In the shadow of the recent local elections, the country feels unsettled. What was once a mix of excitement, determination, and anxiety has shifted into something heavier – a deep sense of dissatisfaction that cuts across political, social, and economic lines.
One of our speakers reminded us that “history is told by the winners”. She was speaking about AI and emerging technologies, but the phrase lingered. It captures something much broader about the U.S. today. President Trump and his supporters are working to reshape the nation according to their vision, no matter the cost to ordinary Americans. Yet even within the Republican Party, cracks are showing: some want faster change, others are pushing back. Across the aisle, Democrats are trying to chart their own path, but their momentum seems driven more by individual successes than unified party strategy.
So, what does this political and social turbulence mean for European businesses?
In short: it’s time to adapt. Many of the current policies, tariffs in some format, trade barriers, and the push toward self-sufficiency are unlikely to disappear anytime soon. “Deal-making” and personal influence remain essential tools for getting things done. Even if Democrats regain ground in next year’s midterms, some version of nationalist protectionism is here to stay. It’s becoming part of America’s “new normal”.
For European companies, the key message is clear: don’t wait. There is no “next stage” or “better time” on the horizon. The moment to invest, partner, and establish presence is now.
Sectors like defense technology and AI are already leading the way, but success requires more than capital – it demands curiosity and commitment. Understanding the local business climate is vital, but so is understanding everyday American life. European firms must see themselves not as outsiders, but as active contributors to the local ecosystem.
In today’s America, local presence matters more than ever. Not just for business success, but for building trust, influence, and long-term relevance.
