At the European summit in Copenhagen, 28 of the continent’s largest companies unveiled the “Copenhagen Pledge,” committing to increase investments by 50% by 2030—if the EU delivers reforms to cut red tape, strengthen the single market, and create a regulatory framework that rewards innovation and competitiveness. The signatories, with a combined annual turnover of €700 billion, span sectors from energy and defense to pharmaceuticals and digital technology. Their pledge aligns with recommendations from former ECB president Mario Draghi, who has warned that Europe must close an annual investment gap of around €800 billion to remain globally competitive. The companies highlighted energy transition, R&D, artificial intelligence, 5G and 6G networks, and defense as priority areas. According to their statement, a 50% rise in corporate investments across Europe could cover most of the shortfall identified in the Draghi report. Signatories include major Nordic names such as Novo Nordisk, Equinor, Maersk, Orsted, Carlsberg, Saab, Danfoss, and Kongsberg, along with several foundations and industry groups. Business leaders emphasized that the pledge is conditional: only with structural reforms can Europe unleash its full investment potential and maintain competitiveness against the United States and China.
