A New Era for Germany and Renewed Expectations from the EU Under Chancellor Merz

Economic

Summary:

Germany’s recent government shift brings CDU leader Friedrich Merz to power under a fragile coalition with the SPD. Amid rising far-right opposition and EU challenges...

Germany’s Political Landscape Reshaped: From Scholz to Merz

Germany has entered a new political chapter following early federal elections on February 23. Voters delivered a decisive message, rejecting the previous coalition government led by SPD’s Olaf Scholz and the Greens. The CDU/CSU bloc emerged as the largest force in the Bundestag, ahead of the far-right AfD, while SPD and the Greens were relegated to third and fourth place, respectively.

Despite this lead, the CDU/CSU failed to secure an outright majority, forcing it into a governing coalition. Having ruled out any alliance with the AfD or The Left Party, CDU/CSU struck a reluctant yet strategic agreement with the SPD. This paved the way for Friedrich Merz—head of the CDU—to be elected as Germany’s new Chancellor, though only after a second round of parliamentary voting, reflecting internal divisions and a lack of consensus rarely seen in post-war German politics.

Historic Rise of the Far-Right Alters Power Dynamics

For the first time since the founding of the Federal Republic in 1949, a far-right, nationalist-populist party—the AfD—has become the strongest opposition bloc, nearly matching CDU/CSU in vote share. This unprecedented rise places AfD in a powerful oppositional role, while being politically isolated by both CDU and SPD.

The CDU-SPD coalition, though historically stable, now governs under far more tenuous circumstances. Merz’s leadership faces resistance from within his own party and coalition partner, complicating the legislative process and signaling an uphill struggle for effective governance. Yet historical precedent suggests that once formed, CDU-SPD coalitions tend to hold together for full four-year terms—offering a glimmer of stability in an otherwise fragmented Bundestag.

Domestic Agenda: Economic Revival, Tax Cuts, and Migration Controls

Chancellor Merz has set out an ambitious agenda to differentiate himself from his predecessor. His domestic priorities include revitalizing Germany’s economic growth, enhancing international competitiveness, lowering taxes, and tightening immigration and asylum policies. These measures are designed not only to address voter concerns but also to restore public confidence in Germany’s political center amid growing populist sentiment.

Merz’s approach signals a return to supply-side economic thinking, paired with assertive national governance. The coalition agreement with the SPD reflects compromises, but Merz is expected to steer policy toward market-oriented reforms and security-focused social integration strategies.

Foreign Policy Reset: Reclaiming Germany’s EU Leadership Role

On the European stage, the expectations placed on Merz are immense. EU leaders hope that his administration will provide stronger, more consistent leadership in navigating both internal integration challenges and external threats. Specifically, Brussels anticipates a more proactive German role in defending Ukraine, counterbalancing rising geopolitical tension with the US, and reinforcing the bloc’s cohesion.

Merz has signaled a willingness to meet these expectations. His early diplomatic engagements underscore a shift toward direct, assertive foreign policy, aligning Germany’s economic might with a more visible strategic presence. The new Chancellor advocates for strengthening Europe’s collective defense capabilities and restoring Berlin’s influence in EU decision-making—both politically and militarily.

A Delicate Balancing Act with Washington and Trump’s Return

One of Merz’s key foreign policy tests will be managing Germany’s relationship with the United States under Donald Trump’s renewed presidency. While seeking to maintain strong transatlantic ties, Merz is also emphasizing European strategic autonomy, preparing to confront potential divergences in US-EU policy alignment, particularly on security, trade, and climate.

This requires careful maneuvering: supporting Ukraine in its war effort, bolstering NATO readiness, and sustaining Germany’s diplomatic leverage—while avoiding friction with a more unpredictable Washington. Merz’s vision is to recalibrate this relationship from dependence toward partnership, asserting Germany’s own agency within the transatlantic alliance.

