#germany

Germany Skilled Worker Shortage: 'Wouldn't be in business today without India': Why Germany is "desperate" for millions of Indians to save its economy As older workers retire and younger professionals shift to other industries, Germany faces a severe shortage of skilled labor. To address this crisis, the country has turned to India, seeking to fill gaps in sectors like butchery, construction, and craftsmanship. The initiative began in 2021 when Handrik von Ungern-Sternberg, then working for the Freiburg Chamber of Skilled Crafts, received an email from an Indian employment agency offering vocational trainees. The email arrived at a critical time, as Germany’s skilled trades faced a decline in workers. Von Ungern-Sternberg collaborated with local butchers’ guilds and other traditional trades to pilot the program, which initially brought 13 apprentices to Germany in 2022. Over time, the effort expanded into a major economic strategy. By 2026, his agency, India Works, planned to send 775 young Indians for apprenticeships, including roles as road builders, mechanics, and bakers. This movement is driven by Germany’s demographic challenges: an aging population and low birth rates have left many sectors understaffed. Meanwhile, India’s youth bulge—over 600 million people under 25—creates a surplus of labor. The partnership has proven mutually beneficial. Germany gains skilled workers to sustain its industries, while Indians seek higher wages and better opportunities. According to a 2024 study, Germany needs to attract 288,000 foreign workers annually to avoid a 10% workforce decline by 2040. The Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement signed in 2022 eased the process, increasing India’s skilled worker visa quota from 20,000 to 90,000 annually.#india #germany #india_works #freiburg_chamber_of_skilled_crafts #handrik_von_ungernsternberg

Germany Launches Alliance to Fairly Recruit Skilled Workers Millicent Awiti, originally from Kenya, now drives public buses in Flensburg, northern Germany. Guido Seifen, managing director of the German company Omexom Hochspannung, which employs around 500 people and builds major power lines, highlights the growing challenge of finding skilled workers for dispersed construction sites. He emphasizes that such jobs often require sacrificing family life and stability. To address this, Seifen is exploring recruitment in Vietnam through a German-Vietnamese development cooperation project. Vietnam, transitioning to renewable energy with support from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), has established a training center for overhead line technicians. Omexom plans to collaborate with EVN, Vietnam’s electricity provider, by bringing Vietnamese instructors to Germany for training aligned with local standards, including certification from the German Chamber of Industry and Commerce. GIZ is also introducing German language courses at the Vietnamese training center. The goal is to train enough technicians so that approximately half can be offered jobs in Germany—up to 200 individuals—creating a "win-win situation." The federal government aims to support such projects through the newly established "WE-Fair alliance for the fair recruitment of skilled workers." This alliance focuses on attracting foreign skilled workers while strengthening training systems in their home countries. Development Minister Reem Alabali Radovan emphasized the urgency, noting Germany’s aging population: over 20% of employees are aged 55 or older and will retire within the next decade. Demographic projections indicate Germany will need 400,000 foreign skilled workers annually over the next decade, requiring around 1.6 million annual immigrants.#germany #millicent_awiti #guido_seifen #omexom_hochspannung

Germany turns to Indian workers to help solve labour shortage Germany is facing a severe shortage of skilled workers, with aging populations and a declining birth rate leaving many industries struggling to find replacements. To address this crisis, the country is increasingly turning to Indian workers, who are being recruited through specialized programs to fill critical roles in sectors like butchery, construction, and logistics. The initiative began in 2021 when Handirk von Ungern-Sternberg, a representative of the Freiburg Chamber of Skilled Crafts, received an unexpected email from an Indian employment agency. The message highlighted a surplus of young, motivated workers in India seeking vocational training. At the time, Germany’s skilled trades were in dire straits, with many employers unable to find apprentices. Von Ungern-Sternberg, working with local trade guilds, decided to test the idea by partnering with Magic Billion, an Indian recruitment firm. The first pilot program focused on butchery, a sector in steep decline. By 2022, 13 Indian apprentices had arrived in Germany to begin their training in small towns near the Swiss and French borders. Among them was Anakha Miriam Shaji, a 21-year-old from India who described her move as a chance to improve her living standards and gain access to better social security. Three years later, the program had expanded significantly, with 200 Indian workers now employed in German butchers’ shops. The success of this initiative has led to broader efforts. India Works, a new employment agency co-founded by von Ungern-Sternberg and Aditi Banerjee of Magic Billion, is now preparing to bring 775 young Indians to Germany this year. These workers will join a range of trades, including road building, mechanics, stonemasonry, and baking.#india #germany #magic_billion #india_works #freiburg_chamber_of_skilled_crafts

