Three dead as strong winds, rain lash southern Spain

The EU will remove bourbon from its list of retaliatory tariffs against the US following lobbying from France, Italy, and Ireland to protect their alcohol industries from the trade war. US President Donald Trump had threatened tariffs on EU wine and spirits, leading to fears of economic damage in Europe. The European drinks industry, particularly France, faces significant export losses, prompting debates among European governments on how to support affected industries. Full Article

Rainbow-hued fruits and vegetables are essential for optimal health, providing a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support bodily functions and fight disease. By incorporating a variety of colorful produce into their diets, individuals can boost their immune systems, reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, and improve overall well-being. Each color represents different nutrients that are crucial for maintaining vitality and defending against illness, making vibrant produce a key player in a healthy...

This article discusses a proposal by Bruegel to create a European Defence Mechanism for joint weapons purchases and ownership of strategic assets, aiming to increase efficiency and save costs. The EU faces divisions on how to respond to US tariffs, with France and Germany pushing for a strong retaliation, while Italy, Greece, Romania, and Hungary prefer a more cautious approach. Italy's stance is crucial in determining the EU's united message on trade policy. Full Article

European Central Bank policymaker Yannis Stournaras warns that US President Donald Trump's tariffs could lead to a "negative demand shock" in the Eurozone, potentially dragging down economic growth and inflation below targets. Stournaras, a member of the ECB's governing council, cautions that the looming global trade war comes at a time of already modest growth, with the ECB set to make an interest rate decision on April 17. Analysts predict another rate cut later this...

The UK government plans to ease regulations for private equity and hedge funds by raising the size threshold for oversight to £5bn, aiming to attract more investment and bolster the country's position in Europe. The move, subject to consultation with the industry, is expected to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness, though it may face criticism from some Labour MPs. The Treasury and FCA are also exploring tailored regulatory regimes and streamlining rules to support growth...

The latest round of tariffs by the Trump administration creates confusion for traders and countries, with Asian nations facing high rates and limited exemptions, while the EU receives a flat 20% rate affecting individual member states differently. Surprisingly, countries with which the US has trade surpluses are hit by the tariffs, based on 2024 trade data, which may not reflect long-term trends, resulting in unexpected outcomes like Namibia's high tariff rate. Full Article