Germany

Hungarian 40yo travelled between carriages at 282 km/h speed, holding on only to cables

Of course, the dangerous event did not happen in Hungary because, in our country, the highest speed trains can reach is 160 km/h between Budapest and Győr. The Hungarian 40-year-old travelled on a German high-speed train and miraculously survived the daredevil ride without being harmed, but he needed helpful people who alerted the police and authorities.

Hungarian man travelled between carriages

According to BBC, the Hungarian national boarded the ICE train carrying passengers between Munich and Lübeck in just 6 hours in the Bavarian capital on Thursday. He did not have a ticket but decided to take a smoking break in Ingolstadt. However, he lingered too long over his cigarette, and the train doors closed. Since he did not want to remain stranded at the station, he jumped onto a bracket between two carriages and held on to cables.

The train accelerated to 282 km/h and powered on to Nuremberg, but the Hungarian man was lucky. People saw him at the station and informed the police and authorities, who managed to establish contact with the train driver. He brought it to a halt after 30km at Kinding in Upper Bavaria.

He did not want to lose his luggage

As an explanation, the Hungarian man told police he left his luggage on the train and did not want to lose it. Thankfully, he was not injured during the devilish ride. “A police officer from the state police who happened to be travelling with the train found the 40-year-old Hungarian ‘passenger’ and brought him on to the train”, a police spokesman said.

He was handed over to federal police in Nuremberg and is expected to face charges for “an act disruptive to operations”, considered to be a severe administrative breach. According to Telex, he was also fined for travelling without a valid ticket. At the beginning of THIS article, you can see a photo of where the man travelled for 30 kilometres. It is mind-blowing to take a look and imagine his journey.

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January 18, 2025

Things you need to know in filing U.S. taxes from Germany

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Filing U.S. taxes while living in Germany involves navigating a complex web of international tax regulations. The United States’ citizenship-based taxation system means U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are required to file and report their worldwide income, even when residing abroad. In this guide, we’ll cover the key aspects of filing U.S. taxes from Germany, including important deadlines, available tax benefits, and tips to avoid double taxation.

Understanding U.S. Tax Obligations

As a U.S. citizen or Green Card holder residing in Germany, you’re obligated to report your worldwide income to the IRS. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

Filing Thresholds: The filing thresholds depend on your filing status. For example:
- Single: $12,950
- Married Filing Jointly: $25,900
- Head of Household: $19,400
Foreign Accounts and Assets:
- FBAR (FinCEN Form 114): If the total value of your foreign bank accounts exceeds $10,000 at any point during the year, you must file the FBAR.
- FATCA (Form 8938): Required if your specified foreign assets exceed $200,000 on the last day of the tax year ($300,000 for married couples filing jointly).
Worldwide Income: You must report all income earned in Germany or elsewhere, including wages, investments, and rental income.

Tax Treaties Between the U.S. and Germany

The U.S. and Germany have a tax treaty to avoid double taxation and clarify how income should be taxed. Key points include:

Avoiding Double Taxation: The treaty determines which country has the primary right to tax different types of income (e.g., employment, retirement, and business income).
Tax Credits: You can claim a Foreign Tax Credit for taxes paid in Germany to reduce your U.S. tax liability.
Social Security Taxes: The U.S.-Germany Totalization Agreement prevents you from paying social security taxes in both countries for the same income.

Steps to File U.S. Taxes from Germany

1. Determine Your Filing Status

Your filing status (e.g., single, married, head of household) determines your tax bracket, standard deduction, and eligibility for certain credits. Ensure you’re selecting the correct status for your situation.

2. Gather Necessary Documents

U.S. Forms: W-2, 1099s, or equivalent documentation.
German Tax Documents: Proof of income, tax returns filed in Germany, and receipts for taxes paid.
Bank Account Information: Details for FBAR and FATCA compliance.

3. Leverage Tax Benefits for Expats

Several provisions can help minimize your U.S. tax liability:

Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE): Excludes up to $126,500 of foreign earned income (2025 threshold). You must meet either:
- The Physical Presence Test (330 days in a foreign country).
- The Bona Fide Residence Test (establishing a permanent home in Germany).
Foreign Tax Credit (FTC): This credit reduces your U.S. taxes dollar-for-dollar for income taxes paid to Germany.
Foreign Housing Exclusion/Deduction: You can deduct qualified housing expenses exceeding the IRS base amount for Germany.

