Economy
U.S. government shutdown enters second week over funding dispute
October 08, 2025 Image generated by AI
The U.S. federal government shutdown, now in its second week since starting on October 1, 2025, stems from a partisan standoff in the Senate over extending Affordable Care Act premium tax credits. Democrats demand a firm commitment to the subsidies before approving funding, while Republicans push for a clean continuing resolution to reopen the government first. Impacts include flight delays, uncertainty over federal worker pay, and the delay of key economic data.
German cabinet approves reforms on police, hospitals and social contributions
October 08, 2025 Reported by AI
The German cabinet deliberated on Wednesday on modernizing the Federal Police Act, which among other things strengthens drone defense. Changes to hospital reform and higher social contributions for high earners were also approved. Stricter rules for medical cannabis are in focus as well.
Spain approves multi-billion loan to Airbus for 105 helicopters in Albacete
The Spanish government has granted a 3.68 billion euro loan to Airbus to manufacture 105 helicopters, as part of the Industrial and Technological Plan for Security and Defense announced in April. This interest-free, no-guarantee funding will bolster the industry in Albacete, where the aircraft will be produced. The initiative addresses geopolitical tensions and aims to meet the 2% GDP defense spending target.
Sébastien Lecornu proposes CVAE cut for 2026 budget
October 05, 2025 Reported by AI
Minister Delegate Sébastien Lecornu announced a proposal to cut the CVAE, a production tax on companies, as part of the 2026 budget. This comes amid rising political pressures before government formation. Calls for compromises with the left, especially the PS, aim to avert a censure motion.
US power bills soar and face further increases
Electricity bills for American households have surged by nearly a third since 2019, driven by rising demand and infrastructure costs. Experts predict another significant hike by the end of the decade as data centers and electrification strain the grid. This trend threatens household budgets amid broader economic pressures.
Coalition committee ends after eight hours in chancellery
October 11, 2025Putin approves advertising on Russian spacecraft
October 07, 2025Friedrich Merz optimistic on citizens' income reform
October 11, 2025Trump unveils drug pricing deal with AstraZeneca
October 09, 2025Cuomo warns of socialism's dangers at New York mayoral forum
October 08, 2025Eu plans higher tariffs to protect european steel industry
October 07, 2025Lagarde addresses euro's international role at EU parliament hearing
October 07, 2025Advisors to Katherina Reiche demand deregulation and higher retirement age
October 08, 2025Lagarde urges stronger global role for the euro
October 09, 2025Spanish Congress unexpectedly approves Sustainable Mobility Law
Élisabeth Borne opens door to suspending pension reform
October 09, 2025 Image generated by AI
Former Prime Minister Élisabeth Borne has suggested suspending the pension reform to ensure national stability amid a post-dissolution political crisis. This proposal, coming from the architect of the 2023 project, draws sharp criticism over its moral and economic implications. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has not ruled it out, while calling for debate.
Zucman tax and its potential use for climate questioned
In its weekly newsletter, Le Monde's 'Chaleur humaine' podcast addresses a listener's question about the Zucman tax. This proposal targets the wealthiest, but its allocation is debated between ecological transition and debt reduction. The piece examines if it can directly benefit the climate.
U.S. government shutdown reaches day four with economic costs mounting
October 05, 2025 Reported by AI Image generated by AI
The U.S. federal government is in its fourth day of a shutdown due to stalled budget negotiations, affecting national parks, federal workers, and services nationwide. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer highlighted the financial toll, estimating costs at $1.2 billion for paying non-working employees. Prospects for an agreement remain uncertain as partisan divides persist.
Electricity prices expected to rise slightly this winter
Electricity prices are expected to rise slightly this winter, according to Länsförsäkringar. Market uncertainty is high, and analyst Christian Holtz warns of higher costs if consumers fail to monitor peaks in the electricity grid. The article highlights costs for average households in different electricity areas.
Finance minister criticizes opposition's shadow budgets
October 08, 2025 Reported by AI Image generated by AI
Finance Minister Elisabeth Svantesson has dismissed the opposition's shadow budgets as scattered and ungovernable. The four opposition parties – Social Democrats, Left Party, Green Party, and Center Party – have presented their alternatives to the government's 2026 budget. Clear differences emerge within the opposition, especially on benefits and taxes.