Brussels’ 22-meter Christmas Tree Installed: Pierre Demesmaeker’s festive journey begins

The EU has accused AliExpress of violating digital regulations by inadequately preventing the spread of illegal content, including counterfeit and unsafe products, as part of a broader crackdown on Chinese online retailers. This action follows the implementation of the Digital Services Act, which mandates stricter policing of platforms and carries penalties for non-compliance, while the EU also investigates other e-commerce sites like Shein. Need More Context? 🔎

US states, primarily Democratic but bipartisan in their delegations, are engaging with EU officials in Brussels to discuss climate policies, particularly carbon pricing, amid the Trump administration's opposition to green initiatives. This collaboration aims to strengthen emissions trading systems and promote decarbonization, with states like California and New York actively pursuing their own climate strategies. Need More Context? 🔎

This article discusses Donald Trump's call for Iran's "unconditional surrender" amid tensions with EU leaders over potential US military involvement in Israel's campaign against Tehran. Additionally, it highlights conflicts within the EU regarding its budget and Israel's observer status in the Council of Europe due to humanitarian concerns in Gaza, with renewed scrutiny on Israel's actions and a proposed resolution for suspension. Need More Context? 🔎

Governments emphasize the importance of heat pumps in reducing fossil fuel reliance, yet adoption remains slow, with a 21% drop in sales in 2024. Key factors include changing support schemes, economic conditions, and disinformation; while the UK saw a rise in sales, Germany's market lagged, though new policies aim to improve competitiveness and reduce gas dependency. Need More Context? 🔎

The European Commission has proposed revisions to EU debt securitisation rules to reduce capital charges for banks and streamline regulations, aiming to invigorate the securitisation market and boost economic competitiveness. While the changes, including lowering risk weights and simplifying investor obligations, are intended to enhance funding availability, critics argue they may compromise financial stability and international standards established post-2008 crisis. Need More Context? 🔎

Germany's Bundesbank has criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz's reforms to encourage later retirement, stating they are insufficient to alleviate the fiscal pressures of an ageing population, where early retirement is prevalent due to existing incentives. The central bank suggests more significant policy changes, like linking the retirement age to life expectancy, to address the impending demographic challenges effectively. Need More Context? 🔎