Washington

Frustrated US says India, China hindering global corporate tax deal

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Frustrated US says India, China hindering global corporate tax deal

US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen is trying to save a part of the global corporate tax deal focused on highly profitable multinational firms. India is refusing to engage on issues important to US interests in the negotiations. China has also been “all but absent” in the negotiations for the OECD corporate tax deal. The Pillar 1 negotiations aim to reallocate the taxing right on US-based digital giants, allowing about US0 billion of corporate profits to be taxed in the countries where the companies do business. If the negotiations fail, it could lead to the return of digital services taxes in some countries and potential trade tensions. Italy is seeking to negotiate an agreement with Washington to stop tariffs on imports from countries with digital taxes.

Stellantis CEO: electric vehicle tariffs are a trap

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Stellantis CEO: electric vehicle tariffs are a trap

Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares expects a major battle with Chinese rivals in the European market for electric vehicles, warning of significant consequences for jobs and production. The European Commission will unveil an initial decision on potential tariffs on Chinese EV imports on June 5, and China has been threatening counter tariffs. Tavares believes that tariffs would fuel inflation, impact sales and production, and create overcapacity in the European auto sector. Stellantis is in discussions with labor unions about the risks they are facing and how to navigate the challenges ahead. The company will start selling EVs from its Chinese partner, Leapmotor, outside China starting in Europe in September. Tavares aims for Stellantis to be part of the Chinese offensive rather than purely defensive against Chinese competition.

California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

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California testing car tracking as possible gas tax replacement

States, like California, are exploring alternative ways to recoup lost gas tax revenue by piloting a “road charge” program that charges drivers based on the number of miles they drive rather than how much gas they purchase. The program is optional and participants can earn up to 0 in incentives for providing feedback on their experience. The state is considering this alternative revenue source due to the decrease in gas tax revenue collection and the shift towards electric vehicles. The program includes security protocols to protect personal information, and no action or changes are currently being proposed.

Policy elites blind to tax burden

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Policy elites blind to tax burden

President William Ruto believes that Kenyans are not overtaxed, citing the concept of ‘tax effort’ as a measure of tax revenue as a percentage of GDP. He argues that the government needs to increase tax effort to fund infrastructure projects and meet international standards for service delivery. However, he criticizes the reliance on IMF advice and GDP statistics, pointing out data quality issues and the impact of high taxes on citizens and businesses. Ruto suggests assessing the impact of taxes on the cost of living through household surveys to determine if Kenyans are indeed overtaxed.

On This Day: Leading Nazi Heinrich Himmler committed suicide in 1945

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On This Day: Leading Nazi Heinrich Himmler committed suicide in 1945

On May 23, 1934, notorious American outlaws Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow were killed in a shootout with police.

Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

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Analysis: Israel’s allies grapple with bid for ICC warrant against Netanyahu

International Criminal Court Prosecutor Karim Khan has requested an arrest warrant against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, causing a diplomatic dilemma for key member states who must balance support for Israel with backing the ICC’s actions. Some capitals, such as Paris, London, and Berlin, were informed beforehand about the plans, but many have not disclosed how they will respond if warrants are issued. Germany, in particular, faces challenges due to its support for Israel’s security and the ICC prosecutor’s independence. U.S. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have criticized the move, while European countries like Britain and Italy are divided over the issue. The ICC has jurisdiction over the conflict between Israel and Hamas since October 7, 2022, despite Israel not being a member of the court. The international community’s response to the arrest warrants will be crucial for the ICC’s credibility and the rule of law.

How,  Trump’s trial verdict could affect 2024 election

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How,  Trump’s trial verdict could affect 2024 election

Jurors in the first-ever criminal trial of a former U.S. president, Donald Trump, could render their verdict in his hush money case as soon as next week.

Other View: Biden tax plan would pummel average Americans

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Other View: Biden tax plan would pummel average Americans

President Joe Biden’s 2025 budget blueprint includes plans to increase corporate taxes, which could ultimately cost low- and middle-income Americans more money than if their income tax rates were raised. The budget calls for record spending, soaring debt, and trillion-dollar deficits, despite promises not to increase taxes on those earning less than 0,000 a year. The plan is similar to Sen. Bernie Sanders’ approach and aims to target corporations, but economists argue that corporations pass on tax costs to consumers, impacting employees and investors, including those with pension plans and retirement accounts. Republicans may use these economic realities in the upcoming campaign.

Iranian President Raisi, ’s memorial muted amid public discontent

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Iranian President Raisi, ’s memorial muted amid public discontent

Fact: President Ebrahim Raisi of Iran was killed in a helicopter crash near the Azerbaijan border along with his foreign minister and seven others.