Episode Overview

Date: February 23, 2026
Podcast: De 7 (De Tijd)
Host: Bert Rymen
Guest: Beursexpert Serge Mampaey

This episode delivers the top seven news points you need to start your day, with a special focus on the escalating legal and economic battles over tariffs in the United States. Beursexpert Serge Mampaey joins host Bert Rymen for a forward-looking analysis, exploring implications for global markets, the fallout from recent U.S. political decisions, and what investors should watch next.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. U.S. Tariff Chaos: The “Greatest Legal Battle in American History”

• The episode pivots around U.S. President Trump’s controversial move to impose a sweeping 10% global tariff.

• Serge Mampaey frames this as a “tarievenchaos” and predicts it will spark the largest legal confrontation in U.S. history, involving not just political opponents but also international allies and multinational corporations.

  Notable Quote
  [01:29]
  President Trump (from speech audio):
  “Today I will sign an order to impose a 10% global tariff under section 122.”

  • The hosts and Serge unpack how this affects trade relationships, with special mention of the American Council and expected legal maneuvering.

2. State of the Union & Political Climate

• The recent State of the Union address is highlighted, juxtaposing Trump’s rhetoric with current President Biden’s policy approach.
• Reflection on courtroom drama:
  [01:25 - 01:29]
  Anonymous Speaker:
  “I’m ashamed of certain members of the court. Absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what’s right for our country.”
• The heightened political tension and public protest, including references to unrest in Teheran and conflict expectations in the Middle East.

3. Market & Business Headlines

• Briefing on key company updates and sector trends.
  [08:54]
  "Back to business. Strong with annual results—Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang—spectacular question, further growth, Salesforce also strong, Bayer, BASF, Paramount, Stellantis, NG CoreWeave, and more."
• Quick overview of upcoming financial reports and what to expect from major stocks and sectors.

4. Impact on Artificial Intelligence and Technology Sectors

• Discussion about AI “hyperscalers” and significant investments from leading companies to secure critical chips and infrastructure.

  • The hosts emphasize the strategic importance of these moves in a world where supply chains are increasingly political.

  Notable Quote
  [12:28]
  “Crucial for the chip sector—AI hyperscalers are investing in AI, namely in the chips. The apocalypse for those lagging behind—negative impact on the portfolio.”

5. Paramount, Skydance & Media Mergers

• The potential takeover of Paramount by Skydance is dissected.

• The role of David Ellison (Skydance CEO, son of Larry Ellison) is highlighted as a major move in global media consolidation.

  Notable Quote
  [15:02]
  “The CEO at the helm of Paramount is David Ellison, son of Oracle founder Larry Ellison, who’s pulling strings in the background.”

6. Political and Societal Developments in Belgium

• Brief touch on Belgian politics and entertainment, including reference to various political factions and a notable film premiere.
• The film "Dust" by Anke Blondet and Gert Lauter is celebrated as a Belgian highlight at the Berlin Film Festival.

Memorable Moments & Quotes

• On Tariffs & Courage:
  [01:25]
  “I’m ashamed of certain members of the court. Absolutely ashamed for not having the courage to do what’s right for our country.”
• On Tariff Announcement:
  [01:29]
  “Today I will sign an order to impose a 10% global tariff under section 122.”
• State of the Union Reflection:
  [06:09]
  “And my fellow Americans, the best is yet to come. Thank you, God bless you and God bless America.”
• On AI Investment:
  [12:28]
  “Crucial for the chip sector—AI hyperscalers are investing in AI, namely in the chips. The apocalypse for those lagging behind—negative impact on the portfolio.”

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:32—02:00: Trump’s tariff order and legal fallout forecast
• 06:09—06:46: State of the Union and political contrasts
• 08:54—12:28: Market roundup, major company earnings & sector outlook
• 12:28—14:31: AI investments and impacts on the chip industry
• 14:31—15:30: Paramount, Skydance acquisition, and Ellison family strategy
• 16:05—end: Belgian politics and cultural highlights

Conclusion

This episode offers a fast-paced yet thorough update on global events impacting investors and the broader public, with Serge Mampaey’s expert forecasts serving as a steady guide through economic turbulence. The show closes with a soft reminder that both financial and cultural news are vital for a well-rounded view on the day ahead.