Sponsored Content
Latest News about Other Industries
Read the latest headlines about developments in other industries in Vienna and Austria
The Western Balkan Mafia and its Operations: Vienna's Most Dangerous Shadow War
It is a hidden war that has long since left its mark in the heart of Vienna: The merciless power struggle between the Kavač and Škaljari clans, two of the most powerful drug cartels in Europe, is shaking not only their home country of Montenegro but also Austria and the rest of the world. One of Europe's most wanted criminals from these cartels has vanished into thin air. Austria is determined to track him down.
April 28, 2025
Peter Edelmann Takes Over the Directorship of Klosterneuburg Opera with Puccini's “Tosca” as a Prelude
The renowned opera festival “operklosterneuburg” is entering a new era in 2025 with a breath of fresh air and great artistic ambition: the internationally renowned baritone and experienced opera director Peter Edelmann has been introduced as artistic director. His first season gets off to a spectacular start, with a new production of Giacomo Puccini's opera classic “Tosca”, which premieres on July 5, 2025, in the venerable imperial court of the Augustinian canons' monastery.
April 24, 2025 · Sponsored Content
Austrian Company Palmers: Hope for Rescue by International Investor
The traditional Austrian underwear manufacturer Palmers, which had to file for insolvency in February 2025, may be about to be rescued by a foreign investor. The regional court in Wiener Neustadt has decided that the company can continue to operate for now, but financial support is urgently needed.
April 24, 2025
Austria Wants to Attract U.S. Researchers to Europe as a Science Location
In view of drastic cuts in research funding by the US government under President Donald Trump, the American scientific landscape is currently experiencing considerable turbulence. This development offers European countries, especially Austria, the opportunity to attract highly qualified researchers and strengthen their own research location.
April 17, 2025
Tyrolean Biotech Company Cyprumed Closes 493 Million Dollar Deal with American MSD
The Innsbruck-based biotechnology company Cyprumed GmbH is making international headlines with a multi-million dollar license deal: Together with the U.S. pharmaceutical group MSD (Merck & Co., Inc.), the company has signed an agreement worth up to 493 million US dollars. The aim is to develop innovative tablet formulations for peptide drugs - a potential game changer in modern drug therapies.
April 15, 2025
Austria's Verbund Takes Over 272 MW Wind Project in Romania
The partly state-owned Austrian energy group Verbund has acquired a fully developed wind power project with a capacity of 272 megawatts (MW) from the Monsson Group via its Romanian subsidiary Verbund Wind Power Romania. The project is located in Caraș-Severin County in southwestern Romania and is expected to drive forward the energy transition in Europe.
April 10, 2025
FACC Recovers Millions Lost in Sophisticated Fraud Scheme: Spotlight on China’s Role in International Asset Recovery
Austrian aerospace manufacturer FACC, based in Ried im Innkreis, has finally recovered €10.8 million, nearly a decade after falling victim to one of the largest corporate fraud cases in the country's history. The case, which involved deceptive emails, impersonation of top executives, and complex international money transfers, not only reshaped the company’s internal controls but also tested the limits of global legal cooperation—especially between Austria and China, where a portion of the stolen money had been frozen for years.
April 10, 2025
Vienna Plans Traffic-Restricted Inner City with Camera-Based Access Control
After years of discussion, the traffic restriction measures in Vienna's inner city are about to be implemented. A planned amendment to the Road Traffic Act (StVO) is to create the legal framework for automated camera access management. This amendment is being submitted to the government by Transport Minister Peter Hanke (SPÖ) and is due to come into force on January 1, 2026.
April 6, 2025
China's Ambassador Visits the Austrian Theatres-Holding in Vienna
The recent visit of Chinese Ambassador Qi Mei to the Bundestheater-Holding underlines the increasing importance of cultural exchange between Austria and China. The focus is on joint theater projects, artist exchanges, and the strengthening of bilateral relations in the performing arts.
April 2, 2025
Taxes Rising, Deficit Growing: Austria Faces EU Criminal Proceedings
Austria is threatened with EU deficit proceedings - at 4.7 percent of GDP, the budget deficit is well above the Maastricht limit. To counteract this, the federal government is taking the first noticeable steps - above all, tax increases on tobacco, betting, e-vehicles, and court fees. However, experts warn that the road to budget consolidation is rocky and politically explosive.
April 1, 2025
India and the IAEA Intensify Cooperation: Focus on Nuclear Energy for Development and Health
During a high-level visit to India, Rafael Mariano Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), is strengthening cooperation with New Delhi in the areas of nuclear energy, training and the fight against cancer. A new hub for cancer treatment, a course in nuclear technology, and a clear geopolitical signal are the focus.
