Stories

Europe’s winter weather has wreaked havoc on air travel, with heavy snow and freezing conditions causing major disruptions at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport and beyond. Severe snowfall and strong winds led to widespread cancellations and delays, particularly affecting flights to and from the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, the UK, Luxembourg and Spain. Hundreds of flights were called off as airlines like KLM, Lufthansa and Iberia struggled to operate normally in the harsh conditions.  The storm’s impact at Schiphol was particularly intense. Airport operations were slowed by snow-covered runways and low visibility, forcing airlines to cancel a significant number of departures and arrivals. According to airport reports and news coverage, dozens of flights were scrapped and many more delayed as crews worked to de-ice aircraft and restore safe operations.  Travelers faced long waits in terminals and uncertainty as schedules shifted. In some cases, passengers were left scrambling to find alternate connections or accommodations amid the chaos. Airlines have urged passengers to check their flight status and plan for ongoing weather-related disruptions.  The severe winter weather comes amid a broader pattern of travel woes across Europe, where cold conditions have already forced other flights to be delayed or canceled at major hubs. Aviation authorities continue to monitor the situation as forecasts predict further snow and low temperatures in the region.  Read more: https://travelandtourworld.com/news/article/netherlands-germany-switzerland-uk-luxembourg-and-spain-hit-by-snowstorm-with-344-cancellations-and-55-delays-at-amsterdam-schiphol-disrupting-klm-lufthansa-iberia-and-more/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

On January 1, 2026, Bulgaria officially adopted the euro, becoming the 21st member of the eurozone and marking a major step in its European economic integration. The change means the euro replaces the Bulgarian lev as legal tender, and Bulgaria now has a seat on the governing council of the European Central Bank.  The transition follows years of effort to meet the EU’s economic convergence criteria, including inflation controls and fiscal reforms, and was backed by EU institutions and the Eurogroup earlier in 2025. While business leaders and many officials praised the move as a boost for trade, investment, and economic stability, critics and segments of the public remain skeptical. Some fear price increases and loss of national monetary control, and protests have occurred amid political upheaval in the country.  During a transitional period, both lev and euro may still be used for payments, but only euros will be given as change—a step that will gradually phase out the old currency.  Economists say eurozone membership could bring long-term advantages, especially in trade and financial stability, though political debates over identity and economic impact continue. 👉 Read more: dw.com/en/bulgaria-joins-eurozone-despite-opposition/a-75359463 Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network. 

Europe ushered in the New Year 2026 with vibrant and diverse celebrations, ranging from fireworks displays to traditional cultural festivities across major cities. In London, tens of thousands gathered along the Thames for a spectacular fireworks show and music performance to mark midnight.  Across the UK, Edinburgh’s Hogmanay street party drew crowds despite cold weather, continuing a long-standing Scots festival tradition that blends ancient customs with modern music and cheer. Elsewhere on the continent, cities like Paris and Athens balanced festive fireworks and light shows with quieter or more sustainable celebrations, while other regions highlighted local customs and cultural gatherings to ring in the year. From traditional countdowns to quieter, family-friendly pyrotechnics, European New Year’s events reflected a blend of joy, resilience, and community spirit as countries welcomed 2026. 👉 Read more: https://insideeurolife.com/new-year-2026-in-europe/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

A new diplomatic dispute has erupted after the United States imposed visa bans on five European individuals it accuses of pushing social media platforms to censor American viewpoints. The U.S. The State Department says these figures pressured tech companies to suppress protected speech, singling out former EU Commissioner Thierry Breton—credited with shaping Europe’s Digital Services Act—as well as campaigners from nonprofit organisations working on online harm. European leaders, including the EU Commission, France, and Germany, have strongly condemned the move, arguing that visa restrictions against allies over regulatory differences amount to coercion and undermine free expression. Brussels insists its digital laws protect both safety and speech and are not aimed at dictating policy on U.S. soil. The broader row marks a sharp escalation in transatlantic tensions over how to govern harmful online content and preserve free speech in the digital age. Read more: theguardian.com/technology/2025/dec/24/visa-ban-for-european-critics-of-online-harm-is-first-shot-in-us-free-speech-war Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.

