EPICENTER

INESS's Radovan Durana explained how Trump's 25% steel and aluminum tariffs hurt American consumers by forcing them toward less competitive suppliers. He warned that tariffs create losses for the US economy while increasing production costs across industries.

IBL's Serena Sileoni analyzed the $33 billion withdrawal from US equity funds, connecting it to Trump administration uncertainty. She argued that markets are reacting not to Trump's economic agenda but to unpredictable decision-making and institutional instability affecting investor confidence.

Istituto Bruno Leoni's Carlo Littieri criticized contradictions in current policy, where leaders seek peace while imposing trade barriers. He argued that free trade and peace are interconnected, warning against creating "absolute enemies" through protectionist policies.

Bruno Leoni Institute's Carlo Stagnaro advocated against tariff retaliation, urging the EU to pursue alternative markets instead. He emphasized that Mercosur offers a ready-made solution and called bilateral agreements between individual European states and Washington unthinkable.

Ludwig Erhard Stiftung's Stefan Kolev warned that SPD and CDU/CSU debt plans are primarily driven by clientelism. He explained the implications of Germany's new debt policy for Europe in the podcast discussion.

Molinari Institute's Cecile Philippe explained that Trump's tariffs create concentrated winners but dispersed losers, making protectionism politically attractive despite economic harm. She argued Europe should focus on domestic reforms and complete free trade agreements to counter American protectionism.

IBL's Carlo Stagnaro argued that Trump's tariffs harm both America and Europe, forcing Italian right-wing parties into an impossible position. He emphasized that protectionism damages consumers and producers, calling for Italy to distance itself from Trump's trade policies.

The Foundation for the Advancement of Liberty, in collaboration with EPICENTER and other European think tanks, released Europe at the Digital Crossroads. The report highlights regulatory and investment barriers hindering the EU’s digital competitiveness, including high compliance costs, limited funding for startups, and reliance on external providers. It proposes reforms to streamline regulation, improve funding, and foster innovation through public-private partnerships.