Delano February 2014

february 2014

understanding Luxembourg

Current affairs • Business • Lifestyle

Fund regulation

Burden or opportunity?

Film industry

At the coalface

Subcontinent synthesis

Inside the South Asian community

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EDITORIAL

Ernest et cÉlestine How Luxembourgish is it?

Write to PO Box 728 L-2017 Luxembourg Offices 10 rue des Gaulois, Luxembourg-Bonnevoie ISSN 2220-5535 Web www.maisonmoderne.lu CEO Mike Koedinger COO Rudy Lafontaine HR director Thierry van Ingelgom Administrative and financial director Étienne Velasti

Phone (+352) 29 66 18-1 Fax (+352) 29 66 19 E-mail publishing@maisonmoderne.lu Publishing director Mike Koedinger Editor in chief Duncan Roberts (duncan.roberts@maisonmoderne.lu) Desk editor Aaron Grunwald (aaron.grunwald@maisonmoderne.lu) Contributors Neel Chrillesen, France Clarinval, Cristina Marina, Tonya Stoneman, Stella Parascha, Wendy Winn Photography Julien Becker, Charles Caratini, Luc Deflorenne, Annabelle Denham, Steve Eastwood, David Laurent, Olivier Minaire, Jessica Theis Proofreading Sarah Lambolez, Cynthia Schreiber

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Phone (+352) 27 62 12 62-1 Fax (+352) 27 62 12 62-84 E-mail studio@maisonmoderne.lu Director Guido Kröger Art director Cassandre Bourtembourg Studio manager Stéphanie Poras Layout Sophie Melai (coordination), Tae Eun Kim, Jan Hanrion, Didier Helmstetter, Zoë Mondloch

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In accordance with article 66 of the law of 08.06.2004 on the freedom of expression in the media: the company that publishes Delano is indirectly held, by a stake exceeding 25%,

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Delano™ and Maison Moderne™ are trademarks used under licence by MM Publishing S.A. © MM Publishing S.A. (Luxembourg)

Cover photo Julien Becker shot Selvaraj Alagumalai, Ambreen Khan, Sudhir Kohli, Kavitha Ramachandran and Roy Suhash in Dommeldange. Thanks to Mélange Inspired by India for its kind assistance.

Note to our readers The next print edition of Delano will be published on March 19. For daily news updates and our weekly what’s on guide, visit www.delano.lu.

Melusine Productions

Publisher

Film industry

Identity crisis?

Text by Duncan Roberts

N

ot for the first time, the Luxembourg film industry appears to be facing something of an identity crisis. This has recently manifested itself on two fronts, both brimming with positives. Firstly the Oscar nomination of Ernest et Célestine, which is a well-deserved recognition for one of the most charming animated feature films to emerge anywhere in the world over the last few years. It is a delightfully crafted story about the friendship of a mouse and bear with beautifully illustrated images that serves as a counterpoint to much of the flash-­bang-wallop school of kids films that have taken over the multiplex. The problem is that while Luxembourg, and in particular Studio 352, can be justifiably proud of this achievement--the short list of five nominations includes the likes of Walt Disney’s big budget Frozen--the Grand Duchy’s contribution is hardly recognised in the media.

Indeed, Wikipedia describes Ernest et Célestine as a “French-Belgian animated film” and the official site of the Academy Awards lists only French director and producer Benjamin Renner and Didier Brunner. On the other hand, short animated film Mr Hublot, which is in English, suffers no such problems with Luxembourgers Laurent Witz and Alexandre Espigares (who has dual Spanish nationality) both being recognised.

So what is a “Luxembourgish” film?

It is a question that has been raised by blogger Patrick Vedie following the release this month of Heemwéi, a film made by passionate “amateurs” over a matter of years that received no official funding from the Film Fund. Many Luxembourgers, such as homegrown director Andy Bausch (whose 1988 cult crime comedy Troublemaker inspired many of today’s local filmmakers), are adamant that a Luxembourg film must have its principal dialogue in the Luxembourg language. But does that make Beryl Koltz’s Hot Hot Hot, the winner of the 2012 ­Lëtzebuerger Filmpräis for best film any less Luxembourgish because it is in English?

In many ways, as Vedie points out, it matters not one jot. A film should be judged purely on its quality and appeal to an audience.

On the other hand, the national funding system requires that a film’s identity be firmly established--at next month’s Lëtzbuerger Filmpraïs there are separate categories for best Luxembourg film and best co-production, for example. Meanwhile, come March 2 everyone in Luxembourg will be rooting for the cute mouse and cantankerous bear to win out over the computer animated, Disneyfied heroes and heroines..

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February 2014

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CONTENTS

lifestyle

current affairs

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52

February 2014 At the coalface Luxembourg film industry talent in demand

Schools equation

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56

New education minister has English plans 10

64

12

Student body turns 20 Only 1 at 1%

Luxembourg pips Sweden 22

Kids

The real dirt

Regulars

Programming fun

Code Club Luxembourg 24

A race apart

Brothers breaking records

Young Luxembourgers in Britain 20

Eyes wide open

Discover this festival

Visions of sugarplums

A look back at holiday fête

Business

30 44 Think Local Rebecca Humble The full time mum talks about crémant, volunteering with the Luxembourg Red Cross and running marathons

Fund regulation Are thickening rulebooks a burden or opportunity?

28

Schneider talks biz

Encouraging entrepreneurship 34

Fabric of life

Luxembourg steel ‘round the world 36

Virtual meetings

66

Hailing frequencies open 40

Roam, if you want to

my other life

Will your mobile bill go down?

Fouad Rathle The financial executive talks about the beauty of the Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum and Luxembourg’s strict gun laws

coverstory

Subcontinent synthesis. Inside the south Asian community.

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CURRENT AFFAIRS Zeilt Productions

Melusine Productions

Compensation disappointment

Luxembourg lands Oscar nominations

Laurent Witz’s innovative Mr Hublot (Zeilt Productions) is on the list of short animated films. Based on an idea by Stéphane Halleux, it has already picked up more than a dozen awards at film festivals around the world since being released in June 2013.

Christophe Wagner’s Samsa Film noir thriller Doudege Wénkel missed out on making the final shortlist in the best foreign ­language film category.

The Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 2, with the Lëtzebuerger Filmpräis--the bi-annual awards ceremony honouring locallly made films and Luxembourg co-productions, scheduled for March 7.

FLF

Luc Deflorenne

Olivier Minaire

Maison Moderne archives

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced its final nominations for this year’s Oscars on Thursday January 16. Among the final shortlists are two films made in Luxembourg.

Ernest et Célestine, co-produced by Melusine Productions, a subsidiary of animation specialists Studio 352, is a hopeful for the best animated feature category. Directed by Stéphane Aubier, Vincent Patar and Benjamin Renner, the film about the friendship of a mouse and a bear has charmed young audiences around Europe. It faces stiff competition from big buck American productions Despicable Me 2, The Croods and Frozen as well as Japanese film The Wind Rises.

More than 11 years after the Luxair crash that killed 20 people, the families of the victims have been awarded compensation. But the amounts awarded by the Luxembourg court of appeal fell far short of the claims made by the families’ lawyers.

The four defendants--the co-pilot who survived and three Luxair employees--have been ordered to pay a total of 413,000 euro rather than the 1.5 million euro demanded by the relatives.

Luxair Flight 9642 crashed in a field near Roodt-sur-Syre, now the site of a memorial garden (photo), as it approached Findel airport in heavy fog.

An enquiry found the pilots and ­technical staff were culpable for ­accidentally switching the engines into reverse. Some relatives have already said they will appeal the ruling, as it leaves them out of pocket after they have paid legal fees.

Gerard Lopez

Claude Radoux

Jean-Claude Juncker

Yannick Bastos

The Luxembourg entrepreneur, chairman of Luxembourg-based Genii Capital, has been appointed director of the Lotus Formula One team, taking over from Frenchman Éric Boullier. Lotus finished fourth in the constructor’s championships last season.

The honorary consul of Ukraine in Luxembourg has resigned in protest at the shooting of demonstrators.

Radoux, a Luxembourg City councillor, was quoted as saying the actions of the Ukrainian government were that of a dictatorship.

The former prime minister says he is ready to be a candidate for the job of European Commission president “in principle”. Current commission chief José Manuel Barroso is due to stand down on October 31.

The talented young midfield star of Differdange 03 has been signed as a professional by English Championship club Bolton Wanderers. Bastos, 20, has four international caps for Luxembourg.

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

Belval move now set for 2015

Julien Becker (archives)

The University of Luxembourg’s move to Esch-Belval has been delayed for a second time, DP education minister Claude Meisch told the press in January. The original 2013 opening date had previously slipped to mid-2014, then last autumn contractors said €30 million in additional work was required, or roughly 5% more than planned. The budget shortfall could only be bridged after October’s snap parliamentary elections and the confirmation of the new government. Two of the university’s three colleges are now set to decamp in 2015, ten years after the Grand Duchy’s government first announced the plan. The institution will then quit its Kirchberg and Walferdange campuses.

Around 7,000 students and 3,000 staff will study and work at the Belval location, which until the 1990s housed steel blast furnaces. The university’s biomedicine research labs opened on the site in 2011, which also houses several publicly funded science facilities, a start-up incubator, the Luxembourg headquarters of financial firm RBC and culture venue Rockhal.

Same sex marriage on cards

Christophe Olinger

“The EU will never be a united states of europe”

Police are investigating who left nails in front of Francine Closener’s car while it was parked at her home. The LSAP secretary of state for defence and economy had been criticised before the incident for using her official car, complete with government number plates, to take a personal ski trip over the new year holiday. While it was legal, she apologised and prime minister Xavier Bettel mooted ­tightening the rules. Days later Closener (photo, right) and deputy prime minister Étienne Schneider were accused of skipping out of a meeting during December’s trade mission to China and heading to a hotel spa. In an interview with Le Quotidien Closener, a former journalist, said of the scandals: “I don’t want to rekindle that; I’ve already admitted making a mistake.”

Cour grand-ducale/Adrien Bernard

Luxembourg will adopt same sex marriage before the end of 2014, according to government plans unveiled by justice minister Felix Braz in January. As reported in May last year, an opinion poll has already indicated that the vast majority of Luxembourgers--83 percent--are in favour, to some degree, of same sex marriage.

Braz has been reported as saying that the government now hopes to present a bill before parliament by the summer of 2014 and that the legislation should be in place by the end of the year. The bill will face little opposition in parliament, as the previous government had already drafted legislation to allow people of the same sex to marry with the same rights as heterosexual couples. But it could not find time in the parliamentary schedule to push through a bill before the summer recess, by which time the snap election had been called.

Secretary threatened after “scandals”

Jean-Claude Juncker

on Austrian radio ORF

Olympic boycott

Drunk pilot

More London

Luxembourg is divided on a boycott of the Sochi winter Olympics. Sports minister Romain Schneider is against a boycott, but EU commissioner Viviane Reding will shun the games over Russia’s treatment of minority groups.

