January 22, 2026 - Relief After Greenland Tariff Threats, Consumer Confidence Rises, and EU Power Mix Shifts

Brussels–Europe — European Shares Rebound After Greenland Tariff Threats Are Withdrawn:

European stock markets jumped on January 22 as investors welcomed the news that U.S. President Donald Trump had backed down from his earlier tariff threats connected to the Greenland dispute. The pan-European STOXX 600 climbed about 1 %, with gains led by construction and banking stocks, suggesting renewed risk appetite among investors. 

Euro Zone — Consumer Confidence Rises in January:

New data from the European Commission showed that consumer confidence in the euro zone improved in January 2026, rising by 0.8 points from December to a flash estimate of -12.4. This bolstered sentiment was slightly better than economists expected and suggested households were feeling cautiously more optimistic about the economic outlook despite geopolitical uncertainties.

Brussels — Wind and Solar Power Overtake Fossil Fuels in EU Electricity Mix:

For the first time, wind and solar energy generated more electricity than fossil fuel sources across the European Union, driven by a 19 % jump in solar capacity and robust wind output. The shift marked a significant milestone in the EU’s energy transition, even as challenges remained in grid investment and stability.

Davos, Switzerland — World Economic Forum Continues:

The 56th World Economic Forum in Davos drew continued attention from European leaders and business figures, who discussed topics ranging from geopolitical challenges to economic cooperation and climate policy. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, among others, issued calls for greater courage from European nations to act decisively on global issues.

Antwerp, Belgium — Knife Attack at Demonstration Injures Several:

A mass stabbing incident at a Kurdish demonstration in Antwerp, Flanders left six people injured when attackers randomly stabbed participants and bystanders. Police arrested several suspects at the scene, and the event highlighted ongoing concerns about public safety at political gatherings.