4. File the Appropriate Tax Forms

Some of the key forms include:

Form 1040: Standard U.S. tax return.
Form 2555: To claim FEIE and the Foreign Housing Exclusion.
Form 1116: For the Foreign Tax Credit.
Form 8938: For FATCA reporting.
FinCEN Form 114: To report foreign bank accounts.

5. Pay Attention to Deadlines

April 15: Standard tax deadline. If you owe taxes, payments are due by this date to avoid penalties and interest.
June 15: Automatic two-month extension for expats living abroad.
October 15: Extended filing deadline (requires filing Form 4868).

Managing German Tax Obligations

While living in Germany, you’re also required to comply with German tax laws. Key points include:

German Income Tax Rates: Ranges from 14% to 45%, with an additional solidarity surcharge (5.5% of the tax liability).
Tax Filing Deadlines in Germany: Typically due by July 31 of the following year, with extensions available upon request.
Tax Class System: Germany’s tax classes determine your withholding rates and filing obligations. These classes depend on your marital status and other factors.

Avoiding Double Taxation

To avoid paying taxes twice on the same income, use these strategies:

Foreign Tax Credit vs. FEIE: Evaluate whether the Foreign Tax Credit or FEIE offers greater benefits. The FTC is often more beneficial for expats in high-tax countries like Germany.
Tax Treaty Provisions: Use the U.S.-Germany tax treaty to clarify your tax obligations and avoid conflicts.
Proper Documentation: Keep detailed records of taxes paid to German authorities and ensure proper reporting to the IRS.

FAQs: Filing U.S. Taxes from Germany

1. Do I need to file if I owe no U.S. taxes? Yes, filing is mandatory if your income exceeds the IRS thresholds, even if your German taxes eliminate your U.S. liability.

2. How do I handle currency exchange rates? The IRS requires income and expenses to be reported in U.S. dollars. Use the average annual exchange rate unless a specific transaction rate applies.

3. Can I claim dependents while living in Germany? Yes, dependents meeting IRS criteria (e.g., U.S. citizenship or residency) can be claimed.

4. What happens if I miss the filing deadline? Late filers may face penalties. File as soon as possible and include a reasonable cause explanation to request penalty relief.

Conclusion: Simplifying U.S. Tax Filing from Germany

Filing U.S. taxes while living in Germany requires careful attention to both U.S. and German tax regulations. By understanding your obligations, leveraging tax benefits, and adhering to deadlines, you can avoid penalties and maximize savings. If the process feels overwhelming, consider consulting with a tax professional specializing in expat taxes to ensure compliance and peace of mind.

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.

January 15, 2025

Italian and German national charged over Budapest attacks ‘motivated by extremist ideology’

The Budapest Public Prosecutor’s Office has charged a German and an Italian national of taking part in violent attacks carried out in Budapest in February 2023.

Violent attacks in Budapest

The two men are accused of being members of a group espousing extreme leftist ideology, founded in Leipzig in 2017, which held that the sympathisers of right-wing extremism should be confronted with violence. The group decided to organise attacks against people they identified as right-wing extremists, the prosecutor’s office said on Monday.

They aimed to cause serious, possibly life-threatening injuries, and to conduct blitz-attacks to deter people from participating in right-wing extremist movements, it said in a statement. After several attacks in Germany, the group targeted the commemorations in Budapest in connection with the anniversary of the Nazi breakout of the Castle District during the siege of the capital in February 1945. According to the charges, they carried out five attacks between February 9 and 11, 2023, and injured nine people.

The German citizen is accused of participating in four attacks as a co-conspirator and accessory to crime, and the Italian citizen — who is being tried in absentia — in three attacks as an accessory. The prosecutor’s office is requesting a prison sentence in maximum security facilities and expulsion from Hungary for a definite period, the statement said.

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January 13, 2025

Don’t panic if you see more police officers in the Hungarian Christmas markets – UPDATE with PHOTOS

According to the official website of the Hungarian Police, plainclothes police officers will flood Hungarian Christmas markets after the brutal car attack a 50-year-old doctor with Saudi origins committed at the Magdeburg Christmas fair. Prominent politicians of the Orbán cabinet continued to criticise Germany’s welcome culture during which millions of illegal migrants arrived in the country. FM Szijjártó talked about an atmosphere of fear in the European Christmas markets.

