Economy
Economic and financial news and information.
EU breathes sigh of relief over new Trump tariffs
The European Union expressed relief Friday over a new wave of US tariffs imposed by Washington on trading partners, following concerns of possible retaliation to a massive fine Brussels had slapped on US giant Google.
EU seeks Trump tariff exemptions on wine and cheese
The EU has asked the US for tariff exemptions on more products, a spokesman said on Wednesday, including cheese and wine.
Climate change to blame as heatwave hits Europe's economies
Human-caused climate change is "unequivocally" responsible for the intensity of a record-breaking heatwave scorching Europe, scientists said Friday, while experts consider the costs for an economy as productivity melts and growth becomes lethargic.
How companies in Europe are struggling to recruit workers from outside the EU
Almost half of European small and medium companies struggle to find workers with the skills they need but recruitment outside the EU remains “limited” and “too difficult”, a recent Eurobarometer survey published by the European Commission had shown.
Blockbuster EU-Mercosur trade deal enters into force
The European Union's mammoth trade deal with South American bloc Mercosur provisionally enters into force Friday, despite a pending court ruling on its legality.
More jobs, fewer hours: How Austria's labour market has changed in 20 years
Austria has far more people in work than 20 years ago, yet the total work volume barely moved. Why is that and how does it shape the labour market?
Inflation to hit eurozone as war in the Middle East disrupts energy flows
In the Middle East energy exports to Europe have been disrupted by the conflict between the US, Israel and Iran that has spilled into surrounding regions. Economic experts are predicting a spike in inflation.
What Austria’s new lower VAT on food could mean for your shopping bill
Austria will cut VAT on selected staple foods to 4.9 percent from July 1st, aiming to ease household costs. Here's what's getting cheaper (and what will still be expensive).
European leaders denounce Trump's tariff threats over Greenland
European leaders on Sunday hit back at US President Donald Trump's threat of tariffs over their opposition to his designs on Greenland, with far-right Italian leader Giorgia Meloni urging Washington against making a "mistake".
EU to ink long-awaited trade deal with South American bloc
The European Union will on Saturday sign a deal 25 years in the making with the South American trade bloc Mercosur, creating one of the world's largest free trade areas at a time of growing protectionism and volatility.
What's the reason for Austria's empty egg shelves this winter?
Shoppers in Austria might have noticed empty supermarket shelves where they'd normally find the eggs. So what's the reason and when will eggs return?
What Austria’s end-of-year unemployment figures reveal about 2026
After a difficult year, Austria’s labour market shows mixed signals. Unemployment is still rising, but employment growth hints at possible improvement ahead.
Why Austria’s economy is improving while many households feel worse off
Austria’s economy is set to grow again in 2026, but new forecasts suggest many households will see their incomes fall despite the recovery.
Austria records another rise in unemployment as job market continues to cool
Austria’s labour market is finishing the year on a weak note, with unemployment rising again in November. New AMS data shows the pressure is broadening across regions and sectors.
How Austria wants to curb inflation and cut electricity prices
A €1 billion plan to reduce energy prices sits at the centre of Austria’s new economic package, alongside deregulation and health system changes. Will it be enough?
How Austria’s new ‘MeinAMS’ platform will change job searches
Austria’s labour office is rolling out a new online platform, MeinAMS, to replace the long-used eAMS system and make digital access simpler and more secure.
Are property prices in Austria going to rise or fall in 2026?
Homebuyers in Austria are watching closely as experts debate the next move in the market. Will 2026 favour buyers or sellers?
Why Austria’s property prices could rise again by 2026
Austria’s housing market downturn may be ending, with experts predicting price increases by 2026. Here’s what buyers and renters should know.
How Austria is looking for social security fraudsters at Vienna’s International Airport
With rising costs and labour shortages, Austria’s push against welfare fraud has intensified – especially through airport investigations.
Why do everyday products cost so much more in Austria than in Germany?
Austrian consumers are paying up to 27 percent more for the same branded goods sold just across the border, according to new Chamber of Labour data. But why and what can be done?
How Austria's new austerity plan affects income limits for pensioners and families
Austria’s government is freezing income thresholds for pensioners and family benefits and narrowing eligibility for unemployed people working part-time.
Can Austrian restaurants legally charge extra for card payments?
Many Austrian businesses prefer cash payments, but can they legally charge extra for card transactions? Consumer protection laws say no - but there’s a loophole.
What Austria's 4 percent inflation rate means for your food and energy bills
Food inflation is easing in Austria, but basic items and energy bills are still getting more expensive than in much of Europe. How can it be explained and what can be done about it?