SOCIETY / BUSINESS

Unusual Calm in Finland: ONLY two storm days measured in November and December

NordenBladet – The winter season in Finland is typically known for its storms, but this year, the weather has been unusually calm. According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute, there were only two storm days measured during the months of November and December, which is significantly fewer than the average.

The winter season in Finland is typically known for its storms, but this year, the weather has been unusually calm. According to the Finnish Meteorological Institute (ilmatieteenlaitos.fi/tuulitilastot), there were only two storm days measured during the months of November and December, which is significantly fewer than the average.

The number of storm days in November and December has not been recorded so low between 2006 and 2021. The reason for the lack of storms is due to the high pressure or weak low pressure systems that have not caused the winds to increase to storm levels. There have also been no named storms or severe weather in Finland since the Aatu storm in June 2021.

Naming a storm is based on the potential for damage and any unusual factors. The last time a full calendar year went without named storms or severe weather was in 2018 and prior to that in 2012. Storms are most common during the early winter and December typically sees an average of 5.8 storm days between 2006 and 2022.

Read Iltalehti’s interview “What happened? There have been no storms in Finland” (with the original title: Mitä tapahtui? Suomessa ei ole ollut myrskyjä) with meteorologist Ville Siiskonen from the Finnish Meteorological Institute HERE (article is in Finnish).

Foto: Pexels

Finland: Lidl’s new electronic price tags cause controversy – company remains silent

NordenBladet – Lidl* customers in Finland have been left scratching their heads in recent times as the company has made a significant change to its price tags. The prices of products are now printed on the tags in such small font that it is difficult to read them.

The new tags have caused confusion and frustration on social media. Leading consultant Jussi Eronen, for example, has expressed his concerns on Twitter, stating that “for senior citizens, it’s just bullying.”

Lidl has refused to give an interview, and instead responded to a comment request from Iltalehti via email. The Director of Sales and Inventory Management, Akseli Mäkisalo, stated that “the price tag in the image circulating on Twitter is electronic. It’s not immediately visible because the visual appearance of our electronic price tags is very similar to that of paper tags.”

Mäkisalo defended the move to electronic tags by stating that it saves paper and minimizes the risk of human errors when changing tags.

Prices for food and groceries in the country have risen to record highs last year and Lidl, known for its low prices, is no exception. For example, a liter of Lidl’s instant-heat light milk cost 0.95 euros in January but by December the price had risen to 1.49 euros.

There are speculations on social media that the change is intended to make it more difficult for customers to compare prices. Mäkisalo did not respond to questions about whether this is true or how senior citizens or those with visual impairments will be able to read the tags. According to Mäkisalo, the details of the tags are being developed based on customer feedback.

The Competition and Consumer Authority’s, in Finnish Kilpailu- ja kuluttajaviraston, (KKV) specialist Saija Kivimäki states that the Consumer Protection Act regulates the way prices are displayed. KKV guidelines state that “prices must be clearly and individually displayed, so that the consumer does not make a mistake about the product or package. The display must be large enough and easily visible to the consumer.”

Currently, electronic price tags can be found in 16 Lidl stores, but by the end of the year, they will be in use in all stores. So far, there has been very little feedback on the new tags.

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* Lidl Stiftung & Co. KG is a German international discount retailer chain that operates over 11,000 stores across Europe and the United States. Headquartered in Neckarsulm, Baden-Württemberg, the company belongs to the Schwarz Group, which also operates the hypermarket chain Kaufland.

Lidl is the chief competitor of the similar German discount chain Aldi in several markets. There are Lidl stores in every member state of the European Union as well as in Serbia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Featured image: Pexels

Do you know how big is an average household debt in Scandinavia? Follow these easy tried-and-true steps and secure your FINANCIAL FUTURE

NordenBladet – Personal finance is a complex and ever-evolving field, and it can be difficult to know where to start when it comes to managing your money. However, with the right tools and a little bit of knowledge, anyone can take control of their finances and set themselves up for a secure financial future.