More Hungarian police officers in Christmas markets

According to police.hu, more plainclothes police officers will stand on duty in the Hungarian Christmas fairs following the brutal car attack a Saudi doctor carried out at the Magdeburg Christmas fair on Friday. The aim is to improve the subjective perception of safety and prevent crimes committed in public spaces. The increased police presence will affect not only the markets but also the downtown of Budapest, and bigger rural towns and the main roads leading to these settlements.

Budapest Advent Bazilika hungary news — Photo: **depositphotos.com**

Furthermore, visitors may see physical obstacles around the Christmas markets, increasing safety and preventing similar attacks. Police ask everybody to pay attention to their valuables and follow their instructions for everybody’s sake.

Hungary’s Counter-Terrorism Centre increases presence

According to 444.hu, units of Hungary’s Counter-Terrorism Centre (TEK) are also present in the Budapest and rural Christmas fairs, especially at the Vörösmarty Square Christmas Fair and the Advent Bazilika. Both Christmas markets were chosen as Europe’s best ones. TEK said they would like to reduce their reaction time and improve the participants’ sense of safety by being present in and in close proximity to the Christmas fairs.

According to Délmagyar, the organisers of the Szeged Christmas fair also increased security after the Magdeburg attack. For example, they closed the great gate connecting the Dóm Square with the Aradi vértanúk Square, which might be used for a similar attack against the large crowds gathering to celebrate the Advent period in front of the Szeged Basilica. Of course, pedestrians can continue to use the side gates.

Hungarian politicians’ remarks

PM Orbán talked about the Magdeburg attack in his annual international press conference, saying that Brussels (the European Commission) wanted to “turn Hungary into Magdeburg”, and force risky migration regulations on the country, which “must not be allowed”. He added there was “no doubt” of a connection between illegal migration and terrorist acts but many had tried to deny this, “even though it is a fact that nothing like [such attacks] had happened before” Europe’s migration crisis.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó talked about the attack as “shocking and unacceptable” and highlighted that fear has become a “common feeling” among those who visit Christmas markets in Europe today.

Magdeburg attack commited by Saudi doctor

9 people, including a 9-year-old kid, died in the Magdeburg terrorist attack on Friday while more than 200 people were injured.

The main suspect, a 50-year-old Saudi doctor, named Taleb al-Abdulmohsen by the local media, arrived in Germany in 2006 and worked as a psychiatrist. German authorities granted him asylum in 2016. “He ran a website that aimed to help other former Muslims flee persecution in their Gulf homelands”, BBC wrote about him. Saudi authorities said they had sent four “Notes Verbal” about the perpetrator, but German authorities ignored them. Experienced counter-terrorism experts believe that is just part of a Saudi disinformation campaign to discredit people trying to help flee Saudi women and seek asylum in Germany. According to reports, the man “considered himself the most aggressive critic of Islam”.

Read also:

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UN Counter-Terrorism Office in Budapest to expand Hungarian staff under new agreement

December 22, 2024

FM Szijjártó about Magdeburg: unacceptable that fear rules Christmas

It is “shocking and unacceptable” that fear has become a “common feeling” among those who visit Christmas markets in Europe today, Péter Szijjártó, the foreign minister, said on Saturday.

Szijjártó said on Facebook that the reports coming in from Magdeburg, where a car drove into a crowd at a Christmas market on Friday, were “becoming more and more tragic”.

“It’s truly shocking and also unacceptable that it has become common that those who visit Christmas markets in Europe today have to be afraid of when and where a madman, a terrorist or an assailant will show up and drive into the crowd,” the minister said.

“Europe should finally wake up and we should protect what we value, our way of life, our security,” he said, adding that “it will be increasingly late with each attack”.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families at Christmas,” Szijjártó said.

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December 22, 2024

Willi Orbán vows to help RB Leipzig achieve ‘full potential’ after below-par start to the season

RB Leipzig have, slowly but surely, become one of the most consistent teams in the German Bundesliga and the Champions League.

But the Red Bull franchise hasn’t quite been at the races in 2024/25 so far… leaving their Hungarian ace and club captain, Willi Orbán, at a loss to explain their low-key start to the campaign.

However, the 32-year-old has vowed to do all he can to help the club unlock its ‘full potential’, and his performances so far this term confirm he’s leading from the front heading into a crucial chapter of the season.