The European Union Space Surveillance and Tracking (EU SST) partnership is set to expand with the addition of Belgium, Bulgaria, Lithuania and Luxembourg as new members. This decision, adopted by the European Commission on December 17, 2025, enhances the EU’s collective capacity to monitor satellites and orbital debris. The EU SST system currently supports tracking for more than 600 space objects, helping safeguard satellites from collisions and reduce reliance on external data. The inclusion of the four new Member States will increase sensor coverage and expertise across Europe, boosting the partnership’s overall efficiency. This coordinated expansion is intended to strengthen Europe’s autonomous space safety capabilities as satellite activity grows and orbital traffic becomes more complex. Read more: https://www.openaccessgovernment.org/belgium-bulgaria-lithuania-and-luxembourg-set-to-join-eu-sst-partnership/202866/ Join Luxembourg Expats, the #1 homegrown community for expats in Luxembourg. Connect with people and businesses locally - discover expats focused local services, buy and sell items, find housing and apartment rentals and buys, events, discounts and meet people to make friends - all in one expats companion app in Luxembourg. Sign up free at www.luxembourgexpats.lu and become part of Luxembourg’s trusted expats network.  

Faced with a growing shortage of skilled labour, the European Commission plans to retrain or reskill 600,000 people across the EU for defence-industry jobs by 2030, according to a new roadmap published this week. The push comes as demand for European-made defence equipment surges — driven by rising geopolitical tensions and a decision by EU member states to ramp up military procurement after years of underinvestment. Under the new plan, the Commission will launch a “Talent Platform” offering traineeships with small and medium-sized defence firms, start-ups and scale-ups. It will also roll out a Skills Guarantee pilot aimed at helping workers from shrinking industries — such as automotive or related supply chains — transition into defence jobs. Officials say the labour shortage is a “major bottleneck” threatening Europe’s ability to produce the volume and sophistication of military equipment it now requires. The skills gap spans traditional roles — like manufacturing, welding or metalwork — and high-tech profiles needed for emerging defence technologies such as AI, cybersecurity, and quantum systems. To address longer-term needs, the roadmap includes the creation of a dedicated EU Defence Industry Skills Academy, expected to launch after 2028. Meanwhile, existing EU-level training institutions — including space and digital skills academies — will be tasked with expanding defence-related courses in the short term. Support structures are also being strengthened: under recent agreements to reform the European Social Fund+ (ESF+), EU countries can now access additional funding to support training and skills development in strategic sectors — including defence. According to the Commission, the reskilling plan aims to upskill around 12 % of the existing defence and aerospace workforce each year — a rate seen as essential given the ambition to expand production significantly by the end of the decade. As the European defence sector races to meet increasing demands, this bold push for workforce training and reskilling marks a strategic pivot — from procurement-focused expansion to building home-grown technical capacity and sustainable talent pipelines. Read More on Euronews : EU aims to retrain 600,000 workers for defence sector to eliminate skills shortage | Euronews

Luxembourg has joined Belgium in expressing caution over the European Commission’s proposal to use frozen Russian assets to back a €140 billion loan for Ukraine. The Grand Duchy is calling for legal and financial clarity before any decision is made. “It remains essential to clarify the budgetary and legal modalities of the envisaged mechanism, as well as to analyse the implications for Member States. The government stressed that Luxembourg supports “a legally sound and well-thought-out approach” that avoids potential financial or political repercussions. The Ministry also noted that an assessment by the European Central Bank would be “appropriate” to evaluate possible effects on financial stability. The cautious stance echoes that of Belgium, which has said it does not intend to shoulder the financial burden alone. Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever urged other EU countries to show full solidarity, warning that missteps could undermine trust from global investors — including countries like China — that hold significant assets in Europe. The issue also has a local dimension. Luxembourg has frozen several billion euros in Russian assets since the invasion of Ukraine. In 2024, Russian oligarch Mikhail Fridman filed a compensation claim of €14.6 billion against the Luxembourg government, arguing that the freezing of his assets was unlawful. Prime Minister Luc Frieden has raised questions about Ukraine’s ability to repay the proposed loan and what would happen if Russia were not required to pay reparations after a peace deal. For now, Luxembourg insists that any move to use frozen assets must rest on a solid legal foundation — and not risk the country’s reputation as a stable and trustworthy financial hub. Read More : Luxembourg asks for clarification on the use of Russian assets - The bottom line Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu   