One important principle to keep in mind when managing your money is the Nordic proverb, “A penny saved is a penny earned.” This simple phrase reminds us that even small savings can add up over time, and that being mindful of our spending can help us build wealth.

According to the Federal Reserve, the average American household carries more than $137,000 in debt, with mortgages and student loans being the largest contributors. While it’s not always possible to avoid debt altogether, it’s important to be mindful of the types of debt you take on and to have a plan to pay it off over time.

Here are also some statistics about personal finances and mortgages among Scandinavians:

According to a report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), the average household debt in Denmark is among the highest in the world, at around 270% of disposable income.

In Sweden, the average household debt as a percentage of disposable income is also high, at around 190%. According to the Swedish National Debt Office, the average mortgage debt per household in Sweden was around SEK 1.4 million in 2019.

In Norway, the average household debt as a percentage of disposable income is around 210%.

According to a report by the Nordic Council of Ministers, the homeownership rate in the Nordic countries is among the highest in the European Union, with over 80% of households owning their own homes in Denmark, Finland, and Sweden.

Norway has the highest rate of homeownership in the Nordic region, with more than 90% of households owning their own homes.

According to the Norwegian Ministry of Finance, the average mortgage debt per household in Norway was around NOK 1.6 million in 2019.

It is important to note that these statistics may have changed over time and may vary by region within the Scandinavian countries.

A study by the World Bank shows that financial literacy is positively correlated with savings, investments, and overall financial well-being. By taking the time to learn about personal finance and managing your money effectively, you can set yourself up for a secure financial future.

Personal finance is a complex and ever-evolving field that requires a combination of knowledge, tools, and discipline. By following the tips, you can take control of your finances, achieve your financial goals and set yourself up for a secure financial future.

With these 15 tips, you’ll be better equipped to take control of your finances and achieve financial stability:

1. Review your income and expenses:
Make sure you have a clear understanding of how much money you are bringing in and how much you are spending each month.

2. Create a budget: Use your income and expense information to create a budget list that ensures you have enough money to cover your essentials while also setting aside money for savings and investments.

3. Track your progress: Keep a diary or use tools like budgeting apps and financial planning software to track your progress and monitor your spending.

4. Take advantage of technology: Use online and mobile banking services to manage your money on the go, and explore online financial tools and resources that can help you make smarter financial decisions.

5. Be mindful of loans and insurance: It’s important to be mindful of loans and insurance. When taking out loans, be sure to read the fine print and understand the terms and conditions, including the interest rate and repayment schedule. And when it comes to insurance, be sure to shop around for the best coverage and rates, and consider factors such as your age, health, and lifestyle when making your decision.

6. Learn from history: Study how economies and societies have managed their finances in the past, this will give you a better understanding of how to manage your own finances in the present and future.

7. Check your credit report: Make sure that the information on your credit report is accurate, and address any errors you find. You don’t want to pay unnecessary late fees!

8. Pay off debt: If you have high-interest debt, make a plan to pay it off as soon as possible.

9. Build an emergency fund: Set aside money in a savings account so you’ll have it on hand if an unexpected expense arises.

10. Invest for the future: Consider options such as stocks, bonds, or mutual funds to help you build wealth over time.

11. Review your retirement savings: Make sure you are saving enough for retirement and that your investments are allocated appropriately.

12. Review your subscription and memberships: Review all your subscription and memberships services and cancel the ones you don’t use.

13. Review your bills: Review your bills to make sure you’re not overpaying for services.

14. Review your taxes: Review your taxes to make sure you’re taking advantage of all available deductions and credits.

15. Review your goals: Review your financial goals and make sure you’re on track to achieve them. Keep in mind that personal finance is a continuous process, and you should review your finances regularly to make sure you’re on track to meet your goals.

If a person is not interested in the flow of their money, they may end up in a difficult financial situation.

