Part 7/14:
Even more contentious is the plan’s approach to strategic assets worth about €340 billion. These assets include Italy’s energy giants, defense contractor Leonardo, vital seaports, and telecommunications infrastructure—assets that are the backbone of Italy’s industry and national security. Under proposed collateralization rules, these assets could be pledged as security if Italy requires financial support during a debt crisis, effectively turning national strategic resources into bargaining chips in a high-stakes debt hand.