A remarkable birth at the ZooParc de Beauval in Loir-et-Cher, France, has made history: a small albino female armadillo was born in May, marking the first recorded case of albinism in this species in Europe. The park’s general manager, Rodolphe Delord, described the event as “more than exceptional” and said the keepers were pleasantly surprised by the atypical birth. The tiny armadillo, born to the couple Bola and Bolek, weighs less than a kilogram and remains with her mother. Her pale shell and red eyes are clear signs of albinism, setting her apart from the normally yellow-toned armadillos. The newborn has yet to be named. According to the coordinator of the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP), such a case had never previously been observed in this species, though one or two similar instances have been reported in the United States. Another documented case involved a group of nine-banded armadillos on Mexico’s Cozumel Island in 2009. Three-banded armadillos, native to South America, are considered highly endangered due to poaching and habitat loss and are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The birth at Beauval Zoo is not only a rare scientific occurrence but also a hopeful sign for conservation efforts, demonstrating the potential for careful breeding programs to support the survival of this unique species. Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu

POST and ING Luxembourg have reached an agreement to safeguard the banking needs of thousands of local businesses following ING’s decision to scale back its activities in the country. The two institutions announced on Tuesday that they had signed a “referencing agreement” aimed at providing continuity for around 4,500 clients of ING’s Business Banking division. These include SMEs, self-employed workers, and entrepreneurs who were left seeking alternatives after ING confirmed its withdrawal from the sector to focus instead on Private Banking and Wholesale Banking. Under the deal, POST will extend “preferential banking conditions” to affected professionals to ensure a smooth transition. While ING will continue to honour existing mortgages and outstanding loans until maturity, POST will handle day-to-day banking needs for eligible clients. However, the agreement does not cover every service previously offered by ING, meaning some customers may still need to turn to other institutions for specialised solutions. Michael Burch, CEO of ING Luxembourg, stressed that the deal guarantees stability: “This ensures that our business clients will continue to benefit from professional banking services provided by an institution rooted in the community.” Gabriel de La Bourdonnaye, Director of POST Finance, echoed this, highlighting POST’s ambition to strengthen its role as a local banking partner: “We offer access to banking services for everyone, not just individuals. Our goal is to provide professional customers with services adapted to their daily needs.” The move follows a series of strategic shifts at ING Luxembourg. After decades of presence since its establishment in 1960, the bank recently ended its retail banking services, shut down numerous accounts, and announced it would exit corporate investment banking. These changes came alongside a redundancy plan threatening 124 jobs, sparking concern among employees and clients alike. The gradual transfer of business clients to POST is expected to unfold over the coming year, with ING set to provide detailed instructions to affected customers in the meantime.   Know More here : POST and ING Luxembourg join forces to support 4,500 professional clients - The essentials Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free : luxembourgexpats.lu    

Luxembourg’s national team achieved remarkable success at the Euroskills competition in Herning, Denmark, returning with a silver medal and four medals of excellence. The Grand Duchy had sent a delegation of 20 young professionals competing across 17 different trades, and their performance drew praise both at home and abroad. In gardening and landscaping, Nico Fuchs and Florian Theisen won silver, while four other participants earned medals of excellence: Pit Hansen in automotive technology, Jannik Bares in plumbing and heating, Laurence Bley in hotel reception, and Sébastien Fohr in web technologies. Education Minister Claude Meisch applauded the results, highlighting the “excellence and commitment” of Luxembourg’s young talents and congratulating the entire team for representing the country with pride. The next Euroskills competition will take place in 2027, with Düsseldorf as the host city and Luxembourg also set to co-organize part of the event. Read More : Euroskills: Le Luxembourg remporte une médaille d'argent et quatre médailles d'excellence - L'essentiel Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu   

