Stories from Austria

Researchers at the Institute of Science and Technology Austria (ISTA) have developed a pulsed magnetic field technique reaching 60 Tesla. The method is designed to study reentrant superconductivity in uranium ditelluride.

Budget expert Margit Schratzenstaller from the Wirtschaftsforschungsinstitut supports increasing the tax on high-percentage alcohol. The proposal comes as the country seeks to secure 17 billion euros in EU funds that were previously frozen due to policies in Hungary. Johannes Pärterer reported from Brussels on the meeting between Prime Minister-designate Peter Madia and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The reform aims to require companies that produce high-sugar beverages to contribute to the costs of treating related illnesses. Proponents argue that companies responsible for these health issues should pay a levy, though social associations and consumer protection groups have expressed criticism regarding the measures. Members of the Bundestag are being called upon to intervene in the final legislation to prevent potential inequities.

Law enforcement agencies in Austria and Albania dismantled a criminal network operating a large-scale cryptocurrency investment fraud. The operation resulted in estimated losses exceeding €50 million ($58.5 million). The operation resulted in 10 arrests and the seizure of approximately 9,000 euros in cash. Victims across Europe, including Greece, were lured by promises of high returns from seemingly legitimate investments.

Two workers sustained injuries following a gas explosion at a construction site in Linz.

A survey indicates that 94% of Austrians wish to retain the use of physical cash.

OPEC+ is planning to implement price adjustments following risks identified in the Strait of Hormuz. The regulatory body has operated for several decades to manage global oil supply. The move comes as market volatility increases due to maritime security concerns.

A new wildfire ordinance has taken effect in Wels, Austria, due to drought conditions.

The move follows Austria's decision last year to restrict reunification measures in an effort to combat immigration. NGOs filed an appeal with the European Commission on Monday regarding the freeze on family reunification.

Three girls aged 13, 14, and 16 died in Innsbruck following drug consumption, according to a drug report. The victims were reportedly part of the same circle of friends.

Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karna stated that a mobility agreement with Uzbekistan aims to facilitate the deportation of refugees from third countries. This cooperation is intended to assist with deportations to Afghanistan.