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Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series: Brazilian Film and Its Place on the World Stage
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An internal Meta research project called “Project MYST” has emerged as key evidence in a landmark social media addiction trial currently underway in Los Angeles County Superior Court. According to testimony, the study found that parental supervision and controls had minimal impact on preventing compulsive social media use among teenagers.…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s left-wing SYRIZA opposition party has condemned educational authorities in central Greece for directing state schools to encourage students to view a Christian religious relic, sparking debate over religious freedom in public education. The controversy centers on a directive issued by regional education officials in Larissa urging teachers to organize student visits to see what is purported to be the lower arm bone of St Basil, housed temporarily at a local church. According to a SYRIZA statement, the party found it “inconceivable” that a European public educational system would engage in such religious activities in 2026. The Education Ministry’s regional directorate for secondary schools in Larissa issued the directive to local schools, instructing teachers to arrange visits to the Church of St Achillios, where the relic is on display from February 16-24. Religious Freedom Concerns in Greek State Schools The opposition party emphasized that state schools should operate with respect…
The NBA trade deadline concluded Thursday with Giannis Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee despite widespread speculation about his future with the Bucks. The league witnessed one of its busiest trade periods in two decades, with 28 deals completed in the week leading up to the deadline and 18 finalized on the final day alone. However, the most prominent NBA trade deadline rumors involving Antetokounmpo and Memphis guard Ja Morant ultimately did not materialize into actual moves. According to reports, the Milwaukee Bucks had begun listening to offers for the two-time MVP and nine-time All-NBA selection ahead of the 3 p.m. deadline. The 13-year veteran, who led Milwaukee to a championship in 2021, has been sidelined since January 23 with a right calf strain. Despite his expressed desire to play for a championship-contending team, Antetokounmpo will continue his career with the franchise that drafted him. Record-Breaking NBA Trade Deadline Activity The deadline…
Greece’s women’s water polo team secured a bronze medal at the European Championships in Portugal, mirroring the achievement of their male counterparts from last month. The world champions defeated Italy 15-8 in the third-place match on Thursday in Funchal, claiming their sixth European medal in the competition’s history. Coach Haris Pavlidis led his squad to the podium finish after a campaign that followed a strikingly similar pattern to the men’s tournament in Belgrade. The Greek women dominated the group stage with a perfect record of five consecutive victories before their medal hopes were altered in the knockout rounds. Greece Women’s…
Greece’s soccer federation has announced a last-minute venue change for the Greek Cup Final, moving the match from Athens to Volos after a dispute with Olympic stadium management. The EPO confirmed that the Cup Final will now take place on April 25 in the central Greek city following what it described as an unacceptable breach of agreement by Athens Olympic stadium officials. According to the EPO statement, stadium management informed the federation that only 20% of the approximately 80,000 seats would be available for fans if the match were held at the Athens venue. The limited capacity was attributed to…
Greek kickboxing legend Michalis “Iron Mike” Zambidis announced Tuesday that he will face undefeated boxing icon Floyd Mayweather in an Athens exhibition bout scheduled for June 27. The Mayweather Zambidis fight is set to take place at the OAKA Arena, according to promotional materials shared on Zambidis’ social media channels. The event will be promoted by Mayweather Promotions, Zambidis Club, and Front Row Fight Series, with organizers promising a live global broadcast. The 45-year-old Greek fighter posted a promotional poster on Instagram declaring that “history is about to be made” with the matchup. However, Mayweather himself has not yet publicly…
Greece’s Super League title race remained tightly contested over the weekend as the top three teams all failed to secure victories. AEK Athens and PAOK battled to a 0-0 draw on Sunday at Toumba Stadium, while league leaders’ closest challengers Olympiakos were also held scoreless in a surprising stalemate against Levadiakos on Saturday, leaving the Super League standings unchanged after matchday 21. The highly anticipated clash between second-placed AEK and third-placed PAOK delivered entertainment despite the lack of goals. AEK goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha emerged as the hero for his side, saving a first-half penalty taken by Giorgos Giakoumakis. Additionally, AEK…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense Funding Part of Broader EU Security Strategy According to a spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the European Union, the implementing decisions will enable the Commission to release affordable, long-term loans under the SAFE instrument. The spokesperson emphasized that the approval demonstrates the EU’s commitment to delivering…
