-
Why trust has a crucial role in public relations and public affairs
For public relations and public affairs efforts, trust is not just a desirable attribute; it is the cornerstone upon which all successful relationships are built. Trust acts as a currency that institutions—including companies, governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals—must continuously earn and maintain with their stakeholders. Trust is fundamental to establishing credibility and a positive reputation.…
-
Estonian e-Residency program significantly contributes to the economy
The Estonian e-Residency program has significantly bolstered the country’s economy, particularly through the contributions of e-resident entrepreneurs. In the first half of the year, Estonian companies founded by e-residents paid a substantial amount in taxes, with labor taxes comprising 76% of the total, amounting to €22 million. The remaining 24%, or €7 million, was derived…
-
The US CLOUD Act and risks for European, Asian and African companies
The Clarifying Lawful Overseas Use of Data (CLOUD) Act, enacted by the United States in March 2018, has significant implications for data privacy and security on a global scale. This legislation allows US law enforcement agencies to access data stored by US-based technology companies, regardless of where the data is physically located. For companies in…
-
AI Act: What next?
After extensive deliberations, the EU legislator officially adopted Regulation (EU) 2024/1689, commonly referred to as the AI Act, on June 13, 2024. This landmark regulation, which sets forth unified rules for artificial intelligence, was subsequently published in the EU’s Official Journal on July 12, 2024. This publication initiates a transition period for organizations involved in…
-
AI is an assistive technology, not a replacement for humans
AI has rapidly evolved over the past few decades, transforming various sectors and industries including healthcare, finance, education and entertainment. Despite its remarkable capabilities, artificial intelligence is often misunderstood as a potential replacement for human intelligence and labor. Let’s elucidate why artificial intelligence should be viewed as an assistive technology rather than a replacement for…
-
Understanding the implications of the EU Foreign Subsidies Regulation on private capital
Introduction Since October 12, 2023, the European Union’s Foreign Subsidies Regulation (FSR) has instituted a requirement for the reporting of specific large-scale transactions to the European Commission. The purpose of this mandate is to assess if the transaction encompasses a subsidy granted by a non-EU country, which could potentially disrupt the equilibrium of the EU’s…
-
Overview of the Schengen Information System (SIS)
What is the Schengen Information System and how does it work? The Schengen Information System (SIS) is a large-scale information system that supports security and border management in the European Union and the associated Schengen countries. It allows national authorities to share and access data on people and objects of interest, such as suspected criminals,…
-
Zebra companies matter for both economy and society
We often hear about “unicorns” – companies valued at over a billion dollars. These companies, with their disruptive technologies and innovative business models, have undeniably reshaped industries and economies. However, this focus on unicorns has overshadowed another breed of companies that are equally important, if not more so, for a balanced and sustainable economy. These…
-
Overview of the European AI Office
On January 24, 2024, the European Commission took a significant step in the field of artificial intelligence by creating the European AI Office (commonly referred to as the EU AIO). This newly established body is specifically designed to coordinate and oversee AI-related activities across national competent authorities, EU institutions, offices, and agencies. The initiative aligns…
-
Latest developments on sustainability legislation in the EU and the Baltic states: April 2024
The European Union and its member states are taking further steps to advance sustainability in various sectors and domains. From corporate reporting and due diligence to packaging and buildings, new rules and initiatives are being adopted or revised to ensure a more sustainable future. This article provides an overview of some of the most recent…
