The volume of news at the beginning of the week has, for once, given us some trepidation. Contrary to what we wrote, Katherina Reiche (51, CDU) will not be the first woman to head the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Brigitte Zypries (71, SPD) already held this position from 2017 to 2018. We apologize for this error and would now like to look ahead to today with you.
With these five topics from Germany and the world, you are well informed for your Wednesday.
This is what happened: Spain and Portugal experienced a widespread power outage for hours on Monday. The cause is still unclear.
That's why it's important: There is a theory that an attack by a terrorist group or a hostile state actor could be behind it.
What's next: The case is being investigated further. However, the Federal Network Agency has given the all-clear, at least for Germany. An outage of this magnitude is virtually impossible there, they say.
That's why it's important: Objectively speaking, Trump's interim assessment is sobering: His radical tariff policy threatens higher inflation and slower economic growth in the US, and consumer confidence is at rock bottom.
Here's what happens next: Trump announced large-scale tax cuts as the next step.
What it's about: The 39th German Evangelical Church Congress begins today in Hanover with a major program of worship, culture, and politics. Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected, as well as prominent guests such as Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier (SPD, 69) and Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD, 66).
Why it's important: The Kirchentag is considered one of the most important formats for networking religion, politics, and culture. It sets a public example for tolerance, respect, and democracy.
Here's what's on: Over 1,500 events will take place in the city until Sunday. The focus will be on political discussions, concerts, and church services. Organizers expect up to 150,000 visitors daily.
This is what happened: Porsche has drastically lowered its profit forecast for this year. Weak demand in China and the slow ramp-up of e-mobility have been slowing business for months. Now, US auto tariffs are adding to the pressure.
Why it's important: Porsche has long been one of the most important sources of profit for the VW Group. The fact that the sports brand is currently failing also weakens its CEO, Oliver Blume (56), who also leads the group.
Here's what's next: Blume is realigning its strategy. Sports cars with combustion engines are returning to the spotlight. A battery project for electric cars will be discontinued.
What it's about: The German Swimming Championships begin in Berlin on Thursday. After Magdeburg's Lukas Märtens (23) recently smashed the 16-year-old world record in the 400-meter freestyle, the sport is enjoying a long-missed boost of attention.
That's why it's important: Since his Olympic victory at Paris 2024 and the world record, Märtens has joined the ranks of legends like Michael Groß (60) and Paul Biedermann (38). As a new flagship athlete, he is expected to help German swimming, which has long been struggling, revive.
Here's what's next: The German Championships are also a kind of test run for Märtens for the World Championships, which will be held in Singapore in July. And Märtens is still missing a World Championship title.
With that, we say goodbye for today and wish you a refreshing Wednesday.
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