies are now involved, with total repurchases reaching €54.6 billion. The move comes as the index faces growing pressure ahead of 2026. A total of 23 out of 40 DAX firms have either started or announced plans to buy back their own shares. Among them, DHL Group, Siemens, and Siemens Energy are leading the push, each allocating €6 billion to their programs. Sixteen companies have committed at least €1 billion each, with SAP standing out by authorising a €10 billion buyback plan.
In 2023 alone, firms aim to remove shares worth €26 billion from the market. These buybacks reduce the number of outstanding shares, which typically supports stock prices and returns capital to investors. Analysts note that such measures, combined with high dividends, are key to maintaining the DAX's appeal during uncertain times. Commerzbank analyst Andreas Hürkamp has highlighted the importance of these strategies. He argues that buybacks and strong dividend payouts will help keep the index competitive amid looming challenges.
The wave of buybacks signals a concerted effort by Germany's biggest firms to stabilise their market positions. With €54.6 billion earmarked for repurchases, the strategy aims to counterbalance pressures on the DAX before 2026. Investors will now watch how these programs influence share performance in the coming months.
