Macro and economic policy

Survey on the Access to Finance of Enterprises: lending conditions tightened

A country is blocking the path of the new Russian sanctions, seeking proof from Brussels.

A decision regarding the 21st EU sanctions package against Russia is expected this week, but Greece is unwilling to accept the main element of the package until the European Commission proves that a ban on Russian LNG exports would significantly harm the Russian economy. A study is being prepared in Brussels, which aims to demonstrate the impact on the Russian economy, otherwise the new sanctions will only be accepted with exceptions.

We are developing twice as fast as Western Europe, yet the association is almost stagnant, which could bring billions of euros in investment to Hungary.

Experts believe that closer infrastructure cooperation and a unified economic approach are necessary for the countries participating in the Three Seas Initiative. Beata Daszyńska-Muzyczka and Paweł Nierada emphasized that approximately 650 billion euros would be needed to develop the region’s infrastructure and reduce the gap with Western Europe. However, a lack of trust hinders progress. The interview was conducted at the BEST conference.

Hungary has fallen into a three-sided trap, but Europe may still be able to save itself.

More than four-fifths of the European Union’s imports are low-risk, but certain energy carriers, electronic components, and raw materials can lead to geopolitical conflicts. A Carnegie Europe analysis shows that Brussels should not withdraw from globalization, but rather recognize the potential for trade relationships to become politically sensitive. This is particularly difficult for Hungary, as it has close ties to Russian energy, the German automotive industry, and Asian battery supply chains.

Brussels' reform list arrives: Five areas where new laws are expected from Prime Minister Orban

The European Commission has outlined five specific expectations for Hungary in its 2026 rule of law report. Brussels clearly values the reforms that have begun after the change of government, but it wants to see tangible results in several areas, including high-level corruption cases, as soon as possible.

Brussels has implemented a strict set of conditions for the much-anticipated relaxation, which could result in significant losses for companies due to "free money".

The European Commission proposes to reform the EU’s emissions trading system to support achieving the 2040 climate goals, as well as the competitiveness and energy independence of European industry. The proposed plans include a slower reduction target, linking free allowances to specific conditions, and the creation of a multi-billion euro investment fund. In addition, new regulations would be introduced in the areas of air transport, shipping, and waste incineration.

Piero Cipollone: The cooperative spirit at the heart of the digital euro

Euro area monthly balance of payments: May 2026

A new assessment of the rule of law is coming from Brussels, which could also outline the path ahead for the Tisza government.

The European Commission’s upcoming rule of law report may favorably assess the measures taken since the change of government, while also suggesting further reforms. According to reports, the Tisza government is expected to continue its own anti-corruption initiatives and introduce new measures in several areas. However, the exact content of the report is not yet known, so it is important to treat the news with caution.

Fighting against deadly superbacteria: Hungarian researchers help achieve a major breakthrough

Researchers in Szeged play a significant role in a 45 million euro European research program aimed at combating antibiotic-resistant superbacteria. The researchers at the HUN-REN Szeged Biological Research Center are working on the development of targeted phage therapies, which will play a key role in the development of personalized and safe treatments.

Do you know where we live? This book shows Hungary's position on page number 20, July 16, 2026.

July 16, 2026

The EU is creating a new technology alliance, and the world's most populous country may soon open a Horizon facility.

The European Union and India have established new research, technological, and industrial collaborations, providing opportunities to join the Horizon Europe research program. Within the framework of this partnership, startup initiatives will be launched, a joint innovation center will be established, and cooperation will be strengthened in the areas of semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and 6G technologies.