Calendar of Economic Events. Second Quarter of 2018

The introduction of protective tariffs by the USA triggered protectionist measures in the countries affected. These steps harbour risks for the global economy. The European Union pushes for negotiations on free trade agreements and attempts to cushion for European businesses against the effects of sanctions against Iran reintroduced by the USA. Worries about a new wave of migrants dominate the meeting of the European Council. Interest rates in the USA are on the rise; the European Central Bank plans to leave off purchasing bonds by the end of 2018. – The procedure to ratify CETA is completed by the Austrian National Council (the Lower House). Parliament resolves to introduce a "Family Bonus Plus" and discusses a scheme to make the regime of working hours more flexible which would allow a maximum of 12 working hours a day and 60 hours a week.