Turkish Airlines has taken disciplinary action against a pilot who was found to be under the influence of alcohol during a routine test before he was due to fly a plane from Istanbul to Luxembourg.

Luxair has announced it will add a new, sixth, daily flight between Luxembourg and London City airport starting on March 31, leaving at 7:20 a.m.

If demand is sufficient, Luxair will consider adding a seventh flight.

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February 2014

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CURRENT AFFAIRS British ambassador Alice Walpole and Anne Faber of “Anne’s Kitchen”

Luxembourg student union ACEL co-chairs Jil Welter and Yves Hoth

Education

Student body anniversary

Tom Hermes, Julia Jacobs and Bob Feid

Hervé Hansen and Oxford University Society of Luxembourg chairman Andrew Hallan

In January British ambassador Alice Walpole hosted a reception to mark the 20th anniversary of the Society of Luxembourg Students in Britain (SLSB).

Walpole said she has been extremely impressed by the work current students and alumni of British universities do to share their expertise with those thinking of a university education. “Once upon a time, a very long time ago, embassies were well resourced on the cultural side to promote education in the UK. Those days are long gone and so we are always extremely keen to work with others.”

The ambassador revealed that the embassy was on track to fulfilling her ambition to double the number of students from Luxembourg who attend UK universities during her four-year tenure.

“I will be very pleased to meet that target, because I wondered whether I was being a little over-ambitious,” she said.

SLSB president Aisha Bové explains that there are currently around 1,000 students from Luxembourg studying in the UK--the majority in London or the south-east, but also spread out all over the country from Edinburgh, to Aberystwyth and Manchester. DR

Christine Schumacher and SLSB president Aisha Bové Anne Engels and Caroll Ewen

More photographs from the event at: www.delano.lu/news/student-body-anniversary Photographed by Steve Eastwood

Lis Bingen and Christian Thiry

Michèle Spanier and Sven Rinck

David Clark and Steve Brabbs

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COVERSTORY

Selvaraj Alagumalai Entrepreneur and president of the Indian Association Luxembourg

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Roy Suhash Restaurateur and president of the Bangladesh Business Chamber of Commerce

Sudhir Kohli Entrepreneur and president of the Indian Business Chamber of Luxembourg

Kavitha Ramachandran Institutional client manager and presenter of “Raagamalika” radio show

Ambreen Khan Pakistani housewife and henna artist

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COVERSTORY

Subcontinental synthesis

Inside Luxembourg’s south Asian community

They may be relatively few in number, but the south Asian community is among the most active and entrepreneurial in the Grand Duchy. Indians, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Sri Lankans and Nepalese have all made Luxembourg their home from home, yet remain keen to foster and nurture links, both cultural and economic, with their native countries.

Text by Duncan Roberts Photography by Julien Becker

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COVERSTORY

Bangladesh Business Chamber Indian Business Chamber

W

ith G-20 member India having the world’s tenth largest economy and Bangladesh emerging as one of Goldman Sachs’ “Next Eleven”, links with the subcontinent can play an important role for Luxembourg’s continued good fortune. The recent establishment of business chambers representing both India and Bangladesh in Luxembourg is testimony to that potential. Both chambers were founded by entrepreneurs with a long-standing reputation in Luxembourg. Sudhir Kohli, president of the Indian Business Chamber of Luxembourg has been in the Grand Duchy for 37 years, while Roy Suhash, president of the Bangladesh Business Chamber of Commerce, arrived in April 1992.

Tourism potential Kohli, founder of an IT consultancy, established IBCL in 2009 (it marks its fifth anniversary at the end of March) after consulting with fellow Indian businessmen and honorary consul Jim Penning. Since then the chamber has attracted some 350 members including representatives of the Big Four, major corporations and SMEs as well as individuals from a variety of sectors. Not all have a direct link with India, but the chamber’s motto is “learn, share expand ”, which Kohli says accounts for the interest in IBCL of many local players who may be seeking to diversify and enter the Indian market.

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Many of the fields that interest investors on both sides are obvious--IT, R&D, manufacturing, health and financial--but Kohli also reckons that tourism has potential for growth. He wants to establish Luxembourg as a European hub for Indian tourists. “With a direct charter flight, tourists would spend at least two nights in Luxembourg--the day they arrive and the day they leave. I think one charter flight a week would further improve relations between the two countries.” The IBCL president is also convinced that a direct flight could help set up Luxembourg as a European logistics hub for India’s significant pharmaceuticals industry.

On the education side, IBCL is helping Sacred Heart University in Luxembourg to attract students from India. Other students and scientists are already working at the Henri Tudor research centre. “If Luxembourg wants to go at a higher speed in R&D, the first stage could be done here, the second and third stages in India and then the project could be finalised in Luxembourg.”

He says that in the financial sector, both sides can learn lessons from each other.

“When the financial crisis came, many banks in Europe had to receive government support.

Not a single bank in India faced such problems.

On the contrary, the banks have been helping the government. They have so many checks and balances. It would be good if some Indian banks came to Luxembourg, but most of the

february 2014

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COVERSTORY

Steve Eastwood, Ali Sherwani, Etienne Delorme, Luc Deflorenne

Desi Vibes

Indian Business Chamber

"Trade will really grow" Sudhir kohli

banks are in the retail business, which does not make it attractive to come here.”

Kohli is not shy to admit that corruption is a problem in India, but acknowledges recent efforts made by the national and regional governments--such as the newly elected chief minister of Delhi, Arvind Kejriwal--to tackle the problem. “There is corruption in every country, it’s just that in India the media is so open about it that everyone around the world hears about corruption.”

Facilitating contact India is facing elections in May, which could affect plans by the Luxembourg government to take a trade mission to India in November.

But Kohli has made an appeal to the Luxembourg delegation to focus on sector specific events. “Even if there are fewer people attending, I am sure it would be more fruitful.” He is also pleased that Étienne Schneider is still at the economy and foreign trade ministry after last October’s Luxembourg elections.

“He brings continuity, and the government is

keen to grow business with India,” says Kohli.

However, the Indian elections have also put temporary on hold negotiations between the EU and India over a free trade agreement.

“Once the FTA is signed, trade will really grow between India and Luxembourg.”

Suhash’s Bangladeshi chamber is more modest than IBCL. Founded in 2011 it seeks to promote and facilitate Luxembourg investments in Bangladesh and strengthen the existing economic cooperation between the two countries. One of the most important efforts Suhash has made in this regard is the imminent signing of an agreement that will allow freight carrier Cargolux to establish a regular flight to Dhaka. It is a project that he had been working on since August 2011 and has required frequent visits to his native country, a flurry of letter writing with the Bangladesh government and meetings with representatives of the Luxembourg ministry of the economy and Cargolux. “It took a long time, but we are close to seeing the deal done,” he says. “Cargolux will benefit; and when Cargolux benefits, Luxembourg benefits.”Suhash is keen to facilitate Luxembourg contacts with the Bangladesh Board of Investment, which oversees all foreign investment initiatives. “The BOI directory is like a bible for investors,” he explains. Once the Cargolux deal is signed, sealed and delivered, Suhash will focus on a double tax treaty agreement between Luxembourg and Bangladesh as his priority.

Like everyone interviewed for this feature, Suhash is an almost insistent host, offering a selection of finger foods from his Orchidée restaurant, which he opened over six years ago with his wife. His is proud to reveal that Orchidée is currently listed third among Luxembourg restaurants, behind Michelinstarred Clairefontaine and popular Rives de Clausen spot Le Sud, on TripAdvisor. “I appreciate clients giving honest feedback,” he says.

The restaurant not only provides Luxembourgers with a chance to sample Bangladesh cuisine, but also to talk with Suhash and learn more about the country. “A lot of times all they know is that there is a lot of flooding and accidents in the clothing industry. But I want to keep an eye on the good things, also.”

Music tradition Blending business and culture is something that Kavitha Ramachandran takes in her stride. The institutional client manager at Maitland is also the presenter of a weekly show on Radio ARA. ‘Raagamalika’ is a spinoff from the ‘Desi Vibes’ show, which she co-presented with established broadcaster Ali Sherwani for several years. They were approached by the station to expand the twohour slot to two-and-a-half hours, with one hour aimed at classical and folk music from the subcontinent. “I am no DJ, but having an interest in music set me off and for me it’s a

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COVERSTORY

diwali

Indian Association

Steve Eastwood, David Laurent, Charles Caratini

Pakistan stand International Bazaar

wonderful distraction for the weekend,” says Ramachandran. “There is a lot of research involved, because I like to get a theme going in each programme.” It has also given her an opportunity to interview artists from both the Carnatic tradition from the south of India and the Hindustani tradition.

A native of Chennai, which can lay claim to being the centre of Carnatic music, Ramachandran occasionally returns home to take part in an annual festival of music that attracts both prominent and emerging artists from India and around the world. She clearly loves music and receiving feedback from listeners. She herself admires the work of some of the great Indian artists such as the doyenne of Indian classical music, MS Subbulakshmi. “Even Jimi Hendrix was inspired by her. She is remembered for her golden voice but also her simplicity and the humble approach she had to music, despite the greatness she achieved.”

Cultural heritage Ramachandran has been in Luxembourg since 1996 and immediately got involved with the community, joining the committee of the Indian Association (IAL) and becoming an active member of the community and playing cricket with the Optimists Maidens.

“I had spent some time abroad and started working straight away, so had a social circle.

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So integrating was not difficult and we always find things to do. Travel is one of our passions.”

It was the IAL, launched in 1991, that was the first real effort to bring together the Indian community in a more organised structure. Founded by Ambi Venkataraman, now the honorary consul of India to Luxembourg, the association also welcomed members of other south Asian communities.

But IAL’s chief focus remains to enhance awareness of India’s rich cultural heritage, which it does by hosting traditional annual celebrations such as Holi (the spring festival of colours), Eid (the breaking of fast) and the biggest of all, Diwali (the festival of light) as well as a memorial service at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in the city park on October 2, the birthday of the civil rights leader. “We want to show our children our traditions. But we also want them to get involved and we give them the opportunity to showcase any talent they have,” says current IAL president Selvaraj Alagumalai. Like most South Asians, Alagumalai is proud of his children. His twin daughters graduated from Warwick and then did their masters at LSE. They have since returned to Luxembourg to work at Deloitte and KPMG. “The quality of life in Luxembourg is good.”

Alagumalai is another entrepreneur who arrived 22 years ago. He set up his own company in 1997. “The government was very helpful in getting work permits. It is easy to meet people from the ministry,” he jokes as he sits in his

Forum Royal office, just two doors down from the ministry of the economy.

The association now has close to 200 members, many of whom are from Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Pakistan as well as India. As well as organising cultural events, it also helps new arrivals to settle in Luxembourg. “But that is not so difficult as it was 20 years ago. Luxembourg is much more multicultural now. But most Indians do learn French, if not Luxembourgish.”

