Hungary

Peace requires strength, Hungarian defence minister says in Bahrain

Conflicts across the world pose a great security challenge for Hungary, the defence minister said on Sunday, and noted the increased significance of dialogue.

Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky attended the 20th Regional Security Conference in Bahrain, where he presented the Hungarian position calling for a ceasefire and peace talks in the war in Ukraine.

The war must be stopped and peace achieved, the minister said. “Peace requires strength; we keep working on it,” he added.

Read also:

  • CNN: U.S. Supreme Court considers legal path for Holocaust survivors to reclaim stolen property in Hungary

Another unstaffed 24/7 smart shop may open in 2025 in Szeged

Szeged may see Hungary’s second unstaffed 24/7 smart shop in 2025 if Coop can carry out its plans, János Kelemen, the CEO and President of the company, told Délmagyar. The first unstaffed Hungarian grocery store opened at the Fény utca market and is run by the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta. Therefore, it does not generate a profit. Consequently, the Szeged grocery store can become Hungary’s first profitable unstaffed shop.

Unstaffed 24/7 smart shop may open in 2025

According to Telex, the Coop unit in Szeged’s Szent István Square can become Hungary’s second unstaffed grocery store, which may be ready in 2025. The store has been revamped, and after its reopening, customers noticed that traditional cashier’s desks have been removed to give space for self-service desks. For now, those are staffed so customers can pay there just like they usually do. However, that may change soon.

János Kelemen, the CEO and President of Coop said that they would like to open the first unstaffed Coop unit by early 2025 in Szeged. Sharing more details on the issue would be unresponsible, he added.

Telex wrote that the unstaffed Coop grocery stores could be open 24/7, but the company did not share any information concerning the exact technology they would operate.

In the Czech Republic, the first unstaffed Coop units were opened in 2022. Customers can shop there with a face-recognising app and cannot pay with cash. However, the system allows you to shop even on Sunday night or early morning on Friday since they are always open.

Lukáš Němčík said that 24/7 unstaffed grocery stores are especially popular in rural areas because they allow locals to purchase the essentials without driving to a supermarket. In case of emergency, customers can call the remote security officer.

Another unstaffed smart store in Budapest

According to an RTL Klub report, Hungary’s first unstaffed grocery shop opened at Budapest’s Fény utca market. The operator is the Hungarian Charity Service of the Order of Malta, and they sell the products of the charity service employees who work in the poorest Hungarian villages.

The charity service does not regard their grocery store as a business branch. Instead, they believe it is helping poorer families and buyers as well. Tamás Romhányi, the communications director of the charity, said their Fény utca market store does not generate profit.

Another unstaffed 24-7 smart shop may open in 2025 in Szeged
The first unstaffed shop in Hungary. Photo: PrtScr/RTL Klub

This shop is still one-of-a-kind in Hungary, and its operation teaches lessons to everybody planning to copy the initiative. The shop sells various products, from handmade cheese to syrups. You can shop there with the help of an app. If you take a product from the shelf, the system automatically adds it to your basket. If you put it down, the product will be deleted. You can pay with your phone or debit card.

Here are some more photos of the Budapest shop:

The charity service plans to open such stores in poorer and smaller villages in rural Hungary, where people can buy essentials locally.

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Accelerating EU free trade talks in interest of Hungarian economy

Accelerating EU free trade negotiations and better implementation of existing agreements is important for Hungary’s government, as a pillar of the country’s competitiveness is expanding its exports to non-EU countries, Katalin Bihari, a deputy state secretary at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, said at a conference in Budapest on Friday.

Addressing the Market Access Day conference organised by the ministry, the European Commission and the Hungarian Export Promotion Agency (HEPA), Bihari said the EU’s free trade agreements could pave the way for Hungarian companies to reach dynamically growing markets in a predictable manner.

Denis Redonnet, the EC’s deputy director general for trade and chief trade enforcement officer, said the EU had free trade agreements with 76 countries at present. Those trade agreements cover around 70pc of Hungary’s exports to non-EU countries, he added.

The conference aimed to foster an exchange of information and experience for companies seeking to do business on non-EU markets.

Read also:

  • Instead of hosting a Chinese university campus, South Pest may become a students’ paradise – read more HERE

CNN: U.S. Supreme Court considers legal path for Holocaust survivors to reclaim stolen property in Hungary

US Supreme Court

The Supreme Court is weighing a pivotal case on whether Holocaust victims can sue Hungary in U.S. courts over property seized during World War II, sparking debate on sovereign immunity and the limits of international litigation.

Can the families sue Hungary?

As CNN reports, the Supreme Court has expressed scepticism over whether Holocaust victims and their families can sue Hungary in U.S. courts for property stolen during World War II. During a hearing on Tuesday, justices from across the ideological spectrum raised concerns that allowing such cases could open the floodgates to similar international litigation.

The case, which has been in contention for nearly 15 years, centres on whether an exception to the rule against suing foreign governments applies. The plaintiffs argue that Hungary seized their property during the Holocaust, later using the proceeds in U.S. transactions, thereby connecting the case to American jurisdiction. However, the justices appeared divided on the broader implications, with no clear consensus emerging from the session.