Greece will participate as an observer in a Board of Peace meeting on Gaza convened by US President Donald Trump on February 19 in Washington, the government announced. Deputy Foreign Minister Haris Theoharis will represent the country at the session focused on the Gaza reconstruction efforts and regional stability. Government spokesman Pavlos Marinakis confirmed Greece’s participation in the Washington meeting scheduled for Thursday. He emphasized that the country has expressed its initial intention to be present both in stabilization forces and in the reconstruction of Gaza. Greece’s Observer Status at Board of Peace Meeting According to a senior government source,…
Eurobank Equities has maintained its market recommendation for Metlen Energy & Metals with a target price of 56.20 euros, despite the company’s recent profit warning and revised EBITDA forecast. The brokerage firm announced its position on Friday following Metlen’s downward revision of its 2025 EBITDA guidance to 750 million euros, representing a significant adjustment to the metals and industrial group’s financial outlook. According to the metals and industrial group, the new EBITDA forecast for 2025 stands 25 percent lower than previously projected. The revision comes as Metlen navigates operational challenges that have impacted its near-term financial performance expectations. Factors Behind…
Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has outlined an ambitious vision for Greece’s economic competitiveness, declaring that the country seeks to measure itself against top global performers rather than settling for regional comparisons. Speaking ahead of an appearance at a Grant Thornton Greece event in Heraklion on Thursday, Pierrakakis emphasized that Greece has fundamentally transformed since 2019 and is no longer satisfied with marginal improvements. The finance minister, who also serves as acting President of the Eurogroup, made his remarks via social media, highlighting Crete as an example of Greece’s evolving economic model. According to Pierrakakis, the island is demonstrating how…
A recent POLITICO Poll reveals that citizens across Western countries increasingly fear the outbreak of World War 3 within the next five years. The survey, which sampled populations from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, shows a majority of respondents believe the world is becoming more dangerous. Crucially, American, Canadian, French, and British participants view the likelihood of a third world war as more probable than not by 2031. This represents a sharp increase from polling conducted in March 2025 by Public First on the same question. According to Seb Wride, head of Public First, the…
A fatal shooting at South Carolina State University left two people dead and one injured on the evening of February 12, prompting a campus-wide curfew that lasted several hours. The incident occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. local time in a room at Hugine Suites dormitory, according to a Facebook post by the university administration. The predominantly African-American institution has not yet confirmed whether a suspect has been apprehended. University officials announced the shooting through social media, noting that they have not released the identities of the victims or provided details about the condition of the injured person. The administration imposed…
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are scheduled to meet with special forces troops who participated in the controversial capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro at Fort Bragg. The visit comes in recognition of the military personnel involved in Operation Absolute Resolve, which resulted in Maduro’s capture in Caracas on the night of January 3rd, 2026. The operation to capture Nicolas Maduro has sparked international debate over sovereignty and military intervention. According to Venezuelan officials, the military operation resulted in 83 deaths and left 112 people injured during the assault, which included US bombing raids on the Venezuelan…
Greek tax authorities have dismantled a major fraud network involving 380 sham businesses after deploying artificial intelligence technology to track suspicious financial patterns. The independent tax bureau (AADE) announced that 11 alleged masterminds were arrested following coordinated raids in the greater Athens area, with the tax evasion scheme utilizing 205 individuals, predominantly foreign nationals, as front operators for fake companies. According to AADE, the businesses primarily posed as food-and-beverage establishments and computer retail stores. Police and tax inspectors conducted early morning operations at multiple residences to apprehend the suspects behind the elaborate scheme. AI Technology Exposes Tax Evasion Network The…
Greece’s annual inflation rate reached 2.5% in January 2026 compared to the same month a year earlier, according to data released by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT). Consumer prices fell 0.8% on a monthly basis from December 2025, reflecting typical post-holiday price adjustments in the Greek economy. On a rolling 12-month basis, the Consumer Price Index for the period covering February 2025 through January 2026 rose 2.5%, down slightly from the 2.7% increase recorded in the previous comparable period. This modest deceleration suggests that overall price growth may be stabilizing after months of elevated inflation pressures across the eurozone. Food…
