The DAX has fallen below the psychologically significant 25,000-point level, marking a sharp reversal from the previous week's positive start.
The German benchmark index dropped 1.2% to 24,851 points in Tuesday morning trading, succumbing to broad-based selling pressure that originated in Asian markets.
The decline reflects a continuation of global risk-off sentiment, with European equities following the downward trajectory set by their Asian counterparts.
The breach of the 25,000 threshold is notable as it represents a key technical support level that traders have been monitoring closely.
The move suggests that investor caution is deepening rather than receding, despite earlier signs of stabilization.
The weakness in Frankfurt is part of a wider global equity downturn.