Opportunity and Risk in Germany’s Political Transition

The election of Friedrich Merz marks a pivotal turning point in both German and European politics. Domestically, his coalition faces the dual challenge of stabilizing governance and confronting far-right momentum. Internationally, Merz is tasked with revitalizing Germany’s leadership role in the EU and fortifying its strategic relevance on the global stage.

EU optimism toward Merz reflects a hope for renewal—but that hope is conditional on his ability to deliver internally. Without a firm domestic mandate, Germany cannot credibly lead abroad. The next four years will test whether Merz can translate political compromise into actionable reform, reclaim Germany’s central role in Europe, and contain the rise of nationalist populism threatening liberal democracies across the continent.

Source: DW

To stay updated on all economic events of today, please check out our Economic calendar

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

You understand and acknowledge that there is a high degree of risk involved in trading. Following any strategies or investment methods may lead to potential losses. The content on the site is provided by our contributors and analysts for information purposes only. You are solely responsible for determining whether any trading assets, securities, strategy, or any other product is suitable for investing based on your own investment objectives and financial situation.

Add to Favorites

FastBull Featured

Daily News

[Quick Facts]

1. Trump's "big priority bill" unveiled: proposes $4 trillion in cuts over a decade, omits millionaire tax proposal.

2. Zelensky approves U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement.

3. Trump floats idea of joining Zelensky-Putin talks this week.

4. Ishiba: "Full Measures" to counter U.S. tariffs.

5. Germany's new Finance Minister leaves EU deficit limit in doubt amid defense surge.

6. Iraq to cut crude oil exports in May and June.

7. Kugler: trade tensions ease, but tariffs still pose major impact.

8. Lombardelli: inflation pressures weaken, but needed cautious.

[News Details]

Trump's "big priority bill" unveiled: proposes $4 trillion in cuts over a decade, omits millionaire tax proposal

The Committee on Ways and Means released the tax bill ahead of a scheduled subcommittee debate on Tuesday, signaling that the Republican-controlled House is pushing for a full floor vote on the legislation this month. The bill proposes over $4 trillion in tax cuts over the next decade, alongside savings of at least $1.5 trillion. Dubbed by Trump as "THE ONE, BIG, BEAUTIFUL BILL," the legislation is a cornerstone of his policy agenda.

The bill extends many tax cuts from Trump's first term set to expire this year. While incorporating key campaign promises, it notably excludes Trump’s proposal for tiered taxation on millionaires. The draft text exempts taxes on tips and overtime income through 2028. However, contentious issues like raising the cap on state and local tax (SALT) deductions remain unresolved. There’s also a tripling of the state and local tax deduction, called SALT, from $10,000 up to $30,000 for couples, which certain high-tax state GOP lawmakers from New York and California already rejected as too meager.

Zelensky approves U.S.-Ukraine minerals agreement

On May 12th local time, Ukrainian President Zelensky signed a law ratifying the U.S.-Ukraine Reconstruction Investment Fund Establishment Agreement, initially referred to as the "U.S.-Ukraine Minerals Agreement." Signed jointly by both nations on April 30th, the agreement received overwhelming parliamentary support (338 votes) on May 8th. While seen as a thaw in bilateral relations, its practical impact remains uncertain. Mining consultancies note that developing strategic minerals in Ukraine—a mature mining jurisdiction—could take 10–20 years, with limited data on economic viability. Damaged infrastructure, including power supply and traffic, and security risks from the Russia-Ukraine conflict further deter investor confidence.

Trump floats idea of joining Zelensky-Putin talks this week

U.S. President Donald Trump stated he is considering attending a potential meeting between Ukrainian and Russian leaders in Turkey on Thursday. "I was thinking about flying over," Trump said at the White House on Monday. "I've got so many meetings, but I was thinking about actually flying over there. There's a possibility of it, I guess, if I think things can happen, but we've got to get it done." Both Putin and Zelensky have been cautious about direct talks, but Trump’s remarks suggest momentum. Zelensky and European leaders have called for a 30-day ceasefire during negotiations.

