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After Deliberations, Austria's Government Presents Billion-Euro Package in Mauerbach
In a two-day closed-door summit, the federal government, consisting of the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS parties, set the course for 2026. With the formula “2-1-0”—two percent inflation, one percent growth, and zero tolerance for violations of the law—the team led by Chancellor Christian Stocker aims to lead Austria out of economic stagnation.
Yesterday
Austria's OMV Loses to Gazprom in Russian Court of Appeal
The legal dispute between Austrian energy company OMV and Russian state-owned giant Gazprom is entering a new phase. An appeals court in St. Petersburg dismissed an appeal by OMV. This means that the ban imposed in Russia on continuing arbitration proceedings in Sweden remains in place, with penalties amounting to millions of dollars for violations.
Yesterday
Silk Road Meets Vienna: Turkic Week Provides Impulse for Global Networking
The Austrian capital becomes a center for Turkic-speaking diplomacy and culture. Under the patronage of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) and the permanent missions of its member states to the United Nations (UN), “Turkic Week” was officially opened. The program combines centuries-old heritage with forward-looking infrastructure projects such as the “Middle Corridor.”
January 13, 2026
After 25 Years Mercosur Agreement Reached: Austria Torn Between Export Euphoria and Farmers' Fears
After a quarter of a century of negotiations, the European Union has paved the way for the world's largest free trade agreement. While Austrian industry is calling it a “historic milestone,” the agricultural sector is bitterly disappointed.
January 12, 2026
OPEC+: Alliance of Eight Countries Slows Oil Production Until Spring 2026
In a time of global economic uncertainty and heightened geopolitical tensions, OPEC+ remains a dominant force in the worldwide oil industry. At a virtual meeting, the eight leading member states decided to suspend the planned production increases for the coming months for the time being.
January 12, 2026
Between Fiscal Discipline and a Wave of Bankruptcies in Austria: Finance Minister Marterbauer Slows Down Ahead of Government Retreat
Before the start of the government retreat, Finance Minister Markus Marterbauer (SPÖ) drew a clear red line. Despite a historic record year for corporate insolvencies, he warns against “expensive wishes” from the business community. While the industry is insisting on relief, the Ministry of Finance is focusing on targeted structural support rather than broad tax cuts.
January 12, 2026
U.S. Announces Withdrawal from 66 Different International Organizations
In an unprecedented move, the United States under President Donald Trump has announced its withdrawal from 66 international organizations and treaties. UN Secretary-General António Guterres responded with deep regret, but emphasized the international community's determination to continue its work even without Washington.
January 8, 2026
From Dishwasher to Top Diplomat: The Extraordinary Odyssey of Fate Velaj
It is a story that life rarely writes: in 1991, Fatmir Velaj arrived in Austria as a penniless refugee from Albania. Today, 35 years later, he resides in Vienna as ambassador for his home country. His path took him from the dishwashing kitchen to the factory floor and on to the highest circles of art and diplomacy.
January 8, 2026
Diplomacy in Times of Conflict: Switzerland Takes the Helm of the OSCE
At the start of a period of the deepest diplomatic freeze since the end of the Cold War, Switzerland officially took over the chairmanship of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) at the beginning of the year. For Federal Councillor Ignazio Cassis, the mission is clear: “where diplomacy seems impossible, it becomes most important.”
January 8, 2026
Dance Fever Defies Economic Downturn: The 2026 Ball Season as an Economic Driver
While the Austrian economy is struggling to emerge from recession, a long-standing tradition is ensuring full coffers in the retail sector: the ball season. Despite tight budgets, Austrians are not letting anything dampen their enthusiasm for dancing. According to the latest Consumer Check by the Austrian Retail Association, one in six citizens (17%) plans to attend at least one dance event this year. The younger generation, in particular, is driving this trend forward.