Here are a couple of examples of what can happen:

Accumulation of debt: Without paying attention to how much money is coming in and going out, a person may end up spending more than they earn and accumulating debt. This can be especially problematic if the debt is in the form of high-interest credit card balances, which can quickly spiral out of control.

Difficulty in managing unexpected expenses: Without a proper budget and emergency fund in place, a person may find it difficult to manage unexpected expenses such as a medical emergency or car repairs. This can lead to more debt and financial stress.

Difficulty in achieving financial goals: Without setting financial goals and regularly reviewing their finances, a person may find it difficult to save for retirement, purchase a home, or achieve other financial milestones.

Difficulty in getting approved for loans or credit: A poor credit score and outstanding debts can make it difficult for a person to get approved for loans or credit, which can limit their ability to make important purchases or investments.

Difficulty in building wealth: Without paying attention to how their money is invested, a person may miss out on opportunities to build wealth and increase their net worth over time.

These are just a few examples of the negative consequences that can occur when a person is not interested in the flow of their money. It’s very important to be aware of your finances, and to take the necessary steps to manage them effectively in order to achieve financial stability and security.

Images: 2x Pexels

WHO WERE the most famous financial geniuses in the very old days?

NordenBladet – Throughout history, there have been many individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of finance and economics. These individuals, often referred to as financial geniuses, have made a lasting impact on the way we think about and manage money. In this article, we will take a look at some of the most famous financial geniuses of the past and explore their stories of success.

Here are a few examples of famous financial geniuses from the past and how they became successful:

John D. Rockefeller: John D. Rockefeller (July 8, 1839 – May 23, 1937) was an American industrialist and philanthropist who, at the time of his death, was the wealthiest person in history. He made his fortune through the oil industry, and is considered one of the wealthiest people of all time. He became successful through a combination of savvy business practices, such as using vertical integration to control every aspect of the oil production process, and ruthless competition.

One of the most famous quotes by John D. Rockefeller is: “The ability to deal with people is as purchasable a commodity as sugar or coffee. And I pay more for that ability than for any other under the sun.”

This quote highlights Rockefeller’s belief that the ability to effectively interact with others is a valuable skill that can be acquired and is just as important as any other commodity. He was known for his ability to build and maintain business relationships, which was key to his success as one of the wealthiest and most powerful industrialists in American history

Andrew Carnegie: Andrew Carnegie (November 25, 1835 – August 11, 1919) was a Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist.

Andrew Carnegie is known for saying, “The man who dies rich dies disgraced.” He believed in the importance of giving back to society through philanthropy, and he donated much of his wealth to charitable causes.

One of his biggest achievements was the creation of the Carnegie Steel Company, which became the largest steel producer in the world in the late 19th century and made his fortune. He also built a large number of libraries throughout the United States and other countries, which were donated to communities to provide access to education and knowledge. He also helped establish the Carnegie Institution for Science, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the Carnegie Hero Fund, and the Carnegie Mellon University.

J.P. Morgan: John Pierpont Morgan Sr. (April 17, 1837 – March 31, 1913) was an American banker and financier who played a central role in the formation of some of the largest corporations in the United States. He became successful through a combination of astute financial investments and strategic mergers and acquisitions.

Here are some quotes by John Pierpont Morgan Sr. that are widely considered to be some of his best:

  • “A man always has two reasons for doing anything: a good reason and the real reason.”
  • “Gold is money, everything else is credit.”
  • “No problem can be solved until it is reduced to some simple form. The changing of a vague difficulty into a specific, concrete form is a very essential element in thinking.”
  • “I owe my success to having been always prepared, to having taken advantage of my opportunities, and to having been persistent in my efforts.”
  • “A man who has not gone through the inferno of his passions has never overcome them.”
  • “The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are.”

Rothschild Family: The Rothschild family is a European banking dynasty that has been involved in finance for over 200 years. They played a major role in funding various wars and revolutions throughout Europe, which allowed them to establish a global network of banks and finance companies.

