In the first quarter of 2026, Volkswagen’s post-tax earnings fell by 28.4% to €1.56 billion, following a profit of nearly €2.3 billion in the same period the previous year. The company faces a difficult market environment characterized by geopolitical crises, trade conflicts, and intensified competition. While Audi’s revenue declined to €15 billion, Porsche reported a 35% increase in its operational results for the first half of the year, achieving €1.35 billion despite a sales drop. Volkswagen plans to reduce its workforce by 50,000 positions, with significant opposition from labor unions and stakeholders in Niedersachsen, where the state holds a 20% stake in the company.