The eurozone’s manufacturing sector has finally returned to growth after more than two years of contraction, signalling a cautious turnaround but one still clouded by risks. According to the HCOB Eurozone Manufacturing PMI, compiled by S&P Global, activity rose to 50.7 in August 2025, up from 49.8 in July. The index crossed the crucial 50-point threshold for the first time since June 2022, marking the end of a prolonged decline. The rebound was underpinned by the sharpest surge in factory output since March 2022 and the first rise in new orders in over three years. Domestic demand proved to be the driving force, helping offset a continued slump in export sales, which fell for the second month in a row. Growth Uneven but Broad-Based At the country level, Greece and Spain led the recovery with strong growth, while France and Italy managed slight expansions after periods of weakness. Germany, the bloc’s industrial powerhouse, reported broadly stable conditions at a 38-month high, while downturns in Austria, the Netherlands, and Ireland eased to more modest levels. Despite the improvements, challenges persist. Backlogs of work dropped for the 39th consecutive month, pointing to underutilised capacity. Employment in the sector also continued to fall, though only marginally, marking one of the softest declines in the past two years. Inventories shrank sharply, with both pre- and post-production stocks reduced at the fastest pace since March. Purchasing activity also slipped, while supply chain strains worsened, pushing input lead times to their longest since late 2022. Costs and Prices For the first time since March, manufacturers reported a slight increase in input costs, while output charges were marginally reduced as firms sought to remain competitive. Economists view the rebound as a tentative but significant sign of resilience. Dr. Cyrus de la Rubia, chief economist at Hamburg Commercial Bank, noted that rising domestic orders offer hope for a more sustainable recovery. He stressed, however, that external risks—particularly US tariff policies, geopolitical tensions, and persistent supply chain disruptions—could still weigh heavily on momentum. “The recovery is real but remains fragile,” de la Rubia said, pointing out that shrinking backlogs and low inventories highlight lingering uncertainty. Yet, he added, the fact that production is being ramped up and orders are rising in this environment suggests companies are showing resilience. Read More : Eurozone PMI tops 50 in August, signals fragile recovery - Fibre2Fashion Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu   

Eurozone households continue to anticipate inflation levels slightly above the European Central Bank’s 2% target, maintaining steady expectations amid a cautious economic backdrop. According to the ECB’s August Consumer Expectations Survey, the median expected inflation rate over the upcoming 12 months held firm at 2.6%, unchanged from July. Expectations for inflation three years ahead ticked up slightly to 2.5%, while projections for five years out remained stable at 2.1%—marking the eighth consecutive month at that level. These figures offer reassurance to ECB policymakers, suggesting that consumers' longer-term inflation views remain broadly anchored—especially important as short-term volatility in energy and food prices fades. The central bank continues to face a delicate balancing act: keeping rates stable to underpin economic stability, while remaining ready to adjust policy if inflationary or disinflationary risks emerge. Read More : Euro zone consumers keep inflation expectations stable, ECB poll | Reuters Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu  

Despite strides in environmental conservation, more than 12% of Europeans reported living under the burden of pollution, grime, or other environmental nuisances in 2023—down from over 15% in 2019. That means more than one in eight residents across the EU continues to face degraded living conditions, according to the latest Eurostat release. The impact is not evenly spread across the continent. Across national lines, Malta recorded the highest incidence—with nearly 35% of its population affected—followed by Greece (20.5%) and Germany (16.8%). At the other end of the scale, Croatia showed the least concern, with just 4.2% of its population reporting environmental discomfort, followed closely by Sweden (5.0%) and Slovakia (5.8%). A closer look at how people live reveals a clear pattern: urban residents are most exposed. In cities, almost 17.2% of the population say environmental problems affect their homes, compared to just 6.8% in rural areas. Those living in suburbs or towns fall in between, at around 10.5%. Underlying this data is the EU’s regular Income and Living Conditions survey—collected every three years—which offers a vital window into the quality of life across the region.   Eurostat: 12% of EU population reported pollution in their area - News articles - Eurostat Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu   