US Supreme Court
Photo: depositphotos.com

A labyrinth of questions and concerns

The Supreme Court deliberated on whether an exception to sovereign immunity permits Holocaust victims to sue Hungary in U.S. courts for property seized during World War II. Sovereign immunity typically protects nations from such lawsuits, but U.S. law includes an exception for cases involving expropriated property tied to the United States. The families argue that funds Hungary obtained from liquidating stolen property were partially spent in the U.S., warranting the exception. However, Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Brett Kavanaugh expressed scepticism, questioning the scope of the exception and raising concerns about foreign policy repercussions. Kavanaugh noted that no other nation allows such lawsuits, emphasising the potential international ramifications of the ruling.

Tracing funds through decades of transactions?

The Supreme Court exhibited reservations across ideological lines regarding the lawsuit by Holocaust victims against Hungary for expropriated property. Justice Sonia Sotomayor questioned the plausibility of tracing funds through decades of transactions, describing it as a “fiction.” Justices Elena Kagan and Samuel Alito expressed concerns about allowing foreign nations to evade scrutiny by commingling stolen assets with general funds, with Kagan warning it could create a “roadmap” for impunity.

Alito downplayed fears of reciprocal lawsuits against the U.S., while Justice Brett Kavanaugh raised concerns about exposure to historical claims. The case, Hungary v. Simon, originally filed in 2010 and previously reviewed by the Supreme Court, has returned following a federal appeals court ruling in favour of the families. A final decision is expected next year.

Read also:

Featured image: depositphotos.com

5 top things to do when travelling in Hungary

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Things to Do in Hungary:

1. Taste Hungarian Cuisine

Tasting the local cuisine is one of the most authentic ways you can sample the culture in Hungary.

Whether you opt for goulash, chicken paprikash, or chimney cake, tasting these dishes is sure to give you a snapshot of how Hungarian food has captured people’s hearts across the nations.

If you want to try your hand at cooking Hungarian cuisine from home, you can browse bookshops like Waterstones for cookbooks to inspire you to become an amateur Hungarian chef.

Additionally, if you want to truly reflect the traditional methods of Hungarian cooking, you could invest in a goulash kettle that is traditionally used for cooking and serving goulash. Small things like this can really help to bring Hungarian culture alive into your home.

2. Study a Course

As you’re travelling and taking in the incredible views across Hungary, why not take the opportunity to study whilst you travel? 

If you opt for a distance learning degree, you will be able to work flexibly, prioritising your travel itinerary, so you can take in all the sights at your own pace. 

High quality providers like Signum Magnum College have a range of courses designed to fit around your daily commitments, whether you’re just starting out with an undergraduate degree, or progressing towards a doctorate. 

3. Visit Budapest

The capital city of Hungary, Budapest is known for its historical architecture, museums and art and extensive cultural history. 

Whether you decide to explore the Danube river on a sightseeing cruise, visit St Stephen’s Basilica, or experience a spa, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. 

Flowing through ten countries, the Danube is an important historical artefact of the Roman Empire and a site of cultural importance as the second largest river in Europe. Take a look for yourself to marvel at its spectacular scenery!

Budapest is also known for its nightlife so you can make the most of bar crawls through the city, with cheap delicious drinks and wonderful views, it’s the perfect place to let your hair down.

4. Explore Hungary’s Cultural History

Folklore is an important part of Hungarian culture, and you won’t need to look far to find folk tales. Additionally, spas are a huge part of the culture in Hungary, with readily available thermal springs that can be found across 80% of Hungary’s land. 

A huge part of utilising these thermal springs comes in the form of public baths, which are widely available, and are used for treating a variety of ailments, as well as for general therapeutic use.

The Rubik’s Cube was invented in Hungary in 1977, gaining widespread popularity and global fame, but more traditional Hungarian games include Ulti (a card game), and Button football.

5. Visit Some Natural Beauty Spots

As well as the thermal springs, Hungary is also host to some beautiful landscapes that are great for those who are a fan of the great outdoors. 

Take in the sights of Lake Balaton, the Aggtelek National Park, and the Hortobagy National Park with your favourite walking shoes and a hot drink of your choice.

Do you have any tips for travelling to Hungary? Share your thoughts in the comments section below!

Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

Hungary’s public administration is an example to Congo, DRC minister said

Hungary’s public administration is an example to Congo, Guy Loando Mboyo, the DRC’s minister for regional planning, said in Budapest, adding that his country had learned much from studying the Hungarian model and sought to deepen cooperation.

Speaking on Thursday at the press conference with Csaba Latorcai, parliamentary state secretary of the public administration and regional development ministry, the minister noted that the vast territory of Congo only since 2007 had come under unified public administration system, and the country was keen to get Hungarian help in finalising DRC’s regional development plan.

He praised Hungary’s “single-window” one-stop-shop for the public to manage various documents such as IDs and passports, including a mobile version of the single window, as well as its motorway vignette and toll system. Whereas DRC already operates digital administration, only a small proportion of the population can use it, so it needs serious development, he added.

Mboyo also mentioned other areas of potential cooperation such as higher education scholarships, research development, the development and financing of independent regional development projects, environmental protection, and accessing special European Union funds for sustainable development.

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the beating heart of Africa

Latorcai said he presented to his counterpart Hungary’s Competitive Districts scheme and how regional development guidelines can be determined by involving regions in need, as well as government support for specific programmes that help them catch up and make them competitive.

Hungary, he added, was glad to share its experiences and cooperation would soon be extended to several areas of economic life.