Crisis on the Continental Front

One of the main casualties of RB Leipzig’s sluggish start has been their results in the revamped Champions League.

They lost all of their opening five games in the competition, leaving them trailing in the Champions League betting market to the likes of Liverpool (+450), Manchester City (+550), and Arsenal (+550).

Indeed, Champions League winner odds of +25000 suggest that Leipzig’s hopes of advancing in the continental showpiece are all but over.

And so attention will turn to domestic matters, where Die Rotten Bullen have their eyes fixed on another top-four finish… or better.

Bundesliga table after matchday 13 pic.twitter.com/YD0lVYcOWU

— Bayern & Germany (@iMiaSanMia) December 8, 2024

After 13 rounds of action, Leipzig find themselves in fourth place, albeit nine points behind the leaders Bayern Munich. However, a win – and other results going their way – could see Orbán and co leap as high as second in the table, which is more in-line with their ambitions.

However, the Expected Points table – which subtracts Expected Goals (xG) yielded from xG created – shows Leipzig’s ‘true’ position, based upon their performances, as a lowly ninth in the Bundesliga.

At least in Orbán they have a captain leading from the front…

Captain Fantastic

Increasingly these days in modern football, central defenders are athletic ball-players with an eye for a pass.

But that genre of player can sometimes struggle with the physicality of defending, which is why centre backs like the Hungarian are still worth their weight in gold.

Orbán prides himself on doing the ‘dirty work’ of defending, from making last-ditch tackles and blocks, to putting his head in where it hurts. No wonder his Leipzig teammates consider him to be such an inspirational leader.

After 13 rounds of Bundesliga games, Orbán ranks third amongst the division’s players for aerial duels won, third for successful blocks, and fifth for clearances made. He is, statistically speaking, the best defender in German football right now.

The powerhouse is also a handful in the opposition’s penalty area at set pieces, scoring four times in the Bundesliga so far this term.

But the Leipzig captain appreciates that there’s more work to be done, and while he was feeling bullish after his side’s 2-0 victory over Holstein Kiel early in December, Orbán confirmed that he and his teammates still had higher levels to strive for.

“We didn’t manage to play to our full potential in November, both as a team and as individual players,” he said.

But the belief is still there… and why wouldn’t it be, with Orbán leading from the front.

December 12, 2024

Hungarian national economy minister sees rebound in 2025 – UPDATED

National Economy Minister Márton Nagy said 2025 would be a “rebound” year of “economic recovery”, supported by a “peacetime budget”, testifying before parliament’s economy committee on Tuesday.

National Economy Minister expects economic recovery in 2025

Nagy said the government had responded successfully to the crises of the past five years: the pandemic, the energy crisis caused by the war and the economic downturn in Germany.

In light of the changed economic circumstances, the government has launched an economic policy action plan, founded on a policy of economic neutrality, that aims to aid the domestic recovery and lift GDP growth over 3pc from 2025, he added.

Nagy said that action plan would pump HUF 1,400bn into the business sector and leave households with more than HUF 2,800bn.

Nagy said tourism and retail data indicated a recovery of domestic consumption in 2024 that would continue in 2025. He added that real wages could grow 9pc this year, while the employment rate stood at 84pc, close to full employment.

Nagy said the construction sector would bounce back, with an order stock up 40pc and government measures set to lift the housing market. He added that home builds could double to 25,000 next year, still under the 40,000-unit potential of the local construction sector.

Nagy blamed Berlin’s overly disciplined fiscal policy and spending on ideologically important goals, rather than economic development, for the downturn in Germany. He added that the German government’s decision to roll back EV subsidies was also damaging.

Fielding questions, Nagy said dormitories with capacity for 13,000-20,000 students could be built in a student quarter in a brownfield area in the south of the capital. The government aims to keep the number of beds reserved for foreign students under 30pc, he added.

Nagy said the state would recoup the price it paid for a controlling stake in Liszt Ferenc operator Budapest Airport in 15 years.

Márton Nagy minister national economy — MTI/Soós Lajos

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December 10, 2024

Cheap living or political refuge? Discover why German pensioners are moving to Hungary!

In recent years, an increasing number of German pensioners have decided to leave their home country and move to Hungary. This is due to economic and political dissatisfaction in German society, as well as the attraction of Hungary’s lower cost of living and political stability.