Luxembourg’s authorities have issued a warning about a fraudulent crypto trading platform called TokenCore that is being promoted online through fabricated news articles and deceptive advertisements. The scheme promises extraordinary financial returns — such as turning an investment of €250 into thousands of euros per day — but officials have confirmed that the entire operation is a scam. The fake content, styled to resemble a legitimate news report, was designed to lure residents into trusting the platform by presenting it as a government-backed initiative. Authorities have clarified that no such project exists and that the advertisements are a sophisticated attempt to exploit investors. Scams of this nature often follow the same pattern: once a victim deposits money, they are shown manipulated dashboards suggesting high profits. However, when they attempt to withdraw funds, either the process is blocked, or they are pressured into investing even more. In the end, most victims lose all their deposits and, in some cases, expose their personal and banking data to criminals. Officials strongly advise residents to avoid clicking on suspicious links, entering personal information on unfamiliar sites, or responding to unsolicited investment offers. They also encourage citizens to immediately report any questionable content or online fraud attempts to law enforcement. The warning comes at a time when crypto-related scams are surging across Europe. Fraudsters increasingly rely on professional-looking websites, fake endorsements, and impersonation of public institutions to mislead users. Luxembourg authorities have stressed that promises of guaranteed, quick, and unusually high profits are a clear red flag. By raising awareness, they hope to prevent residents from falling victim to what they describe as a dangerous scheme with potentially severe financial consequences. Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu     

Forests—vibrant, ecological treasures—are facing unprecedented threats: climate change, biodiversity loss, wildfires, diseases, and growing demand for regionally sourced timber. In Europe, a high-tech shift is underway to help forests thrive sustainably, with initiatives like Luxembourg’s Smart Forest project leading the charge. The Luxembourg Innovation: Smart Forest in Ellergronn Just outside Esch-sur-Alzette, Luxembourg is testing the future of forestry through the Smart Forest initiative, part of the Interreg W.A.V.E. (Wood Added Value Enhancement) program. Organized by innovation hub Luxinnovation, the Administration for Nature and Forests (ANF), SpaceTime, and other partners, the project is a real-world showcase of how technology enriches forest care. At the heart of the Smart Forest event, participants experience live drone flights, forest mapping, geospatial data analysis, and 3D modeling. This approach creates digital twins—complete, realistic replicas of forest environments down to individual trees. With these tools, forest professionals can monitor health trends, forecast threats like wildfires or droughts, estimate carbon storage, and enhance timber traceability—all in real time. As Caroline Holz from Luxinnovation highlights, this precision allows for smarter planning, better resource allocation, and increased confidence in the sustainability of local wood products. Europe-Wide Efforts: Digital Twins and High-Resolution Models Luxembourg isn’t alone. Across Europe, digital tools are reshaping how we understand and protect forests: The Forest DTC (Digital Twin Component), part of the EU’s Destination Earth program, is building pre-operational digital replicas of European forests. Using satellite data, AI, and physical modeling, the initiative enables what-if simulations on climate scenarios, fire risk, and resource planning. Use cases span from fire hazard modeling in Catalonia to disturbance assessment in Czechia and carbon monitoring in Finland. Finland’s VTT is developing an ambitious digital twin of global forests, under the EU's Forest Digital Twin component. With the help of ESA satellite missions (ROSE-L, FLEX, CHIME) and AI, this model aims to provide precise, comparable data on forest health and carbon balance across borders—critical for global climate strategy. The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), under the TRANSFORMIT initiative, employs terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) to build millimeter-precision 3D forest models. These capture both canopy and understory details, offering insights that conventional methods cannot match. High-density airborne LiDAR systems combined with deep learning are unlocking new levels of accuracy. European research (e.g., ForAINet) shows how these methods can segment forest data to identify tree traits and stand-level parameters with over 85% accuracy—vital for effective forest management. Why European Digital Forest Strategies Matter Early Detection & Prevention: Digital twins help spot risks—disease, fire, drought—before they escalate. Transparency & Sustainability: From forest to product, stakeholders gain deeper trust in responsible forest use. Climate Resilience Planning: Simulating environmental scenarios supports smarter, adaptive strategies for forest conservation. Cross-Border Collaboration: Projects like Forest DTC and W.A.V.E. demonstrate how European unity strengthens innovation and environmental stewardship. Luxembourg’s Smart Forest project exemplifies how local action backed by global innovation creates impactful forest management solutions. From drone flights over Ellergronn to continent-spanning digital twin models, Europe is crafting the next generation of forestry—one where precision, foresight, and sustainability grow together. luxinnovation.lu/news/smart-forest-innovation-takes-root-in-the-forest?utm_source Join the community of your own - #1 home-grown LuxExpats app SignUp Free: luxembourgexpats.lu   