Ishiba: "Full Measures" to counter U.S. tariffs

Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized on May 12th that Japan will adopt "comprehensive measures" against U.S. tariffs, particularly targeting the automotive sector, and will take additional steps if necessary. In a parliamentary budget committee session, Ishiba rejected any deal excluding automobiles and refused to sacrifice agriculture or expand U.S. rice imports as bargaining chips. He reiterated that ongoing U.S.-Japan tariff talks must safeguard national interests. Two rounds of negotiations have failed to sway the U.S. from denying Japan "special treatment" on cars and steel.

Germany's New Finance Minister Leaves EU Deficit Limit in Doubt Amid Defense Surge

At a Eurozone finance ministers' meeting in Brussels on May 12th, Germany's newly appointed Finance Minister, Klingbeil, sparked scrutiny by stating that whether Germany will violate the EU's 3% GDP deficit ceiling to fund defense and infrastructure spending " will also be clarified in the next few weeks." Klingbeil noted that massive investments could push Germany's 2025 budget beyond EU limits, with a draft expected by June. The remarks highlight tensions between EU fiscal rules and Germany's security priorities.

Iraq to cut crude oil exports in May and June

An informed Iraqi official told Reuters that Iraq will export 3.2 million barrels per day (bpd) of crude oil in May and June, a significant reduction compared to previous months. The official added that the lowered export plan is part of Iraq's commitment to compensatory cuts under its OPEC+ agreement. This export level would fall below the March figure of approximately 3.42 million bpd reported by Iraq's oil ministry.

Iraq has not yet released April export data, but according to data intelligence firm Kpler, the country averaged 3.3 million bpd in April. OPEC+ (including OPEC, Russia, and allies) has agreed to a series of production cuts since 2022. Its compensation plan, updated last month, aims to ensure that members who fell short of earlier cuts implement additional reductions. If fully enforced, the latest cuts could largely offset the planned 411,000 bpd output increase in May and June, providing additional support to oil markets.

Kugler: trade tensions ease, but tariffs still pose major impact

Federal Reserve Governor Kugler stated in a speech Monday that the Trump administration's tariff policies could drive up inflation and weigh on economic growth, even as U.S.-China trade tensions ease.

Kugler explained that current U.S. average tariff rates remain far higher than levels seen in decades. If tariffs stay significantly elevated compared to earlier this year, the economic effects could be similar, including higher inflation and slower growth.

With inflation and employment potentially moving in opposite directions, the Fed will closely monitor developments as it considers the future policy path. Kugler believes the current monetary policy stance is well-positioned to handle any shifts in the macroeconomic environment.

Lombardelli: inflation pressures weaken, but needed cautious

Bank of England Deputy Governor Clare Lombardelli said in a Monday speech that while there are signs UK inflation pressures in Britain will continue to weaken but she was still cautious and would wait for evidence of the slowdown.

The progress in cooling domestic inflation pressures is a more significant factor than U.S. trade tariffs. However, earnings are still rising too fast to be consistent with bringing it back to its two per cent target, making continued gradual rate cuts prudent.

[Today's Focus]

UTC+8 14:00 UK March ILO Unemployment Rate

UTC+8 15:00 ECB Governing Council Member Escrivá Speaks

UTC+8 16:00 ECB Governing Council Member Makhlouf Speaks

UTC+8 17:00 Eurozone May ZEW Economic Sentiment Index

UTC+8 20:30 US April CPI

UTC+8 23:00 Bank of England Governor Bailey Speaks

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Gerik

Economic

Fed Stands Firm Amid Inflation Risk from Tariff Shocks

The Federal Reserve has signaled it will not rush into rate cuts despite rising global uncertainty, particularly around new trade tariffs. In its May 6–7 policy meeting, the Fed opted to hold interest rates steady, with Chair Jerome Powell warning that premature easing could risk exacerbating inflation and labor market pressures. He emphasized that inflation remains elevated and that potential upward price pressures from tariff-related import costs cannot be ignored.