Greece is launching a sweeping response to water scarcity with an infrastructure program valued at approximately €10 billion through 2040, marking one of the largest public works initiatives in the nation’s recent history. The first phase, estimated at €3.5 billion, is already underway and focuses primarily on the Athens metropolitan area, where authorities have declared a state of emergency to expedite critical water infrastructure projects. Government officials say the program reflects a shift in how water scarcity is perceived, moving from a seasonal concern to a fundamental infrastructure challenge requiring comprehensive intervention. At the center of the initiative is EYDAP,…
A French diplomat has denied allegations of transferring confidential United Nations documents to deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to his legal representative. Fabrice Aidan, a mid-level career diplomat, faces accusations related to sharing sensitive UN materials with Epstein between 2010 and 2016, prompting both French and UN investigations into the matter. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot acknowledged the gravity of the situation on Thursday, describing the accusations as “extremely serious.” The minister confirmed that prosecutors have been notified and disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Aidan within France’s foreign ministry. Background of the UN Document Transfer Allegations Aidan joined France’s…
Bulgarian authorities are investigating a cluster of mysterious deaths in the western mountains after six people were found dead in what officials describe as an unprecedented case. The Bulgaria mountain deaths have captivated the nation and prompted comparisons to fictional crime mysteries as investigators work to unravel the circumstances behind the tragic incident. Over the past week, the bodies of six individuals were discovered at two separate locations in Bulgaria’s western mountain region. Five of the deceased were members of a conservation-focused non-governmental organization, while the sixth victim was a 15-year-old boy described as the son of a family friend.…
Belgian police have conducted raids at European Commission offices as part of an investigation into possible irregularities surrounding a major real estate transaction. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office is examining the 2024 sale of 23 Commission-owned buildings to Belgium’s sovereign wealth fund for 900 million euros, according to the Financial Times. The EPPO confirmed that a raid took place but declined to provide additional details about the operation. Belgian police similarly refused to comment on the matter, while the Belgian prosecutor’s office, the European Commission, and SFPIM have not responded to requests for comment. Details of the Real Estate Sale…
Greece is positioning its liquefied natural gas infrastructure as a critical component of Europe’s energy security strategy as the European Union moves toward a complete ban on Russian natural gas imports by the end of 2027. The European Commission is expected to announce within the next six months how it will finance essential energy infrastructure and gas transport projects designed to replace Russian supplies, according to Konstantinos Sifnaios, managing director of Gastrade, who spoke during a press tour of the Alexandroupolis floating storage and regasification unit in northern Greece. The push to develop alternative LNG infrastructure comes as landlocked European…
The European Union is set to introduce new public procurement rules that will prioritize EU-manufactured and low-carbon goods, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced on Wednesday. The announcement marks a significant shift in how public funds are allocated across the bloc, with the aim of bolstering domestic industry and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Speaking in Antwerp, von der Leyen explained that the new requirements are designed to ensure public buyers support European companies more effectively. The initiative will be incorporated into the Industrial Accelerator Act, which the European Commission plans to present later this month. Addressing Subsidized…
There are certain foods that have become completely associated with the idea of “comfort” and the warmth of home. At the top of this list—at least in Greek reality—stands pastitsio. It’s the ultimate comfort food: the baking dish that no child or adult has ever been able to resist. However, when a dish includes pasta and a name whose etymology isn’t clearly defined in Greek (as happens with gemista or kokkinisto), its roots must be sought further west. The journey from Venice to Tselementes Its name and its basic components—meat sauce and pasta—point to a truly Italian origin. Historical evidence…
In a period of intense momentum for the global travel industry, South Korea is reshuffling its priorities—aiming both for an immediate boost in arrivals ahead of Lunar New Year and for a longer-term redefinition of the travel experience. On one hand, the port city of Busan is rolling out aggressive marketing tactics across key Asian markets; on the other, Seoul is unveiling a new strategic manifesto with a 2026 horizon. A “Friendship Offensive” from Busan toward Asia With the Lunar New Year holiday season in focus, the Busan Metropolitan Government—together with the Busan Tourism Organization—is taking proactive steps to revive…