January 8, 2026
CEOs Ranked for 2025: ORF Chief Weißmann Reigns Over Austria's Business Elite
Those who feature in Austria's media landscape often determine the country's discourse. The current CEO ranking by PR service provider APA-Comm for the period from October 2024 to September 2025 shows that a historic music event and shifts in sporting power have shaken up the ranking of the most prominent company bosses. While an old acquaintance triumphs at the top, the proportion of women in executive positions is struggling with a severe setback.
December 29, 2025
Epstein Files Reach Vienna: Fake Austrian Passport and Secret Mission at Café Landtmann
Years after his death in a New York prison cell, the Jeffrey Epstein case still casts a long shadow over Austrian domestic politics. Newly released files from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) now reveal explosive details about a travel document that nearly cost Epstein his freedom when he was arrested in July 2019: a forged Austrian passport.
December 23, 2025
Japans Nuclear Turnaround: World's Largest Nuclear Power Plant Returns to the Grid, IAEA Confirms Safety at Fukushima
Almost 15 years after the triple disaster in Fukushima, Japan is making a radical U-turn in its energy policy. While the damaged Fukushima Daiichi power plant remains a task for generations to come, the country is preparing to restart the world's most powerful nuclear power plant. This course is supported by a recent report from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which gives Japan an excellent rating for its disposal of filtered cooling water.
December 22, 2025
Middle East Crisis on 70th Anniversary: Wave of Boycotts Shakes Eurovision 2026 in Vienna
What was supposed to be a glittering celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) at the Wiener Stadthalle is turning into the most serious diplomatic crisis in the history of the competition. While the slogan “United by Music” is emblazoned across the preparations for May 2026, the European broadcasting landscape is more deeply divided than ever before.
December 22, 2025
Vienna as a Bridge for Diplomacy: The United States and Austria Reaffirm Their Strategic Alliance
In the midst of a global political realignment, government representatives from the United States and Austria convened their latest “Strategic Dialogue” in Vienna. In addition to record economic figures, the talks focused primarily on peace efforts in Ukraine and the Middle East, as well as closer military cooperation.
December 21, 2025
Fight Against Human Smugglers: ICMPD Susanne Raab Calls for “Real Alternatives” to Illegal Migration in Brussels
New global strategies against migrant smuggling were presented in Brussels. Susanne Raab, the designated Director General of the International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD), used the stage of the second international conference of the Global Alliance against Human Trafficking to make a clear plea for legal migration routes and increased protection against human trafficking.
December 18, 2025
Austrians Call for a Tougher Stance and Clear Rules for Immigrants
The latest "Integration Barometer" published by the Austrian Integration Fund (ÖIF) indicates that skepticism regarding the arrival of refugees is increasing, along with more frequent calls for adaptation to "Austrian culture" and measures for individuals perceived as unwilling to integrate. Integration Minister Claudia Plakolm (ÖVP) has now announced a tightening of measures.
December 18, 2025
Explosive Legal Dispute in Vienna: Is Russia Facing the Expropriation of Dozens of Properties for Ukraine?
The Ukrainian energy company Naftogaz has secured a multi-billion-euro arbitration ruling. The Vienna District Court has approved the auction of properties worth over €120 million. The Austrian Foreign Ministry is examining the issue of immunity.
December 16, 2025
Trump's "America First" Policy Divides Europe: The New U.S. Security Strategy Causes an Uproar in Austria
President Donald Trump's recently published National Security Strategy (NSS) for 2025 is causing a stir in Europe. The 33-page document, which sets out the US foreign and security policy guidelines, is being interpreted by experts as a drastic departure from traditional transatlantic partnerships and as an ideological declaration of war against the European Union, with Austria being targeted as a destabilizing force.
December 16, 2025
Chinese Delegation Strengthens Economic Ties in Styria
Relations between China and Austria, particularly with the province of Styria, were further strengthened by the visit of a high-ranking Chinese delegation. Ambassador Qi Mei of the People's Republic of China in Austria led a delegation from the Association of Chinese Enterprises in Austria (VCUOe) on a study trip to the federal state.
