EUR News
LAST UPDATE: June 24, 2025
EU will not yield decision-making right in U.S. tariff talks, says von der Leyen
President von der Leyen asserted that the EU will not compromise its right to make independent decisions in discussions on U.S. tariffs, stressing the bloc’s sovereignty.
Insight
Her stance reflects Brussels’ assertiveness in trade diplomacy, reinforcing a shift toward strategic autonomy in managing transatlantic economic relations.
Germany’s Merz: EU’s approach to US trade talks is ‘far too complicated’
Chancellor Merz criticized the EU’s negotiation framework on U.S. trade tariffs, calling it “far too complicated” and urging simpler, clearer channels.
Insight
Merz’s remarks point to internal EU frustration over bureaucratic hurdles that may hamper agility in responding to U.S. tariff threats, suggesting calls for reform.
ESMA head says EU lacks unified view on regulator’s expanded powers
Verena Ross, head of the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA), said EU member states disagree on whether ESMA should have permanent direct supervisory powers over certain financial entities.
Insight
The lack of consensus highlights tension between centralized regulation and national sovereignty, complicating efforts to strengthen EU-wide financial stability frameworks.
EU needs rare earths strategic reserves against China threat, commissioner tells paper
EU Commissioner Thierry Breton said the bloc needs stockpiles of rare earth metals to reduce reliance on Chinese supplies, urging urgent action to secure critical minerals.
Insight
This move highlights Europe’s strategic shift toward resource autonomy. Building reserves would bolster supply chain resilience essential for green technologies and defense industries.
Bank of England’s Bailey defends bond program after political criticism
Governor Andrew Bailey defended the Bank of England’s bond-buying program (QE) amid criticism from lawmakers; he said it remains a vital tool to support liquidity and financial stability.
Insight
Bailey’s defense signals the BoE will uphold unconventional monetary policy if needed, even under political scrutiny—emphasizing central bank independence.
Enforcing fiscal measures is “lesser evil,” says incoming Romanian finance minister
Valeriu Gheorghiță, Romania’s incoming finance minister, said strict enforcement of existing fiscal rules is a “lesser evil” compared to bending them ahead of elections.
Insight
This stance underlines a shift toward fiscal discipline in Romania, prioritizing long-term economic credibility—even at the risk of near-term political friction.
Romania’s incoming finance minister doubts state wages and pensions will rise in 2026
Gheorghiță also said he is unlikely to approve higher public-sector wages or pensions in 2026, citing the need to maintain budget stability post-deadlock.
Insight
His cautious fiscal approach signals a departure from populist spending, aiming to maintain EU confidence and avoid fiscal slippage.
Polish interest rates will not be cut in July, central banker Kotecki says
National Bank of Poland board member Beata Kotecki stated that interest rates will likely stand unchanged in July, and future cuts depend on inflation trends and economic growth.
Insight
This suggests the central bank is waiting for clearer disinflation signals before easing, signaling cautious optimism but not premature policy loosening.