Powell stated, “There’s no real cost to waiting at this point,” reinforcing the Fed’s cautious stance. Supporting his view, New York Fed President John Williams also highlighted the need to monitor incoming economic data, especially around the economic fallout from evolving trade policies, before committing to any policy shifts.

Market expectations have quickly adjusted. Whereas in April there was over a 60% chance priced in for a Fed rate cut by June, that probability has now dropped to just 17%, reflecting a broader reassessment of monetary easing prospects in the US.

European Central Banks Pivot as Growth Outlook Weakens

In contrast, several European central banks are already moving ahead with rate cuts. On May 8, the Bank of England (BoE) lowered its benchmark interest rate by 25 basis points to 4.25%, citing tariff-induced uncertainty and the risk of further drag on global growth. Governor Andrew Bailey noted that the past few weeks have revealed how fragile the global economic environment has become, justifying a gradual and cautious approach to further easing.

Earlier, on April 17, the European Central Bank (ECB) executed its seventh consecutive rate cut, bringing the deposit rate to 2.25%—its lowest level since 2023. ECB officials have already signaled another potential cut in June, arguing that inflation is now within target and that trade friction is eroding economic momentum across the eurozone.

Sweden’s Riksbank, although holding rates steady at 2.25% in its May 7 meeting, has also left the door open for future rate reductions. It views current trade tensions as a disinflationary risk for Europe, even as they are contributing to short-term inflationary pressures in the US.

Tariffs Create Asymmetric Economic Effects

The divergence in monetary policy reflects broader asymmetries in how tariffs are impacting the global economy. In the US, higher import tariffs are directly pushing up input costs, especially as the US dollar weakens. This dynamic is expected to intensify price pressures in consumer goods and supply chains.

Conversely, in Europe and other regions, trade tariffs are dampening export activity and leading to currency appreciation against the dollar, which in turn reduces imported inflation. Cheaper energy costs and weaker trade flows are further moderating price pressures, giving central banks more flexibility to stimulate growth.

Riksbank noted that while short-term inflation expectations are rising in the US, they are trending downward in the eurozone—a split that underpins the diverging policy paths.

Monetary Tools Face Limitations in a Supply-Side Shock

Central bankers are increasingly recognizing that the current economic turbulence differs from typical demand-driven recessions. According to Jean Boivin, Head of the BlackRock Investment Institute, the disruption resembles the pandemic-era shock, where supply chains were rapidly upended. In such scenarios, traditional monetary policy has limited ability to address bottlenecks or restore market equilibrium.

This places central banks in a difficult position: their decisions take 12 to 18 months to fully affect the economy, yet trade policy shifts and geopolitical developments occur far more quickly. As a result, central banks are being forced to focus on preserving market confidence while avoiding policy overreactions that could destabilize inflation expectations.

Transatlantic Monetary Policies Reflect Contrasting Realities

The current divergence in policy between the Fed and its European counterparts is a function of differing inflation trajectories and structural economic exposures. While the Fed must manage the immediate inflationary effects of tariffs and dollar weakness, European central banks are grappling with declining growth and easing inflationary risks.

This divergence may widen in the coming months if tariff uncertainty persists and global supply chains remain fragmented. The ability of central banks to respond effectively will depend not only on inflation metrics, but on their capacity to coordinate fiscal responses and maintain investor confidence amid a volatile geopolitical and trade landscape.

Source: Bloomberg

To stay updated on all economic events of today, please check out our Economic calendar

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Gerik

Commodity

Strategic Shift Toward Energy Independence and Innovation

In a series of statements published in Energy Policy on May 12, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak outlined an ambitious roadmap aimed at transforming the country’s energy sector. By 2027, Russia intends to nearly eliminate its reliance on foreign oil-related imports. This initiative, supported through state-enterprise coordination, will allow Russia to assert greater control over its domestic energy infrastructure and reduce vulnerability to external sanctions and supply shocks.