Younger generations, such as Ambreen Khan’s three children, are learning Luxemburgish by attending local school. She arrived in Luxembourg some 16 years ago to join her husband Azam when she was just 19.

She helped out in the textile boutique Azam owned with his brother and met lots of people through her work. Together they also started a Pakistani restaurant, which was frequented by many locals and Europeans as well as members of the Pakistani community.

“Luxembourg has given us a lot, and we have everything we need.” She gives back by being an active member of the community--her skills in henna hand tattooing are called upon for all sorts of celebrations and not just by the Pakistani but also by the Indian community and local organisations such as ASTI and the OGBL union for their events. “It is a natural product with no side effects and lasts for four or five days.

We use it especially to celebrate weddings, but here young girls also like to get henna tattoos.

Luxembourgers are interested in our culture.”

february 2014

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An initiative of the “Institut national pour le développement de la formation professionnelle continue”

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

Education

Solving the language equation Luxembourg’s multilingual teaching system is hailed for promoting social cohesion, but blamed for the below average performance in secondary education.

Change is now underway to accommodate students from the international community better.

Text by Neel Chrillesen Photography by Olivier Minaire

C

laude Meisch took over as Luxembourg’s minister of education the day after the latest PISA survey results were released--not the most encouraging start to his new job. Since the OECD started assessing the literacy and numeracy performances of 15 year-olds worldwide, Luxembourg has ranked poorly and this time was no exception. The study showed students in the Grand Duchy still perform under average in all areas.

Taking much of the blame for this is the country’s multilingual teaching system. Surprisingly, while scientists insist bilingualism boosts brainpower, a school structure where students learn to wield three languages doesn’t seem to have the same positive effect.

“Having a population capable of mastering ­several languages is part of our country’s wealth,” Meisch tells Delano. “Keeping Luxembourgish, German and French in our schools is important and also ensures we remain a nation where everyone can speak with each other--contrary to Belgium, for example. We are however increasingly aware that our society has changed and adapting our schools to our growing number of students from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds is essential.”

Compared with the other 64 countries and territories in the PISA study, Luxembourg has the highest rate of 15-year old students with an immigrant background (43.2%), with much more than half of them speaking a language other than Luxembourgish at home.

“Our situation is rather unique and we are currently working with researchers to figure out how best to address our specific issues. In the near future we will launch several pilot projects to assess various solutions. To prevent our stu-

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dents from failing a subject in which they are in fact competent, part of the answer might be to give them more choices regarding the language in which they are taught. We would also like our ­students to start English earlier,” the minister says.

More than 600 new secondary students arrive in Luxembourg each year and integrating these newcomers into the local system is far from easy. Parents who can afford it often opt to send their offspring to an international school instead. “Diversity and multiculturalism is part of our identity and international schools are necessary,” says Meisch. “That’s why Luxembourg supports them so much financially. We do however wish to review the way this funding is used. We’d like to see school fees reduced so less fortunate students can gain access too.”

Another initiative backed by the ministry is the opening of classes taught in English with an international curriculum within public schools. A survey was recently initiated via several international chambers of commerce to determine the need for this, with results expected to be released later this year.

" Our situation is rather unique" Claude Meisch

february 2014

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29/01/14 18:47

CURRENT AFFAIRS

Pascale Petry Sees the opportunities

Plans for the future

Different measures planned by the ministry of education to improve the way needs of foreign students are met in secondary schools:

Such classes already exist though and are quite a hit, as Lycée Technique Michel Lucius director Pascale Petry can attest. She was contacted in September 2011 by the ministry and asked to open a class for the equivalent of British grade 5EC, for students who are usually around 14 years old. She did--two weeks later. Today, her school has five such classes, with 100 students, all taught in English and preparing for International GCSE, AS and A-level exams. Two more classes will be added next year.

Integrating English speaking classes into a state-run school is clearly a lot of work, but Petry sees it as a great opportunity and is not shy of going the extra mile to assure it’s a success. “Our goal here is to adapt the system to the student, especially linguistically. Some of the English-speaking students arrive with no knowledge in either French or German, so we start initiation courses in these languages every six weeks. Currently, we teach them German and French classes at five different levels so they have the possibility to study one or both at as a high level as they can.”

1. M ore autonomy and freedom for schools, so they can adapt their educational tools to their specific student body.

2. Opening more classes with an English curriculum leading to international diplomas within public schools, in different regions, not only around the capital.

3. Focusing on students’ capability to speak the three “school languages”, but giving them a larger choice as to which one is used in certain subjects.

4. Introducing English earlier for all students.

5. Reviewing the way newcomers are included in the system, tailoring solutions better.

6. Reducing the number of students per class or introducing a second teacher within each one to better assist those who need it.

Michel Lucius has 1,280 students in all, who together speak 46 different languages, but Pétry stresses that “language should never be a factor of exclusion.” The school has recently prepared a questionnaire in order to find out which languages are used by students and in which situations in order to build more efficient bridges between the various linguistic backgrounds.

“It’s important to work with the differences instead of against them. You can’t teach successfully by asking the same from every student, nobody benefits from that. We opted for the AS and A-level curriculum for our English-speaking students as opposed to the International Baccalauréat because the programme is more inclusive, and we’ve learnt a lot from it.”

At the same time the English classes were introduced in her school, so was a service éducatif, meaning five certified educators were added to the staff. “This has made a big difference,” insists Petry. “It makes it possible to work individually with each student and also with the families. And that is very important, no matter which curriculum is followed and which language is spoken.”.

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february 2014

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

International relations

Luxembourg tops aid list The Grand Duchy donates the highest proportion of its national earnings to development assistance, according to new OECD data.

T

20 20_cur aff art F.indd 20

he Grand Duchy has surpassed Sweden as the world’s most benevolent aid donor, new figures from an intergovernmental think-tank show. In 2012, 1% of Luxembourg’s gross national income went to official development assistance, up from 0.97% in 2011, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development. Sweden’s rate dropped from 1.02% to 0.97% in 2012.

The 2012 top five were rounded out

by Norway (0.93% of GNI), Denmark (0.83%) and the Netherlands (0.71%).

The UK had the sixth highest proportion (0.56%) dedicated to development aid.

Belgium and Switzerland donated 0.47%, while France donated 0.45%, Germany gave 0.37%, the US contributed 0.19% and Japan provided 0.17% of GNI. However, when looking at total dollar amounts, the US topped the OECD tables, contributing $30.8 billion in 2012, followed by the UK ($13.9 billion). The top five were rounded out by Germany ($12.9 billion), France ($12 billion) and Japan ($10.6 billion). The Netherlands and Sweden each donated $5.5 billion, while Norway gave $4.6 billion. EU institutions contributed $17.5 billion, the OECD said.

The Grand Duchy donated $399 million in ODA last year, down from $409 million in 2011.

The top recipient countries were Mali, Burkina Faso and Cape Verde.

LuxDev, an agency that reports to the Grand Duchy’s international cooperation ministry, has supported projects to improve Burkina Faso’s vocational training, forestry management and blood transfusion systems, for example.

Luxembourg committed to donate 1% of its GNI in 2009..

february 2014

Burkina Faso A European Commissionbacked food security programme in Tapoa

Anouk Delafortrie/European Commission

Text by Aaron Grunwald

29/01/14 18:50

CURRENT AFFAIRS

European Parliament

Make your vote count European elections take place May 25 in Luxembourg and if you’re a EU citizen you can vote. There are plenty of reasons why you should do so.

To start with, it’s the first time your opinion will count this much.

T

he European Parliament is the only ­ uropean institution that is directly E elected by the citizens of its member states.

That fact alone should encourage everyone who can to vote in the upcoming elections, which will take place on May 25 in Luxembourg. But there are other reasons why you should make your way to the ballots.

These are the first elections since the Lisbon Treaty gave the European Parliament a number of new powers, including that of being able to refuse the European Commission’s choice of new president. In other words, voters now have a clear say in who will head the EU government. The new political majority in the European Parliament will also shape European legislation over the next five years in areas from the single market to civil liberties, trade to foreign affairs, thus having an equal say with national governments on nearly all EU laws.

Plus, it is also the first time that all EU residents in Luxembourg can vote: the former two-year residence requirement was eliminated last December. So get in on the act--after all, according to the 2013 Eurobarometer survey, Luxembourg is the country where most people (88%) feel they are “citizens of Europe”.

“I’m not sure however, that everyone gets how important it is to seize this opportunity to vote,” says José Trindade, president of Luxembourg City’s Advisory Commission for Integration.

“We so often hear people complain about what has been decided on a European level, blaming situations they don’t like on EU directives. Well, to change things, to have your say in the choices that are made, you have to vote! Choosing our representatives well is the only way of ensuring that decisions are made with our best interests in mind, not only here in Luxembourg where we work and live but also in our countries of origin where we have family or where we might go back one day.”

Those who are not yet registered to vote for the European elections in Luxembourg have

David Laurent (archives)

Text by Neel Chrillesen

Your town hall Register before February 28

European parliamentary elections

All EU citizens over the age of 18 residing in Luxembourg can participate in the European parliamentary elections.

To vote for a candidate from Luxembourg, you must register on the electoral roll at your local administrative office (in Luxembourg City, the Bierger-Center) before February 28.

You can also decide to vote for someone from your country of origin. In that case, you should contact the competent authorities there (or your embassy) to find out how to register.

until February 28 to do so and Trindade hopes many will. “It’s not always easy to get everyone interested,” he admits. “Unfortunately European affairs can still seem a little distant and complicated and many tend to be more interested in local politics.”

The Advisory Commission of Integration will therefore set up information stalls in the capital, on the place d’Armes, on February 8 and 22 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. “Not only to show how the European elections are organised and why it’s important to be a part of it but also to explain how the European Parliament works and how it’s possible to have an influence on what goes on there.”

“I think we all want the rights of the European citizens to be respected, just as we know that it’s important to find solutions together,” says Trindade. “Luxembourg is a founding member of the EU and is well respected within it, also because our representatives usually do a very good job. We should keep it that way. That’s why it’s so important to register and vote.”.

www.jepeuxvoter.lu www.elections2014.eu

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February 2014

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

Children

Young programmers have fun

All kids should learn to program instead of using computers and digital devices passively, Code Club Luxembourg says.

Text by Neel Chrillesen Photography by Steve Eastwood

A

s soon as the bell has rung the end of the school day, they come flooding in, throwing their bags in a corner and each rushing to one of the screens in the computer room.

The Grand Duchy’s first code club has been running at the International School of Luxembourg since the school year started and has become so popular that there’s a waiting list

Steve Clement (in back) Coding fosters creativity and problem-solving

The Code Club movement

The first Code Club was started in the UK in 2012 but the idea rapidly crossed borders, creating an international network of free volunteer-led after-school coding clubs for children aged 9-11. There are currently over 1,820 code clubs worldwide.

A pilot club was set up at the International School of Luxembourg in 2013 and several more schools will open clubs in 2014.