Fitness is not about being better than someone else. It’s about being better than you used to be. The fitness scene across Europe in 2025 is no longer confined to treadmills and dumbbells—it’s a movement. A lifestyle shift where technology, community, and self-care merge to create a healthier, more balanced way of living. From cutting-edge wearables to the renewed love for strength training, Europe’s fitness landscape is redefining how people move, recover, and thrive. Digital & Hybrid Workouts: Fitness Without Borders Digital fitness isn’t replacing gyms—it’s expanding them. Hybrid models now allow people to train in the studio one day and stream a workout from their living room the next. This flexibility means that busy professionals, parents, and even those in small towns have access to world-class fitness experiences, whenever and wherever they need it. Technology Becomes Your Coach Wearables and AI are turning workouts into science-backed journeys. Beyond counting steps, these devices monitor recovery, sleep quality, and performance. Paired with AI, they now create highly personalized training plans—like having a coach on your wrist who knows your body better than anyone else. Strength Training at the Forefront Once overshadowed by cardio, strength training has stepped into the spotlight. Europeans are embracing the idea that building muscle means building resilience—for better metabolism, stronger joints, and long-term health. Gyms across the continent are transforming into functional training spaces where strength is celebrated. Recovery: The Secret Weapon In 2025, recovery is no longer the afterthought—it’s the priority. From cryotherapy chambers and infrared saunas to mindfulness programs and sleep optimization, people now see rest as essential fuel for progress. Fitness is evolving into a holistic journey, one that values balance as much as intensity. Community Still Wins Hearts Technology might guide us, but community keeps us going. Whether it’s joining a weekend run, tackling a group fitness challenge, or connecting with an online workout tribe, the sense of belonging motivates people to show up for themselves—and for each other. A Lifestyle, Not a Trend Fitness in Europe today isn’t about chasing a quick fix. It’s about crafting a sustainable lifestyle—one where technology, science, and human connection come together to help people feel stronger, healthier, and more fulfilled. The strongest people aren’t those who lift the most weights, but those who lift themselves every day. Know More: 8 Workout Trends You'll See in 2025 - Business Insider Join the Luxembourg Expats community luxembourgexpats.lu  