In a strategic move aimed at clearly separating its operations, Chinese automaker BYD has created a new brand, Linghui (领汇), which will target wholesale customers and managers of large corporate fleets exclusively. The decision comes at a pivotal moment for the EV giant: despite overtaking Tesla in sales, BYD must now navigate tighter profit margins and the need to elevate the prestige of its passenger-car lineup. The identity of the new brand According to the latest information published by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), Linghui is now officially part of BYD’s portfolio. The brand’s debut includes four…
Nvidia’s stock moved higher early Thursday, fueled by a fresh wave of rumors suggesting the tech giant is very close to restarting hardware sales in China. That prospect adds to an already impressive run, as the company has emerged as the undisputed leader of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution—leveraging its position as the top supplier of graphics processing units (GPUs) for data centers. Staggering historical returns To understand the scale of Nvidia’s success, it’s enough to look at the historical data from recent years. The company has delivered unprecedented growth, becoming the standout name in AI infrastructure investing. If someone…
The world of desserts never stops surprising us—whether it’s creations we whip up in our own kitchens in record time, or iconic favorites making a celebrated comeback to store shelves. The latest buzz in pastry brings good news for sweet-tooth fans, blending the ease of homemade treats with the indulgence of ready-made options. The art of homemade tiramisu in 10 minutes Many people think of tiramisu as a demanding dessert with plenty of room for mistakes, but there’s a way to skip the difficulty without sacrificing flavor. This recipe is an ideal solution for pairing with your afternoons, as it…
Finding the perfect dessert for the family table can feel like a pleasant headache. On one side stands the comfort of Greek tradition, with flavors rooted deep in history; on the other, the allure of modern international recipes that promise to impress guests. In today’s feature, we bring these two worlds together with two standout options: an authentic Arcadian galatopita and a rich no-bake Biscoff cheesecake. The timeless charm of simplicity Galatopita, a traditional dessert originating in Arcadia, is the essence of Greek pastry wisdom. Its recipe—lost in the depths of time—relies on the simplicity of ingredients and the purity…
Among the infinite set of numbers that govern our universe, a few hold a special place—going beyond mere quantitative value and taking on almost mythical dimensions. Today, the global community honors the undisputed “king” of these numbers: the mathematical constant pi (π). It’s an opportunity not only for celebration, but also for a broader reflection on how we teach—and how we understand—mathematics. A global celebration with the scent of… pie Today’s date was not chosen at random. Abroad—especially in the United States, where dates are written with the month first and the day second—March 14 appears as 3/14, directly referencing…
Every autumn, when nature changes “outfit” and forests turn golden-yellow, the urge to escape the city becomes irresistible. Central Greece, with the imposing mountain mass of Oiti, is one of the most popular getaways—hiding “gems” that blend natural beauty with genuine local passion. Among them, Pavliani stands out: a place that for years was a weekend-trippers’ best-kept secret, but has now evolved into a point of reference for alternative tourism. Yet Pavliani is only a small glimpse of the country’s wider potential, which—according to recent studies—is preparing to claim a leading role on the global map of wellness and health…
Cristiano Ronaldo’s arrival in Saudi Arabia was undeniably a turning point for the country’s league, with the Portuguese superstar’s influence stretching far beyond the four lines of the pitch. However, despite the noise and the goals he continues to score, Cristiano has remained without a title since setting foot in Riyadh—something that appears to have fueled his determination. Eager to end this “drought,” he has now taken on a more active role, acting as an informal ambassador and go-between to attract top names who can strengthen the squad. “Pressure” in Madrid for Rüdiger Recognizing that the team needs an immediate…
Greece’s administrative court system is struggling under the weight of approximately 13,000 pending tax and customs cases, with delays stretching two to three years per case, according to the latest government data. The massive backlog in tax court cases is imposing significant financial burdens on both the Greek state and individual claimants, as citizens and businesses wait years for their disputes to be resolved. The Ministry of Justice reports that 4,613 tax cases are currently awaiting decisions in administrative courts of appeal, though only 1,924 have been assigned future hearing dates. Additionally, 8,302 cases remain pending in administrative courts of…