Bayern Goalkeeper Jonas Urbig Called Up for World Cup Test Matches FC Bayern goalkeeper Jonas Urbig has been named in Germany’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier matches against Switzerland and Ghana, according to reports from Sky and BILD. The 22-year-old will make his debut for the senior national team under manager Julian Nagelsmann, who is set to announce the final squad on Thursday. The selection comes as part of preparations for the 2026 World Cup, with the two test matches scheduled for late March. The initial leaks about the squad nominations were shared on Wednesday, revealing that Urbig, alongside Lennart Karl, has been included in the call-up. This marks a significant milestone for the young goalkeeper, who has been part of Bayern’s youth setup and has recently gained attention for his performances in club matches. Nagelsmann’s decision to include Urbig reflects confidence in his readiness to compete at the international level. The announcement follows a period of speculation about the German team’s strategy for the World Cup qualifiers. With the tournament approaching, the national team is focusing on balancing experience with emerging talent. Urbig’s inclusion highlights the squad’s emphasis on developing homegrown players, particularly those with strong performances in the Bundesliga. The two matches against Switzerland and Ghana will serve as crucial tests for the German squad, providing an opportunity to refine tactics and assess player form ahead of the global competition. For Urbig, the call-up represents a major step in his career, offering a platform to showcase his skills on a larger stage. As the World Cup draws closer, the focus will shift to ensuring the team is fully prepared for the challenges ahead.#germany #jonas_urbig #switzerland #julian_nagelsmann #world_cup_qualifier

Germany stocks fall 1.6 percent, Keith McCullough notes German equities experienced a sharp decline this morning, recording a 1.6 percent loss. Keith McCullough commented on the downturn, stating that his position remains short on German equities. The recent decline in German equities underscores concerns about underlying trading vulnerabilities, an issue McCullough previously explored in his assessment of how market structure exposes trading gaps when key signals falter. Continued volatility across asset classes, including the bond market, further reinforces the ongoing instability that breaks established support levels, shaping the cautious strategies adopted by market participants. The tweet that initially highlighted the stock decline was deleted by the author, but the content was preserved. McCullough’s analysis suggests that the market’s reaction reflects broader anxieties about systemic weaknesses, particularly in environments where traditional indicators fail to provide clear guidance. This volatility has led to a shift in investor behavior, with many adopting more conservative approaches to mitigate potential losses. The decline in German stocks also aligns with broader trends of market uncertainty, as investors grapple with conflicting signals from economic data and geopolitical developments. While some sectors show resilience, others face pressure from rising interest rates and tightening credit conditions. The bond market, in particular, has seen increased volatility, with yields fluctuating as investors reassess risk exposure. McCullough’s ongoing commentary highlights the importance of monitoring market structure and liquidity dynamics, especially in times of stress.#market_structure #bond_market #germany #keith_mccullough #german_equities

Garner Hotels Expands to 100 Properties Worldwide With Pipeline in 12 Countries Garner Hotels, a midscale conversion brand under IHG Hotels & Resorts, has reached 100 open properties globally since its launch in August 2023. This milestone marks the fastest global scaling of any brand in IHG’s history. The brand now operates or has projects in development across 12 countries, including the United States, Mexico, Italy, Japan, and others. A pipeline of nearly 80 additional hotels is expected to nearly double its global footprint in the coming years. The expansion is driven by factors such as a competitive cost-per-key ratio, flexible design standards, reduced pre-opening costs, and an accelerated turnaround process. Some properties have completed conversions in under a month from signing to opening. In 2025, conversion properties accounted for 52 percent of all IHG room openings, highlighting the brand’s growth strategy. In the Americas, Garner recorded 32 signings and 23 openings in 2025, the third-highest totals among IHG brands in the region. Notable projects include the brand’s first property in Mexico, Garner Hotel Mazatlán Beach, as well as new locations in Butte, Montana, and near Arizona’s Lake Powell. For 2026, the brand plans to open properties in suburban Boston and the greater New York City area. Across Europe, Middle East, Asia & Africa (EMEAA), Garner opened 43 hotels in 2025, the most of any IHG brand in the region that year. This growth was partly fueled by a 2024 agreement with NOVUM Hospitality, which paved the way for 56 open and pipeline properties in Germany. In 2025, the brand also launched its first hotels in Italy (Garner Hotel Rome Aurelia), Türkiye (Garner Hotel Istanbul – Airport Arnavutköy), and the United Kingdom (Garner Hotel Preston Samlesbury).#japan #germany #mexico #garner_hotels #ihg_hotels_resorts

