Nations consider vaccinating workers exposed to bird flu
The United States and Europe are taking steps to acquire or manufacture H5N1 bird flu vaccines to protect at-risk poultry and dairy workers, veterinarians, and lab technicians.
Europe
Headquarters Question: Where Could UBS Relocate?
Fact: UBS currently pays around 18.5 percent on its profits in Switzerland, derived from a mixed calculation of cantonal rates, with Zurich at 19.61 percent and Basel-Stadt at 13.04 percent.
Buildings leap to the future with new logbooks
Digital records can help make European homes and offices greener and healthier.
Europe sets benchmark for rest of the world with landmark AI laws
Europe’s landmark rules on artificial intelligence will enter into force next month after EU countries endorsed a political deal reached in December, setting a potential global benchmark for the technology. The AI Act is more comprehensive than the United States’ approach and China’s approach, aiming to maintain social stability and state control. The legislation imposes strict transparency obligations on high-risk AI systems and restricts governments’ use of real-time biometric surveillance in public spaces. The new legislation will have a global reach, impacting companies outside the EU who use EU customer data in their AI platforms. Fines for violations range from 7.5 million euros to 35 million euros depending on the type of violations.
Mediaeval aristocratic women brought back to life
The exhibition “Mediaeval Women of Cyprus” is a joint project by two Turkish Cypriots, Ahmet Hilmi and Semra Bayhanli, showcasing seven large canvasses portraying significant women in the island’s mediaeval history.
Americans must pay higher taxes if they want to keep a high standard of living
The U.S. government faces fiscal challenges that will require higher taxes, regardless of the presidential election outcome. The federal deficit is projected to grow to 6% of GDP by 2033, and debt held by the public will increase to 114% of GDP. The 2017 Tax Cut and Jobs Act simplified and cut individual income taxes and lowered business taxes, with most individual tax cuts expiring in 2025. President Biden’s proposed budget includes repealing benefits for high-income families and raising taxes on the wealthy. If former President Trump is reelected, the TCJA is likely to be extended, costing at least .3 trillion through 2033. Trump has proposed tariffs on imports from China and lowering the federal corporate tax rate. These proposals could lead to a financial “train wreck” for the nation.
Europe stock pickers go old-school to ride the next wave in AI
European stock pickers are turning to more established sectors like utilities, professional data providers, and copper miners to tap into the next wave of the AI boom.
Meet Paris, ’ black dandies, the Sapeurs
The Sapeurs, known for their offbeat and baroque sartorial style, originated in Central Africa around 1919-1920. They participate in parades and competitions to showcase their skills and abilities in dressing up. The movement gained momentum in the 1950s and expanded to Europe in the 1970s. Sapeurs seek social recognition through luxury brands and use clothing to make a political statement for dignity. They aim to create ambiance and encourage sociability through their colorful and luxurious outfits.
Gazpacho: A Tale of Andalusian Origins
Fact: Gazpacho is a cold soup that originated in Andalusia, Spain, with roots tracing back to the Roman Empire and influenced by the Moors’ occupation of Spain.
Global minimum tax: different strategies in the cantons
The ordinary corporate tax rates for businesses in Switzerland remained stable at an average of 14.6% compared to the previous year. Changes in corporate tax rates were only seen in eight cantons, with the biggest cuts made by Aargau and Bern, and the largest increases made by Schaffhausen and Geneva. The cantons of Zug, Nidwalden, and Lucerne remain the most attractive in terms of their corporate tax rates. Switzerland’s corporate tax rates are low compared to other countries, with only a few countries offering lower rates in Europe and around the world.