The Ben and Emil Show BAES 136: GREENLAND: The Fart of the Deal
Jan 22, 2026
Dive into the chaos of Trump's Greenland acquisition saga, where humor meets international intrigue. Explore Europe's economic countermeasures and the potential fallout of Trump's posturing. Unpacked are the strategic implications of Greenland in the Arctic, coupled with reactions from Nordic nations defending its sovereignty. Tensions simmer as local views clash with global ambitions, while market consequences loom. Wrap it up with playful jabs at Trump's rhetoric and a look at shifting global alliances as the hosts navigate this bizarre geopolitical landscape.
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Tariff Threats Over Greenland Escalate Risk
- Trump announced tariffs tied to Greenland, threatening 10% then 25% if the U.S. can't purchase Greenland.
- Ben and Emil see this as destabilizing and possibly self-defeating geopolitics.
EU's 'Trade Bazooka' Targets Economic Coercion
- The EU discussed an "anti-coercion instrument" — the trade bazooka — to retaliate economically.
- Emil and Ben note it was designed for China but now targets allies, creating strange tensions.
Europe Holds Leverage Through U.S. Assets
- The EU holds a huge amount of U.S. assets and could inflict economic pain via liquidations or tariffs.
- Ben warns such retaliation would be meaningful even if technically smaller than total US Treasury markets.