The Luxembourg Code Club also organises free coding workshops for children and their parents once a month. For details and to subscribe to its newsletter: www.codeclub.lu

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to be a part of it. The club’s fourth to sixth graders learn to program by making their own games and animations. “Technology is such a big part of our society today, programming touches every industry,” says Zak Lawrence, ICT specialist at ISL and one of Code Club Luxembourg’s volunteers. “Code literacy is increasingly important, also to stay safe.

We need to teach kids a better way of using the interactive world and to give them the tools to create instead of just consume.”

Bringing the concept of after-school coding clubs to the Grand Duchy was Patrick Welfringer’s idea. A programmer himself, but also a father of three, he was initially looking for something to do with his own and some of his friends’ children. “Our kids today are ‘digital natives’ and yet they are

only learning to use computers passively.

We should instead show them they can make computers do what they want and not the other way around.”

The club is entirely run by volunteers.

They teach youngsters the basics of programming using Scratch, before going on to the basics of HTML and CSS, Python and so on.

For the onlooker, however, it frankly just seems like they’re playing in front of the computer.

Proof that programming--especially if you’re making your own game or animation--can be captivating. “We focus on gaming to get them interested,” explains Lawrence. “The goal is that they have fun with technology; that they learn to produce something. Some go crazy.

They are blown away by what they can do.”

“It’s really great to see the children’s creativity kick in,” says Steve Clement, an information security analyst and Code Club volunteer.

“We also try and challenge them. Very quickly they start asking questions about how things work and get excited about what they can accomplish and how far they can go. Without them even knowing it, coding teaches them problem-solving and logical thinking, how to work with frustration and build discipline.

But most of all, like with food, what’s i­mportant is creating your own stuff instead of consuming something readymade.”

The pilot club at ISL will be joined by new clubs next school year. “What we’d really like is to see a code club in every single primary school in Luxembourg,” says Welfringer.

And getting children to join won’t be a problem.

The “Coding goûter” workshops organised by the club each month for children and ­accompanying adults are immensely successful.

“It’s a great place to start but once the kids get really interested, they need a regular code club. The best way that parents can make that ­happen at their children’s school is to ask around and find us a volunteer with some ­programming experience. Volunteer time is our scarcest resource! ”.

february 2014

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29/01/14 15:59

An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.

Benjamin Franklin MaSter in WeaLth ManageMent

The LSF Master’s in Banking and Finance is a comprehensive programme covering both mainstream and more specialised disciplines in banking and finance.

Renowned professors provide a solid academic and professional foundation in these disciplines.

The programme is ideally suited to students seeking a career in corporate finance, asset and wealth management, banking and related fields, in Luxembourg or beyond.

The LSF Master in Wealth Management, developed in co-operation with the Private Banking Group in Luxembourg, combines traditional academic finance disciplines with other subjects closely linked to the profession of wealth management. Renowned professors and practitioners will provide a solid theoretical and practical foundation for a career in wealth management, in Luxembourg or beyond.

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CURRENT AFFAIRS

From left: Catherine Bejour (taking photo), Claire with mum Kylie Morrison (next to window), Haley with mum Andrea Monnat (centre)

Father Christmas had an American accent

Caspar

Community

Visions of sugarplums Just before the holidays, the residence of the British ambassador turned into Santa’s workshop, as children were welcomed at a party organised by the British Ladies Club.

Or maybe that should be Father Christmas’s workshop, although we heard from a little elf that the guy in the white beard feels just at home at the American Chamber of Commerce as he does at the North Pole.

“It’s so nice to be able to have a traditional kind of event in English for the little ones,” says the BLC’s Kylie Morrison. Ambassador Alice Walpole, the club’s honorary president, provided cakes and biscuits and--of course--a proper cup of tea for the grownups, while the kids were given “party packs” of goodies by the BLC to enjoy picnic style.

A pat on the antlers goes to the club’s Lynn Frank. This little dear (or is it deer?) deserves to lead the sleigh team for all her hard work keeping the kids entertained.

“All the volunteers did so much to make this possible, and it was a really welcoming atmosphere”, adds Morrison. And not only did it feel good, it did good. Part of the fun included making tree decorations from the Red Cross to help support the needy. WW

The BLC’s Lynn Frank telling a tale

More photos from the event and Santa’s secret identity revealed at:

Rafael with his mum Line Ejlersen

www.delano.lu/news/visions-sugarplums Photographed by Jessica Theis

Max with mum Saskia Podzun and her daughter Anna (in carrier), Blasit (on right)

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Grown-ups welcoming Santa, from left: Xeride Parker, Liz Rivero, Kate Ensor (holding door)

The British Ladies Club’s children’s Christmas party was held at the British ambassador’s residence

Siân, Seren, Emily and Louis

february 2014

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business B2B bible

Luc Deflorenne (archives)

The 14th edition of business guide paperJam.Index was published in January. “paperJam.Index is a B2B essential and practical tool for finding suppliers or prospects classified into more than 150 sub-sectors,” says Sarah Macri, the publication’s managing editor. It also features profiles of dozens of leading business newsmakers.

The guide is produced by Delano’s sister magazine, paperJam, which is Luxembourg’s largest economic and financial publication. www.index.lu

Luc Deflorenne (archives)

Chamber of Commerce

Carlo Thelen

Robert van de Weg

Lionel Briand

Named managing director of the Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, after former chief Pierre Gramegna was appointed finance minister in December.

Thelen joined the chamber in 1996, and most recently was its chief economist. www.carlothelen.lu

Resigned as senior vice president of sales and marketing at Europe’s largest cargo airline, “due to differences with the board of directors regarding Cargolux’s strategy for the future,” the carrier stated. He had been with the firm for ten years.

The University of Luxembourg ­professor was named “IEEE Reliability Society Engineer of the Year”. His boss, professor Björn Ottersten, says: “This award is the most prestigious award in the field of software verification and validation.”

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Maison Moderne Studio

year, following a meeting last month with the Grand Duchy’s finance minister, Pierre Gramegna. The other three big four already operate here. Also setting up shop: Shanghai Pudong Development Bank, one of China’s top 10 banks, and China Merchants Bank, the world’s 60th largest, according to The Banker figures. The moves further enhance the Luxembourg government’s effort to make the Grand Duchy Europe’s leading offshore trading centre for China’s currency, the renminbi.

But trade between China and Luxembourg is not limited to big banks, Chinalux president Dirk Dewitte said in an interview with Delano’s online edition: www.delano.lu/news/year-horse

EU financing for SMEs University of Luxembourg

Year of the horse

The Chinese chamber marked its official kick-off with the news that three more major mainland China banks will ride into town.

Luxembourg deputy prime minister Étienne Schneider (photo) made the announcement during a conference organised by the recently relaunched China-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce. The group was celebrating its formal inauguration and the Chinese Year of the Horse. More than 450 people attended the reception, making it one of the largest events held at the Chamber of Commerce building in Kirchberg over the past decade. Schneider said Agricultural Bank of China, one of that country’s “big four” state-owned commercial banks, is due to launch in Luxembourg later this

The Kirchberg-based European Investment Bank issued its fifth round of investment funds for small and medium sized enterprises in Belgium, the Netherlands and ­Luxembourg. The EIB, which is backed by EU member states, makes the funds available through commercial bank ING, which offers loans and lease financing to SMEs at lower than usual interest rates.

The €350 million tranche brought the total to €1.3 billion over the past four years. ING says roughly 2,400 companies have already participated in the ­programme.

february 2014

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MDDI

European commissioner Viviane Reding, on the “Safe harbour” data protection pact with the US

35% deal signed

50

40

41%

30

31%

20

10

11%

-20

Frankfurt

-14%

-30

-23% Berlin

-11%

Brussels

-10

Source: Expatistan.com

4%

Lux.

Luxembourg City is the 21st most expensive city in the world to live, says expat website Expatistan.com.

Regular expenses in the Grand Duchy’s capital were roughly equal to those in Dublin and Helsinki, while life was costlier in London, Geneva and Paris. Frankfurt, Brussels and Berlin were all less dear. Expatistan says its data comes from more than 782,000 user entries.

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The Hague

Alter Domus has become the first “professional depository” authorised

by Luxembourg financial regulator CSSF, the company announced in January. Long required for retail mutual funds, the EU ordered funds for savvy investors to also have depositories, which safeguard clients’ money, ­starting this summer. “This is a natural evolution of our product offering, allowing us to provide a complete ­solution to private equity and real estate firms globally,” says CEO ­ Laurent Vanderweyen (photo). Last year Fabrice Buchheit, the firm’s depository services chief, explained why Alter Domus made the move in an article published on the Delano website: www.delano.lu/category/keywords/aifmd

A Luxembourg start-up has landed a deal with a major petroleum player before marking its first anniversary. Eight-month old Apateq sold its first oil-water separator to an unnamed major European petroleum firm, the eco-tech company announced during a visit by deputy prime minister Étienne Schneider to its headquarters in Findel. Oil and gas wells generate billions of litres in contaminated water annually. The company’s “OilPaq” product is mounted in a mobile container and can automatically treat the water at well sites, remotely controlled via a desktop or mobile application. ­Apateq says its first “unit will treat produced water from oil ­production and hydraulic fracturing, requiring virtually no chemicals for operation using a proprietary technology”. The privately backed firm was founded in April 2013, and had previously shipped units that treat wastewater at industrial sites.

Paris

First AIFMD depository

Cost of living comparison

Apateq

Alter Domus

Oil and water don’t mix

More than a third of all-freight airline Cargolux has officially been sold to a state-owned Chinese investment group, while the Luxembourg state still holds just under half of the carrier’s shares. HNCA, based in Zhengzhou, Henan Province, is paying $120 million for the stake in Europe’s largest cargo airline, which operates out of Findel airport. The accord was signed last month by François Bausch, Luxembourg’s infrastructure minister, and Xie Fuzhan, ­governor of Henan Province. Under the deal, HNCA will invest a further $15 million to establish Zhengzhou as Cargolux’s second hub. But Luxembourg trade union OGBL said the agreement was “somewhat ­imbalanced”, warning that Cargolux risked becoming a financial holding company taking advantage of its “rapidly ­rising” Chinese cargo facility.

Geneva

Kirchberg-based Clearstream will pay Washington $152 million over the firm’s breach of American sanctions against Iran in 2007 and 2008. The company knowingly held a New York account with $2.8 billion in securities on behalf of the Iranian central bank, and then helped transfer the assets to a European bank account after an American inquiry began, to help Tehran avoid the economic embargo, the US Treasury Department said. But “Clearstream’s strong remedial response to subsequently enhance its sanctions compliance policies and procedures was a major factor” in reducing the settlement amount, which originally was set at $340 million.

the tyres and saw that repairs are needed"

London

Clearstream settlement

"[We] kicked

European Commission

Étienne Delorme (archives)

business

february 2014

27 29/01/14 19:02

BUSINESS

Jean-Paul Olinger and Xavier Kieffer

Paul Helminger

David Micallef

Business

Encouraging entrepreneurship

British ambassador Alice Walpole

Patrizia Luchetta

In a speech at Amcham’s new year’s ­celebrations, Étienne Schneider emphasised the government’s plans to help youngsters start businesses. The simplification of procedures to starting a new business, including new regulations allowing an sàrl to be registered with a capital outlay of just one euro, and improving the status of independent workers to help encourage youngsters to become entrepreneurs were among the policies he will be seeking to implement.

