At the World Economic Forum in Davos, ING CEO Steven van Rijswijk spoke with CNBC about how recent US tariff developments could affect European companies and why the biggest threat may not be the tariffs themselves.
In the interview with CNBC’s Dan Murphy, Steven explained that the real risk may lie in the uncertainty surrounding global trade policy. This unpredictability can influence how European businesses make decisions about investment, exports and long term strategy. He noted that while the direct effects on European GDP and inflation may be limited, companies may rethink supply chains, adjust trade strategies or delay key investments altogether.
Davos brings together global leaders from business, government and finance, offering a unique platform to discuss the forces shaping the world economy. For ING, it’s an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, exchange ideas and support clients as they navigate shifting geopolitical and economic conditions.
As Steven emphasised, what matters now is how companies respond: by staying focused, staying flexible and continuing to invest in long term growth, even when uncertainty is high.