April 1, 2025
Ambassador Qi Mei Visits the University of Vienna: Sinology as a Bridge between China and Austria
In the spirit of bilateral relations between China and Austria, the Chinese Ambassador to Austria, Qi Mei, paid an official visit to the Department of East Asian Studies and Sinology at the University of Vienna. Her visit underlined the growing importance of academic exchange and intercultural understanding in an increasingly interconnected world.
April 1, 2025
Rediscovered Turner on Offer in Vienna for 38 Million Euros
A true treasure of art history is currently on sale at the Artziwna Gallery in Vienna: A rediscovered painting by the British Romantic painter William Turner is up for direct sale for a whopping 38 million euros.
March 31, 2025
Beware of Online Fraud when Buying Vignettes
Beware when buying highway vignettes online: Fraudsters shamelessly exploit the search for cheap offers. Drivers are increasingly falling for fraudulent websites when purchasing vignettes, sometimes losing huge sums of money in the process. ASFINAG is now issuing another urgent warning about fake stores and giving important tips on how to protect yourself from such scams.
March 26, 2025
Signa Insolvency: Trustee in Bankruptcy Demands the Return of Gifts From Nathalie Benko
Real estate and trading mogul René Benko has been in custody in the Vienna-Josefstadt prison since January 24, 2025. Meanwhile, bankruptcy trustee Andreas Grabenweger is trying to shed light on the complex asset structures surrounding the Signa Group and uncover possible asset shifts.
March 24, 2025
Expressionism in a New Light: Schiele Meets Nosferatu at the Heidi Horten Collection
With the exhibition “Experiment Expressionism - Schiele meets Nosferatu”, the Heidi Horten Collection in Vienna is opening an impressive show that brings painting and film art into a fascinating dialog.
March 23, 2025
Swarovski Back on the Road to Success: Lux-Ignite Strategy Shows Results
After years of challenges, the Tyrolean crystal group Swarovski is back on the road to success. For the first time in five years, the company is in the black and recorded a significant increase in sales in the 2024 financial year. Thanks to the ambitious Lux-ignite strategy and a strong fourth quarter, CEO Alexis Nasard succeeded in returning the long-established company to profitability. But it was not an easy road.
March 20, 2025
Glamor and Diplomacy at the Diplomatic Ball 2025 in Vienna
On April 12, 2025, the Diplomatic Academy of Vienna will once again open its magnificent doors for the annual Diplomatic Ball. For the 30th time, the historic building will be the setting for a glittering evening where diplomats, students, and personalities from business and politics celebrate together. The ball is not only a social highlight, but also a stage for international networking - and all for a good cause.
March 20, 2025
Economic Forum in Vienna: Poland and Austria in Dialogue on Security and Economy
As part of the Polish EU Council Presidency, the high-caliber forum “Ensuring Security and Freedom of Business - Polish and Austrian Perspectives” took place at the headquarters of the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKÖ). The event, which was organized by the Polish Embassy in Vienna in cooperation with the WKÖ, brought together over 130 representatives from public institutions, business organizations, and various industries from both countries. The event aimed to discuss current challenges and opportunities in the areas of energy security, digital transformation, and economic policy at the EU level.
March 19, 2025
The Austrian Institute of Technology Aims to Become a Leading Institution in Applying Modern AI Methods
The Austrian Institute of Technology (AIT) is pursuing ambitious goals: It wants to establish itself as a leading institution for applying modern artificial intelligence (AI) methods. At the heart of this strategy is the “AI Factory Austria” (AI:AT), a flagship project to strengthen the Austrian AI sector and promote the country's technological sovereignty. With European co-financing and broad support from business and science, the initiative is seen as a milestone for Austria as a location for innovation.
March 19, 2025
Steyr Motors Flying High: Defense Business and Expansion Drive Growth
The Austrian specialty engine manufacturer Steyr Motors is experiencing a remarkable economic upswing. Thanks to the increased demand for military technology, in particular high-performance engines for armored vehicles and special boats, the company was able to significantly increase its sales and profits. In addition, consistent expansion in Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa is ensuring further growth.
March 18, 2025
Austria Plans Decision on Long-Range Missile Defense by 2028
The Austrian government has set itself the goal of making a decision on the acquisition of a long-range air defense system by 2028.
March 14, 2025
Increasing Risk of Espionage for Austrian IT Companies
Austrian companies are increasingly being targeted by foreign intelligence services. According to a recent study by the Directorate of State Security and Intelligence (DSN) in the Ministry of the Interior, which was carried out in cooperation with the Chamber of Commerce and the Federation of Austrian Industries, almost one in ten companies stated that they had already been the victim of espionage. The IT sector is particularly affected. Experts also assume that the number of unreported cases is high.