The deputy prime minister and minister for the economy also revealed plans for the future merger of the Luxembourg For Finance and Luxembourg for Business agencies and a strategy to harmonise nation branding.

The reception at the residence of US ambassador Robert Mandell was attended by some 160 guests. Mandell, Amcham president Paul Schonenberg and Geoff Cook of BBH representing the ABBL and the Association of American Banks in Luxembourg, also addressed the gathering. DR

Labour minister Nicolas Schmit and Jean-Louis Schiltz

More photographs from the event at: www.delano.lu/news/encouraging-entrepreneurship Photographed by Jessica Theis

Amcham president Paul Schonenberg Deputy prime minister Étienne Schneider and US ambassador Robert Mandell

Jane Messenger and Julie Mandell

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february 2014

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27/01/14 10:08

12

03

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30/01/14 14:17 15:23

BUSINESS

Fund regulation

Burden or opportunity?

AIFMD, AML, Dodd-Frank, EMIR, EuVECA, FATCA, FTT, MIFID II, MiFIR, PRIPS, Solvency II, UCITS VI, just to name a few… if you feel obliged to check Google and query your colleagues every time you hear about a new set of investment fund regulations, you certainly are not alone.

There is simply a lot more to keep track of. Since the 2008 collapse of American bank Lehman Brothers and the global finance crisis that followed--for better or for worse--the rulebooks have been getting increasingly thicker. How much more are asset managers spending to comply with new requirements and is there an upside to increased standardisation?

And what will it mean for the Grand Duchy’s funds sector?

Text by Aaron Grunwald Photography by Olivier Minaire

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February 2014

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BUSINESS

Charles Muller Keeping an eye out is good for business

I

n the next five years, European investment managers face 12 pieces of new direct government rules and 20 sets of indirect regulations, reckons Charles Muller of consultancy KPMG. And naturally, fund firms have to comply with all those rules.

Indeed, new regulatory requirements will cost European fund firms between €220 million and €365 million annually for the next three years, according to a study by BNY Mellon, a bank for investment firms. The report, which was produced using data from consultancies EY and Watson Wyatt, estimates that on present course total expense ratios--a figure that investors commonly use to compare how profitably funds are run--will rise by more than 2%.

While investment managers are naturally keen to find efficiencies to avoid giving clients a case of sticker shock, that will not be easy to achieve.

“Most firms initiated a regime of cost reduction programmes in response to the credit crunch,” the BNY Mellon report states.

There are simply few costs left to cut, meaning investment managers will have to take some clear-eyed decisions about exactly what they offer. “Firms should review their product ­portfolios and develop more sophisticated mechanisms for splitting the middle ground into ‘products to kill’ vs. ‘products to invest in’,” the bank advises.

Indeed BNY Mellon cites several cases of fund managers like BlackRock, Deutsche Wealth and Threadneedle shutting funds and share classes last year, “as cost pressures signal the beginning of the end for oversized product ranges.”

The advantage of trimmed product portfolios is that, in addition to boosting the bottom line, “greater clarity around the business objectives will be welcomed by investors and regulators and enable sales and marketing teams to deliver a more cohesive message to the market,” according to the bank.

The Grand Duchy’s investment management trade group says firms simply have to find the right people to satisfy rulemakers, regardless of budgetary concerns. “In light of the pace and

quantity of regulatory developments since the beginning of the international financial crisis, legal and compliance functions within the fund industry have increased in Luxembourg, as in all other important European fund centres,” says Anouk Agnes of the Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry. “The qualification and the experience of professionals in these two fields needs to be high, as the regulation they have to deal with is truly complex. Consequently, qualification and experience is more important than cost.”

“Asset management companies, such as Aberdeen, are certainly spending more on compliance,” says Alastair Woodward of Aberdeen Asset Management in Luxembourg. “The aftermath of the financial crisis and various national and regional initiatives, including UCITS IV, AIFMD and [the UK’s Retail Distribution Review] have all meant increased work for compliance departments.”

“However, rightly compliance is now a central tenet to firms’ cultures with all employees responsible for ensuring compliant activities. We welcome this and also believe more rigour and good practice, including always putting clients first, is essential for the future of financial services,” he says.

Regulation resources

More than 20 official “circulars, laws, consultation papers and other legal texts” can be issued for each set of investment fund rules, says KPMG in Luxembourg.

That is why the firm launched its regulapedia, an online library that organises all the documents by regulation--from AIFMD to UCITS VI--and by issuing ­institution. www.kpmgregulapedia.lu

Trade association ALFI offers more than a dozen best practice guidelines: www.alfi.lu/legal-technical/alfiguidelines-and-recommendations

The BNY Mellon report cited in this article can be downloaded at: www.bnymellon.com/foresight/ regulation

february 2014

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31 31/01/14 12:30

BUSINESS

Alastair Woodward Compliance spending is essential

Indeed, rules such as Britain’s RDR may have a transformative impact on the Grand Duchy’s financial sector. The regulations restrict fund firms from paying sales commissions, a common practice today, to financial advisors--who have direct contact with retail investors--and requires advisors to clearly disclose their service fees to their clients.

Dariush Yazdani of consultancy PwC in Luxembourg notes similar moves are already being made in the Netherlands and Switzerland and forecasts that “by 2020 all major territories will have introduced some regulation on transparency, to better align interests with the customer.”

The shift in fee models will force the fund “industry to rethink the relationship between distributor and asset manager,” he says. “How are you going to motivate the distributor to [sell] your fund among the other 3,000 funds he has on his platform? Why should he choose you and not the next fund manager? ” Yazdani says Luxembourg firms “will need to look more and more into the needs of distributors and how to support them in distributing their products. As an example, you could have a support line for their sales people who have questions about the funds. If you look at more successful asset managers, the baseline is performance, but after that you need to start to differentiate yourself

32

with branding and how you support your distributors with added value services.”

This in turn could be a net gain for the Grand Duchy. “I do believe going forward such value-added services will be an advantage for Luxembourg and will bring more jobs to the industry here.”

BNY Mellon also believes “outsourcing” will increasingly become “recognised as the means to improve risk management and regulatory compliance.”

New opportunities Service providers are adding to their offerings in response. KPMG launched its “Regulatory Scout” service at the beginning of the year, which provides clients with a quarterly update on new rules on the horizon and helps fund firms prioritise each regulation’s relevancy and urgency, Muller says.

Since big asset managers typically have sufficient in-house resources, KPMG is marketing the service to medium sized shops and service providers, such as transfer agents and depository banks, “who also have to comply with regulations, for themselves and for their clients.”

But rulebooks have upsides. “Regulations are often seen as a burden, something you just have to comply with,” says Muller. “The question we most

often get [from clients] is ‘where are the opportunities for us?’ So the element we will focus a lot on is not only provide an update on the ‘burden’, but show clients where the opportunities lie in the regulations.”

“As we come out of the crisis, the fat has already been cut off within the industry,” concurs Yazdani.

“The focus will shift towards growing the business; regulations will no longer be seen as a burden,” in his view.

Greater standardisation of rules across the globe could open doors in other markets.

Yazdani believes regional investment zones-similar to the European cross-border “passport” that turned Luxembourg into a leading fund centre--will take shape in north Asia, south Asia and Latin America by 2020. “Once these passports are built”, he says it “gives Luxembourg the opportunity of expanding its footprint further than it currently is.”

While he concedes that could work the other way around too, with Asian and American funds gaining more access to the EU, “UCITS took about 20 years to take off. The infrastructure that you have, the knowledge that you have here is something that has been developed. Europe has first mover advantage. Luxembourg in a more competitive [environment] can grow its position.”.

February 2014

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31/01/14 12:30

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www.capitaassetservices.com 30/01/14 09:27

BUSINESS

Steel in use

Fabric of life

Minnesota Vikings new stadium

(St. Paul, Minnesota)

ArcelorMittal’s Differdange plant will supply around 20% of the steel being used to build the American football team’s new multi-purpose stadium in St. Paul, currently under construction.

Specifically the unique grade 65 steel from Luxembourg is used to make the beams that span the whole of the pitch and support the stadium’s roof.

The groundbreaking ceremony for the new $975 million stadium was in December and the team will move into its new premises for the 2016 season.

Did you know that 90% of all metal used in the world is steel? ArcelorMittal has launched a campaign designed to show how the modern world relies on the innovative use of steel.

Text by Duncan Roberts

E

very second car in Europe contains some ArcelorMittal steel, explains Ian Loudon, head of brand, worldwide at the steel maker. Loudon and his team have come up with the “fabric of life” campaign to illustrate just how much the world relies on steel--much of it made right here in the Grand Duchy.

The steel manufacturer has won innovation awards for its co-engineering effort with Ford in reducing the weight of the 2013 Fusion model in the US. Elsewhere in the automotive industry, ArcelorMittal’s Usibor boron coated steel, and S-in motion developments are also reducing the weight of cars by as much as 19%.

Similar statistics are equally impressive. 85% of the world’s wind turbines are installed on tubular steel structures, and one in three of those use ArcelorMittal steel.

The company is also developing steel photovoltaic cells named Phoster, which does away with the glass element of traditional solar panels, thus integrating the cells into the roof construction.

In South Africa, houses and schools built using a full-steel frame can be assembled by four people in just four days.

Closer to home, Fonds du Logement housing in Hollerich was constructed using metal frames manufactured in component parts, which reduces the construction period on site.

More playful applications of ArcelorMittal steel includes all the pétanque balls manufactured by leading French brand Obot, and in the kitchen the company’s blued steel is used for baking trays and it also provides the steel for Miele washing machines. Here we pick five examples of steel from Luxembourg being used around the world. DR

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Rail bridge

(Dresden, Germany) Steel beams from Luxembourg are being used in the construction of a new railway bridge in Dresden in eastern Germany.

The 1,460-metre long beams weigh a total of 380 tonnes and were made in the Differdange Grey mill and transported to Dresden by rail--an undertaking that may make it into the Guinness book of records. Prior to transport, all the beams were inspected three times to ensure there were no defects and that they met Deutsche Bahn’s strict standards. The bridge will open at the end of 2014.

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february 2014

29/01/14 17:32

BUSINESS

ArcelorMittal Orbit

(London, England)

The Orbit tower was the landmark at the London 2012 Olympic Games. It is constructed from some 2,000 tonnes of steel (more than half of which is underground) that came from every country in which ArcelorMittal manufactures. But the majority came from western Europe for purely logistical purposes, and a significant amount did originate from Luxembourg.