Hungary is an increasingly popular destination for German retirees, especially those seeking a lower cost of living and a more relaxed lifestyle. In 2022, there were more than 22,000 German citizens living in the country, a significant proportion of them belonging to the older generation. They are attracted not only by the cheap real estate and the pleasant climate but also by Hungary’s political climate, which appeals to them in particular with its anti-immigration rhetoric.

Personal stories

According to Reuters, Andre Iwan’s relationship with Hungary dates back to the 1990s, when he bought land on the shores of Lake Balaton. The original plan was to spend their retirement here, but changes in Germany accelerated the move. The Iwan family’s decision is not unique; many feel that frustration with high taxes and immigration policies in Germany makes a comfortable retirement impossible.

Jürgen Wichert, another German retiree, also found a new home on the shores of Lake Balaton. He also emphasised the ideological aspects: he supports conservative policies and sympathises with leaders such as Viktor Orbán and Donald Trump. Wichert believes that Germany’s middle class needs to suffer an economic downturn for political change to take place. These personal experiences show that migration decisions are motivated not only by economic factors but also by political and ideological considerations.

Although more and more German retirees are moving to Hungary, the country’s younger generations are often moving in the opposite direction, to Western Europe in search of better opportunities. This dichotomy highlights the complexity of migration processes and the different economic situations in European countries.

budapest night life party europe hungary news — Photo: depositphotos.com

The political and media fallout

Prime Minister Viktor Orbán’s hardline anti-immigration policy is a major attraction for those in Germany who are unhappy with liberal politics there. The far-right media portray Hungary as a model of conservatism and order, which further increases interest in the country. However, experts point out that this idealised image does not always reflect reality, as Hungary has a crime rate similar to Germany’s and one of the lowest life satisfaction rates in Europe. In addition, the pandemic, economic turmoil and war have heightened fears and led people to seek stability in countries such as Hungary. Sociologists argue that this is less about objective security and more about the perception of finding order amid chaos.

For retirees like Andre Iwan and Jürgen Wichert, Hungary offers the prospect of a new start, where economic advantages, a favourable climate and political stability combine to create an attractive package. At the same time, these decisions raise deeper questions about identity, European values and immigration. For Hungary’s new residents, this country is not only a home, but also a symbol of the order and stability they seek, and a place where they hope to enjoy a fulfilling retirement.

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Featured image: depositphotos.com

December 8, 2024

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

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.

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’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.

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December 8, 2024

Budapest court orders extradition in Antifa case to Germany

The Budapest Municipal Court has ordered the extradition of a man sentenced in the so-called “Antifa case” to Germany, where he will be prosecuted for assault committed by a criminal organisation, the court told MTI on Wednesday.

According to the European arrest warrant issued by Germany, the man had been a member of a group aiming “to commit violent crimes with a far-left motivation”, and had participated in an attack with the group, the court said. According to the binding decision, the man will be extradited by expedited procedure, the court said.

The man is currently serving a prison sentence in Hungary, the statement said.

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December 5, 2024

Hungarian government believes car industry and EV factories are key priorities

Hungary’s economic recovery is underway this year, in spite of extraordinary difficulties and turbulence, laying the foundation for significant growth in 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó said giving testimony before parliament’s economy committee on Tuesday. As he said, Orbán cabinet believes car industry and EV factories are key priorities.

Szijjarto said the weight of the global economy had shifted to the East in recent years, while the competition to attract multinationals’ investments had intensified. He warned of the danger of efforts to divide the world into blocs again and said the government was focused on strengthening connectivity.

He said the government had adopted a policy of economic neutrality, paving the way for the country to become a “meeting point” for the economies of the East and the West.

Hungary has become the “number one” location in Europe for cooperation between Western and Eastern companies, he added.

Szijjártó said the government had supported 255 investments with HUF 869bn in subsidies in 2023 and the first half of 2024. Those projects were worth more than HUF 6,000bn and created around 25,000 jobs, he added.

He noted that

62pc of that investment volume had come from China. South Korean companies were runner-up, followed by ones from Germany, he added.

Hungary accounted for 44pc of all Chinese investments in Europe during the period, he said. This year, Chinese investments in Hungary created 11,500 jobs, while investments by German companies created 3,000, he added.

Government support for investments went to projects in 19 branches of industry, although the most support went to electromobility investments, he said.

