Stephen Jen in Reuters: “What’s the Point of Europe Today? It Must Figure It Out Fast”
Stephen Jen, Reuters, February 4, 2026
In his latest column for Reuters, Stephen Jen, CEO and co-CIO of Eurizon SLJ Capital, examines the structural challenges facing Europe as it seeks to define its role in a changing global economy.
The article argues that Europe is under pressure from both external forces, including a more competitive China and shifting U.S. policy, and internal constraints, including regulation, weak productivity growth, energy policy, and the complexity of decision-making across the European Union.
As Stephen writes:
“What the region needs now is clarity of purpose and a bold plan to achieve it.”
The column highlights the widening gap between Europe and the U.S. in per capita GDP, the pressure from China’s advanced manufacturing base, and the challenge of sustaining growth once temporary fiscal support fades. Stephen also argues that Europe needs to decide whether its priority is harmonisation, environmental objectives, income equality, or restoring economic competitiveness.
He concludes:
“What Europe urgently needs is an economic and technological renaissance.”
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