Mayor Boris Johnson has said he wants the Orbit to be a symbol for the regeneration of east London.

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5

Luxembourg pavilion

(Shanghai, China)

Designed by Luxembourg architect François Valentiny, ­Luxembourg’s pavilion for the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai was built from Coreten weathering steel from Luxembourg, which deliberately oxidises. Engineer Pierre Engel was deeply involved in its design. Following the expo the pavilion was destined to be given to Chinese steel company Hunan Valin, but was eventually donated to the Chinese people and houses an art exhibition as part of a centre of exchange between China and Europe.

Flood barrier

(Venice, Italy)

ArcelorMittal is the lead ­company in the $3 billion MOSE (Modulo Sperimentale Elettromeccanico) project, which is constructing flood prevention gates for the Venice lagoon at its three entrances from the Adriatic. Interlocking sheet piles made in Esch-Belval are driven into the seabed.

They incorporate hollow gates that can be drained of water and filled with air if required to rise to the surface to block the three inlets when there is a danger of flooding.

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BUSINESS

Top tips

Virtual meetings trek Half a century after featuring in the Star Trek series, the telepresence concept is taking over the business world and promises to change the way we connect virtually.

Text by Cristina Marina Photography by Annabelle Denham

T

36

he telepresence kits of the present are more advanced than anything dreamed up on cult TV series Star Trek and they definitely spark one’s imagination in the same way the show did.

“Telepresence is a combination of audio, video and ambient lighting working together,” explains Robert Rosier, CEO of TPEX, a company that supplies public and private telepresence ­solutions. “Everything is designed to mirror ­surroundings and mimic sounds so that users on each side will feel as though the images on the screen are in the same room with them.”

The City of Luxembourg partnered with Tata Communications, Cisco and TPEX to open the first public telepresence facility in the Greater Region in 2012--at the Cercle Cité conference centre, located just off the place d’Armes--and Delano recently engaged the concept first hand.

With Rosier’s colleague Timothy Engels ­connecting from the World Trade Center in Amsterdam, Rachana Das patched in from the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai, and Cercle Cité’s Vanessa Cum on the other side of the table here in the Grand Duchy, the telepresence system made the experience seem like an ­ ­in-person interview.

Because each room feature is constructed to mirror all the others, it only takes a few minutes to get the feeling that everybody is in the same room.

Forget the long delays or awkward pauses in conversation that come with conventional systems. The facility includes three ultra-high-­ definition screens (with 1080p resolution), voice-activated microphones and special lightning that create an intimate sense of presence for all the participants.

“The main difference between telepresence and traditional video or web conferencing is that more senses are involved”, says Cum, who is coordinator of the Cercle’s telepresence facility.

“Various stimuli, including life-sized images and spatial sound, give a more ‘real’ feeling and help remove the distance between participants.

Everything is a must-try experience.”

Vanessa Cum (on left) On the line with Mumbai and Amsterdam

Rosier says: “All the rooms are connected to an ecosystem created by Tata Communications. There is a fibre network in-between; it is not going over internet and the big difference is the quality--there is no delay, full HD, the best quality that you can get. Plus everything is very secure.” The system can also be accessed via mobile devices or laptops.

In a business world where budgets are shrinking and managers are paying more and more attention to costs, telepresence solutions can make a big difference for travel budgets.

“The companies that are using the system saved up to 80% of their travel costs”, explains Cum, citing clients including government ministries, global companies and even recruiters, who organise telepresence interviews.

The pay-per-hour telepresence room in Luxembourg can be connected to 80 public locations and 4,500 private rooms from all over the world and is available around-the-clock for €350 per hour..

Video conferencing

While the telepresence facility at the Cercle Cité is the only one of its kind in Luxembourg, there are other players that facilitate virtual meetings. For example, office space provider Regus (www.regus.lu) offers video ­conference facilities that can be booked online and are available 24 hours per day. The system has a global reach and can connect to 1,800 facilities worldwide.

ACT Proximity (www.proximity. com) video conferencing also enables private virtual meeting in a professional conference room environment, with 4,000 public video conference rooms available worldwide.

february 2014

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27/01/14 15:14

Outlook – Brightening, with opportunities for growth Deloitte Luxembourg’s app is Deloitte Luxembourg’s app is

© 2014. For information, contact Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited.

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30/01/14 09:07

BUSINESS

Corporate governance

Boardroom challenge The 5th edition of the Female Board Pool Seminar on January 15 was the opportunity to assess gender equality in the boardroom and move a step closer to narrowing the persisting gap.

Text by Neel Chrillesen Photography by Steve Eastwood

H

ow you read the European Commission’s latest report about women and men in leadership positions depends largely on your nature.

The most optimistic amongst us will find it encouraging. The others? Pretty depressing.

The survey states that women accounted for 16.6% of board members of large publicly listed companies in the 27 EU member states

rita knott Building bridges to the board

The Female Board Pool

The Female Board Pool is a platform for connecting experienced and future female board members, and corporations and organisations. Its goal is to help increase the percentage of competent and committed women at the board of director level of private and public organisations in ­Luxembourg and other European countries. This goal is reached by finding, promoting, connecting and matching female board ­members. The Female Board Pool also organises ­training for future female board members. www.female-board-pool.com

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in 2013. Compared to 2010 where this figure was 11.8%, it’s an increase. Hurray.

However, nearly one in four large listed companies still have no female representatives at all at board level and the 2020 target of 40% will, of course, never be reached at this rate. Not to mention that Luxembourg hasn’t even mustered up to the 2010 levels: in the Grand Duchy only 10.1% of board members are female.

Luckily though, initiatives are being taken to change the situation. Not only at European level, where quota strategies are developed amid heated discussions, but also locally. In Luxembourg, the Female Board Pool, launched in 2011, helps prepare companies to welcome women on boards by matching and vetting qualified female board of director candidates.

The pool has also organised five corporate

g­ overnance seminars for women and runs a successful mentoring programme.

The initiative is organised by the Maison du Coaching, Mentoring et Consulting, in cooperation with the University of Luxembourg, the American Chamber of Commerce, Femmes Leaders and Fédération des Femmes Cheffes d’Entreprise.

“My conviction is that an initiative like ours takes three to five years to take off, so we will see more and more results,” says Rita Knott, president of Maison du Coaching, Mentoring et Consulting. “Last summer I got the first request from a stock exchange quoted company to find a female board candidate and we were able to put forward 22 suitable profiles.”

The Female Board Pool has a confidential database with 320 board-ready women and the matching up is free of charge. As for the cross-mentoring programme, it has benefitted ten women so far. “Mentoring is a powerful tool and all involved profit from it. We are currently looking for more board of director mentors to expand the programme.”

“Regardless if you like quotas or not, it’s a fact that diverse boards give better results. For economic efficiency, it’s logical to have a fair composition of competences on the board of director.”

Despite the positive results obtained in countries that have adopted legislative quotas, Knott is personally not in favour of this solution. “Shareholders should not have to have political considerations when choosing board members. The quotas make everyone emotional and create a female against men situation, which isn’t productive. We should build bridges instead. However, the quota accelerates the discussion and that’s a good thing! ” Hopefully the talking will lead to some more action, including in the Grand Duchy.

“There are three major prejudices we are still confronted with: there are no women who want a board position, women are not competent and it’s too costly to find them. None of this is true.”

february 2014

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28/01/14 17:00

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BUSINESS

Mobile phones

Roam, if you want to How will reduced roaming fees impact Luxembourg telecoms?

Text by Tonya Stoneman Photography by Olivier Minaire

T

here were seven different phone numbers in my household last time I checked. I’m a cross-border worker and my family of four travels a lot. We keep a landline in the house to cut down on the cost of international calls, each of us has a mobile phone, I keep a prepaid phone for my work in Luxembourg (the international plan on my mobile is too pricey), and we have an American cell phone.

But despite all our efforts to keep costs down, we still get burned every time we forget to pack the right phone. On a recent trip to Italy, my husband used his iPhone to look up a few things. We came home to a €250 bill.

Unfortunately, this scenario isn’t all that strange in this part of the world. If you’re a cross-border worker or travel frequently, you might be facing a similar situation.

Although European authorities have dramatically brought down roaming costs, this is still a huge challenge for people in the Grand Duchy and Greater Region. The European Commission has taken a strong stand on the issue, pressing for the end of roaming fees by mid-year.

Marc Rosenfeld, director at Post Telecom Luxembourg, says there are currently two solutions under discussion. “The first decouples the sales of roaming services from normal services so customers would be able to subscribe to roaming from a different provider from their normal provider,” he explains in an interview with Delano. “Or operators will have the opportunity to offer roaming services in the EU for the same prices as national services.”

While Rosenfeld is certain that roaming services for users will be cheaper when regulations are enacted, he does not know to what extent prices will go down and if there will be

40

particular offers for cross-border commuters.

“Implementing specific packages is quite an issue for operators. They have to calculate well in advance what the implications will be,” he says, adding that he really does not foresee a big increase in voice traffic, as predicted, since prices have been dropping steadily and are no longer prohibitive.

The increase instead is in data usage, which is going up exponentially. “We invest in lots in fibre optics,” he says. “In Luxembourg, high speed access is available everywhere, and with it people consume much more data than they would from a classical DSL connection. So far we have not considered raising prices or limiting usage.”

If usage continues to rise, which is likely, this could force the operators and infrastructure providers to upgrade their networks. But Rosenfeld is optimistic that the effect of wholesale prices dropping as capacities rise will be sufficient to compensate usage. “We think customers come first and if they want these services, we will offer them,” he says, adding, “as long as we can make enough money to subsist.”

" if they want these services, we will offer them" Marc Rosenfeld

february 2014

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31/01/14 12:34

BUSINESS

Thierry Iafrate Networks handling more data than ever

While Orange Luxembourg will fully comply with roaming policies from the European Commission, Thierry Iafrate, the firm’s chief marketing officer, says it will be tricky for them in terms of maintaining a balance between giving customers a good deal, proceeding with investments and remaining solvent. “We agree with the roaming policies,” he says. “But they have a clear impact on telco solvability.”

He sees the possibility of fee decreases leading to an array of deals and perks telecoms will provide. “If this happens, we could see ­companies buying tariffs in blocks to sell at a reduced fee. This actually keeps the price high for end users, as new entrants will have to ensure a profitable business. It could also create an entry door for non-European market players.”

Good networks cost millions of euro and the new regulations will affect areas customers rarely think about. For example, competition benefits the consumer, but it could also provide some consolidation in

What’s on the table

If the European Commission has its way, the 28 fragmented European telecom markets will trade increased market opportunity for reduced roaming fees and begin to streamline their services.

If the proposed regulations roll out this summer, Luxembourg telecoms can get out of regulations already in place by forming alliances with other companies.