Luxembourg, August 2025 – The Grand Duchy’s financial centre is celebrating a milestone moment, marking “A Decade of Growth and Diversification.” Over the past ten years, Luxembourg has reinforced its role as a trusted European hub for global financial institutions, building a dynamic ecosystem that connects investors and markets worldwide. Stability, innovation, and diversification have been the cornerstones of this success. A Broad Financial Landscape Luxembourg today stands as: the home of the global fund industry, an international banking hub, the EU’s centre for cross-border insurance, and a trailblazer in international capital markets. This wide-ranging expertise demonstrates how strategic diversification has powered sustained growth in the sector. Recent Milestones The financial centre’s evolution has been punctuated by significant developments in 2025: July 29 – dtcpay received approval from the CSSF for EMI activities, boosting electronic money services. July 21 – The first Control Agent License was granted under Luxembourg’s new Blockchain Law, marking a strong step in fintech regulation. June 24 – Eurizon launched ETFs from Luxembourg, further strengthening its global investment offering. June 20 – Coinbase secured a MiCA licence in Luxembourg, cementing the country’s role as a frontrunner in digital asset regulation. Innovation and Strategic Focus Luxembourg is actively advancing into new frontiers, with initiatives in fund tokenisation, participation in the ECB’s Wholesale CBDC Pilot, and innovative use of satellite data to design climate-focused insurance solutions. The country is also preparing its financial players for the impact of new regulations such as DORA, ensuring compliance and resilience across the sector. Strengths that Drive Success The enduring strength of Luxembourg’s financial centre lies in its combination of political and economic stability, innovative capacity, access to top-tier talent, international connectivity, and high quality of life. These factors not only attract global institutions but also nurture long-term confidence in Luxembourg as a trusted financial partner. With its sights set on “Ambitions 2030,” Luxembourg is shaping the future of finance by promoting sustainable practices, strengthening compliance, and embracing technological transformation. Upcoming initiatives include the September 2025 events “Focus on Compliance & Risk Management” and “Luxembourg meets Madrid.” The sector is also spotlighting themes such as sustainable finance and human rights, underscoring a commitment to responsible growth. Luxembourg for Finance emphasizes that “the wisest investment is in yourself,” reflecting the country’s determination to empower talent while catering to the evolving needs of global wealth management. As the Grand Duchy celebrates a decade of progress, its financial centre remains firmly positioned at the forefront of global finance—resilient, innovative, and ready for the challenges of the next decade. The Luxembourg financial centre - Luxembourg for Finance A Decade of Growth and Diversification - Luxembourg for Finance Join the Luxembourg Expats community luxembourgexpats.lu  

LONDON – British tourists heading to Europe will confront stricter border procedures under the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES), which introduces biometric checks and enhanced documentation requirements. Fingerprint and Facial Scans Mandatory Each Entry From late 2025, UK visitors to the Schengen Area will be required to submit fingerprints and facial scans upon every border crossing. Due to delays in automated systems, including mobile app verification, travellers—especially those arriving by car or coach—will have to exit vehicles for the biometric checks. This change could add an estimated six minutes per vehicle during peak travel periods. The Port of Dover has expanded inspection areas to handle the new procedures and manage increased traffic flow during holidays. Phased Rollout with Continued Passport Stamping The EES will launch gradually starting October 12, 2025, across 29 Schengen countries, and full implementation is expected by April 2026. During this transitional phase, both biometric data collection and traditional passport stamping will be in effect. New Pre-Travel Authorisation Coming in 2026 Looking ahead, the EU will introduce the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). UK travellers will need to apply online in advance, pay a modest fee (likely between €7–€20), and obtain travel authorisation valid for up to three years. ETIAS aims to pre-screen visitors and enhance overall border security. Key Takeaways for UK Travellers Expect longer border processing times due to biometric checks. Manual passport stamping will continue until the system is fully operational in April 2026. Prepare for a new online authorisation (ETIAS) expected to be required by late 2026 for entry into Schengen countries.  Read more :https://www.thenational.scot/news/25381365.uk-tourists-facing-stricter-eu-border-checks-new-rules/ Join the Luxembourg Expats Community luxembourgexpats.lu  

BRUSSELS – The European Commission has confirmed October 12, 2025 as the launch date for the EU’s long-anticipated Entry/Exit System (EES), marking a significant shift from traditional passport stamping to fully digital border checks at external Schengen borders. Phased Rollout Over Six Months The new system will be introduced gradually across 29 European countries over a six-month period. During this time, both digital registration and manual passport stamping will operate in parallel, with full implementation expected by April 2026. How the System Works The EES will record the personal and travel details of non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area for short stays. This includes biometric data—such as facial images and fingerprints—alongside information on entry and exit dates. Security and Efficiency Gains By replacing manual stamps with digital records, the system aims to: Detect overstayers more effectively Reduce identity fraud Improve border security and management efficiency Ensure compliance with EU data protection standards Impact on Travelers Non-EU travelers should expect slightly longer border checks during their first visit after the system’s launch, as biometric data will need to be collected. Once registered, subsequent crossings are expected to be faster and more efficient. Transition Timeline October 12, 2025 – Start of phased rollout April 2026 – Full EES implementation, ending manual passport stamping The move represents one of the most significant upgrades to EU border control in decades, aligning with broader “smart border” initiatives to enhance both security and travel flow efficiency. Read more :European Commission sets date for Entry/Exit System - Regional Gateway Join the Luxembourg Expats Community luxembourgexpats.lu 