“The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the beating heart of Africa,” he said, adding that the Hungarian government, as part of its policy of opening up to the South, wanted to get involved with DRC’s fast-growing economy, “which represents a huge potential for the whole of Europe”.

Read also:

 

  • Mystery Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport, Assad seeking Trump’s help from Budapest?
  • PM Orbán’s friend, the wealthiest Hungarian, Lőrinc Mészáros, may buy top Austrian football club – details in THIS article

Hungarian 4iG, OTP Bank performs well in Albania

National Economy Minister Márton Nagy met with a number of Albanian ministers and the governor of Albania’s central bank during a visit to Albania on Thursday, his minister said in statement on Friday.

Nagy met with Blendi Gonxhja, the minister for economy, culture and innovation; Petrit Malaj, the finance minister; Anila Denaj, the minister for agriculture and rural development; and Gent Sejko, the governor of the central bank.

The sides discussed bilateral economic ties, areas in which cooperation could be enhanced, and the state of Albania’s European Union integration.

Hungarian-Albanian ties are strong and there are over 20 state, intergovernmental or interministerial agreements between the two countries, the ministry said. Cooperation between the waterworks companies of Budapest and Tirana is “stable, fruitful and constructive”, it added.

Hungarian 4iG, OTP Bank performs well in Albania
Photo: MTI

The government offers 20 scholarships a year to Albanian students to enroll at Hungarian universities. The advancement of bilateral ties have also been supported by a direct Wizz Air flight between Budapest and Tirana launched with the support of the Hungarian government in 2021, the ministry said.

Last year, bilateral trade between Hungary and Albania reached EUR 130m. Hungarian-owned OTP Bank Albania is the country’s fifth-biggest credit institution in terms of total assets, while Hungary’s 4iG leads the mobile and fixed-line telecommunications markets.

Hungary backs the EU integration of Albania and the Western Balkans, Nagy said, adding that it was in the EU’s interest for those dynamically expanding economies to join as soon as possible.

Read also:

  • Orbán cabinet wants Albania to become an EU member – read more HERE
  • Hungary role model for Albania, says Albanian PM

Instead of hosting a Chinese university campus, South Pest may become a students’ paradise

We reported on Monday that the National Athletics Centre in South Pest was opened to the public with multiple outdoor sports equipment that can serve and entertain kids, adults, athletes and the general public. Now, it seems both the Orbán cabinet and the leadership of the capital are committed to building the promised students’ city near it.

Chinese university campus planned to be built in South Pest

Years ago, it sparked serious public outcry and heated political debates that one of the world’s best universities, the Shanghai-based Fudan University, would open a campus in Budapest. Some politicians claimed the university would spread the Communist ideology in Budapest and Hungary, being a national security threat not only in Hungary but also in the European Union.

Furthermore, the government decided to provide land, teaching and research facilities for the new campus in Budapest’s 9th district and the 21st district, Csepel. What’s more, the location of the new campus would have been in the place of another government promise, the so-called students’ town, which aimed to ease the housing crisis hitting especially university students in Budapest.

Fudan Budapest south pest
A visual of the future students’ city. https://www.facebook.com/snohetta

Budapest resisted

The opposition-led Budapest municipal council did what it could. They renamed some streets in the future area to Free Hong Kong Road, Uyghur Martyrs’ Road, Dalai Lama Road, and Bishop Xie Shiguang Road, the last referring to a persecuted Chinese Catholic priest.

Moreover, the united opposition wanted to hold a referendum about the Chinese university, but the Supreme Court declined that in May 2022. Later, a similar drive for a Budapest referendum was halted because the Democratic Coalition ceased backing it.

No activity of the Fudan Foundation found

Now, it seems the problem could be solved soon. Despite Hungary having a foundation to run the local campus of Fudan University, the institution does not show signs of life. One of the opposition MPs, Márton Tompos, currently the President of the Momentum Movement, tried to gain more information about the Foundation’s activity after the institution failed to submit its report to the Hungarian National Assembly despite it being their legal obligation. However, MP Tompos could not speak to anybody at the foundation headquarters.

New foundation to construct students’ town, making South Pest a student paradise

The Hungarian Parliament may reshuffle the Fudan Foundation next Thursday to become a unit charged with supervising the building of the future students’ town in South Budapest. Gergely Gulyás, the Minister of the Prime Minister’s Office, said during a previous press conference that the Orbán cabinet would no longer like to build a campus for the Fudan University. Instead, they would like to construct a students’ town offering 10-12 thousand beds for higher education students, easing the housing crisis.

Alexandra Szentkirályi, the leader of the Fidesz group in the Budapest municipal assembly, is one of the strongest voices supporting the project. Krisztina Baranyi, the re-elected mayor of Ferencváros (9th district), the district where the students’ town will be, said they could start the construction project yesterday.

If the parliament accepts the relevant bill, the new foundation may receive additional property in Budapest’s 9th district. The new name of the institution will be Tudás-Tér Alapítvány.

If the new “town” is ready, the gate to the Csepel Island in South Pest will become a paradise for students.

Ministry launches public consultations on housing support for young Hungarians

The National Economy Ministry on Friday announced the start of public consultations on a measure to raise the threshold for non-wage benefits for housing with tax allowances. The measure would raise the threshold from an annual HUF 450,000 at present to HUF 150,000 a month or HUF 1,800,000 per year for employees under 35 from January 1, 2025.