Novak emphasized that this self-sufficiency will not be limited to crude oil and equipment but will also encompass technological competencies—particularly in high-value segments like gas turbines, solar and wind power generation, and energy storage systems. Russia is also seeking to become an exporter of advanced energy technology in the long run, positioning itself in a competitive niche beyond traditional resource markets.

Natural Gas Expansion in Asia and Domestic Localization

By 2036, Russia plans to increase its pipeline gas exports to 197 billion cubic meters annually, a move designed to secure stable production levels and consistent budget revenues. Longer term, by 2050, Russia aims to become the largest natural gas supplier to Asia. This shift reflects both geopolitical and commercial recalibrations in response to Europe’s gradual disengagement from Russian energy supplies.

As part of this strategy, Russia also plans to localize production of key energy infrastructure, including high-capacity gas turbines and renewable energy components. The initiative is not only technical but also strategic: it seeks to deepen domestic capabilities and build resilience against foreign technology embargoes.

Global Demand Outlook: Asia and Emerging Markets Take Center Stage

Novak argued that global demand for oil and gas has not yet peaked and may continue rising until well after 2050. Citing data from OPEC, he noted that India will be a primary driver of oil consumption growth, with demand projected to rise from 5.3 million barrels per day in 2023 to 13.3 million barrels per day by 2050. Other key growth markets include China, the broader Asia-Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa.

This forecast reinforces Russia’s pivot to Asia, where long-term contracts and strategic infrastructure projects—like the Power of Siberia gas pipeline—are seen as essential for anchoring export revenues and securing market share.

Europe’s Diminishing Role and the Coal Transition

In contrast to the bullish outlook for Asia, Europe is expected to see a substantial decline in oil consumption. According to Novak, European demand will fall from 13.4 million barrels per day to just 9.2 million by 2050. This downward trend underscores the continent’s continued push toward decarbonization, energy diversification, and reduced reliance on fossil fuels.

Regarding coal, Novak predicted a slow global decline, with peak consumption likely delayed until the 2030s or beyond. He suggested that metallurgical coal—used in steelmaking—will remain more resilient than thermal coal, which faces growing pressure from environmental regulations and green finance movements.

Russia’s energy strategy represents a multifaceted response to the evolving global landscape. While seeking to decouple from Western technological dependencies, the country is simultaneously shifting its market orientation toward Asia and investing in downstream capabilities. By aiming for full localization, expanding natural gas dominance, and forecasting long-term hydrocarbon demand in emerging economies, Russia is recalibrating its role in the global energy ecosystem—not as a passive exporter, but as an integrated energy power with technological ambitions.

Source: IZ

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Gerik

Economic

IPO Momentum in Asia Falters Amid Growing Trade Uncertainty

The Asian initial public offering (IPO) market, once buoyed by a strong pipeline in early 2025, is now entering a state of pause as companies reassess listing strategies in response to intensifying global trade tensions. According to financial experts, firms across the region are holding back IPO launches due to declining investor appetite, largely triggered by the escalating tariff war initiated by the United States under President Donald Trump.

Manishi Raychaudhuri, Managing Director at Emmer Capital Partners in Hong Kong, observed that while Q1 2025 saw pockets of IPO optimism, markets underestimated the Trump administration’s determination to pursue wide-ranging reciprocal tariff policies. This miscalculation has led to a sharp pivot in sentiment.

Trade Disputes Undermine Market Confidence and IPO Demand

The catalyst for the current unease came in early April when the US introduced aggressive new tariff measures, followed by a limited trade deal with the UK. Although this suggested willingness to negotiate, skepticism remains high. Investors continue to worry about prolonged volatility and the growing possibility of a US economic slowdown. Raychaudhuri noted that “companies are unlikely to enter a market where investor commitment is weak,” highlighting a mutual hesitation from both issuers and backers.

Q1 Activity Strong in Select Regions, But Risks Intensify

According to EY, Asia-Pacific led the world in IPO volume in Q1 2025, outperforming even the US. Hong Kong and South Korea drove much of this momentum, while activity in Japan, India, and ASEAN countries saw notable declines. Despite this early strength, current projections suggest a sharp deceleration due to macroeconomic risk.