December 15, 2025
200 Years of Partnership: Austria and Brazil Strengthen Economic Cooperation in Vienna
As part of the 200th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Austria and Brazil, the 3rd meeting of the Joint Austrian-Brazilian Economic Commission (JEC) took place in Vienna last week. This meeting, which brought together government and business representatives from both nations, marks a significant milestone in the bilateral partnership and reaffirms the shared desire to deepen cooperation.
December 8, 2025
OSCE Ministerial Council in Vienna: Between Principles, Pressure for Reform, and the War in Ukraine
The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) has concluded its 32nd Ministerial Council meeting in Vienna. The meeting, attended by over 1,200 participants from member states, partners, international organizations, and civil society, was dominated by Russia's ongoing aggression against Ukraine and the urgent need for internal reforms.
December 8, 2025
Former Pornhub Owner and Austrian Bergmair Eyes Lukoil's Foreign Business Under US Sanctions
According to insiders, Austrian businessman Bernd Bergmair, known as the former majority owner of the porn platform Pornhub, is considering investing in the foreign holdings of Russian oil giant Lukoil.
December 3, 2025
Vienna Summit on AI Regulation: Poland Presents Implementation of the AI Act
Central European experts gathered in Vienna to debate the future of artificial intelligence (AI). The high-profile event, entitled “Artificial Intelligence - Global Perspectives. Regulation, innovation and Impact across Industries,” was jointly organized by the Polish and Slovenian embassies in Vienna, with the support of the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna.
December 2, 2025
Former EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn Set to Take Over as National Bank President
According to media reports, former EU Commissioner Johannes Hahn (ÖVP) is set to take over the influential position of President of the General Council of the Austrian National Bank (OeNB).
December 2, 2025
Austria Finalizes Billion-Dollar Purchase: Twelve Italian Leonardo M-346-FA Jets to Replace Swedish Saab 105
Austria has completed the purchase of twelve Leonardo M-346-FA jets from Italy. This was announced by Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner and Economy Minister Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (both ÖVP). The new weapon-capable subsonic jets close a capability gap that had existed since 2020 due to the decommissioning of the Saab 105.
November 30, 2025
U.S. Ambassador Fisher Launches His Mission in Vienna: Diplomatic Talks and Focus on Transatlantic Partnership
The new United States Ambassador to Austria, Arthur “Art” Fisher, has held a series of important meetings during his first weeks in Vienna to reaffirm strong bilateral relations and discuss shared priorities. The North Carolina real estate entrepreneur described his new ambassadorial role as “the honor of his life.”
November 26, 2025
Austria and Italy Together With UNODC Urge Global Alliance Against Organized Crime
The threats posed by transnational organized crime are more complex, interconnected, and dangerous than ever before. In light of these developments, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen and Italian President Sergio Mattarella, together with Ghada Waly, Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), have called for renewed global solidarity.
November 26, 2025
EUSALP Annual Forum in Innsbruck Concludes With New Joint Action Plan
Cross-border cooperation in the Alpine region has reached a new milestone. At the General Assembly and Annual Forum of the EU Strategy for the Alpine Region (EUSALP) in Innsbruck, the new EUSALP Action Plan was adopted, setting out the strategy for the next ten years. At the same time, EUSALP, which brings together seven countries and 48 regions, celebrated its 10th anniversary and marked the end of the Austrian-Liechtenstein co-presidency in 2025.
November 26, 2025
Vienna Stock Exchange Celebrates Double Success: ATX Reaches All-Time High and CEO Contract Extended
The Vienna Stock Exchange is experiencing a historic day: after 18 years, the Austrian benchmark index ATX reached a new record high at closing on Wednesday. At the same time, the Supervisory Board announced the extension of CEO Christoph Boschan's contract for another five years.
