FT News Briefing EU-Mercosur trade deal hangs in the balance
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Dec 16, 2025 
Join Andy Bounds, an FT journalist focused on European trade, and Amelia Pollard, an FT U.S. investment correspondent, as they navigate the intricacies of the EU-Mercosur trade deal. Bounds discusses the potential fallout of delayed approval and the growing concerns from French farmers. Pollard highlights the shift of hedge funds into physical commodities as they seek new returns amidst market volatility. Together, they unravel the broader implications of these developments on Europe's credibility and the global trade landscape.
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Missed Merger Opportunity At Shell
- Shell's M&A team pitched buying BP after BP's share price fell and management turmoil created an opening.
- CEO Wael Sawan blocked the proposal and the mergers chief subsequently left the company.
High Stakes In The EU-Mercosur Deal
- The EU-Mercosur deal would open a 270m-consumer market and lower tariffs for EU machinery, cars and chemicals.
- Mercosur seeks access to EU investment and wants to export beef, chicken and raw materials up the value chain.
Move Quickly Or Lose The Deal
- The Commission and Denmark are pushing to hold the ratification vote despite French objections.
- If member states like Italy also balk, the vote could slip and risk losing Mercosur's willingness to wait.