Szijjártó highlighted big investments in the pipeline, including Chinese EV manufacturer BYD’s plant in Szeged, German car maker BMW’s factory in Debrecen and the expansion of the Mercedes base in Kecskemét.

When those projects are finished, annual vehicle production in Hungary will climb over 1 million, he added.

Szijjártó also noted big battery manufacturing investments necessary for EV production.

December 3, 2024

UEFA Nations League: Hungary levels the score against Germany in 99th minute, Szalai receives thoughtful gift – PHOTOS

In a gripping UEFA Nations League clash, Hungary staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 1-1 draw against Germany. After Felix Nmecha put the visitors ahead in the second half, Dominik Szoboszlai converted a last-minute penalty to level the score. The game was marked by a heartfelt gesture from German captain Julian Nagelsmann towards Hungary’s assistant coach, Ádám Szalai, who is recovering from a recent health scare.

Thrilling UEFA Nations League clash

In a tense encounter during the UEFA Nations League, Germany dominated the early stages against Hungary, showcasing a series of dangerous attacks, summarises M4 sport. Despite their control, the Hungarian defence held firm, limiting Germany’s chances. However, Hungary broke the deadlock after 15 minutes, with Nübel making crucial saves to deny Schäfer and Nagy. As the first half progressed, Germany regained control but struggled to convert their opportunities, while Hungary’s counter-attacks proved more effective, culminating in a thrilling match where both teams displayed resilience.

The second half saw an increase in intensity as both sides penetrated the midfield with dangerous plays. Germany made significant substitutions, introducing top talents like Musiala and Havertz, who nearly scored immediately. Yet, Hungary continued to push, with Szoboszlai’s corner kick almost ending up in the net. Just when it seemed that Germany would secure victory with Nmecha’s goal, Hungary fought back valiantly. In a dramatic finish, Szoboszlai converted a penalty for handball in the dying moments, ensuring a hard-fought draw for Hungary as they look ahead to their next UEFA Nations League match in March against a Division B opponent.

You can watch the last thrilling minutes of the match and the goal scored by Szoboszlai HERE.

Thoughtful gift for Szalai

Telex writes that moments before the UEFA Nations League clash between Hungary and Germany, German national team captain Julian Nagelsmann presented Marco Rossi with a jersey bearing the words “Jobbulást, Ádám!” in Hungarian (meaning “Get well soon, Ádám!”). Ádám Szalai, who served as an assistant coach for Hungary, collapsed during Saturday’s match against the Netherlands and was subsequently hospitalised. Thankfully, he is now in stable condition and recovering at home with his family. Due to medical advice, Szalai was unable to attend the match against Germany at the Puskás Aréna.

PHOTOS:

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November 20, 2024

German drugstore chain Müller to open gigantic shop in Budapest

German retailer Müller is closing its Váci Street store in Budapest, but shoppers can look forward to the launch of Hungary’s largest Müller store, a three-storey flagship set to open nearby with a grand celebration.

Müller announces Budapest shop closure

24.hu writes that German retailer Müller has revealed plans to close its store at 19-21 Váci Street, Budapest, with a clearance sale offering 20% off all products from 12 November. The closure marks a strategic move as the German company gears up for an ambitious new chapter in Hungary. The announcement was made via the company’s Facebook page, where the German drugstore chain also teased an upcoming venture that promises to elevate its presence in the region.

Gigantic new shop

The German drugstore chain is set to open Hungary’s largest store, a three-storey, 2,800-square-metre flagship, just steps away from the old location at the corner of Váci Street and Régi Posta Street, where the historic Fontana House once stood. The site will also feature 40 upscale apartments as part of Müller Drogéria Magyarország Lp’s real estate development. With construction progressing rapidly, the chain has promised a grand opening celebration, though the exact date remains under wraps.

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November 18, 2024

Retail chain Lidl plans considerable expansion in Hungary

German-owned supermarket chain Lidl Magyarország plans to raise its number of stores from 210 to 250 in the coming years, chairman Zita Szlavikovics said on Friday, marking 20 years in Hungary.

With a nationwide reach, Lidl had 20.8pc market share in September, according to data from GfK, Szlavikovics said. The chain employs 9,500 people and exported EUR 338m of local products to its other Lidl stores last year, she added.

Lidl Magyarország has 487 domestic suppliers accounting for 61pc of inventory, managing director for purchasing Zoltán Nepp said.