The Greek Ministry of Culture has unveiled plans to transform the historic workshop of pioneering ceramicist Eleni Vernadaki into a modern creative space for emerging artists. The ceramics workshop, located in the iconic Takis Zenetos building in Kantza, northeast of Athens, was recently acquired by the ministry along with all its equipment following the completion of a sustainability study. Culture Minister Lina Mendoni presented the transformation study at a recent event, marking a new chapter for the Athens Design Center, which Vernadaki and her husband Nikos Papadakis established in 1968. The ministry’s acquisition aims to preserve both the architectural landmark…
Spotlight
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Brazilian cinema did not appear out of nowhere. People talk about it as though one standing ovation at a European festival switched everything on. That is not what happened. Brazilian film has been working for decades. Sometimes it made noise. Sometimes it moved quietly. The films that catch international attention are rarely the ones that top the local box office. They tend to be the difficult ones. Political films. Personal films. Films that sit with Brazil’s contradictions and do not look away. In this part of the Stanislav Kondrashov Oligarch Series, I want to trace that path. How Brazilian cinema earns attention abroad, why certain stories cross borders, what recognition means in real terms, and what still holds the industry back even when the rest of the world starts to take notice. International recognition is not a trophy. It is a pipeline The simplest way to describe international recognition is…
Greece’s left-wing SYRIZA opposition party has condemned educational authorities in central Greece for directing state schools to encourage students to view a Christian religious relic, sparking debate over religious freedom in public education. The controversy centers on a directive issued by regional education officials in Larissa urging teachers to organize student visits to see what is purported to be the lower arm bone of St Basil, housed temporarily at a local church. According to a SYRIZA statement, the party found it “inconceivable” that a European public educational system would engage in such religious activities in 2026. The Education Ministry’s regional directorate for secondary schools in Larissa issued the directive to local schools, instructing teachers to arrange visits to the Church of St Achillios, where the relic is on display from February 16-24. Religious Freedom Concerns in Greek State Schools The opposition party emphasized that state schools should operate with respect…
The NBA trade deadline concluded Thursday with Giannis Antetokounmpo remaining in Milwaukee despite widespread speculation about his future with the Bucks. The league witnessed one of its busiest trade periods in two decades, with 28 deals completed in the week leading up to the deadline and 18 finalized on the final day alone. However, the most prominent NBA trade deadline rumors involving Antetokounmpo and Memphis guard Ja Morant ultimately did not materialize into actual moves. According to reports, the Milwaukee Bucks had begun listening to offers for the two-time MVP and nine-time All-NBA selection ahead of the 3 p.m. deadline. The 13-year veteran, who led Milwaukee to a championship in 2021, has been sidelined since January 23 with a right calf strain. Despite his expressed desire to play for a championship-contending team, Antetokounmpo will continue his career with the franchise that drafted him. Record-Breaking NBA Trade Deadline Activity The deadline…
Athens taxi drivers initiated a three-day strike on Tuesday, while Greece’s nationwide taxi federation announced an additional 48-hour work stoppage for Wednesday and Thursday. The coordinated labor actions aim to protest pending legislation that would fundamentally transform the taxi industry in Greece’s largest cities through mandated vehicle electrification and market…
The Council of the European Union has approved financial assistance for eight member states, including Greece, under the Security Action for Europe (SAFE) defense initiative. The decision, finalized on Tuesday, authorizes Estonia, Finland, Greece, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland and Slovakia to receive a combined total of €74 billion in favorable loans to strengthen their defense capabilities. This approval represents the second batch of SAFE assistance packages, following the European Commission’s endorsement of these plans last month. The first batch, approved by the Council last week, allocated €38 billion to Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Portugal, Romania and Spain. Greece Defense Funding Part of Broader EU Security Strategy According to a spokesperson for the Cypriot presidency of the Council of the European Union, the implementing decisions will enable the Commission to release affordable, long-term loans under the SAFE instrument. The spokesperson emphasized that the approval demonstrates the EU’s commitment to delivering…