November 26, 2025
Albania Gets Support from Meinl-Reisinger: Full EU Membership by 2030 is the Goal
Beate Meinl-Reisinger, Austria's Foreign Minister, wants to present her country as a reliable partner on Albania's path to the European Union. Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger reiterated this during her visit to Tirana, where she met with Prime Minister Edi Rama and her Albanian counterpart Elisa Spiropali.
November 25, 2025
Ryanair: Growth in Bratislava, Decline in Vienna
Irish low-cost airline Ryanair is pushing ahead with its expansion in Slovakia and has announced 70 percent growth for Bratislava Airport. At the same time, the company is sticking to its previously announced cuts in Vienna. Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary justified the change of course with the high costs in Austria and sharply criticized the Austrian government at press conferences.
November 25, 2025
Austria On Track: EU Commission Accepts Deficit Plans Despite Surprises
As part of its autumn package for the European Semester, the EU Commission has given Austria a positive assessment of its progress in the ongoing deficit procedure. Despite the expected higher budget deficits, particularly in some federal states, Vienna is certified to be on track to comply with EU requirements. No new requirements are expected for the time being. At the same time, the government's eagerly awaited industrial strategy is coming into focus, with leading economists calling for a “European dimension.”
November 25, 2025
OPEC and GECF Warn of Energy Crisis: Trillions in Investments in Oil and Gas Urgently Needed
At their Sixth High-Level Energy Dialogue in Vienna, the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF) issued an urgent appeal to the international community: in view of record-breaking growth in demand, massive and long-term investment in oil and gas production is essential. Without sufficient funding, there is a risk of a shortage in supply security.
November 23, 2025
India to Host Global AI Impact Summit 2026
India is positioning itself as a global pioneer in responsible and inclusive artificial intelligence (AI). The country will host the India–AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi on February 19 and 20, 2026. This is also being promoted by the Indian Embassy in Vienna.
November 20, 2025
Austria Appeals Against Taxonomy Ruling in Dispute over “Green” Nuclear Power and Gas
Austria is continuing its fight against the classification of nuclear energy and gas as sustainable under the EU Taxonomy Regulation. Following the rejection of its lawsuit by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) in Luxembourg in September, the Austrian government has now appealed against the ruling. This was announced by the Austrian Ministry of the Environment.
November 20, 2025
Austria's Economy: Once Again Bringing Up the Rear in EU Growth
Austria once again ranks among the bottom performers in the European Union in terms of economic development in 2026. The EU autumn economic forecast, presented in Brussels, predicts only 0.9 percent growth in gross domestic product (GDP) for the Alpine republic, the third-lowest figure among all EU countries. Only Ireland (+0.2 percent) and Italy (+0.8 percent) are expected to perform worse.
November 17, 2025
New U.S. Ambassador Art Fisher Arrives in Vienna
The new Ambassador of the United States of America to Austria, Arthur “Art” Fisher, has arrived in Vienna and officially taken up his post. Upon his arrival at Vienna Airport, the real estate entrepreneur from North Carolina emphasized the importance of the long-standing partnership between the two countries.
November 16, 2025
Chinese Embassy in Vienna Hosts Symposium on the 80th Anniversary of Taiwan's Return
A symposium marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's return to China was held at the Chinese Embassy in Austria. The event, attended by Chargé d'Affaires a.i. Zheng Xuan and representatives of the Chinese community in Austria, including compatriots from Taiwan, served to reaffirm China's position on the Taiwan issue and coincided with a series of similar commemorative events in China and other embassies around the world.
November 16, 2025
Unveiling of the Habsburg Jewelry Treasure Raises Legal Questions
The recently discovered Habsburg jewel treasure, including the legendary 137-carat Florentine Diamond, is not only causing a stir in aristocratic circles but also heated debates about ownership. For the emperor's grandson Karl Habsburg, the case is clear: it is “quite clearly the private property” of the family.