The Rothschild family’s wealth and fame can be traced back to Mayer Amschel Rothschild (23 February 1744 – 19 September 1812), who was born in Frankfurt, Germany in 1744. He began his career as a money lender and goldsmith, but quickly expanded his business to include banking and finance. He established a banking network across Europe, with his five sons each heading a branch in London, Paris, Vienna, Naples and Frankfurt.

One famous saying attributed to Mayer Amschel Rothschild is “Give me control of a nation’s money supply and I care not who makes its laws.”

This quote is widely quoted in many books, articles and documentaries.

Cornelius Vanderbilt: Cornelius Vanderbilt (May 27, 1794 – January 4, 1877) was an American business magnate who made his fortune in railroads and shipping. He became one of the wealthiest people in the world through a combination of shrewd business deals and relentless competition.

Cornelius Vanderbilt, also known as “Commodore Vanderbilt,” was a prominent American businessman and philanthropist in the 19th century. He is known for building a vast fortune through his transportation empire, which included steamships and railroads.

One famous quote attributed to Cornelius Vanderbilt is “The public be damned!” This quote is widely attributed to him, although there is no concrete evidence that he actually said it. It is said that he was referring to the public opinion when he was building railroads. It is supposed to express his disregard for the public opinion during his business endeavors.

Jacob Wallenberg: Jacob Wallenberg (27 September 1892 – 1 August 1980) was a Swedish businessman and financier who played a significant role in the development of the Swedish economy in the 20th century. He was a member of the prominent Wallenberg family, which controlled a significant portion of the Swedish economy through their holding company, Investor AB. Jacob Wallenberg served as the chairman of Investor AB for many years and was also involved in the management of several other major companies, such as Ericsson and Atlas Copco.

Wallenberg family is known for its influence and success in business, and their name is often associated with quotes about success, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

Christian IV of Denmark: Christian IV (12 April 1577 – 28 February 1648) was the king of Denmark and Norway from 1588 to 1648. During his reign, he implemented several economic and financial reforms, such as the establishment of a national bank and the introduction of paper money. He also built a strong navy and established colonies in the Caribbean, which helped to increase the wealth and power of Denmark.

He is known for having said:

“I will be King as long as I live, and after my death I will be a great king in history.”

He was also known for his patronage of architecture and his role in the construction of many important buildings in Denmark, such as Rosenborg Castle and Christian IV’s Brewery.

Peder Griffenfeld: Peder Griffenfeld (24 August 1635 – 12 March 1699) was a Danish statesman and financier who served as the chief minister of Denmark-Norway in the 17th century. He implemented several financial reforms, such as the establishment of a national bank and the introduction of a paper currency, which helped to stabilize the economy and increase the power of the state. He also played a key role in the development of the Danish East India Company, which helped to increase the wealth of Denmark through trade with Asia.

These are just a few examples of the many businessmen who have made significant contributions to the field of finance throughout history.

They all became successful through a combination of business acumen, a strong work ethic, financial knowledge, a willingness to take risks, and an understanding of the industries they were involved in. Additionally, many of them were involved in industries that were experiencing rapid growth and expansion during the time they were building their fortunes, such as oil, steel, and banking. They were able to adapt to the changing times and market conditions. They were not only successful in their financial endeavors, but also had a lasting impact on the field of finance and economics.

The path to success is different for everyone, and these individuals had unique set of skills and experiences that helped them achieve their goals. It’s important to remember that success is always possible, and with hard work, perseverance and the ability to adapt to change, anyone can achieve their financial goals.

To emulate their success, one should start by developing a strong understanding of the industry they are interested in, and be willing to take risks and work hard to achieve their goals. Networking and building relationships with key people in the industry can also be beneficial. It is also important to be aware of the current market trends and opportunities for growth.

The path to success, wealth and fame is never easy, and it might require a lot of hard work, patience, and persistence. My examples are from historical figures, laws, regulations and general societal norms have changed, so what worked for them may not be applicable today, and some of the methods they used to amass their wealth may be considered unethical or illegal today.

