Germany’s Elections Show the Country Is Stuck

Indeed. Contrary to many outlets this is a realistic assessment. It is either a coalition between 3 partner respectively, or a grand coalition between the 2 largest parties. The main thing that changes is that Merkel will be gone. I think she did a solid job as chancellor overall, even if many will say she didn't do much.

The conservatives lost but that was expected with the leave of Merkel. Her successor didn't really impress at all.

Greens won, but not as much as some first believed. This is why they are quite disappointed now.

I don't think policies of Germany will change fundamentally in the near future. It will be expensive for many people in any way because solving structural problems will be procrastinated indefinitely.

The opinions seems really fitting, perhaps the reference literature is worth a read.