What this means for telecoms: 1. More cross-border consolidation 2. Access to a broader spectrum at cheaper prices 3. Pan-European operators will deal with only one regulator

the market. “If you are small,” says Iafrate, “you can easily lose revenue to the big guys.

Companies might begin to build alliances.

If the small companies get run out, this could affect investments in new technologies in small countries.”

At the end of the day it all boils down to a wrangle between capacity demand increase and decreasing revenue. Orange networks today must cater to a 10-12% increase in data consumption. Customers are using more data for movies, games, apps, etc., thanks to new generation networks, and telecoms are losing revenue to non-traditional modes of interpersonal communication.

Luxembourg is a very high broadband country (accessible to 90% of the population) with high rates of 4G, fibre and cable bandwidth compared with the rest of Europe. The equipment rate is 75% smartphones. At face value, the regulatory changes are welcome news for customers, but how they will effect telecoms and eventually translate into the end user’s daily life remains to be seen..

What this means for customers: 1. A reduction in termination tariffs 2. Changes to roaming fee structures 3. EU wide data bundles including SMS and phone calls For more information on mobile roaming: European Commission ec.europa.eu/digital-agenda/en/ roaming

Orange www.orange-live.lu/uk/goeurope

Post Telecom www.post.lu/en/particuliers/ mobile/forfait-voice-europe

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february 2014

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BUSINESS

Carole Tompers of awards co-organiser Luxembourg for Business Trendiction’s Robert Glaesener (second from left) and Biorock’s Antoine Machado (right) Crown Prince Guillaume and MCM Steel’s Marie-Christine Mariani

Trade

Export power

A trio of Luxembourg small and medium sized enterprises have been honoured for their exporting prowess. The Chamber of Commerce and ODL, the Grand Duchy’s export credit insurance agency, put the spotlight on the three small and mid-sized firms during the 2013-2014 “Export Awards”, presented last month.

MCM Steel, which sells specialised metal products, received the €15,000 first prize. The €10,000 second place prize was awarded to Biorock, which sells ecologically friendly sewage treatment systems, while the €5,000 third place prize was bestowed upon social media analysis firm Trendiction. Launched in 2011, the Export Award recognises SMEs that are making a mark with their international activities. The prize is open to any type of business with less than 250 employees. AG

Heik Zatterstrom

Deputy prime minister Étienne Schneider

More photos from this event at: www.delano.lu/news/export-power Photographed by Luc Deflorenne

Nicolas Mackel of awards co-organiser Luxembourg For Finance Finance minister Pierre Gramegna

ODL’s Etienne Reuter Michèle Detaille

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february 2014

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30/01/14 05/11/13 13:55 17:14 12:27

THINK LOCAL

Australian

Running (and swimming) Full time mum Rebecca Humble talks about crémant, volunteering with the Luxembourg Red Cross and running marathons in the 25 th instalment of Delano’s “Think Local” interview series.

Interview by Aaron Grunwald Photography by Steve Eastwood

Originally from Adelaide, capital of South Australia, Rebecca Humble moved to the UK in 1999 and then to Washington in 2007, where she was an executive at a major defence contractor.

She came to Luxembourg in 2012 with her husband and daughter, now two-and-a-half, and today is a full-time mum, Luxembourg Red Cross volunteer and runner.

Rebecca Humble Running is a great way to see Luxembourg

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AG: What do people in the Grand Duchy not really know about South Australia?

RH: It’s a good wine country; we have fantastic wine. The Sauvignon Blanc is lovely, on par with the crémant in Luxembourg.

AG: So you’re a fan of Luxembourg crémant?

RH: Bernard-Massard has become one of my best friends.

AG: What brought you to Luxembourg?

RH: My husband was offered an assignment when we were living in the States. People were surprised that we wanted to leave the US because it’s such a great lifestyle.

But we were excited about a European experience and thought that it would be the icing on the cake for us after living in the UK and the US. AG: What was one of your personal challenges when you moved here?

RH: When we found out we were ­moving to Luxembourg, I asked about the official languages. My husband said one was English. But not everyone speaks English. They might where you work, but not when you go grocery shopping. So my first goal was learning French. I got a tutor and I can get by now.

AG: What was one of the pleasant surprises?

RH: Being Australian, we love the winters, the snow. I know everyone complains about the winters and how long it is, but we thought it was picture book stuff !

AG: How did you get involved in the Luxembourg Red Cross?

RH: While I was learning French, I was looking [to volunteer with] an English speaking organisation and I discovered the international section, which is English speaking

but very multinational and multicultural, so I got in touch. Straightaway the president asked if I would be interested in helping organise Afterwork Swimming, which is one of its largest corporate fundraising events.

We managed to get nine corporate teams, who competed in all types of swimming races, and raised €10,000, which was the largest amount they’ve raised at that event so far. All the money goes to ‘social groceries’, which supplies food to disadvantaged families.

AG: What is the best way to find out about joining Red Cross activities?

RH: We have a monthly meet-up [Ed. note: the second Tuesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. at Konrad Café in Luxembourg City-Centre] where all the volunteers get together and talk about upcoming events and how we can help.

AG: Is Luxembourg a nice place for runners?

RH: I ran the ING night marathon [in 2013]. I’d run the New York marathon but I’d never seen crowds like this.

They were just wonderful, the support along the routes. My 76 year old father travelled from Australia and he had a ball. And I’m doing it again this year.

AG: Has running helped you settle-in?

RH: Clocking up 400 miles of training, you get to see parts of Luxembourg that you normally never get to see.

AG: This spring you’re running the Paris marathon and the ING marathon for the second time. What motivates you?

RH: I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2009 and Luxembourg was the first marathon I did after the diagnosis. It was tough to do. But as long as I can, I’ll keep running..

Luxembourg Red Cross info at: www.delano.lu/Croix-RougeIS

february 2014

29/01/14 19:07

alfi spring conference

New products New world

www.alfi.lu AD-Spring_210x265.indd 45_PUB_ALFI.indd 45 1

centre de confĂŠrences kirchberg, luxembourg march 18th & 19th, 2014 30/01/2014 30/01/14 09:33:39 16:01

AGENDA

ten events

Delano presents a selection of upcoming business and networking events for Luxembourg’s international community. Advance registration or fees may be required, so consult the website indicated for full details.

All events are held in English unless otherwise noted.

MEDIA AWARDS 2014 TV/Cinema|Radio|Internet|Presse|Presse B2B|Cross-Media

www.amcham.lu

Luxembourg for Finance

Polish chamber

www.lff.lu

www.lpbc.lu

MEDIA AWARDS 2014

Sat 8 March

TV/Cinema|Radio|Internet|Presse|Presse B2B|Cross-Media

www.media-awards.lu

Equality mixer

Tue 11 February Wed 26 February

“TMT predictions”

During this American chamber evening seminar, consulting firm Deloitte will present findings from its 13th annual forecast of the technology, media and telecommunications sectors.

Deloitte, Luxembourg-Neudorf, 17:30

Wed 12 February

Best adverts

For the third year in a row, Maison Moderne and RTL jointly honour the most creative advertising in Luxembourg. Jury and public prizes bestowed across all types of media.

In French.

Rockhal, Esch-Belval, 18:30

Nobelux www.nobelux.se

Renminbi forum

The promotion agency hosts a conference on the “unique opportunities” for Europe given the internationalisation of China’s ­currency. Speakers include Luxembourg finance minister Pierre Gramegna.

Philharmonie, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, 08:30-16:30

The Network

Itas www.itas-event.com

Heading north

The guest speaker at the Nordic chamber’s January “Get together” luncheon is Adrien Ney, president and CEO of Luxair, the Grand Duchy’s national passenger airline (which serves Copenhagen).

Hotel Parc Belair, Luxembourg-Belair, 12:00

bande Vinoteca_0.6.pdf

Tue 25 - Fri 28 February

Fund operations

The International Transfer Agency Summit covers key industry challenges in fund distribution, operations and transfer agency.

Speakers include JP Morgan’s Jon Griffin.

Abbaye de Neumünster, LuxembourgGrund, all day event 1

11/4/13

10:21 AM

Amcham www.amcham.lu

www.the-network.lu

Wed 13 March

Wed 26 February

“Serial disrupters”

Innovative help Wed 12 February

To mark International Women’s Day, the Luxembourg-Poland Business Club hosts a female friendly networking soirée, with the chance “to try delicious Polish cuisine”.

Restaurant Nova Osada, LuxembourgNeudorf, 19:00

Steve Jurvetson/Creative Commons

Amcham

The professional women’s networking group outlines the various state-backed organisations and programmes that support entrepreneurs and innovation projects in the Grand Duchy.

Sofitel, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, 19:00

British Chamber

At this luncheon Richard M. Brandt of Lehigh University in Pennsylvania argues that “disruptive leaders are good for business” using the examples of Elon Musk (photo) and Steve Jobs.

Location to be announced, 12:00

Sacred Heart Univ. www.shu.lu

www.bcc.lu

Thu 20 March

Fri 28 February

Global concerns

Global schooling

This luncheon’s guest speaker is Dr. Christian Barkei, principal of St. George’s International School, who will address “International education: across continents”.

Meliá Hotel, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, 12:00

shop & tastings

The third of five conferences on “Europe (Luxembourg) in a globalised world” tackles the “social responsibility of firms”. Speakers include the European Investment Bank’s Dr. Hakan Lucius.

European Investment Bank, LuxembourgKirchberg, 18:30-20:00

Have a suggestion?

If your organisation is holding an event of interest to the international community, send details to: news@delano.lu.

(in the commercial area Troc / Catclub / Surfin / Dété)

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27/01/14 11:55

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Seeing off winter Buergbrennen is a tradition to burn off the last of winter, but there are plenty of other reasons to feel warm and cheerful this month--electing Luxembourg’s new Rose of Tralee, enjoying ­Lebanese mezze or helping choose the winner of a ­contest to design an iconic Melusina statue.

Rose of Tralee

Brasserie Hervé RV The soup bar serves a choice of menus featuring a combination of dish of the day, salads and desserts.

Each day it offers a choice of three soups. What’s more, Brasserie Hervé is open from 6 a.m. to midnight Monday through Saturday and from 6 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. on Sundays.

4 rue Joseph Junck, Luxembourg-Gare, Brasserie Hervé is on Facebook

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White Café White Café has opened just across from White Club. Run by nightlife legends Jacques and Jonathan Engel, the café has a first floor built around a long bar with gold accents while the second floor is more cosy with a predominantly red décor. The venue hosts DJ soirées with regulars such as Pierre Gameboy and guest slots from the likes of the Blondies or Luxuriant DJ Crew.

16 rue des Bains, Luxembourg-Centre, www.white-cafe.lu

Little Saigon There was clearly a gap in the market for a restaurant serving authentic ­Vietnamese food in Luxembourg.

Since opening, customers have flocked to Little Saigon to enjoy pho, a traditional Vietnamese soup, and other specialities (bo bun, shrimp salad, banh cuon ravioli). The venue has already been getting positive reviews.