Read also:

  • Great news: National Athletics Centre in Budapest is open to the general public – PHOTOS and details in THIS article
  • Budapest’s 9th district eyed for new student town to address housing shortage

Orbán cabinet worried about the EU’s cybersecurity

EU cybersecurity agency ENISA must help to strengthen EU institutions and member states, especially given current cybersecurity challenges, Zoltán Kovács, the state secretary for international relations and communications, said before a transport, telecommunications and energy council meeting in Brussels on Friday.

Kovács noted that ministers are assessing ENISA’s role in “the dramatically changing European cybersecurity ecosystem” in light of fresh legislative developments, adding that a new leglislative framework for ENISA would help to address numerous challenges.

Member states will relate their experiences and expectations to the European Commission during the meeting, he said.

Also, the conclusions on the European Commission’s White Paper on the development of the European digital infrastructure aiming to improve the bloc’s logistics, infrastructure and security will be presented at the meeting.

He said the European Commission should take seriously the experiences and practices of EU member states rather than proposing ideas that are hard to implement.

Kovács said that whereas digital infrastructure was a security consideration as important as the cybersecurity agency itself, it was also a key component of competitiveness, a Hungarian EU presidency priority, as “all such infrastructure ensures that industries and institutions can enhance their competitiveness”.

Regarding the Digital Decade 2030 policy programme, Kovács said that ministers were scheduled today to hold a “substantive political debate”, and ideas on boosting competitiveness, efficiency and the challenges set out in the Budapest Declaration would be important aspects of the discussions.

Ministers will have an informal lunch with the deputy secretary-general of UN agency International Telecommunication Union to discuss future cooperation and how to strengthen Europe’s place in international telecommunications developments, “an area where clearly Europe must move forward in terms of competitiveness.”

Read also:

  • PM Orbán awards ‘Mr Russia’, Hungary interested in Russia’s new security system – read more HERE
  • Major security risk: Hungary’s defence system compromised in USD 5 million cyberattack

BREAKING: Mystery Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport, Assad seeking Trump’s help from Budapest?

opposition journalists subjected to lie detector test

A Syrianair jet landed at Budapest Airport yesterday evening, but no Hungarian airport employees were allowed to serve or even get close to the mystery aircraft. Instead, Hungarian media wrote that units of the elite military branch Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK) arrived to welcome the plane. News outlets suggest that President Bashar al-Assad took refuge in Hungary and would like to try to persuade Donald Trump through Orbán to provide American support for his fallen regime.

Rebel forces took Syria in just 11 days

According to Reuters, Syrian rebels took control of most of the country in just an 11-day-long campaign and occupied even Damascus last night. Crowds are celebrating the fall of the Assad family in the Middle Eastern country’s Homs, Damascus, Hama and other major cities while operations against “terrorist groups” continue.

Western powers are concerned because a globally designated terrorist group – Hayat Tahrir al-Sham – has great influence on the forming administration. However, the former al Qaeda affiliate’s leader, Abu Mohammed al-Golani, promises a smooth power transition. Furthermore, “caretaker” Prime Minister Mohammad Ghazi al-Jalali promises that Syrians will be free to choose their leaders in an upcoming democratic election.

Assad seeking Trump's help from Budapest
Source: depositphotos.com

Syria, led by the Alawite Assad family, was a bastion for Russia and Iran in the region, so Israel, among others, felt relieved by the regime’s fall. However, President Bashar al-Assad does not wish to give up yet.

A mysterious Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport after Damascus fell

According to Reuters, media reports talk about a mystery plane taking off from Damascus airport when the Syrian capital was taken by rebel forces. First, it flew to Syria’s coastal region, where a Russian naval base and military airport is located. Then, it suddenly took a U-turn and disappeared from the maps. Although some sources say Assad was murdered on board, Magyar Hang wrote about a mystery plane that landed at Budapest Airport on Saturday evening.

Assad seeking Trump's help from Budapest (2)
Assad getting off a plane before. Is he in Budapest now? Source: Instagram/Syrian Presidency

They could not trace the plane’s flight route since it appeared out of the blue on Flightradar. Furthermore, employees of the Budapest Airport were not allowed to serve the jet. However, units of the Hungarian Counter Terrorism Centre (TEK) arrived at the airport. Moreover, everybody was forced to sign a non-disclosure agreement.

Neither Orbán nor FM Szijjártó communicated about the event yet, and their offices also remained silent to the questions of Magyar Hang.

According to Bloomberg, Assad sent Patriarch of the Syriac Orthodox Church Ignatius Aphrem II to PM Orbán to discuss the renewed fights in Syria and the state of the Christians in the country. The reason is that Hungary is committed to supporting persecuted Christians through one of the government’s secretariats led by State Secretary for Programmes Assisting Persecuted Christians Tristan Azbej.

Bloomberg wrote that the visit had a secret aim. Assad wanted to open diplomatic channels to President Trump, asking for help through the Hungarian prime minister.

Reuters wrote that Syria’s traditional allies, Iran and Russia, are unable to provide help for the overthrown leader due to focus on other crises.