Lidl Hungary — Photo: facebook.com/LidlMagyarorszag

Lidl Magyarország had net sales revenue of HUF 1,159bn in its business year ended February 29, public records show.

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Historic Lidl announcement concerning Hungary – read more HERE

November 16, 2024

German companies in Hungary worried about growing costs, decreasing consumption

The latest survey conducted by the German-Hungarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (DUIHK) shows worsening sentiment among companies.

Presenting the results of the biannual survey on Thursday, DUIHK communications director Dirk Wolfer said one in two companies indicated an unfavourable outlook for the Hungarian economy, and only one in ten augured improvement. The results show a “significant deterioration” compared to the survey in spring, he added.

One-third of the companies delivered a positive assessment of their own situations, although the rate reached 50pc among businesses in services, while the assessments of 19pc were negative.

More companies planned to cut, rather than raise, investment spending.

One-quarter plan to make new hires in the coming twelve months and 19pc plan to reduce headcount.

Around 73pc of companies said demand for the their products and services posed the biggest risk. Higher labour costs were a lesser challenge.

DUIHK chairman András Sávos noted that the survey of 262 companies had been conducted in October, before the US elections and the collapse of the German government.

According to hvg.hu, German companies in Hungary are especially worried because of the rule of law in Hungary, the rising costs and the low consumption of the Hungarians. Wages in Hungary grew by 66% between 2019 and 2024, which is a challenge for every company because their effectiveness did not increase by 66% in the past four years. Of course, the Hungarian workforce is still cheap. The hourly wage is EUR 13 compared to EUR 41-42 in Germany.

MOL petrochemicals business builds 48 MW solar park

Mol Petrolkémia, the petrochemicals business of Hungarian oil and gas company MOL, will build a 48 MW solar park, the managing director of MOL’s local business said at the unit’s base in Tiszaujvaros on Thursday. György Bacsa said the solar park, to be completed in Q2 2026, would meet 5pc of Mol Petrolkémia’s electricity needs. He put the investment cost at EUR 40m, to be paid for by the company.

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Featured image: illustration

November 15, 2024

Record number of Hungarian students flee the country for higher education abroad

More and more Hungarian students are deciding to continue their studies abroad. While the five most popular destinations have not changed in recent years, certain trends can be seen in the latest data.

Hungarian students abroad

As Portfolio writes, the 2023/2024 academic year is setting a new record for the number of Hungarian students studying abroad, now exceeding 17,500, according to Engame Academy. While Germany and the Netherlands remain popular destinations, the Netherlands is close to overtaking Germany due to recent shifts in students’ preferences. Brexit’s effects continue to impact applications to the UK, while the appeal of the Netherlands is rising. Austria, Germany, the Netherlands, Denmark, and the UK continue to rank as the top five destinations for Hungarian students, although their order has shifted in recent years. Engame Academy’s Rita Nádas advises students planning to study abroad to monitor these changing trends and start preparing during secondary school. Nádas says:

Many Hungarian students only decide on their higher education options in the final year of secondary school, often just before applying for admission. But abroad, successful university admission requires a strong application profile, with sound career guidance and skills development.

The top three

Austria and Germany remain top choices for Hungarian students studying abroad, with Austria attracting 3,862 students and Germany 2,986. Austria’s appeal lies in its free tuition and proximity, while Germany has seen a rise in Hungarian enrolment, nearing 3,000 students. The Netherlands, now in third place with 2,926 students, has become especially popular since Brexit due to its extensive English-language programmes, affordable fees of about EUR 2,500 per year, and an international environment that eases adaptation for non-Dutch speakers.

Denmark and the UK are popular options too

Denmark has secured fourth place for Hungarian students studying abroad, attracting 1,263 students in the 2023/2024 academic year. Known for its high-quality, tuition-free education for EU students, Denmark’s appeal has grown with more English-language courses, driving a 5% rise in Hungarian enrolments. Despite the high cost of living, Denmark’s educational offerings remain attractive to Hungarian students, surpassing the United Kingdom, which has dropped to fifth place. In contrast, only 1,154 Hungarian students currently study in the UK, which has declined significantly post-Brexit due to increased tuition fees and the removal of student loans for EU students.

london traffic eta united kingdom — Photo: depositphotos.com

While the UK previously saw growing interest from Hungarian students, with a record 2,650 enrolments in 2020/2021, Brexit has created substantial obstacles. Ireland is emerging as an alternative, although it still hosts only 161 students from Hungary due to stringent admission requirements.