Germany’s Market Struggles Amid Energy Price Volatility and Corporate Buybacks The German DAX index faced downward pressure as rising oil and gas prices reignited concerns over energy costs, even as positive news from fashion retailer Zalando temporarily lifted investor sentiment. Meanwhile, automotive giant BMW highlighted challenges from trade tariffs and declining demand in China, adding to the market’s mixed performance. Energy costs remain a central theme for European markets, with Wood Mackenzie analysts warning that geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions could keep power markets unstable. The Dutch TTF gas price benchmark has remained above €50 per MWh, a critical indicator for European energy markets. Since gas often dictates marginal electricity prices, a €30 per MWh shift in TTF could lead to a roughly €40 per MWh change in German power prices. This volatility has broader implications for the economy, as the ifo Institute forecasts subdued growth, projecting 0.8% GDP expansion in 2026 and 1.2% in 2027. In a scenario of persistently high energy costs, inflation could rise to 2.5% in both years, complicating economic recovery. For investors, the interplay between energy prices and corporate performance is becoming increasingly significant. Energy-intensive industries are particularly vulnerable to price spikes, which can erode profit margins and pressure valuations. In this environment, company-specific strategies like share buybacks, pricing power, and cost-cutting measures have gained importance. Zalando’s €300 million buyback, for instance, drove its stock higher despite the broader DAX’s decline, underscoring how such actions can offset macroeconomic headwinds. The German economy’s outlook hinges on a delicate balance between investment and energy challenges.#germany #wood_mackenzie #bmw #zalando #ifo_institute

Germany Emerges as the Top Choice for Indian Students Seeking Quality Higher Education Abroad Indian students are increasingly shifting their focus from traditional study destinations like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada to Germany, which is now emerging as a preferred option for affordable, high-quality education. Rising tuition costs in Western countries, combined with stricter visa policies, have prompted many students to seek alternatives. Germany’s public universities, which offer education at little to no cost, have become a compelling choice, particularly for those interested in fields like engineering and technology. For years, the US, UK, and Canada were the primary destinations for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad. However, the financial burden of tuition fees has grown significantly, making these countries less accessible. Germany, with its world-class public universities and low or no tuition fees, has gained traction as a viable alternative. Undergraduate programs in German public universities are free, while postgraduate fees remain substantially lower than in other major education hubs. This affordability, paired with the country’s reputation for academic excellence, has made Germany an attractive option for Indian students. Germany’s strength in engineering, technology, and the sciences continues to draw Indian students seeking technically rigorous and rewarding academic paths. German universities are renowned for their cutting-edge research and practical learning approaches, which align with the career aspirations of many Indian students. Additionally, the country’s robust industrial base provides opportunities for students to gain hands-on experience during their studies.#engineering #india #germany #german_academic_exchange_service #information_technology

Coinbase Expands Crypto Futures Trading to 26 European Countries Coinbase has launched regulated crypto futures trading in 26 European countries, marking a significant step in its global expansion. The cryptocurrency exchange now allows traders to access derivatives products within a fully compliant framework under the MiFID-licensed regulations. This move provides European users with a safer, regulated alternative to offshore exchanges, which many traders had previously relied on. The new offering is available through Coinbase Advanced, the company’s high-performance trading interface. Eligible users in countries such as Germany, France, and the Netherlands can trade futures linked to major cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. Additionally, traders can access innovative products such as the Magnificent 7 + Crypto Equity Index Futures, which combine exposure to top tech stocks with crypto-linked equities. Coinbase operates these products through its MiFID-registered European entity, ensuring full compliance with EU financial regulations. The platform offers two types of cash-settled futures contracts: perpetual-style futures with five-year expiries, hourly funding, and daily settlement, and dated monthly or quarterly futures marked to market daily and cash-settled at expiration. Traders can use up to 10x leverage on select crypto and equity-index contracts, with fees starting as low as 0.02% per contract. Analysts have a Moderate Buy consensus rating on Coinbase’s stock, based on 17 Buy recommendations, four Holds, and two Sells in the past three months. The average price target of $264.43 per share suggests a 33.94% upside potential.#netherlands #france #coinbase #mifid #germany

China Seeks to Win Over Germany, But Obstacles Remain China’s efforts to attract Germany as an ally in its geopolitical strategy have faced significant hurdles, as revealed during Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s recent visit to Beijing. While President Xi Jinping emphasized economic cooperation and mutual benefits, German officials highlighted longstanding concerns about unfair trade practices and China’s influence over critical industries. The visit, which included meetings with Xi and tours of Chinese companies, underscored the complexity of aligning Germany’s interests with China’s expanding global ambitions. Merz’s public statements during the visit reflected Germany’s frustration with China’s economic policies. He criticized the country’s reliance on state subsidies, which he argued distort global markets by making Chinese exports artificially cheap. He also pointed to the impact of Chinese competition on German industries, noting the loss of thousands of jobs monthly. “Competition between companies must be fair,” Merz stated, calling for transparency, reliability, and adherence to shared rules. These demands highlight the gap between China’s diplomatic overtures and the practical challenges of balancing economic ties with strategic concerns. The visit exposed deeper tensions between China and Western nations, particularly over issues like currency manipulation, unequal access to Chinese markets, and the use of critical minerals as leverage. Despite Xi’s promises of shared development opportunities, German officials remained skeptical. Merz’s delegation included over two dozen business leaders, but the outcomes of their discussions were limited to symbolic gestures rather than substantive reforms.#china #germany #airbus #chancellor_friedrich_merz #president_xi_jinping