November 13, 2025
Austria's Defense Evolves: Neutrality, Threats, and the Future of the Military
The geopolitical situation in Europe is coming to a head, and Austria's traditional neutrality is more than ever at the center of a heated debate about the country's future defense capabilities. To better understand this area of tension, it is essential to examine the fundamentals, capabilities, and geopolitical role of the Austrian Armed Forces (ÖBH). This has already been discussed frequently in the media and paints a sobering picture.
November 13, 2025
STRABAG's Order Backlog Exceeds 30 Billion Mark for the First Time
The listed construction services technology group STRABAG SE reached a historic milestone in the first nine months of 2025: its order backlog rose by a remarkable 24 percent to a new record level of EUR 31.4 billion.
November 13, 2025
25 Years of the Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation: Transatlantic Bridge for Science and Innovation
The Austrian Marshall Plan Foundation celebrated its 25th anniversary at TUtheSky at the Vienna University of Technology. Under the motto “25 Years of Transatlantic Exchange,” the foundation brought together high-ranking representatives from politics, science, diplomacy, and numerous alumni to honor a quarter-century of successful transatlantic knowledge transfer between Austria and the United States.
November 13, 2025
Austria Sees Significant Increase in Naturalizations
Austria recorded a significant increase in naturalizations in the first three quarters of 2025. A total of 17,649 people were granted Austrian citizenship, representing an increase of 11.5 percent compared to the same period last year (15,824 naturalizations).
November 12, 2025
Austrian Banks with Capital Reserves Prove Resilient Despite Downturn
Despite Austria's longest, albeit not deepest, recession since World War II, domestic banks are in robust shape. Thanks to high profits in 2024, most of which were retained to strengthen the equity base, the Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio rose to an impressive 18.6 percent by mid-2025.
November 12, 2025
Meet Secretary General of AmCham, Karin Zeltner, the Bridge Builder for Transatlantic Relations
The American Chamber of Commerce in Austria (AmCham) has had a new Secretary General for some time now: Karin Zeltner. Born in Vienna in 1982, the expert is taking up her post at a time when transatlantic trade relations are not only of crucial importance to the Austrian economy, but are also significantly affected by the tariff dispute between the EU and the US.
November 11, 2025
Book Vienna 2025: Largest Exhibition Ever Focuses on Expansion, Internationality, and Debate
Buch Wien 25, from November 12 to 16, announces the largest edition in its history. Austria's largest book event is expanding to two exhibition halls at the Vienna Exhibition Center and extending its program to over 500 stage events with around 660 participants. The focus will be on a strong international orientation and in-depth debates on socially relevant topics such as AI, feminism, and religion.
November 11, 2025
Dimitre Dinev Wins Austrian Book Prize 2025 With “Time of the Brave”
The prestigious Austrian Book Prize 2025 goes to Bulgarian author Dimitré Dinev, who lives in Austria, for his monumental 1,150-page epic “Zeit der Mutigen” (Time of the Brave). The prize, worth €20,000, was awarded for the tenth time on Monday evening and marks the start of Buch Wien week at the Praterateliers in Vienna.
November 11, 2025
The Magnificent Villa Andrássy at Hohe Warte in Vienna is up for Sale for €18 Million
The Vienna real estate scene is currently being shaken up by a spectacular sales announcement: the magnificent Villa Andrássy in the exclusive Döbling cottage area, Hohe Warte, is up for sale. The asking price for the historic property, which is considered an architectural masterpiece, is €18.5 million.
November 10, 2025
Vienna Stock Exchange Launches CEE Thematic Indices on AI, Defense, and Ukraine's Reconstruction
The Vienna Stock Exchange (VSE) is reinforcing its role as a specialist for Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) and has expanded its index offering with three new, thematically focused benchmarks. The indices, which reflect the currently popular investment themes of digitalization, security, and reconstruction, are now being calculated. They offer investors the opportunity to invest specifically in companies in the CEE region that are expected to benefit from these long-term trends.
November 5, 2025
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