The Slovak government is prioritizing fulfilling populist pledges over addressing declining international competitiveness of domestic businesses. The planned transaction tax repeal has been delayed until the beginning of 2028, with the government intending to utilize the resulting half-billion euro annual revenue for pre-election spending. This includes maintaining universal 13th-month pensions and energy assistance programs. The draft budget for the upcoming year is reportedly being developed without crucial input, raising concerns about its feasibility and long-term economic impact. Specifically, the future of companies like the Tlmače boiler-makers SES and the indebted state printing house remains uncertain amidst these budgetary decisions. This indicates a short-term focus potentially detrimental to the sustained economic health of Slovakia.