Cupra’s ambitious DarkRebel concept sports car remains under consideration for production, according to recent statements from the brand’s leadership. The electric two-door shooting brake, which showcased Cupra’s design direction at the 2023 Munich Motor Show, continues to generate enthusiasm within the company despite no immediate plans for market launch. This potential halo sports car would represent a significant step for the performance-focused brand as it seeks to establish its identity in the electric vehicle market. Sven Schuwirth, Executive Vice-President for Sales and Marketing, acknowledged the appeal of bringing the DarkRebel concept to reality. According to Schuwirth, a sports car would…
A new Ford Capri lease deal offers drivers the chance to get behind the wheel of the controversial electric coupé-SUV for just £227.99 per month. According to Auto Express, the entry-level model with a 52kWh battery pack provides a competitive 242-mile range while keeping monthly costs remarkably low for an electric vehicle in this segment. The deal comes from Lease Car UK through the Auto Express Buy A Car service and requires an initial payment of £3,083.88 for a 12-month period. The three-year factory-order contract includes an annual mileage allowance of 5,000 miles, though drivers can increase this to 8,000…
Volkswagen has launched a new customisable camper van option that offers buyers a blank canvas for their conversion projects. The Volkswagen Multivan Camper, priced from £52,680 including VAT, provides customers with a stripped-back alternative to the fully-equipped California models, featuring only swivel front seats and a pop-up roof with an empty rear cabin. The new offering represents a significant saving of almost £12,000 compared to the entry-level California Beach, which currently starts at £64,417. According to Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, the vehicle comes without rear seating, kitchen facilities, or even floor covering in the cargo area, making it ideal for professional…
BMW is preparing a significant facelift for its M5 Touring, less than three years after the current model’s debut. Prototype testing in Arctic conditions has revealed the high-performance estate will receive comprehensive exterior and interior updates, with the revised BMW M5 Touring expected to arrive in showrooms during 2027. The updates will be applied across the entire 5 Series lineup as part of a mid-cycle refresh. Spy photographs show the prototype wearing heavy camouflage, though the most substantial changes are concentrated at the front of the vehicle. According to reports, the updated model will adopt design language inspired by BMW’s…
Uber Eats is preparing to enter the Greek delivery market in 2026, marking a significant development in the country’s competitive food delivery landscape. According to a senior executive of the American company, Greece has been included in an expansion plan covering seven new European markets, a move that has already sparked considerable interest among industry observers and existing market players. The announcement comes as Greece’s food delivery sector has matured significantly, with established companies having invested tens of millions of euros to build their customer bases. The ready-to-eat food and coffee delivery market is estimated to approach or exceed €1.5…
Over the past week, senior Trump administration officials have repeatedly positioned Greece as a central hub in the United States’ evolving energy strategy in Europe, citing recent agreements in Athens as a model for expanding American LNG exports across the continent. The message surfaced first at a forum hosted by the Foundation for Defense of Democracies in Washington and was reiterated days later at the Munich Security Conference, where White House energy officials publicly praised Greece’s role in advancing the Vertical Corridor linking Southern and Eastern Europe to U.S. supply. Taken together, the appearances offer a clearer view of how…
Greece’s public debt continues to decline as a share of gross domestic product, extending a multiyear trend of fiscal consolidation that has drawn praise from international creditors. However, the country is projected to maintain the highest debt-to-GDP ratio in Europe through at least 2036, according to the latest European Commission debt sustainability report. While short-term and long-term risks are considered low, medium-term vulnerabilities remain elevated due to the scale of outstanding obligations and the economy’s sensitivity to external shocks. The latest projections show general government debt falling below 140 percent of GDP in 2026, reaching 138.2 percent, its lowest level…
Viva.com has launched a new banking service for tourism businesses at the HORECA 2026 exhibition, introducing reservation prepayments via factoring to help small and midsize seasonal enterprises secure working capital during the off-season. The European technology bank unveiled the service as a continent-wide first, specifically designed to address liquidity challenges faced by tourism operators before peak season begins. The company is showcasing the innovative solution at HORECA 2026 in Hall 2, Stand 25, where representatives are engaging with tourism industry professionals. According to the announcement, viva.com operates in 24 countries and positions itself as Europe’s leading technology bank for businesses.…