Featured image: Pexels

WHAT are the most fascinating facts about Scandinavians?

NordenBladet – Scandinavians have received this knowledge from school or acquired it while growing up in this society. For those who are interested in Scandinavia and the Nordic countries, but are not from here, this is interesting and necessary historical lesson. In this article, we bring you fifteen fascinating facts about Scandinavians!

1. The Vikings, who were from Scandinavia, were known for their seafaring abilities and exploration. The Vikings were skilled shipbuilders and their ships, such as the longship, were advanced for their time and allowed them to travel long distances. They traveled as far as North America and Africa. The Vikings were also known for their sophisticated metalworking techniques, and their jewelry and artifacts can still be seen in museums today.
Read also:
EXHAUSTIVE OVERVIEW: who were the ancient Scandinavian origin Vikings and when was the time of the Vikings?

2. The Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden consistently rank among the top in the world for happiness and quality of life, based on surveys and studies conducted by various organizations.

One of the most well-known sources of this type of data is the World Happiness Report, which is produced by the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The report ranks 156 countries by their happiness levels, based on factors such as income, social support, life expectancy, freedom to make life choices, generosity, and trust. The report uses data from the Gallup World Poll, which surveys individuals in more than 150 countries.

Another well-known source is the Human Development Index (HDI) which is a composite statistic of life expectancy, education, and per capita income indicators, which are used to rank countries into four tiers of human development. These are very often used by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to measure the progress of countries in achieving human development.

Additionally, other organizations such as the World Economic Forum, the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and the Legatum Institute, also conduct surveys and studies on the happiness and quality of life of citizens in different countries.

3. The Nordic countries, which include Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Iceland, have a long tradition of social welfare and equality. This means that they have a comprehensive system of government-funded social services, such as healthcare, education, and unemployment benefits, that are available to all citizens regardless of their income or social status. This system is designed to ensure that everyone has access to the basic necessities of life, such as food, housing, and healthcare. Additionally, the Nordic countries have a relatively high level of income equality compared to other countries, meaning that the gap between the rich and the poor is smaller. This is often achieved through progressive taxation and redistributive policies. This system also includes a good balance between work-life and family-life, providing generous parental leaves, affordable childcare, and flexible working hours.

4. Denmark is home to Legoland, the world’s first Lego-themed park.

5. The concept of hygge, a feeling of cozy contentment, originated in Denmark and is a defining aspect of Scandinavian culture.

6. The Sami people, an indigenous group in northern Scandinavia, have their own unique culture and way of life, including reindeer herding, traditional clothing and music, and their own parliament.

7. The famous children’s author Astrid Lindgren, who wrote books such as Pippi Longstocking, is from Sweden.

8. The Nobel Prizes, which are widely considered to be the most prestigious awards in their respective fields, were established by Swedish inventor Alfred Nobel.

9. The Scandinavian countries have a strong tradition of environmentalism, with many initiatives in place to promote sustainable living.

10. Norway is home to the famous fjords, which are long, narrow inlets with steep sides or cliffs, created by glacial erosion.

11. The Scandinavian countries have a strong tradition of literature, with famous authors such as Hans Christian Andersen (Denmark), Henrik Ibsen (Norway), and August Strindberg (Sweden).

12. The Swedish furniture company IKEA, which is known for its affordable and stylish furniture, was founded in Sweden in 1943.

13. The Finnish company Nokia, once the world’s largest mobile phone manufacturer, was founded in 1865 as a pulp mill.

14. The Moomins, a series of popular children’s books and comics created by Finnish illustrator Tove Jansson, have a strong following in Scandinavia and around the world.

15. The Danish capital of Copenhagen is home to Tivoli Gardens, one of the oldest amusement parks in the world, which opened in 1843.

