Author: Sam Allcock

Although theatre has long been a fundamental component of cultural expression, Theatre Tax Relief (TTR) has become an essential tool in a time when artistic aspirations are hampered by financial limitations. With the help of this government-backed program, theater productions will receive financial support, allowing creativity to flourish free from the weight of high taxes. Since its introduction in 2014, TTR has been incredibly successful in promoting investment in ballet, opera, theater, and musicals. Production businesses can drastically cut costs and reinvest in top-notch performances by providing financial relief on eligible expenditures. Whether a business wants to create a touring…

Tariffs influence trade, and trade influences economies. These import taxes have an impact on everything in Europe, from retail prices to diplomatic ties. Understanding tariffs is essential whether you’re an analyst monitoring international trade policies, a consumer curious about price fluctuations, or an entrepreneur overseeing supply chains. However, what are their effects and how do they really operate? Table: Types of Tariffs in Europe (2024) Tariff TypePurposeImpact on TradeCommon Customs Tariff (CCT)Standard EU import taxEnsures a unified trade policy across member statesTariff Rate Quotas (TRQs)Limited low-tariff importsControls trade while maintaining competitionAnti-Dumping TariffsPrevents artificially low pricingShields European businesses from unfair competitionSafeguard…

In Ireland, paying car tax is not an extra expense; rather, it is a necessary expense to maintain your legal driving status. But figuring out how much you owe can be like solving a financial puzzle. Various assessment methods and fluctuating tax rates can make the process seem daunting. But don’t worry—we’ll simplify everything so you can make wise, economical choices. Why Does Car Tax Matter? In Ireland, paying a car tax is only one aspect of the system; it also serves to maintain road infrastructure, promote cleaner transportation, and control vehicle ownership. In the last ten years, tax laws…

As Europe navigates a complex global landscape, Europe’s economic outlook for 2025 presents both opportunities and risks. While sluggish growth marked the end of 2024, forecasts indicate a modest recovery, supported by stabilising inflation, private consumption, and trade expansion. However, political uncertainties in France and Germany, along with broader fiscal challenges, could impact market confidence and economic resilience. Navigating Global Pressures The EU remains caught between a protectionist U.S. and an expanding China, requiring a strategic approach to maintain its global standing. A recent survey from the European Council on Foreign Relations found that 55% of respondents view the EU…

Marc Lemaître, the Director-General for Research and Innovation in the European Commission, recently emphasised the need for EU policymakers and research funders to prioritise economic impact, as part of the Commission’s new competitiveness agenda. Speaking at the annual Science|Business conference, Lemaître called for a shift in focus towards research and innovation’s role in boosting the EU’s competitiveness, acknowledging that in future, performance will largely be judged based on this factor. The European Commission unveiled its “Competitiveness Compass” last week, outlining a comprehensive approach to reinforcing Europe’s global position through strategic technologies. This document has sparked concern within the research community,…

The European Commission is considering a major revision to its carbon border levy, potentially exempting 80% of companies from the scheme while still maintaining its environmental impact. This move is part of the EU’s broader strategy to ease regulatory burdens on businesses without compromising its climate goals. The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), set to take effect in 2026, will impose costs on imported goods such as steel, aluminium, and cement based on their embedded carbon emissions. However, EU Climate Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra revealed that a new analysis found that 97% of emissions covered by CBAM come from just 20%…

The European Union is considering a proposal to reduce import tariffs on American cars in an effort to avert an escalating trade war with the United States under former President Donald Trump’s administration. The move comes as both parties look to avoid a detrimental trade conflict that could impact businesses and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic. According to Bernd Lange, head of the European Parliament’s Trade Committee, the EU is willing to lower its current 10% import tax on US vehicles to bring it closer to the 2.5% rate imposed by the US on European cars. This gesture…

The adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) in Europe is accelerating rapidly, with five businesses incorporating AI into their operations every minute, according to AWS’s “Unlocking Europe’s AI Potential 2025” report. Over the last year, 42% of European businesses are now consistently using AI, and more than 90% of these companies have reported an increase in revenue or productivity due to the technology. This pace of growth is astonishing, surpassing that of mobile phone adoption in the 2000s, when growth peaked at just 18% between 2007 and 2008. The rise in AI adoption represents nearly three million businesses across the continent,…

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has expressed concerns that European Union (EU) regulations could limit the region’s access to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. Speaking at an event at the Technical University of Berlin on February 7, Altman discussed how the EU’s regulatory framework could potentially slow the development and deployment of AI advancements in the region. Altman explained that while OpenAI would love to build a European counterpart to its recently announced AI infrastructure project, Stargate, its ability to do so largely depends on the EU’s regulatory stance. He emphasized the company’s desire to deploy its products in Europe at…

Nova Gorica, Slovenia, and Gorizia, Italy, have officially launched the European Capital of Culture for 2025, with a grand opening in Europe Square—the symbolic heart of both cities. As the sun set, the celebrations moved to an open-air stage in front of Nova Gorica’s municipal building, where an unforgettable cultural spectacle unfolded. Throughout 2025, GO! 2025 will bring over 1,000 exciting cultural events to the region, spanning concerts, theatre, art exhibitions, film screenings, culinary experiences, and more. These events will reflect the unique spirit of the cities, offering visitors an immersive celebration of creativity, culture, and unity. European Capital of…