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Turkey's central bank increased its inflation forecast range and pledged to maintain a tight monetary policy stance. The bank also reported that its foreign currency reserves continued to grow, reaching a new all-time high. In the industrial sector, defense and aerospace exports set a new monthly record in January, jumping by over 44% compared to the same month last year. High inflation was reported to be affecting domestic industries, including television soap opera production.
In Germany, economic policy discussions included a new 'one-click' tax return system set to launch in July and debates on concepts like a planned economy to address global problems. Reports indicated the affordability crisis is currently outweighing climate concerns for many. Separate analysis suggested forcing employees back to the office could lead to resignations among younger workers.
Trump threatened to impose higher tariffs on global trading partners, including the EU and Canada, and announced new global tariffs. This created confusion in Europe, leading the EU Parliament to halt implementation of a trade deal with the US. In a separate ruling, the US Supreme Court found some of Trump's previous tariffs unlawful. Trump also signed a new trade agreement with Taiwan and threatened to block a major new bridge connecting the US and Canada.
Germany's Chancellor Friedrich Merz, as chancellor candidate, discussed economic policies including trade with China, pension reform, and a potential Mercosur free trade deal. German industrial data showed a significant uptick, with exports posting their strongest increase in over four years. Major German companies announced new deals, including a Salzgitter-Thyssenkrupp agreement and a BMW partnership with PreZero. In regional economic developments, Turkey's Eczacıbaşı conglomerate announced plans to invest in Egypt's building materials industry, as bilateral trade grew to $6.8 billion in 2025.
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German Chancellor Friedrich Merz traveled to Beijing for his first official visit, where he met with about 30 business managers and discussed trade relations with China. The talks focused on specific sticking points in the economic relationship between the two countries. Back in Germany, Merz is pushing for a rapid pension reform that would include a stronger role for private retirement savings. He also expects the free trade agreement with the Mercosur countries in South America to take effect provisionally soon.
President Trump has threatened to impose higher tariffs on global trading partners, including the EU and Canada, creating confusion and frustration in Europe. The EU Parliament has halted the implementation of a trade deal in response to these tensions. Meanwhile, Uruguay and Argentina have ratified their trade deal with the European Union, showing continued trade engagement between South America and Europe despite the broader global trade tensions.
Turkey's central bank has increased its forecast range for inflation and pledged to maintain a tight monetary policy stance amid ongoing price pressures. At the same time, the bank reported that its foreign currency reserves have continued to increase, setting a new all-time record. This marks a sustained period of growth for the country's official reserves while monetary authorities grapple with high inflation.
A major Turkish conglomerate, Eczacıbaşı, has announced plans to invest in Egypt's building materials industry. This comes as trade between Turkey and Egypt grew by 3% in 2025, reaching a total of $6.8 billion, signaling a strengthening economic relationship.
Several major German companies announced new business deals and partnerships. Steelmaker Salzgitter reached an agreement with Thyssenkrupp to maintain operations at a plant in Duisburg. Separately, BMW is partnering with recycling company PreZero, and consumer goods company Henkel is making a billion-euro acquisition to strengthen its adhesives division.
Russian President Vladimir Putin claims there is a foreign plot to sabotage the TurkStream and Blue Stream gas pipelines in the Black Sea. The claims come amid reports of attacks on Black Sea oil infrastructure and discussions about the region's energy stability.
Recent data shows a significant uptick in Germany's industrial sector. Exports saw their strongest increase in over four years, and industrial orders posted their largest gain in two years. A survey from the Ifo Institute also indicates the German auto industry expects its exports to rise. Separately, the German Insurance Association (GDV) forecasts that insurance premium growth will slow down by 2026. In another development, Germany was reported to have the oldest workforce in the European Union.
Two major business and trade developments were announced. Elon Musk's space exploration company, SpaceX, is merging with his artificial intelligence company, xAI. Separately, President Donald Trump announced a new trade deal between the United States and India.
Cuba has announced a drastic emergency plan in response to a US oil blockade. The move comes amid an ongoing conflict between the two countries over energy supplies. Separately, Russia is earning less money from oil and gas exports, and India has threatened to stop its purchases of Russian energy.
Real estate listings are advertising rental properties that include gardens in the city of Pirmasens, Germany. The ads are targeting people looking for homes with outdoor space in the city center and surrounding areas.
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