The European Commission has acknowledged that it never conducted a formal impact assessment on its controversial plan to fund climate action in non-EU countries, raising concerns among lawmakers and environmental experts. The proposed initiative aims to allow EU countries to finance carbon-cutting projects abroad, with those emissions savings counting toward their own climate goals under the EU's Effort Sharing Regulation (ESR). This regulation governs emissions from sectors like transport, buildings, and agriculture. While intended to help poorer nations combat climate change, critics argue that the plan could undermine the EU’s domestic emission reduction goals and weaken global climate leadership. No Clear Data on Effectiveness Officials from the Commission admitted that they did not study the plan’s climate impact, potential costs, or legal implications before presenting it. During recent discussions with the European Parliament, the Commission confirmed that no environmental or cost-benefit analyses had been conducted. Pushback from Lawmakers EU lawmakers have expressed concern that the plan may shift climate responsibilities away from wealthier nations without proper oversight or transparency. Some members called it a form of “climate outsourcing” that lacks accountability and clarity. Despite the criticism, the Commission still plans to submit the proposal as part of the EU’s broader 2040 climate strategy by early 2026. However, Parliament and climate advocacy groups are pushing for a more robust examination before any formal adoption. Source: EU wants to pay poor countries to cut emissions. It never studied the plan’s impacts. – POLITICO  Join the Luxembourg Expats Network luxembourgexpats.lu   

A leaked internal document has ignited backlash across the EU as it reveals that the European Parliament may be pressuring the Council to adopt a controversial law mandating the scanning of private messages. Critics, including former Pirate Party MEP Patrick Breyer, have condemned the move as “political blackmail,” especially since Parliament had previously rejected mass surveillance practices. At the heart of the debate is the EU’s "Chat Control" bill, first proposed in May 2022. This legislation aims to combat the spread of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) by introducing automated scanning of private chats—even on encrypted services like WhatsApp and Signal. The technology used would scan messages on users’ devices before they are encrypted, a method widely known as client-side scanning. Despite strong opposition in previous attempts, Denmark, now holding the EU presidency, has revived the proposal and is pushing for its adoption by October 14, 2025. The leaked memo shows that the Council’s legal experts still find the proposal in conflict with fundamental rights. What makes this proposal more alarming for many is that it would exempt government and military users from the scanning requirements, creating what critics describe as a double standard. Meanwhile, privacy advocates argue that the scanning system would not only weaken encryption but also open the door to broader surveillance practices in the future. Past efforts to soften the bill—such as Belgium’s 2024 attempt to allow scanning only with user consent and Poland’s idea for voluntary systems—failed to gather enough support. However, current momentum has picked up, with over 19 member states reportedly backing the new proposal, while some countries like Germany, Luxembourg, and Finland remain undecided. A final position must be reached by September 12, 2025, ahead of the vote. In addition, the EU’s broader digital strategy, ProtectEU, includes long-term goals like enabling law enforcement to decrypt private data by 2030. This plan has only added to public concern over shrinking digital privacy across Europe. The implications are far-reaching, as the proposal could fundamentally reshape how communication platforms operate and how citizens’ rights to privacy are upheld in the digital age.   Broader Concerns: Encryption at Risk Cybersecurity experts warn that the proposed system poses unacceptable risks: weakening encryption, introducing backdoors, and enabling surveillance beyond CSAM cases. The European Court of Human Rights ruled in February 2024 that intentionally weakening encryption is incompatible with democratic standards. A broader EU strategy (ProtectEU, June 2025) aims to empower law enforcement to decrypt private data by 2030, raising red flags among digital privacy advocates. Source: A "political blackmail" – the EU Parliament is pressing for new mandatory scanning of your private chats | TechRadar  Join the Luxembourg Expats Network luxembourgexpats.lu