Trump’s reaction

Donald Trump reacted to the situation in his Truth Social account and what he wrote is bad news for Assad:

“Assad is gone. He has fled his country. His protector, Russia, Russia, Russia, led by Vladimir Putin, was not interested in protecting him any longer. There was no reason for Russia to be there in the first place. They lost all interest in Syria because of Ukraine, where close to 600,000 Russian soldiers lay wounded or dead, in a war that should never have started, and could go on forever. Russia and Iran are in a weakened state right now, one because of Ukraine and a bad economy, the other because of Israel and its fighting success. Likewise, Zelenskyy and Ukraine would like to make a deal and stop the madness. They have ridiculously lost 400,000 soldiers, and many more civilians. There should be an immediate ceasefire and negotiations should begin. Too many lives are being so needlessly wasted, too many families destroyed, and if it keeps going, it can turn into something much bigger, and far worse. I know Vladimir well. This is his time to act. China can help. The World is waiting!”

UPDATE: Fake news that a Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport, says the airport

Budapest Airport denied that a Syrian plane landed at Budapest Airport yesterday. They added that such news could undermine public trust towards the airport, Telex reports.

UPDATE 2: Middle East Christians in Hungary’s focus, says FM Szijjártó

Hungary has a vested interest in stability in the Middle East and pays key focus to Christian communities in the region, the foreign minister said on Facebook on Sunday. Péter Szijjártó noted the government’s continued support to Christians in the region. Szijjártó said his ministry had contacted in the past few days those Hungarians living in Syria that were available, adding that none of them had so far requested assistance. The Hungarian embassy in Damascus is temporarily closed, and Hungarians seeking assistance could apply to the embassy in Beirut, which has introduced an extraordinary opening schedule, he said.

Read also:

  • Hungarian foreign minister: the EU should contact President Bashar al-Assad – read more HERE
  • Going home for Christmas? Budapest to increase airport shuttle bus frequency – details in THIS article

Speaker Kövér: the new European Commission works against Europe’s interests

The new European Commission “is now promoting in Europe the interests of private powers outside Europe” leading to further “political, economic, and social destabilisation” of the community, László Kövér, the speaker of Hungary’s parliament, told a session of the Patriots for Europe European parliamentary group in Budapest on Friday.

According to Kövér, Europe is “under a symbolic political, economic, and cultural carpet bombing”, while “the threat of an actual bombing of our continent is increasing by the day.”

Kövér said Patriots were “the first hopeful green sprig on the tree of Europe pruned by harmful hands” adding that the group had “a mission from the Lord of History” to create the conditions to rebuild Europe in a political, economic and cultural sense. He said patriotic forces in Europe were “protecting common sense against abnormality, at the level of ideologies”; they were “protecting patriotism against globalism at the political level, and protecting nation states from EU federalism and against plans to build an European United States at a legislative level.”

Speaker Kövér
Photo: MTI

Kövér also called for cooperation with patriots in the United States to protect “democratic states as institutions of legitimate public power” from “private powers lacking democratic legitimacy, seeking to subject democratic states in a clandestine way.”

The Patriots for Europe adopted a political declaration urging a stricter migration policy.

Kinga Gál, the party group’s vice-chair, said the issue of migration was in need of the most urgent action, adding that a “migration crisis” threatened Europe’s future.

The Fidesz MEP said that before the EP elections the “pro-migration majority” in Brussels had forced through “old, bad solutions” contained in the migration pact, which encouraged migration rather than seeking to prevent it. European migration policy must be put on a completely new footing, she said.

The Patriots for Europe’s proposals call for effective external border protection and a complete ban on illegal border crossings, she said. Only people who have the right to enter and stay in the EU should be able to do so, she added.

Speaker Kövér and the PfE EP group
The PfE EP group in the Hungarian Parliament. Photo: MTI

Mass migration the gravest threat to Europe’s future

Jordan Bardella, the group’s chair, said mass migration was the gravest threat to Europe’s future, adding that the process was irreversible and transformed nation states, with enclaves and non-Western laws “formed everywhere”.

The group adopted a joint statement on migration at the meeting. Gal said the topic was chosen because the group saw it as the one requiring urgent action the most. “There is definitely a migration crisis in Europe, and it is threatening the continent’s future,” she said. Besides effective border control, the party group has called on the regular review of refugees’ asylum status, and asylum seekers who have committed crimes or subscribe to extremist views must be expelled from the EU, she added. They are also demanding “a firm stance against civil and lobby organisations organising illegal migration to Europe”.

They are calling on the EU to refrain from stopping member states from implementing stringent immigration regulations and for an opt-out option from the EU’s migration regulations. The EU should also withdraw all sanctions against member states for measures designed to stop illegal migration, she said.

The parties rejected the EU’s migration policy and all attempts at putting political pressure on member states and leaders fighting illegal migration effectively on their own authority, she said.

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BMW’s Hungarian plant in Debrecen just lost a high-volume model in a strategic change!

BMW Debrecen Munich

The German car manufacturer BMW has decided that one of the three models originally planned to be produced in Debrecen, the new 3 Series based on the Neue Klasse platform, will be built at the main plant in Munich instead of in Hungary. This decision may have an impact not only on production capacity but also on the plant’s economic contribution, particularly in terms of Hungary’s GDP.

The Debrecen BMW plant was originally designed to produce three different electric models from the Neue Klasse platform: the iX3, iX4 and 3 Series. However, as part of the restructuring decision, BMW management decided to build the new 3 Series in Munich instead. According to 24.hu, the reason for this change is the uncertainty in the industrial environment, which is affecting the European car industry in particular.

The decision allows the Debrecen plant to focus on the two remaining models, the iX3 and iX4. However, this means that the plant will be optimised to produce only two models instead of the three originally planned.

