Beyond Nominal Convergence The current criteria for adopting the euro refer to nominal variables relating to the macroeconomic environment – the inflation rate, the long-term interest rate and the exchange rate – and to the budget deficit and debt ratios. However, these criteria do not necessarily reflect developments in the real economy, which can also pose challenges on the road to adopting the euro. The European debt crisis, multiple euro area accession experiences, academic analyses, as well as evidence from the...

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The European Investment Bank has agreed to provide EUR 100 million to finance construction of the new Amphia Hospital in Breda. Amphia is one of the most advanced clinical hospitals in the Netherlands and the new hospital will strengthen healthcare for the North Brabant province. This is the first Dutch hospital to be financed by the EIB under the Investment Plan for Europe. During the formal ceremony in Breda finance agreements were also signed with BNG, Rabobank and ING. Supporting transformational...

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GREENVILLE, South Carolina - The European American Chamber of Commerce Carolinas (EACC-Carolinas) will be hosting a cocktail reception to welcome a delegation of EU Trade Counselors in Greenville. Economic Development and Trade Officials from 20 countries in Europe are planning to attend as part of a trade mission to South Carolina planned by the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.  The private event expects 100 business executives between EACC-Carolinas members and selected guests and it is scheduled for November 1st from 6:00 to 7:30pm at...

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Today the European Commission publishes its first annual report on the functioning of the EU- U.S. Privacy Shield, the aim of which is to protect the personal data of anyone in the EU transferred to companies in the U.S. for commercial purposes. Andrus Ansip, Commission Vice-President for the Digital Single Market, said: "The Commission stands strongly behind the Privacy Shield arrangement with the U.S. Making international data transfers sound, safe and secure benefits certified companies and European consumers and businesses, including EU...

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