March 13, 2025
Westbahn Expands: New high-speed Connection on the Southern Line From 2026
Westbahn is taking the next big step: From March 1, 2026, the private railroad company will offer five daily train connections between Vienna and Villach via the newly constructed Koralm Railway. With modern high-speed trains and a fast direct connection, Westbahn represents a serious alternative to ÖBB - especially for commuters and business travelers.
March 13, 2025
German Warning Strikes also Affect Air Traffic in Austria
A day-long warning strike at the most important German airports will not only bring air traffic in Germany to a standstill but will also have a significant impact on Austria. The German trade union ver.di has called for work stoppages at a total of 13 airports, including Munich, Stuttgart, Frankfurt, Cologne/Bonn, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Hanover, Bremen, Hamburg, Berlin-Brandenburg and Leipzig-Halle. Public service and ground handling employees are affected.
March 9, 2025
Dorothy Khadem-Missagh: A Milestone for Women in the Conducting World
The Vienna Musikverein experienced a special event: the Lower Austrian pianist and conductor Dorothy Khadem-Missagh made her debut as a conductor in this renowned concert hall on the occasion of International Women's Day. Conducting the Beethoven Spring Festival Orchestra, which she founded, she presented a program that paid tribute to strong women in music history.
March 9, 2025
Luxury Villa Becomes Wellness Hotel: Benko Family Leaves Estate in Igls
Following the insolvency of Signa and the imprisonment of company founder René Benko, his family is leaving the luxury villa in Igls. The property is to be converted into a wellness hotel. Meanwhile, a court ruling makes new headlines in the Benko case.
March 9, 2025
WIKAM 2025: A Celebration of Art in the Heart of Vienna
The Vienna International Art and Antiques Fair (WIKAM) will again open its doors at the historic Palais Ferstel from March 8 to 16, 2025. As one of Austria's most renowned art fairs, it offers art lovers and collectors an exquisite selection of works ranging from classical to modern art.
March 6, 2025 · Sponsored Content
Austrian Government Program Promoting Researchers: Universities Between Approval and Criticism
The new government program presented by the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS has caused mixed reactions in the science and higher education community. While the research community is positive about the plans to strengthen research funding and innovation promotion, universities are warning of problematic changes to the higher education sector.
March 5, 2025
Austria's Real Estate Market Continues to Weaken: Hope for Recovery in 2025
Economic uncertainty, high interest rates, and strict lending guidelines also left their mark on the Austrian real estate market in 2024. While prices and transaction volumes fell in some federal states, Vienna recorded growth. Experts see opportunities for a recovery in the coming year.
March 5, 2025
New Economics Minister Hattmannsdorfer Against the Deindustrialization of Austria and Europe
Dr. Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) sent out a signal for the importance of industry in Austria with his first official company visit as Minister of Economic Affairs. The trip took him to his hometown of Linz to voestalpine, where he emphasized that the business location is facing decisive challenges. The new minister assured that “the stop button for industrial migration” would be pressed with the new government program.
March 5, 2025
Richard Cockett on Vienna as the Center of the “Scientific Worldview” - A Legacy in Danger?
Vienna was once a center of groundbreaking ideas. In his lecture at ISTA, Dr. Richard Cockett, historian, and economist-journalist, sheds light on how the city shaped science, philosophy, and art - and why its legacy is more important than ever today.
March 4, 2025
New General Manager at Park Hyatt Vienna: Bastian Baumann Takes Over the Luxury Hotel
The renowned Park Hyatt Vienna will have a new General Manager from the beginning of 2025: Styrian-born Bastian Baumann will take over the management of the luxury hotel, bringing with him an impressive international career. After several positions in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, he is now returning to Austria to lead the Hotel am Hof into the future with fresh ideas and a clear focus on the highest quality of service.
March 3, 2025
Rise in Corporate Insolvencies in Austria Reaches New High
The tense economic situation led to a significant increase in corporate insolvencies in Austria in 2024. According to the latest data from Creditreform, around 6,700 company bankruptcies were recorded, an increase of 22% compared to the previous year.
February 24, 2025
Austria Strengthens Commitment to IAEA in Tackling Nuclear Security Challenges
Austrian Chancellor and Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg met with Rafael Grossi, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), to discuss pressing global nuclear issues. Their talks covered Iran’s nuclear program, security risks in Ukraine, and the IAEA’s role in international disarmament efforts.
February 23, 2025
Austria’s Researchers Stand out in Innovation and Commercialization of Scientific Discoveries
Austria's research community continues to stand out in Europe, excelling not only in fundamental scientific discoveries but also in successfully bringing innovations to market. A recent analysis by the European Research Council (ERC) highlights the ability of Austrian scientists to commercialize their patented inventions, often through licensing agreements or the establishment of startups.