Chan Yew Kiang, Head of IPO Services at EY ASEAN, emphasized that most companies planning IPOs are now adopting a "wait-and-see" approach, given the unpredictable trajectory of the trade war and the wide-reaching implications of tariff changes for Asian economies.

Tariff Exposure Creates Regional Disparities

The effects of trade friction are not uniformly felt across Asia. Abhineet Kaul from Access Partnership pointed out that countries with lower US tariff exposure may fare better. For example, Singapore, with a base US import tariff of 10%, is positioned more favorably than peers like Thailand and Malaysia, which are subject to retaliatory rates of 24% or higher. This variation has direct implications for market stability and IPO prospects within the region.

Despite broader caution, Hong Kong remains one of the few IPO markets showing signs of durability. Louis Lau, Head of Capital Markets at KPMG Hong Kong, described the outlook as “cautiously optimistic.” As of March 31, 120 companies had filed for IPOs in Hong Kong—a 38% increase year-on-year—highlighting sustained supply interest.

Several structural advantages underpin this resilience. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange has eased IPO requirements for select sectors, particularly tech, and established dedicated listing channels. Pamela Chung from Vistra added that favorable policy shifts in mainland China supporting tech and private firms are further boosting interest in Hong Kong listings.

Hong Kong’s role as a dual-listing hub for mainland Chinese firms and its currency peg to the US dollar offer additional stability. These factors collectively echo the IPO surge experienced during Trump’s first term, suggesting that the city may again serve as a strategic listing venue even in turbulent times.

Asia’s IPO landscape is entering a cautious phase, shaped by trade policy shifts, investor wariness, and divergent regional exposures to tariffs. While markets like Japan, ASEAN, and India face growing constraints, relatively shielded economies such as Singapore and structurally favored markets like Hong Kong may maintain IPO momentum. The coming months will test the region’s ability to adapt to geopolitical shocks and capitalize on regulatory flexibility to keep capital markets active.

Source: Nikkei Asia

To stay updated on all economic events of today, please check out our Economic calendar

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Fiona Harper

Central Bank

Economic

Cryptocurrency

Key Points:

● Goldman Sachs adjusts Fed rate cut timing to December 2025.

● Implications for financial markets and cryptocurrencies like BTC and ETH.

● Market participants anticipate changes in asset pricing and investor sentiment.

Goldman Sachs has adjusted the timing for the anticipated Federal Reserve rate cut to December 2025, diverging from an earlier prediction for July. This adjustment follows strong employment data and potential macroeconomic shifts.

The forecast shift by Goldman Sachs suggests significant implications for both financial markets and the cryptocurrency sector. Market participants anticipate changes in asset pricing and investor sentiment, with particular attention on BTC and ETH sensitivity to US rate policies.

Goldman Sachs Extends Fed Rate Cut Expectation to Q4 2025

Goldman Sachs, a major US financial player, has revised its Federal Reserve rate cut projection, now anticipating the next cut in December instead of July. This change comes amid a landscape of easier financial conditions and macroeconomic recalculations. The expected rate cut delay aligns with improved employment statistics and an updated growth outlook. Goldman Sachs analysts have increased the US 2025 fourth-quarter GDP growth estimate by 0.5 percentage points. They also predict a 3.6% peak in core personal consumption expenditure inflation, fostering better economic prospects.

Market sentiment has shifted with these adjustments. Notable individual insights come from Raoul Pal, CEO of Real Vision, paraphrasing that the expected pause and potential cut may catalyze risk asset rotations, prominently including cryptocurrencies. Community sentiment across social platforms reflects cautious optimism, pending definitive Fed actions.

“The pause, and more so, the eventual first cut, will trigger a huge rotation into risk assets. Crypto will move fast and hard once the Fed signals—it’s about the liquidity, stupid.” - Raoul Pal, CEO, Real Vision.

