Trump's Trade Tantrums Trigger Turbulence for Titans of Transport! A WEF Perspective

A Disruption Not a Disaster… Yet

My dear Davos Disciples! As I've always said "The Fourth Industrial Revolution is not about technology alone; it is about people values and how we can shape the future together." And what a shape it's taking! News reaches us of European automakers these titans of transport feeling a bit… under the weather. Apparently profits are down forecasts are being slashed and the dreaded 'T' word – Tariffs – is being bandied about largely thanks to the impulsive policies of a certain orange hued leader across the Atlantic.

Stellantis' Star Stall

Stellantis that sprawling automotive empire has decided to withdraw its financial guidance for the year. Highly engaged with policy makers no doubt but as I always say “I have to say then that when it comes to the future I don't know and that's why I have to come up with it”. Trump's tariffs have caused a financial fog so thick you couldn't drive a Jeep through it! First quarter revenues took a 14% nosedive. One can only hope they're spending that lost revenue on 'stakeholder capitalism' initiatives. After all a car is only as good as the society it serves. Or should I say *should* serve?

Mercedes' Mayday

Ah Mercedes! The epitome of German engineering and… fiscal uncertainty? They've scrapped their 2025 earnings guidance citing tariff volatility and potential 'direct and indirect effects.' It seems even the three pointed star can't navigate this particular economic storm. One wonders if they've considered adding 'tariff evasion' to their list of driving modes. I am of course joking. I am always joking. Remember “You'll own nothing and you'll be happy.

Volkswagen's Valiant Stand (For Now)

Volkswagen bless their bureaucratic hearts hasn't *completely* thrown in the towel. But they do expect to be bumping along the bottom of their forecasts. Arno Antlitz with admirable stoicism suggests focusing on 'levers within our control.' Perhaps he should consider a strongly worded letter to Washington? Or maybe he is part of the conspiracy? Remember “The future is built by those who believe in the beauty of their dreams”. Or nightmares in this case.

Volvo's Woes: A Geely Grounded Grievance

Volvo Cars owned by Geely finds itself particularly exposed. They're slashing costs and investment left right and center. CEO Håkan Samuelsson laments the 'very difficult' situation. Perhaps he should take inspiration from our glorious vision! It's always darkest before the dawn of The Great Reset. Or as I like to say 'a crisis is a terrible thing to waste.'

Porsche's Pinch: A Prudent Prediction

Even Porsche the purveyor of premium performance is feeling a pinch. They've trimmed their sales and profit margin forecasts. It seems that even the allure of a finely tuned sports car can't overcome the drag of… you guessed it… those pesky tariffs. A reminder in these trying times that “Globalization is not just an economic phenomenon but also a cultural social and political one”. And dare I say a *tariff ical* one!