The €14 trillion question: Can Europe finance its own future? (ft Anne-Christine Champion)

Europe, once the driving force of global progress, gave birth to the Industrial Revolution, Enlightenment ideals, innovative scientific discoveries, and a cultural renaissance that shaped modern civilization. However, today, amid trade wars, geopolitical crises and industrial and technological advancements, Europe finds itself at a critical crossroads. In response to these disruptions in the global order, the European Union has announced bold investment plans in infrastructure and defence spending. But could this moment also mark the beginning of a financial renaissance, or does Europe risk falling further behind in the global race ?

In this episode of 2050 Investors, Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, explores the history of the European Union, its economic challenges, its remarkable resilience in emerging stronger from crises. Kokou contrasts the “European Dream” with the “American Dream”, shedding light on their respective strengths and weaknesses: individualism versus community, economic growth versus sustainability, and shareholder capitalism versus stakeholder capitalism.

Later in the episode, Kokou is joined by Anne-Christine Champion, Co-Head of Global Banking and Investor Solutions at Societe Generale, for an engaging discussion about the structural challenges facing Europe. Together, they analyse the strategic wake-up call issued in Draghi’s report, examining key areas such as fragmented financial markets, weak stock market culture, underutilization of €14 trillion in household savings, and regulatory complexities. Finally, they examine how solutions like advancing the Savings and Investments Union (SIU), deepening the integration of capital markets, developing securitization markets, and promoting financial education can revive the European project.

This episode offers a thought-provoking examination of Europe’s potential to transform challenges into opportunities and reclaim its position as a global leader in financial markets.

About this show

Welcome to 2050 Investors, your monthly guide to understanding the intricate connections between finance, globalisation, and ESG.

Join host Kokou Agbo-Bloua, Head of Economics, Cross-Asset & Quant Research at Societe Generale, for an exploration of the economic and market megatrends shaping the present and future, and how these trends might influence our progress to meeting 2050’s challenging global sustainability targets.

In each episode, Kokou deep-dives into the events impacting the economy, financial markets, the planet, and society. Through a magical blend of personal anecdotes, in-depth research and narratives overlaid with music, sound effects, and pop culture references, there’s certainly something for everyone.

If you like 2050 Investors, please leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your support will help us spread the word and reach new audiences. If you’re seeking a brief and entertaining overview of market-related topics and their business and societal implications, subscribe now to stay informed!

Credits

Presenter & Writer: Kokou Agbo-Bloua. Editors: Vincent Nickelsen, Jovaney Ashman, Linda Isker & Jennifer Krumm. Production Designer: Emmanuel Minelle, Radio K7 Creative. Executive Producer : Fanny Giniès. Sound Director: Marc Valenduc. Music: Emmanuel d’Orlando. Graphic Design: Cédric Cazaly.

Whilst the following podcast discusses the financial markets, it does not recommend any particular investment decision. If you are unsure of the merits of any investment decision, please seek professional advice.

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