News: The Navigator

Current Business Matters | The European Union is Taking On AI

This piece focuses on the European Union AI Act from December 8, 2023. This provisional agreement is a historic milestone shaping the world's first comprehensive legislation on artificial intelligence and AI governance. This month's piece provides insights to the intricate system of AI risk classification, governance structures, and consequences for non-compliance.

Current Business Matters - Navigating the Landscape of Transatlantic AI-Governance

We find ourselves amidst an exceptionally dynamic and swiftly changing international landscape of AI governance. The significance of AI governance has become a focal point for many, underscored by a remarkable number of AI policy events this month. This includes the issuance of the Biden-Harris Administration Executive Order, the finalized G7 AI Guidelines, roadblocks within the EU-AI Act negotiations, and the UK safety summit held at Bletchley Park.

EU-U.S. Summit October 2023 – Key Takeaways

The recent EU-U.S. Summit emphasized cooperation in security, technology, and trade and sent a strong sign of transatlantic unity. However, progress on the reduction of trade barriers and the overall industrial policy results fell short of expectations. In this overview, find compiled AmCham Germany's assessment of the summit as well as an overview of the main concerns that still require tangible outcomes for the transatlantic business community in the months ahead.

Current Business Matters - As the EU Phases in CBAM, the Idea of a U.S. Carbon Border Adjustment Gains Traction

As the EU moves forward with its Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the U.S. is increasingly exploring its own approach to address carbon emissions in international trade. Congressional initiatives are gaining momentum, with both Democrats and Republicans introducing bills to level the playing field, though their motivations differ.

Member Story with Palo Alto Networks | Improving the Security of Technology that Underpins the Global Economy

In this member story with Klaus Bürg, Vice President EMEA (DACH+CEE) at Palo Alto Networks, discover how the company tackles top priorities such as supply chain attacks and AI-powered threats. AI and automation are central to their approach, analyzing millions of attacks daily.

Current Trade Matters - The Inflation Reduction Act | One Year After

Taking the first-year-anniversary of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) into consideration, this piece briefly reviews the impact of President Biden's legislation. Throughout the past year, the IRA has been a subject of debate for many business and political circles. Its transatlantic global implications remain intricate, influencing international business decisions.

Current Trade Matters - Germany's Strategy on China

This piece focuses on the key aspects of Germany's strategy on China, outlined by the German Federal Foreign Office. It highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to engage with China, emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue while addressing concerns related to human rights, rule of law, and market access.

Current Business Matters - Energy Permitting Reform in the U.S.

There is unprecedented momentum for the clean energy transition in both the European Union and the United States. While Europe and Germany have long prioritized the green transformation, the Biden Administration has been catching up with significant investments and major legislation. However, U.S.  business leaders and lawmakers alike are concerned that complex and time-consuming permitting processes for energy projects will bring the momentum to a halt. To maximize the impact of federal funds and accelerate the green transition they are calling for significant permitting reform. After many months of intense political debate, it appears they are making some headway.

The Inflation Reduction Act - Developments and Opportunities for the Transatlantic Community

This overview provides a short summary on the ripple effects of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) within the context of transatlantic relations. Adopted in August 2022, the IRA has especially been a source of debate beyond national borders within transatlantic circles due to its potential repercussions for trade partners. However, by taking this legislation as an example, there are reasons to be optimistic about the transatlantic partners being open to dialogue to find beneficial solutions and cooperation initiatives. After all, although they are using different strategies, they are striving for similar goals.