Europe Struggles to Unify Response to U.S.-Israel Conflict Amid Iran's Warnings Iran has issued a warning to European leaders, urging them not to align with the U.S. and Israel's military actions that have destabilized the Middle East and disrupted global economies. While European nations have united in condemning Iran’s retaliatory strikes on nonbelligerent targets in the Gulf, their responses to the U.S.-Israel conflict remain fragmented and inconsistent. The complexity of the situation is heightened by Iran’s close ties to Russia, a nation whose war in Ukraine has drawn widespread condemnation from the European Union. Despite this, European leaders have not effectively rallied against Iran as they have against Russia. A recent incident involving a drone attack on Cyprus, which reportedly used a Russian antenna, has not bridged the divide. Spain has taken a firm stance by expelling U.S. military aircraft from its bases, prompting a sharp rebuke from President Donald Trump, who threatened to cut off trade with Madrid. In contrast, Germany has publicly supported U.S. objectives, with Chancellor Friedrich Merz describing Iran’s regime as a “terrorist regime” responsible for decades of oppression. Merz emphasized the shared interest with the U.S. and Israel in dismantling Iran’s nuclear and ballistic capabilities. This divergence has shifted Germany’s alignment away from the UK and France, which had previously advocated for negotiations with Tehran even after the U.S. unilaterally revoked the 2015 nuclear deal. Spain’s position, rooted in principle, has been consistently called for by Jose-Ignacio Torreblanca of the European Council on Foreign Relations. He highlighted Spain’s commitment to international law, noting that Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has rejected the legality of the U.S.#iran #russia #spain #uk #germany

Why Europe's leaders have struggled to speak as one on Iran Europe’s leaders have faced mounting challenges in presenting a unified stance on the escalating tensions with Iran, as the region grapples with the fallout from recent US-Israeli strikes. For weeks, European officials had anticipated the possibility of military escalation, watching the US military buildup in the Middle East and the Trump administration’s threats to Tehran. Yet, as the conflict unfolded, the continent’s response has been marked by fragmentation, with individual nations prioritizing their own concerns over collective action. The immediate focus has been on the safety of European citizens in the region, with governments scrambling to assess the need for evacuations amid fears of further attacks. Beyond humanitarian concerns, European leaders are also wary of the economic repercussions, particularly the impact on energy and food prices. Gas prices in Europe have surged to levels not seen since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, raising fears of prolonged economic strain. Politically, the lack of cohesion has been stark. While France, Germany, and the UK issued a joint statement warning Iran of potential “defensive action” against its missile and drone capabilities, the subsequent actions of each nation have revealed divergent priorities. The UK has agreed to host US strikes on Iranian missile sites, despite Trump’s criticism of its limited involvement. France has increased its Middle East presence following an Iranian attack on a French base in the UAE, while Germany has emphasized its readiness for “defensive measures” without committing to offensive operations. A critical issue has been the reluctance of European leaders to challenge the legality of US actions under international law.#iran #france #uk #germany #us_administration

Record Store Day 2026 Berlin’s record store scene is set to celebrate its annual music-focused event with a variety of activities, including exclusive album releases, live performances, and community-driven gatherings. This year, 13 record stores in Berlin will participate in RECORD STORE DAY, joining over 250 independent music retailers across Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The event highlights the enduring role of physical music spaces in fostering connections among music enthusiasts, even as digital platforms dominate modern consumption habits. Participants can expect several hundred unique RSD releases, many of which are limited edition or previously unreleased. These releases will be available for purchase, but the day also features dynamic events such as record store concerts, themed parties, and evening club nights. One standout event is the Record Store Day Street Party hosted by Dodo Beach in Berlin-Schöneberg, which promises a lively atmosphere for fans. Beyond the music, RECORD STORE DAY emphasizes the cultural and social value of record stores as hubs for discovery and interaction. While online shopping and streaming services have reshaped how people access music, the event celebrates the irreplaceable experience of browsing shelves, discovering new artists, and engaging with fellow music lovers. Organizers stress that the initiative is not about nostalgia but about recognizing the unique contributions of physical stores in supporting independent artists and local communities. The event’s focus on collaboration and creativity aligns with its broader mission to sustain the record store ecosystem. By bringing together retailers, artists, and fans, RECORD STORE DAY 2026 aims to reaffirm the relevance of these spaces in an evolving music landscape.#berlin #germany #record_store_day #dodo_beach #record_stores