February 23, 2025
Increase in Naturalizations in Austria in 2024
In 2024, Austria recorded a notable rise in naturalizations, with 21,891 individuals acquiring citizenship. This represents an increase of 9.8% compared to the previous year, reversing the decline observed in 2023.
February 19, 2025
Strengthening Cultural Education: New Collaborations Between Schools and Cultural Institutions
Cultural education plays a crucial role in shaping young minds, fostering creativity, and encouraging new ways of thinking. In Austria, the "culture connected" initiative is helping to bridge the gap between schools and the arts by supporting innovative collaborations between educational institutions and cultural organizations.
February 18, 2025
Deadly Knife Attack in Villach: 14-Year-Old Killed, Five Injured
A shocking knife attack in Villach, Austria, has left a 14-year-old boy dead and five others injured. The attack, which occurred on the afternoon of February 15, was carried out by a 23-year-old Syrian man who, according to authorities, may have been radicalized through online platforms.
February 17, 2025
Austrian Customs Rescued Numerous Dogs and Cats from Smugglers
In 2024, Austrian customs officials rescued 138 dogs and cats from smugglers, marking a record high compared to previous years. The majority of these animals, often very young puppies and kittens, were discovered in poor conditions during routine border checks.
February 16, 2025
Equal Pay Day 2025: Highlighting the Ongoing Gender Pay Gap
Equal Pay Day is a significant reminder of the persistent income disparity between men and women. This symbolic day marks the point in the year until which women have effectively worked "for free" compared to their male counterparts, based on the gender pay gap.
February 13, 2025
Surge in Demand for Houses as Prices Decline Across Austrian Regions
Austria’s real estate market underwent a dynamic transformation in 2024, marked by a significant surge in the demand for single-family homes alongside fluctuating property prices across the country. While potential homeowners increasingly entered the market, drawn by improved financing conditions and relaxed credit regulations, regional price trends revealed a complex picture.
February 12, 2025
Steyr Arms Pushes Expansion - Austria as a Location in Danger?
The Austrian arms manufacturer Steyr Arms, part of the Czech investment group RSBC since 2024, is planning extensive expansion in the US and European markets. At the same time, the site in Austria is coming under pressure as export licenses are being delayed. While the company management wants to secure the future of the traditional business with new strategic decisions, a relocation could be considered.
February 11, 2025
Austria’s Population Approaches 9.2 Million, Growth Slows in 2024
Austria's population continues to grow, but at a noticeably slower pace than in recent years. While Vienna remains the primary driver of population growth, with the highest increase among all federal states, other regions like Burgenland experienced slight declines. The data also reveals a growing proportion of foreign nationals, now accounting for over 20% of Austria’s population.
February 11, 2025
Increase in Business Insolvencies in Austria Amid Economic Challenges
Austria's business landscape saw a challenging year in 2024, with a significant increase in corporate insolvencies driven by economic factors such as rising inflation, recession, and the end of pandemic-related support. While businesses struggled, a notable rise in new company formations offered a mixed picture.
February 9, 2025
Scientists Warn Against Potential FPÖ-Led Government
Fearing for the country's democratic foundations and the integrity of its research institutions, leading scientists and scholars have united their voices in an open letter against a potential FPÖ-led Government. Their message is clear: the future of Austria’s liberal democracy, human rights, and academic freedom hangs in the balance.
February 6, 2025
Labor Market in Austria 2024: Number of Vacancies Significantly Decreased
The Austrian labor market is facing an apparent contradiction: while companies are complaining about an acute shortage of skilled workers, vacancies fell significantly in 2024. Rising unemployment figures meet unfilled positions, and many industries are struggling with economic uncertainties. What is behind this development?
February 6, 2025
Austria Commemorates the 80th Anniversary of Auschwitz Liberation
January 27, 2025, marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp. This milestone was being observed with solemn ceremonies in Austria and at the historic site in Poland, where world leaders, Holocaust survivors, and dignitaries gathered to honor the victims and reinforce the commitment to remembrance.
February 5, 2025
Vienna Hosted European Cities Conference on Democracy
Two-day summit fosters exchange on citizen participation and democratic innovation. The event served as a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing best practices, and forging new alliances.
February 3, 2025
Rene Benko Arrested: From “Wunderwuzzi” to the Protagonist of a Billion-Dollar Scandal
Rene Benko, once a celebrated real estate entrepreneur and founder of the Signa Group, was arrested at his villa in Innsbruck. The Public Prosecutor's Office for Economic Affairs and Corruption (WKStA) in Vienna justified the arrest warrant because of the risk of concealment and the commission of a crime. Benko is suspected of concealing assets and manipulating evidence. His arrest marks the climax of one of the biggest business scandals in Austrian history.
January 24, 2025
Fast News Search
This category only
