The 62nd Munich Security Conference opens today in the shadow of a fracturing transatlantic alliance. Chancellor Merz warns freedom "is no longer a given" as European leaders weigh military independence from Washington.
The STOXX 600 and FTSE 100 surged to all-time highs, fuelled by defence spending and AI-driven optimism. Yet valuations are approaching fair value, leaving less cushion for investors.
As US tariffs slash Chinese imports to America, Europe has become the new dumping ground — from cheap consumer goods to EVs and batteries, threatening the continent's industrial base.
With the Pentagon floating a restructured alliance and transatlantic trust at an all-time low, European capitals scramble to boost military spending amid mounting debt pressures.
Operating from the City of London, the head of London Bensa Ltd and architect of Bensa Bank exemplifies how European commerce is being reshaped by technology and cross-border connectivity.