BMW Debrecen Munich
Source: Pixabay

Reduction in capacity

When the construction of the plant was announced in 2018, BMW set out ambitious plans to produce 150,000 cars a year in Debrecen. However, it now appears that this figure could be significantly reduced. According to industry sources, the maximum capacity of the plant could be limited to 80-90 thousand cars per year based on current plans.

The capacity reduction is due to the relocation of the new 3 Series to Munich. This model is expected to be a high-volume product and will be produced at the company’s flagship plant in Munich. Full capacity utilisation of the Debrecen plant will therefore remain uncertain towards the end of the decade.

The production start date has also been changed. The original target date of 2025 has been postponed by one year, and production is now expected to start in 2026. This shift is also due to the general uncertainty in the automotive industry.

The uptake of electric cars in Europe has been slower than manufacturers had previously expected. This slowdown has created spare capacity for several multinational carmakers, providing an opportunity to restructure and optimise production plans.

The strategic role of the Munich Plant

Munich continues to play a key role in BMW’s global manufacturing strategy. The company chose to build the new 3 Series at this central plant because of its ability to manage the product portfolio accurately and efficiently. This decision is in line with the company’s priority of strategically positioning its highest-volume models.

Munich is also a good location because in the current economic climate, competition between production sites is fiercer than ever. It is becoming increasingly difficult for automotive companies to make long-term plans, especially for new models and plants.

BMW Debrecen Munich
Source: Pixabay

BMW’s possible impact on the Hungarian economy

The planned reduction in production at the Debrecen plant could have a direct impact on Hungary’s economic growth. The plant was originally expected to make a significant contribution to Hungary’s GDP but reduced capacity and delays in the start of production may reduce this expectation.

However, the plant could still be an important player in the Hungarian car industry, particularly with the production of two new electric models. The key question for the long-term outlook, however, is whether the plant will be able to reach full capacity and what new models are planned for the future.

Read also:

VIDEO: Chuck Norris joins Hungarian charity drive Good to be Good

Hollywood star Chuck Norris has again joined the Hungarian public media’s annual charity drive dubbed “Good to be Good” with a donation, Duna TV said on Facebook showing a video message by the actor and his wife.

The 13th donation drive raises money for the construction of a hospice children care home run by the Hungarian Baptist Charity near Budapest. The construction is already under way but the project needs additional donations to be fully completed.

Chuck Norris joins Hungarian charity drive Good to be Good (Copy)
Photo: PrtScr/Duna Tv FB

Norris this time has offered one of his signature cowboy hats for an auctione to be held in a public media programme on Dec 22. A Herendi porcelaine vase he has signed will also be listed among objects up for bidding.

He first joined the charity drive in 2021 offering a book he signed.

Other stars joining the programme before include Bud Spencer, Sarah Jessica Parker, Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Jean-Paul Belmondo, Patric Duffy and Lewis Hamilton.

Here is Norris’s message to the Hungarians:

Read also:

  • Finding belonging: In community at the Ark in Hungary – PHOTOS, VIDEO and details HERE

Why 3D Animation is the Future of E-Commerce

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Animation can connect with all types of audiences. If you carefully look at the past decade, the development in the animation field is enormous. Brands are leveraging 3D animation techniques in commercial space. The rapidly changing online retail environment forces businesses to find innovative ways to be different from others and make shopping more interesting and engaging for customers. As we proceed with the reasons why 3D animation is the next revolution in e-commerce, it is clear that this tool is of immense value for retailers as well as customers. In this small article, I’ve mentioned the importance of 3D animation in the future of E-commerce. 

Better Product View

It’s interesting, how brands are evolving according to consumer needs. I feel like animation elevates the online shopping experience on many levels. Through 3D animation in e-commerce, the greatest benefit that can be provided is a thorough and interactive view of products to customers. While for traditional 2D images or even video content, a shopper can view items from any perspective, zoom in on specifics, and even see how a product is working in real-time. I will surely be more interested in brand sites that offer 3D animations so that I can easily decide what works best for me. 

This 3D animation view has several functional uses:

This is because it shows products more accurately, which can help the viewers bridge the gap between online and in-store experiences. I think customers can see the size, texture, and overall look of an item and make better purchasing decisions. This increases the overall experience of online shopping promoting your brand in new ways. 

Complex Products Demonstration: 

For products with complex features or multiple parts 3D animations can show how a product works and highlight the USP. This is helpful in the cases of product designers and brands, where they can easily demonstrate the products to their clients through 3D animation. Especially for high-tech gadgets, customizable products, or products that need to be assembled.

Create Emotional Bonds: 

3D animation can create a more emotional connection between the consumer and the product. Emotional psychology states that, when it has a 3D feel, you will know that it exists making a deeper bond with the animation. This is exactly why you cried watching Inside Out 2 in 3D. Well, here users can handle virtual representations by the company while simulating the in-store buying experience hence making online buying more interactive and sticky.

More Interaction and Engagement with Customers

I feel 3D animation can convert the passive viewer into the activated participant. This enhanced form of involvement has numerous advantages to online store business operations:

Lengthened Dwell Time: Product pages having 3D animations usually cause users to stay for more extended periods than product pages using static images or regular video files. This increases dwell time further allows the increased probability of customers being involved with a product but also favors good ranking of the site on the search engine. The attention span surely will increase when something moves and is also animated, improving the overall dwell time. 

