Every Second Person Wants to Donate in 2026 - Especially the Younger Ones - Young Germans prioritize investing and charity over debt repayment in 2026
A new survey by Raisin reveals the financial priorities of Germans for 2026. While debt repayment and saving for family remain key goals, younger generations show a strong interest in investing and charitable giving. The findings also highlight differences in financial habits between genders, age groups, and regions.
Nearly half of those surveyed—48%—aim to clear debt in the coming year. Another 42% plan to set aside money for their children or grandchildren. When it comes to donations, 51% of Germans intend to give, with 17% firmly committed and 34% considering it. Even among households earning less than €1,500 net per month, 45% still plan to donate.
Young adults aged 18 to 29 lead in investment interest, with 56% looking to buy stocks or ETFs, indicating a keen interest in investment basics. This compares to 54% of 40- to 49-year-olds and 40% of 50- to 59-year-olds. Gold also attracts younger investors, as 39% of the 18- to 29 group express interest, compared to 31% of those over 40 and 23% of those over 50. The same age group shows the highest donation intent, with 57% planning to give, ahead of 52% of 50- to 59-year-olds and 48% of 60- to 69-year-olds. Men tend to focus more on financial planning than women. However, female interest in investing has risen from 30% to 36%. Regional differences also appear, as 53% in western Germany plan to donate, compared to just 40% in the east.
The survey highlights a mix of financial caution and ambition among Germans. Younger generations are particularly keen on investing and charitable giving, while regional and gender gaps persist in financial behaviour. These trends suggest shifting priorities as people balance debt, savings, and generosity in 2026.