Featured image: Nyhavn, Denmark (Pexels)
Source: NordenBladet.ee

 

SIMPLE Tricks to slash your electric bill and live a greener life

NordenBladet – Did the electricity bill blow a hole in your wallet? In order to get a lower electricity bill, you have to choose the right electricity package and, above all, consume less electricity. Here are ten effective ways for a homeowner to smartly save electricity.

Unplug electronics when not in use: Many devices and appliances continue to consume power even when they are turned off.

Use energy-efficient appliances: Look for appliances with the Energy Star label, which indicates that they meet energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Install a programmable thermostat: This can help you regulate the temperature in your home and reduce energy consumption.

Use natural light: Open curtains and blinds during the day to let in natural light and reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Insulate your home: Proper insulation can help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer, reducing the need for heating and cooling.

Plant trees or install shading devices: These can help block the sun’s rays and reduce the amount of heat absorbed by your home, reducing the need for air conditioning.

Seal air leaks: Check for air leaks around windows and doors, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping.

Use power strips: Plug multiple devices into a power strip and turn the strip off when you’re not using the devices.

Use LED lighting: LED lights use less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last longer.

Wash clothes in cold water: Washing clothes in cold water instead of hot can save energy and money.

Featured image: Pexels
Source: NordenBladet.ee

The formula for success in the stock market: 25 TOP TIPS for a day trader

NordenBladet – No matter what field you work in, you need to stay on top of your work to be successful. Day trading requires a high level of discipline and attention, as well as a thorough understanding of the markets and the financial instruments being traded. What could be the top 25 tips for a day trader?

1. Develop a trading plan and stick to it.
2. Keep emotions out of trading decisions.
3. Set clear and realistic profit and loss targets.
4. Diversify your portfolio to reduce risk.
5. Stay informed about market news and trends.
6. Use stop-loss orders to limit potential losses.
7. Use technical analysis to identify trends and patterns.
8. Use fundamental analysis to evaluate the underlying value of a stock.
9. Keep a trading journal to track progress and learn from mistakes.
10. Use risk management techniques such as position sizing and hedging.
11. Stay patient and disciplined.
12. Avoid over-trading.
13. Learn to read and interpret financial statements.
14. Understand the impact of economic indicators on the market.
15. Learn to read and interpret charts and technical indicators.
16. Focus on a specific market or sector to become an expert.
17. Stay up to date on regulatory changes that may affect your trades.
18. Do not chase after hot stocks or market trends.
19. Learn to take profits and cut losses.
20. Only trade with money you can afford to lose.
21. Have a clear exit strategy before entering a trade.
22. Don’t rely on insider information or tips.
23. Don’t over leverage your account.
24. Have a well-rounded financial education
25. Continuously learn and improve your trading strategy.

Who is a day trader?

A day trader is an individual who buys and sells financial instruments, such as stocks, options, currencies, or commodities, within the same trading day. Day traders typically hold their positions for a very short period of time, often just a few minutes or hours, and they aim to make small but frequent profits by taking advantage of short-term price movements. Day traders usually use technical analysis and charting to find trades and make decisions, and they tend to have a high tolerance for risk. Day traders usually work independently, rather than being employed by a financial institution, and they use their own capital to trade.

Featured image: Pexels
Source: NordenBladet.ee

10 MEMORABLE stories that have shaken the stock market

NordenBladet – The stock market never sleeps and every event is unique and new. However, it is said that situations tend to repeat themselves and those who do not remember the past live without a future.  Russia’s attack on Ukraine is currently the biggest market changer. But what other events have brought big ups and downs to the stock market? We highlight ten interesting stories about the stock market that are definitely worth mentioning.

What are ten most interesting stories or situations about the stock market?

The GameStop short squeeze: In January 2021, a group of retail investors organized on the subreddit r/wallstreetbets coordinated to buy shares of GameStop, a struggling video game retailer, in order to cause a short squeeze. The stock price of GameStop skyrocketed, causing significant losses for hedge funds that had bet against the company. The situation drew attention to the power of retail investors and the potential for social media to influence the stock market.

