
Germany was already at risk of a recession before the arrival of the coronavirus, which has left its streets in silence and its economy in deep trouble. The falling markets have shaved billions off valuations and could increase the risk of companies being snapped up at a discount by foreign buyers.
In response, the government is seeking to create a half-trillion euro fund that, as the pandemic continues, would provide struggling businesses with the financial support needed to fend off takeovers—a level of state interference that many would have found ludicrous less than a year ago.