Crypto Response: BTC and ETH Under Rate Pressure

Did you know? In past instances where the Fed delayed cuts, similar to 2019, BTC and ETH experienced notable short-term volatility, underscoring the close relationship between macroeconomic policy shifts and crypto market dynamics.

Bitcoin's current data: trading at $102,929.11 with a market cap of $2.04 trillion, according to CoinMarketCap. Despite a 1.07% decline over 24 hours, Bitcoin saw growth of 8.56% in seven days, and a broader upward trend with a 30-day increase of 20.62%. Trading volume reached $64.05 billion, clearly impacting market engagement and investor strategies.

Bitcoin(BTC), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 23:49 UTC on May 12, 2025.

Insights from the Coincu research team emphasize the potential ripple effects on technological sectors and crypto product innovations. Delayed monetary easing creates interim pressure but historically catalyzes post-adjustment asset influxes. Such contexts illustrate opportunities for strategic positioning in risk-on environments.

Source: CryptoSlate

To stay updated on all economic events of today, please check out our Economic calendar

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Michelle Reid

May 12 (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump signed a broad executive order on Monday directing drugmakers to lower the prices of their prescription drugs to align with what other countries pay.

White House officials said the government will give drugmakers price targets in the next month, and will take further action within six months if the companies do not make "significant progress" toward the goal of lower prices.

WHAT IS TRUMP'S STANCE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUG PRICES?

Trump has sharply criticised the pharmaceutical industry for years over the price of medicines in the United States. He has also chided other wealthy nations for "freeloading" on U.S. pharmaceutical innovation.

During his first term, in 2017, he accused the industry of "getting away with murder" in the prices they charge the government for prescription drugs.

Trump's proposed international reference pricing program was blocked by a court in 2020.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump said Americans were being overcharged for medicines compared to other nations and pledged to take action.

On Monday, he said he wants to "equalize" prices with other countries by implementing tariffs.

ARE U.S. DRUG PRICES MORE EXPENSIVE?

Yes. The U.S. pays the most for prescription medicines in the world, often nearly three times that of other developed nations.

Top-selling blood thinner Eliquis from Bristol Myers Squibb (BMY.N), opens new tab and Pfizer (PFE.N), opens new tab carries a U.S. list price of $606 for a month's supply. The previous administration of Democratic President Joe Biden negotiated that down to $295 for Medicare, which goes into effect in 2026, but the drug costs $114 in Sweden and just $20 in Japan.

WHAT IS TRUMP GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?

Since taking office in January, Trump has reiterated that he wants to end this inequity. On Sunday, he announced on Truth Social that he would sign an executive order to pursue "most favoured nation" pricing.

Also known as international reference pricing, it seeks to narrow the gap between the U.S. and foreign drug prices. Reuters reported in April such a policy was under consideration.

The executive order on Monday differed from what drugmakers had been expecting. Lobbyist sources had told Reuters ahead of the order's signing on Monday that they expected the "most favored nation" pricing to apply to drugs for Medicare patients. But the order appeared to apply to all medicines.

Separately, Trump has also pushed for drugmakers to boost U.S. manufacturing. His administration is conducting an investigation into imports of pharmaceuticals in a bid to levy tariffs on grounds that reliance on foreign production of medicine threatens national security.

HOW DOES THIS DIFFER FROM PREVIOUS PRICE REDUCTION EFFORTS?

Biden's Inflation Reduction Act allows the government to negotiate the price of its most expensive drugs within Medicare.

The prices for the first 10 prescription drugs it negotiated were still on average more than double, and in some cases five times, what drugmakers had agreed to in four other high-income countries, Reuters previously reported.

WHAT IS THE PHARMA INDUSTRY'S RESPONSE?

The industry is strongly opposed to the prospect of dramatically lower drug prices in the United States, the world's largest pharmaceuticals market.

Two industry sources told Reuters last month that any such policy was more concerning to the industry than other potential government moves such as tariffs on imported medicines.