A former energy minister of Cyprus has issued a strong warning about the future of the Great Sea Interconnector, claiming that local interests are sabotaging efforts to link the island to Greece’s electricity grid. Giorgos Papanastasiou told Cypriot newspaper Politis that vested interests are portraying any new electricity source entering the small Cypriot market as a threat, particularly if it is not controlled locally. Cyprus remains the only European Union member state not connected to any other national electricity grid, relying entirely on domestic power generation. Papanastasiou emphasized that a country in energy isolation must find ways to achieve interconnection…
Chevron Corp. is set to sign agreements on Monday, February 16, granting the U.S. energy giant rights to explore and potentially exploit hydrocarbons in four offshore blocks in Greece. The contracts will be signed at noon at the Acropolis Museum in Athens, marking one of the most significant entries by an American energy major into Greece’s upstream sector in recent years. The agreements follow Chevron’s victory last October in a tender conducted by the Hellenic Hydrocarbons and Energy Resources Management Company, according to reports. Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou and HEREMA CEO Aris Stefatos will sign on behalf of…
A senior Trump administration energy official has praised recent energy cooperation agreements between the United States and Greece, highlighting their strategic importance for European energy security. Jarrod Agen, executive director of the National Energy Dominance Council, delivered the remarks Saturday at the Munich Security Conference, emphasizing Greece’s role in US LNG distribution to Europe. During his address at the high-profile international security gathering, Agen specifically recognized Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou, who was present in the audience. The executive director singled out the minister for what he described as an adulatory acknowledgment of Greece’s energy partnership efforts. Vertical…
Five European governments have concluded that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was killed by poisoning with a deadly toxin while imprisoned in an Arctic penal colony in February 2024. Britain, France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands announced in a joint statement on Saturday that laboratory analyses of samples from Navalny’s body confirmed the presence of epibatidine, a lethal neurotoxin naturally found only in South American poison dart frogs. The governments stated their findings were based on comprehensive testing that “conclusively” identified the toxin, which does not occur naturally in Russia. Navalny, a prominent Kremlin critic, died while serving a lengthy…
Italy’s iconic “Lovers’ Arch” collapsed on Valentine’s Day after days of severe storms battered the Adriatic coastline, local authorities confirmed. The natural rock formation, located in Sant’Andrea di Melendugno in the Salento region, had long served as a cherished landmark for couples and a popular destination for marriage proposals along Italy’s southeastern coast. Mayor Maurizio Cisternino of Melendugno described the loss as “a devastating blow” to the community, while deputy mayor for tourism Francesco Stella compared the collapse to “a funeral.” Local officials reported that strong winds, torrential rain, and turbulent seas gradually eroded the rock structure until it finally…
Greek consumers spent up to 74% on apparel and footwear during the period between February 12 and February 14, 2025, as Valentine’s Day shopping reached its peak, according to recent market research. The data reveals significant consumer spending patterns during the annual celebration of romance and commitment, with multiple retail categories experiencing notable increases in sales activity. A study conducted by Klarna firm analyzed Valentine’s Day spending trends and identified the top retail categories that benefited from the occasion. Jewelry, particularly rings, captured 68% of consumer spending in its category, securing second place overall behind apparel and footwear. Spa services…
President Donald Trump has repealed the endangerment finding for greenhouse gas emissions, eliminating the scientific determination that carbon pollution threatens public health and scrapping federal vehicle emissions standards. The administration characterized the action as the largest deregulatory measure in United States history, reversing a cornerstone of federal climate policy established under President Barack Obama. The move rescinds the 2009 endangerment finding that allowed the Environmental Protection Agency to regulate greenhouse gases under the Clean Air Act. According to the administration, the repeal also ends federal greenhouse gas emissions standards for cars and trucks nationwide. EPA Justifies Greenhouse Gas Emissions Repeal…
Eurobank Equities has maintained its market recommendation for Metlen Energy & Metals with a target price of 56.20 euros, despite the company’s recent profit warning and revised EBITDA forecast. The brokerage firm announced its position on Friday following Metlen’s downward revision of its 2025 EBITDA guidance to 750 million euros, representing a significant adjustment to the metals and industrial group’s financial outlook. According to the metals and industrial group, the new EBITDA forecast for 2025 stands 25 percent lower than previously projected. The revision comes as Metlen navigates operational challenges that have impacted its near-term financial performance expectations. Factors Behind…