Better User Experience: You already know that 3D animations are more interactive in nature. It is more appealing to modern customers’ demand for unique, personalized, and interesting experiences in shopping. This unique product visualization control increases customer satisfaction and attracts return visits.

Social Media Sharing: Novel and aesthetic 3D animation will be shared through social media platforms, and with the increase in the share of content, it is possible that the organic reach can increase, driving traffic back to the e-commerce site. This is the perfect example, I will point to when making sure you increase your brand visibility across different platforms. 

Purchasing Behavior

The impact of 3D animations on consumer behavior and buying decisions is huge. Look at it this way, if you don’t have time to go to a nearby store to buy a particular product but you need it urgently you go online searching for it. If the brand gives you a 3D experience of the same product, will you still spend your time getting dressed to go out and buy the product? In my case, it’s a clear NO. Because the product being shown has more scope and interaction through 3D animation, it affects the buyer’s journey for sure. 

More conversions: I read that products shown through 3D animations grab customer attention and have better returns than products created with simple 2D models.

Less Return Rates: With more accurate product representations 3D animations set expectations properly, which can reduce return and exchange rates of the product. This doesn’t only increase customer satisfaction but also reduces the operational cost of the retailer.

Trust Building: The level of detail and interaction in 3D animations can make the buyer more confident to buy high-value or custom products. When a purchase decision involves multiple considerations 3D animation helps to build trust with potential buyers.

Collaboration with Emerging Technologies

As you witness the landscape of e-commerce continuing to evolve, 3D animations are proving to be highly compatible with other cutting-edge technologies:

Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): 3D animations serve as a foundation for Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality experiences, allowing customers to visualize products in real-world settings or explore virtual showrooms.

Virtual Try-Ons: In fashion and cosmetics companies, it’s exciting how 3D animations can be used to run virtual try-on experiences. This will help customers see how it would look on them without having to buy it in advance.

Configuration Tools: For customized products, with configuration tools, 3D animations can be used whereby customers can see changes in real-time.

Challenges and Considerations

While the benefits that 3D animation can provide in e-commerce are numerous, there are some challenges that retailers must address:

Technical Expertise: Creating good 3D animation requires special skills and software. I think you need to understand the importance of many skilled people working together to team up with agencies.

Cost: It may seem expensive to start with but when you weigh it against increased sales and reduced returns, you will know it’s a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Website Performance: Another important aspect is to ensure that 3D animations do not negatively impact website loading times or mobile responsiveness. Make sure in the end, it’s always maintaining a smooth user experience for visitors. 

Conclusion

As ecommerce grows 3D animation is the next big thing on the horizon and how it will impact the online shopping experience. Not only does 3D animation give better visualization, more customer engagement, and influence decisions in the short term but all these indicate its future in ecommerce.

With the advent of new technologies like AR and VR 3D animation is the new normal in ecommerce. I think there’s still a challenge in implementation and optimization but the benefits far outweigh the initial hurdles.

For e-commerce businesses that want to be ahead of the curve and give customers an immersive and engaging shopping experience 3D animation is no longer an option; it’s a necessity. As the technology advances and becomes more accessible we can expect it to change the e-commerce landscape and set new benchmarks for online product presentation and customer interaction.

In a competitive digital world,3D animation is a great way for retailers to stand out, build relationships with their audience, and drive growth and success in e-commerce.

Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

Featured photo: depositphotos.com

Optimizing your investment strategy: timing, allocation, and risk management

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When to Enter the Market: Timing Your Dividend Stock Investments

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Consider the general market trends. Are we in a bull market where prices are climbing steadily, or is it a bear market where stock prices are dropping? Sometimes, it’s better to wait for a market correction—a period when stock prices drop, presenting a more attractive entry point.

Also, think about the economic climate. During times of economic uncertainty, dividends might be reduced or even suspended. So, it’s prudent to consider how the broader economy could impact dividend payments. For instance, during a recession, companies may conserve cash by cutting dividends.

Keep an eye on individual company performance too. Even if the market looks good, a company facing financial difficulties might not be the best choice. Remember the saying, “Don’t try to catch a falling knife,” and avoid rushing into a stock just because the price has dropped.

Portfolio Diversification: How Much to Allocate to Dividend Stocks?

Diversification is like a safety net for your investment portfolio. But how much of it should be in dividend stocks? Well, that depends on your financial goals, risk tolerance, and investment horizon. Ever heard the phrase, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket?” That’s what diversification is all about.

For most investors, dividend stocks are a solid choice because they provide a regular income stream. But allocating too much to them can be risky. Why? Because if the dividend-paying companies experience downturns, your income and portfolio value could take a hit. On the flip side, allocating too little might mean you miss out on the steady income that dividends offer, especially in retirement.

A balanced approach is often the best. You might want to allocate a portion of your portfolio to dividend stocks—let’s say 30% to 40%—while the rest goes into growth stocks, bonds, or other assets. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of regular income without relying solely on dividends.

Also, within your dividend stock allocation, it’s crucial to diversify across industries and sectors. For example, if you only invest in dividend-paying utility companies, you’re exposed to the risks specific to that sector. By spreading your investments across different industries—like healthcare, consumer goods, and technology—you reduce the risk of a downturn in any single sector impacting your entire portfolio.