The main U.S. lobby group for drugmakers, the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America, known as PhRMA, said, "to lower costs for Americans, we need to address the real reasons U.S. prices are higher: foreign countries not paying their fair share and middlemen driving up prices for U.S. patients."

"Most favored nation is a deeply flawed proposal that would devastate our nation's small- and mid-size biotech companies," said John Crowley, CEO of BIO, the main U.S. trade group for biotechnology companies, in a statement.

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES IN CARRYING OUT THE ORDER?

Experts warn that referencing prices from other countries is complex, as many drugs sold in the U.S. are not available abroad, and some nations do not publish what they pay for drugs or take years to negotiate prices.

The U.S. does not buy drugs directly for a national health system, as countries such as England and Germany do, instead relying on the private sector to manage drug price negotiations for both government and private health plans.

Analysts said implementing the broad order would be difficult.

The executive order is also likely to face legal challenges, particularly for exceeding limits set by U.S. law, including on imports of drugs from abroad, legal experts said.

Reporting by Maggie Fick in London; Editing by Josephine, Mason, Caroline Humer and Bill Berkrot

Source: Reuters

Risk Warnings and Disclaimers

Add to Favorites

Recent Searches

Top Searches

Markets

News

Analysis

User

24/7

Economic Calendar

Education

Data

A New Era for Germany and Renewed Expectations from the EU Under Chancellor Merz

Germany’s Political Landscape Reshaped: From Scholz to Merz

Historic Rise of the Far-Right Alters Power Dynamics

Domestic Agenda: Economic Revival, Tax Cuts, and Migration Controls

Foreign Policy Reset: Reclaiming Germany’s EU Leadership Role

A Delicate Balancing Act with Washington and Trump’s Return

Opportunity and Risk in Germany’s Political Transition

Source: DW

May 13th Financial News

[Quick Facts]

[News Details]

[Today's Focus]

Policy Divergence Widens: Fed Holds Steady as European Central Banks Move to Cut Rates

Fed Stands Firm Amid Inflation Risk from Tariff Shocks

European Central Banks Pivot as Growth Outlook Weakens

Tariffs Create Asymmetric Economic Effects

Monetary Tools Face Limitations in a Supply-Side Shock

Transatlantic Monetary Policies Reflect Contrasting Realities

Source: Bloomberg

Russia Sets Sights on Energy Sovereignty and Asian Gas Dominance by 2050

Strategic Shift Toward Energy Independence and Innovation

Natural Gas Expansion in Asia and Domestic Localization

Global Demand Outlook: Asia and Emerging Markets Take Center Stage

Europe’s Diminishing Role and the Coal Transition

Source: IZ

Asian IPO Market Stalls as Trade War and Tariff Concerns Cloud Outlook

IPO Momentum in Asia Falters Amid Growing Trade Uncertainty

Trade Disputes Undermine Market Confidence and IPO Demand

Q1 Activity Strong in Select Regions, But Risks Intensify

Tariff Exposure Creates Regional Disparities

Source: Nikkei Asia

Goldman Sachs Pushes Fed Rate Cut Forecast To December 2025

Goldman Sachs Extends Fed Rate Cut Expectation to Q4 2025

Crypto Response: BTC and ETH Under Rate Pressure

Bitcoin(BTC), daily chart, screenshot on CoinMarketCap at 23:49 UTC on May 12, 2025.

Source: CryptoSlate

Explainer: What Has Trump Said About Cutting Drug Prices?

WHAT IS TRUMP'S STANCE ON PRESCRIPTION DRUG PRICES?

ARE U.S. DRUG PRICES MORE EXPENSIVE?

WHAT IS TRUMP GOING TO DO ABOUT IT?

HOW DOES THIS DIFFER FROM PREVIOUS PRICE REDUCTION EFFORTS?

WHAT IS THE PHARMA INDUSTRY'S RESPONSE?

WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES IN CARRYING OUT THE ORDER?

Source: Reuters

Risk Disclosure