The 2008 Financial Crisis: The 2008 financial crisis was caused by a combination of factors, including a housing market bubble, lax regulation, and risky lending practices. The crisis led to the failure of several large financial institutions and a global recession. The government intervened with a series of measures, such as the Troubled Asset Relief Program (TARP) and the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, in order to stabilize the economy.

The Dot-com Bubble: The dot-com bubble was a period of speculation and hype surrounding internet-based companies in the late 1990s. Many investors poured money into these companies, driving up their stock prices to unsustainable levels. When the bubble burst in 2000, many of these companies went bankrupt and investors lost significant amounts of money. The dot-com bubble is often cited as an example of irrational exuberance in the stock market.

Black Monday: On October 19, 1987, the stock market experienced one of the largest single-day crashes in history, with the Dow Jones Industrial Average dropping by 22.6%. The cause of the crash is still debated, but some factors that contributed to it include high levels of debt, trade imbalances, and a lack of investor confidence.

The Tesla stock rally: In 2020, the stock price of electric car manufacturer Tesla increased by over 600%, making it the most valuable car company in the world. The rally was driven by strong demand for electric vehicles, as well as by CEO Elon Musk’s tweets and public statements.

The China-US Trade War: The ongoing trade tensions between the United States and China has had a significant impact on the stock market. The tariffs and other trade measures imposed by both countries have led to uncertainty and volatility in various sectors of the market.

The 2020 COVID-19 market crash: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 led to a sharp decline in the stock market, as investors worried about the economic impact of the virus. The S&P 500 index fell by 34% between February 19 and March 23, 2020, marking one of the fastest bear markets in history.

The 1987 insider trading scandal: In the late 1980s, a number of Wall Street firms and traders were found to have engaged in insider trading, using non-public information to make profitable trades. The scandal led to the conviction of several high-profile individuals, including Ivan Boesky and Michael Milken, and led to increased regulation of the securities industry.

The Enron Scandal: In 2001, energy company Enron was found to have engaged in accounting fraud, overstating its profits and hiding its debts. The scandal led to the bankruptcy of the company and the loss of thousands of jobs. It also led to increased regulations and oversight of publicly traded companies.

The 2008-09 Financial Crisis in Greece: The global financial crisis of 2008 had a severe impact on Greece’s economy, which was already struggling with high levels of debt. The crisis led to a loss of investor confidence in Greek bonds, and to a sovereign debt crisis. The Greek government was forced to seek financial assistance from the European Union and the International Monetary Fund.

Featured image: Pexels
Source: NordenBladet.ee

Iceland: December 2022 registered as coldest for 50 years

NordenBladet — Last month saw the coldest December in Iceland since 1973, with the average temperature across the country of around -4.0 degrees Celsius (24.8 degrees Fahrenheit).

According to the country’s Met Office, the country’s capital Reykjavík saw the coldest on record since December 1916, over 100 years ago.

Throughout 2022, Iceland was mostly dry across many parts of the country, with December’s rainfall the lowest recorded in years.

On the flip side, Reykjavík was usually sunny in December 2022, with sunshine around 51.0 hours during December. Roughly 38.4 times above average since 1991.

The average temperature in December in the capital has only been lower in years 1878, 1886, 1880.

Featured image: Unsplash

 

 

 

Norway: Norwegians now shop at the border as before the pandemic

NordenBladet – Norwegians traded cross-border for NOK 3.6 billion in the 2nd quarter. This means that cross-border trade is back at the same level as before the pandemic.

New figures from Statistics Norway (SSB) show that Norwegians shopped for NOK 3.6 billion across the border during April, May and June this year.

“Cross-border trade has quickly risen to the same level as in the years before the pandemic,” says adviser Kristin Aasestad from Statistics Norway.

The quarterly figures now show that cross-border trade is at a level that corresponds to the second quarter of the years from 2016 to 2018. In the second quarter of 2019, cross-border trade was just over NOK 4 billion.

Photo: Pexels