Greek Finance Minister Kyriakos Pierrakakis has outlined an ambitious vision for Greece’s economic competitiveness, declaring that the country seeks to measure itself against top global performers rather than settling for regional comparisons. Speaking ahead of an appearance at a Grant Thornton Greece event in Heraklion on Thursday, Pierrakakis emphasized that Greece has fundamentally transformed since 2019 and is no longer satisfied with marginal improvements. The finance minister, who also serves as acting President of the Eurogroup, made his remarks via social media, highlighting Crete as an example of Greece’s evolving economic model. According to Pierrakakis, the island is demonstrating how…
A recent POLITICO Poll reveals that citizens across Western countries increasingly fear the outbreak of World War 3 within the next five years. The survey, which sampled populations from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, shows a majority of respondents believe the world is becoming more dangerous. Crucially, American, Canadian, French, and British participants view the likelihood of a third world war as more probable than not by 2031. This represents a sharp increase from polling conducted in March 2025 by Public First on the same question. According to Seb Wride, head of Public First, the…
A fatal shooting at South Carolina State University left two people dead and one injured on the evening of February 12, prompting a campus-wide curfew that lasted several hours. The incident occurred at approximately 9:15 p.m. local time in a room at Hugine Suites dormitory, according to a Facebook post by the university administration. The predominantly African-American institution has not yet confirmed whether a suspect has been apprehended. University officials announced the shooting through social media, noting that they have not released the identities of the victims or provided details about the condition of the injured person. The administration imposed…
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump are scheduled to meet with special forces troops who participated in the controversial capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro at Fort Bragg. The visit comes in recognition of the military personnel involved in Operation Absolute Resolve, which resulted in Maduro’s capture in Caracas on the night of January 3rd, 2026. The operation to capture Nicolas Maduro has sparked international debate over sovereignty and military intervention. According to Venezuelan officials, the military operation resulted in 83 deaths and left 112 people injured during the assault, which included US bombing raids on the Venezuelan…
Greek tax authorities have dismantled a major fraud network involving 380 sham businesses after deploying artificial intelligence technology to track suspicious financial patterns. The independent tax bureau (AADE) announced that 11 alleged masterminds were arrested following coordinated raids in the greater Athens area, with the tax evasion scheme utilizing 205 individuals, predominantly foreign nationals, as front operators for fake companies. According to AADE, the businesses primarily posed as food-and-beverage establishments and computer retail stores. Police and tax inspectors conducted early morning operations at multiple residences to apprehend the suspects behind the elaborate scheme. AI Technology Exposes Tax Evasion Network The…
Greece’s annual inflation rate reached 2.5% in January 2026 compared to the same month a year earlier, according to data released by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT). Consumer prices fell 0.8% on a monthly basis from December 2025, reflecting typical post-holiday price adjustments in the Greek economy. On a rolling 12-month basis, the Consumer Price Index for the period covering February 2025 through January 2026 rose 2.5%, down slightly from the 2.7% increase recorded in the previous comparable period. This modest deceleration suggests that overall price growth may be stabilizing after months of elevated inflation pressures across the eurozone. Food…
Greece is launching a sweeping response to water scarcity with an infrastructure program valued at approximately €10 billion through 2040, marking one of the largest public works initiatives in the nation’s recent history. The first phase, estimated at €3.5 billion, is already underway and focuses primarily on the Athens metropolitan area, where authorities have declared a state of emergency to expedite critical water infrastructure projects. Government officials say the program reflects a shift in how water scarcity is perceived, moving from a seasonal concern to a fundamental infrastructure challenge requiring comprehensive intervention. At the center of the initiative is EYDAP,…
A French diplomat has denied allegations of transferring confidential United Nations documents to deceased financier Jeffrey Epstein, according to his legal representative. Fabrice Aidan, a mid-level career diplomat, faces accusations related to sharing sensitive UN materials with Epstein between 2010 and 2016, prompting both French and UN investigations into the matter. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot acknowledged the gravity of the situation on Thursday, describing the accusations as “extremely serious.” The minister confirmed that prosecutors have been notified and disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against Aidan within France’s foreign ministry. Background of the UN Document Transfer Allegations Aidan joined France’s…