Read also:

November 15, 2024

Leader of a violent extreme left group carrying out attacks in Budapest caught

The German authorities have detained a man believed to have been the leader of a violent extreme left group, which had assaulted people they considered far-right, in Germany and in Budapest.

Members of the group attacked participants in a neo-Nazi march in February 2023 in Budapest.

The suspect, referred to as Johann G, is believed to have committed violence causing serious injuries, damage to property and forgery of official documents, Germany’s federal prosecutor’s office said.

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Featured image: illustration

November 10, 2024

Nations League: two new faces in Hungarian men’s squad for November double-header

Head coach Marco Rossi has called up two potential debutants for Hungary’s final Nations League group-stage matches against the Netherlands and Germany later this month.

Nations League – Hungary: two debutants

Ferencváros’s Zsombor Gruber and German Bundesliga II club Braunschweig’s Levente Szabó can make their international bows in Hungary’s next two fixtures after being selected by Rossi to join his latest 24-man squad in November, while two other notable names on the list are Milos Kerkez and Loic Nego, both of whom have recovered from injuries which kept them out of October’s two Nations League fixtures. Furthermore, Dániel Gera, a late call-up to last month’s squad, retains his place.

Hungary Men’s freshest squad (surnames first):

Goalkeepers:
Dibusz Dénes (Ferencvárosi TC)
Szappanos Péter (Al Fateh SC)
Tóth Balázs (Blackburn Rovers)

Defenders:
Balogh Botond (Parma)
Botka Endre (Ferencvárosi TC)
Dárdai Márton (Hertha BSC)
Fiola Attila (Újpest FC)
Orbán Willi (RB Leipzig)
Szűcs Kornél (Plymouth Argyle)

Midfielders:
Bolla Bendegúz (Rapid Wien)
Gera Dániel (DVTK)
Kata Mihály (MTK)
Kerkez Milos (Bournemouth)
Nagy Ádám (Spezia Calcio)
Nagy Zsolt (Puskás Akadémia)
Nego Loic (Le Havre AC)
Nikitscher Tamás (Kecskeméti TE)
Schäfer András (Union Berlin)

Forwards:
Csoboth Kevin (St. Gallen)
Gruber Zsombor (Ferencvárosi TC)
Sallai Roland (Galatasaray)
Szabó Levente (Braunschweig)
Szoboszlai Dominik (Liverpool)
Varga Barnabás (Ferencvárosi TC)

“Apart from among the forwards, there’s no change to the squad in terms of those players who earned spots last time, because Kerkez and Nego had originally been in that squad too”, Rossi explained to mlsz.hu.

“Everyone has been playing regularly, with the exception of (Endre) Botka, whom we’ve called up because he is a useful member of the squad in terms of his capabilities and, moreover, he has always performed well for the national team.”

“In place of Dániel Gazdag and Ádám Martin we’ve called up Zsombor Gruber and Levente Szabó, because in Gazdag’s case his league championship season, for which he was injured, has finished now. Martin is unfortunately not in the best form, but they could easily become squad members again in March.”

“Their absences give us an exceptional opportunity to assess Gruber and Szabó at close quarters. We’ve known and followed both for a long time, because they earlier caught our attention when at Puskás Akadémia and MOL Fehérvár respectively. Szabó has performed well and scored goals for Braunschweig, while Gruber doesn’t always play for Fradi, but performs well whenever called upon, as we could see against Debrecen at the weekend.”

Nation League: next two matches

The Hungarian men’s national squad will meet in Telki on 11th November, before taking to the pitch in Amsterdam on 16th November to face hosts the Netherlands. They’ll then return to Hungary to entertain Germany in the Puskás Aréna three days later.

“We know very well that we’ll face two teams which are among the world’s elite national teams”, Rossi continued.

“We know exactly how strong they are and we’re familiar with their strengths, but we’ll try to produce our best performance possible against them and we’d be glad if these would go alongside good results too. One can pay a heavy price for even the tiniest mistake against teams as strong as these, but despite this, we’d like to play with bravery against the Netherlands and Germany too”, Rossi concluded.

read also – UEFA Nations League: Can Hungary beat Netherlands and Germany to Reach the Quarterfinals?

November 5, 2024