Bitkom President: Germany Politically Incapable of Acting
Ralf Wintergerst, President of the digital association Bitkom and CEO of Giesecke + Devrient, has sharply criticized Germany's political stagnation. Speaking at the Munich Business Press Club, he argued that the country is fundamentally unable to act politically because crucial decisions are frequently blocked by internal disagreements. He contrasted this with the United States, where clear majorities facilitate decision-making, and China, which implements policies rapidly despite its authoritarian nature. Wintergerst also identified the unanimity principle in the European Union as a significant obstacle that requires repeal. To enhance digital sovereignty and reduce dependence on the US and China, he advocated for less regulation and more investment, specifically calling for a European capital markets union to support startups. He emphasized that while German research potential is strong, it remains unrealized due to conservative bank lending practices. Furthermore, Wintergerst stressed the necessity of technology transfer from American firms, arguing that excessive regulatory control deters domestic companies. His comments come amidst strong financial performance for his own company, Giesecke + Devrient, which reported record sales and high demand in security technology.
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Bitkom President: Germany Politically Incapable of Acting
Ralf Wintergerst, President of the digital association Bitkom and CEO of Giesecke + Devrient, has sharply criticized Germany's political stagnation. Speaking at the Munich Business Press Club, he argued that the country is fundamentally unable to act politically because crucial decisions are frequently blocked by internal disagreements. He contrasted this with the United States, where clear majorities facilitate decision-making, and China, which implements policies rapidly despite its authoritarian nature. Wintergerst also identified the unanimity principle in the European Union as a significant obstacle that requires repeal. To enhance digital sovereignty and reduce dependence on the US and China, he advocated for less regulation and more investment, specifically calling for a European capital markets union to support startups. He emphasized that while German research potential is strong, it remains unrealized due to conservative bank lending practices. Furthermore, Wintergerst stressed the necessity of technology transfer from American firms, arguing that excessive regulatory control deters domestic companies. His comments come amidst strong financial performance for his own company, Giesecke + Devrient, which reported record sales and high demand in security technology.
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