The DAX is poised to open lower on Thursday, reversing the 0.6% gain that saw the German benchmark close at 25,155 points on Wednesday.
Futures indicate a negative start to trading as market sentiment shifts ahead of a pivotal policy decision by the European Central Bank.
SAP shares are among the key weights on the index, facing selling pressure that is contributing to the broader downturn.
The software giant's performance is drawing scrutiny as investors reassess risk ahead of the ECB's announcement, which could signal the direction of monetary policy for the eurozone.
The cautious tone in Frankfurt mirrors weakness seen across other global markets.
Asian benchmarks posted declines in early Thursday trading, while the Indian market erased earlier gains to close lower, driven by profit-taking at elevated levels.