Risk Assessment: Evaluating the Stability and Growth Potential of Your Picks

Evaluating the risks tied to dividend stocks isn’t just about looking at the dividend yield and calling it a day. It’s about digging deeper—understanding the financial health of the companies, the sustainability of their dividends, and their potential for future growth. You wouldn’t buy a car without checking under the hood first, right? The same goes for investing.

Start by looking at the company’s payout ratio. This ratio tells you how much of a company’s earnings are paid out as dividends. A lower payout ratio generally means the company has room to grow its dividends in the future. But if the payout ratio is too high, it might indicate that the company is stretching itself thin to maintain its dividends—something that could be risky in the long run.

Another important factor is the company’s debt levels. Companies with high debt might struggle to maintain dividends, especially in tough economic times. On the other hand, companies with low debt levels and strong cash flow are usually in a better position to keep paying dividends even when the going gets tough.

Ever hear the phrase, “Past performance is not indicative of future results?” It’s true, but looking at a company’s dividend history can still give you valuable insights. Companies that have consistently paid and increased dividends over time tend to be more stable and reliable.

Conclusion

Investing in dividend stocks isn’t just about picking names from a list—it’s about crafting a strategy that aligns with your financial journey. By carefully timing your entry, diversifying wisely, and assessing risks, you can create a portfolio that not only grows but also provides steady income. Ready to take the leap? Your future dividends might just be the key to financial stability.

Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

AEON MINING mined 33 BTC! Worth $3.3 million, 5 miracles that happened since July

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Disclaimer: the author(s) of the sponsored article(s) are solely responsible for any opinions expressed or offers made. These opinions do not necessarily reflect the official position of Daily News Hungary, and the editorial staff cannot be held responsible for their veracity.

Top Hungary news: Paris Jackson in Budapest, Sri Lankan Hungarian Santa, City Park Ice Rink popular – 7 December, 2024

We’ve rounded up the top Hungary news from today.

Featured Hungary news

  • Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, got betrothed in Budapest! – photos and details in THIS article
  • Hungarian opposition politician teams up with French national TV to film the Orbán mansion – VIDEO and more HERE
  • Heartfelt story: Sri Lankan children receive gifts from Hungarian Santa
  • Fitch credit rating agency shares good news concerning Hungarian economy; will forint strengthen?
Santa Claus in Hungary news
Photo: Santa Claus in Zalaszabar. MTI

Christmas in Budapest

Sport

PM Orbán’s friend, the wealthiest Hungarian, Lőrinc Mészáros, may buy top Austrian football club

Lőrinc Mészáros, the wealthiest Hungarian

Lőrinc Mészáros is the wealthiest Hungarian who gained his wealth from public procurements won under the prime ministership of Viktor Orbán. Orbán and Mészáros are friends, and both live in Felcsút, a small village near Székesfehérvár. It seems Mészáros wants to buy Austria Wien, one of the top soccer clubs of our western neighbour, which is in second place in the Bundesliga, only 3 points behind Sturm Graz.

Lőrinc Mészáros may buy a top Austrian football association

According to 444, the Hungarian entrepreneur from Felcsút is negotiating with Austria Wien about becoming a shareholder in one of Austria’s top soccer teams. Kurier, a local newspaper, wrote about the talks. Austria Wien needs an investor urgently because they have to buy back some shares from a minority owner by next Saturday. If not, share prices will increase by 20%, an unbearable burden since the club struggles with severe financial problems.

Lőrinc Mészáros, the wealthiest Hungarian
Photo: MTI

According to the newspaper, the football association’s primary target was to sell its stadium, Estadio Franz Horr, known as Generali Arena, for EUR 45-50 million. However, Lőrinc Mészáros is interested in the club, not the stadium. Reportedly, he expressed that interest months ago. 444 contacted the Mészáros Group with their questions but has not received an answer yet.

Lőrinc Mészáros, the wealthiest Hungarian
Photo: MTI

With a successful deal, Mészáros could become the minority owner of a renowned Austrian soccer association. So far, Austria Wien has won the Bundesliga 23 times, the Austrian Cup 27 times, and the Austrian Supercup 6 times. They are currently in second place of the Austrian Bundesliga, only three points behind Sturm Graz.

Mészáros owns Felcsút and NK Osijek

This is not the first time that the richest Hungarian has got into the news regarding the purchase of an Austrian club. Four years ago, Mészáros’s name came up in connection with Mattersburg as a potential buyer.

Mészáros is the owner of the Puskás Academy in Felcsút, the prime minister’s village. Felcsút is now a member of the top Hungarian football league.

Lőrinc Mészáros and PM Viktor Orbán
PM Orbán (c) and Lőrinc Mészáros (r). Photo: MTI

He also has an interest in Croatia’s football league by owning NK Osijek. The team struggled with financial problems before the acquisition, but under Mészáros’s ownership, it began to flourish. The Hungarian businessman built a new stadium and an academy for a lot of money. However, based on their financial reports, the club is now profitable, generating a solid HUF 6.7 billion (EUR 16.2 million) for the owner last year. That is four times what last year’s champion, Dinamo Zagreb, achieved (HUF 1.7 billion, EUR 4.1 billion). The team’s finances are exceptional in the first-class Croatian football league, in which it occupies 5th place.

Read also:

  • A respected Swiss newspaper wrote about ‘King Orbán’s empire’ – read more HERE
  • Great news: National Athletics Centre in Budapest is open to the general public – PHOTOS and details in THIS article