15 rue de Bonnevoie, Luxembourg-Gare, tel: 24 87 33 84

Luc Deflorenne

Olivier Minaire

Olivier Minaire

Rose of Tralee

Who will succeed 2013 Luxembourg Rose Laura Droog (photo with Dáithí Ó Sé)? Will Luxembourg send another winner to Tralee to follow in the footsteps of 2012 Rose of Tralee Nicola McEvoy?

One thing is sure: the annual Rose Ball on March 8 to choose this year’s Luxembourg Rose will be another great party. The ball ­features entertainment, dinner and dancing as well as the Rose selection, which involves on stage interviews and performances from the young Irish ladies seeking to represent Luxembourg at the ­qualifying stage in Portlaoise at the end of May, with a view to going to the finals in Tralee in August.. www.rose.lu

Bulle de Vin Bulle de vin markets itself as Luxembourg’s first champagne bar, but it does not serve or stock bubbles exclusively. Customers can discover vintages made by some of the best independent wine makers in France and Luxembourg.

A tasting of three glasses starts at €22. Snacks can be enjoyed at lunchtime, and the beautiful vaulted cellar can also be hired for private functions.

24 rue de l’Eau, Luxembourg-Centre, www.labulledevin.com

February 2014

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Luc Deflorenne

LIFESTYLE

Vote for Melusina

Buergsonndeg

The three finalists in a contest to design a statue of legendary water nymph Melusina are on show at the Musée d’Histoire de la Ville de Luxembourg until February 23. Visitors can vote for their favourite at the museum or via a dedicated website. The final decision will take into account the result of the public vote as well as that of the jury.

The statue will be located on the banks of the Alzette below the Bock rock. www.votemelusina.lu

#Play14 The first International Serious Games gathering held in Luxembourg takes place over the weekend of March 14 to 16 at the Technoport in Esch-Belval.

The organisers hope the event will attract participants with backgrounds as diverse as Agile coaching, education, service design, improvisation theatre, psychology, language pathology services, innovation and creativity, and HR services. www.play14.org

Olivier Minaire

Beer Club

Education

ISL scholarships up for grabs As a way of recognition of Luxembourg’s generosity in helping it develop and grow, the International School of Luxembourg is once again offering a full academic scholarship to a student in the wider Luxembourg community. The scholarship is open to a student aged 14 by August 31, 2014 and is set to run for four years (grades 9-12) leading to the International Baccalaureate diploma.

The school is seeking candidates who will achieve high academic results and who will also contribute widely to the life of the school. Applicants’ family financial situations will also be taken into consideration.

Applications forms, available from the Upper School office (tel: 26 04 42 04), must be submitted by March 3. Applicants will then have to sit 90-minute examinations in English and mathematics on Saturday, March 11 at 2 p.m.

Candidates from a shortlist will then be invited to meet with a panel of teachers, together with the principal and counsellor on March 18.

The successful student will be expected to maintain a high level of achievement throughout the four years. “We set high expectations for students, enabling them to reach their true potential,” says ISL director Christopher Bowman (photo). www.islux.lu

Jardirêve The annual gardening show at Luxexpo takes place over the weekend of March 7 to 9 this year. With spring just around the corner, this is an unmissable event for keen gardeners or anyone who wants to create an oasis in their back yard. Expert advice is available and a range of products is on show, from the latest technologies to plant seeds.

Indeed, the fair is as much about nature as about neat show gardens. www.luxexpo.lu

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Mezze Soprano An award-winning film editor by profession, Amine Jaber has taken his passion for cooking to the next level and decided to market his services.

His Mezze Soprano catering service offers delivery and take-away options as well as on site preparation, cooking lessons, theme parties and much more.

“Mezze is the perfect meal for sharing and allows for great creativity”. www.mezzesoprano.com

Luxexpo

The recently formed Beer Club aims to bring different styles and varieties of beers from around the world to ­Luxembourg. “We all know we can get the great Luxembourg beers… but we felt there was something missing. So we have started by importing around 100 different beers, mainly from small breweries,” says club founder John Sternon.

Beers can be ordered online, and ­members get access to exclusive offers. www.beerclub.lu

Julien Becker

Dirk V. Esbroeck/Wiki Commons

An annual tradition that represents the banishing of winter, Buergsonndeg takes place on the first Sunday in Lent-which this year falls on March 9-and involves the lighting of a huge fire in villages and neighbourhoods.

Local associations such as scout troops or the volunteer fire brigade organise the collection of combustible material for the fire, which is set alight following a torchlight parade.

February 2014

49 29/01/14 18:54

LIFESTYLE

Cinema

Eyes wide open Discovery Zone is the one and only international film festival in Luxembourg. It takes over the city for two weeks and, apart from a catchy name, it also comes with a lot of cosmopolitan charm.

Text by Stella Parascha Photography by Steve Eastwood

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ccasionally described as a “national event”--it is backed by the ministry of culture, after all--the Discovery Zone – Luxembourg City Film Festival is one of the fastest growing entries in the film festival scene. It is also a ­project with noble goals, as Gladys Lazareff, in charge of general coordination, explains. She and Alexis Juncosa, head of programming, aim to promote multiculturalism and bring about creative encounters and collaborations. Alexis says the roots of the festival date back to 2007, when Luxembourg was the European Capital of Culture. With a different title and a shorter life span, that early version was more or less the prequel for today’s Discovery Zone.

Gathering the experts around the table and encouraging them to share views and insights is the biggest strength of the event, Alexis stresses. Professionals from the Film Fund Luxembourg, the capital’s Cinémathèque, Centre National de l’Audiovisuel, Utopolis Group and from both the directors’ and technicians guilds--LARS and ULPA, respectively--are all involved in the film-selection process.

It’s not a light load: each committee member has to watch every submission and vote for or against.

What weighs more in their decision?

“Aesthetics always play an important role; we’re talking about a visual art par excellence”, Alexis proclaims. “But”, Gladys adds vigorously, “let’s not forget the message. I prefer to give the podium to filmmakers who have something to say, and to films from countries that face social change or unrest.”

50

They both agree on the importance of discovering a brave new world through cinema.

The festival recorded more than 14,500 visitors in 2013. Two weeks of filmic bliss await audiences this year: an international selection, which varies from well-crafted fiction to exciting documentaries; the “Young Audiences” programme, screenings and workshops for three to 18 year olds; and “Crème Fraîche”, a video contest co-organised by the Service National de la Jeunesse (National Youth ­Service). The bill also boasts a “Made in/with Luxembourg” ­section, ­featuring new local ­productions and co-productions.

The line-up equally includes options for those feeling young and restless who cannot lock themselves inside a cinema, and who want to meet the pros and learn from them. These include short film screenings, a pop-up bar in the Ratskeller in the Cercle Cité, and a master class on script writing by award-winning Belgian director Luc Dardenne.

Who knows, you might even get the chance to meet actress Julie Gayet (recently linked to French ­president ­François Hollande), who is scheduled to preside over the festival’s jury..

Programme and ticket information available at: www.discoveryzone.lu

Gladys Lazareff and Alexis Juncosa Aesthetics and the message

february 2014

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Celebrate your Valentine’s moments

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LIFESTYLE

Film industry

At the coalface The biannual Lëtzebuerger Filmpräis on March 7 will celebrate what has been an impressive two years for the local film industry.

Directors, actors and producers will pick up awards, but what about those who work on the front line?

Text by Duncan Roberts Photos by Annabelle Denham

A

Solveig Harper Technicians are high quality

mid the glamour and backslapping of any film awards, the focus naturally falls on the directors, actors, screenwriters and producers whose names feature at the top of any cast list.

But audiences often are unaware that a film requires a whole crew of people whose jobs involve meticulous planning of shooting schedules, coordinating teams, finding locations, negotiating accommodation, applying make-up and teasing hair into shape. “Technicians in Luxembourg are of a very high quality, they work with so many countries [on co-productions] that they are extremely flexible,” says independent production manager Solveig Harper. “Producers from abroad are always very pleased

to see how well prepared and professional Luxembourg film crews are.”

Indeed, the size of the country and its film industry mean that many Luxembourg film professionals have seen it all and done it all. People like Jim Probyn, now a 1st assistant director (AD) who has been involved in the local film ­industry for the last 14 years.

Probyn got into the film industry by chance after a good friend asked whether he would like a holiday job ­driving a truck for a local co-production. “I fell in love with film-making.

I would go and sit on set; you could feel there was a special vibe. It was fun but still required hard work.”

From those humble beginnings, after Probyn decided to drop university and carry on working in film, he climbed his way up the ladder before landing his current title after about seven years in the industry.

Creative The job is what he describes as half ­production and half creative. “We always joke that AD doesn’t stand for ‘assistant director’ but for ‘all departments’.

You do have to know something about how everyone works.”

But Probyn enjoys the more technical aspect. When planning a shoot he uses software such as Final Draft to make adjustments to the script and the

52

Sun Seeker app, a 3D augmented reality viewer that allows him to use his smartphone to see exactly the direction and angle of sunlight at a given location for any future date.

The advantage of working in film in ­Luxembourg soon became apparent to Probyn--novices entering the industry get more opportunities to learn and gain experience than their counterparts in the UK or France, for example.

“In England you would be a 2nd AD for ten years. Here I was an AD by the age of 31. There are fewer people in the industry and therefore much more work available--as a 3rd AD I was doing back-to-back films.” On the other hand, in some cases technicians are being asked to jump before they are ready, says Probyn. “It takes a lifetime to build a good reputation and five minutes to destroy it.”

He, like Harper and so many technicians in the Luxembourg industry, speaks all the local languages, which is another advantage with more and more smaller German and French co-productions coming to Luxembourg or even local productions such as Doudege Wénkel, on which he served as AD to Christophe Wagner. That is a long way from his first experience as a trainee on the big budget historical adventure D’Artagnan.

“We had multi-camera shoots, helicopter shots, 200 horses at night running across a field with three cranes creating fake rain…” Big productions like that are rarer these days, although Probyn still has fond memories of working on The Girl With the Pearl Earring and The Merchant of Venice and Irina Palm

by Sam Garbarski (with whom he has now worked on three films, including latest comedy Vijay and I). Probyn was even called upon to work as 3rd AD on Tom Cruise historical action drama Valkyrie and jumped straight into a car to drive to Berlin when told of the offer.

With two months of preparation ­followed by a six- to eight-week shoot, Probyn only has time to work on two projects a year as an AD (he also acts as a schedule consultant for other projects).

But there is enough work to keep him occupied and he is full of praise for the institution that is the Film Fund. “I hope the new government continues to ­support the film industry here.”

february 2014

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LIFESTYLE

Katja Reinert Dream job

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Jim Probyn Quick to gain experience

Harper also landed in the film industry in a round about way. A project manager at a German bank in Luxembourg, she volunteered to help out at the Cinénygma Luxembourg ­International Film Festival when it hosted the prestigious European Méliès d’Or awards in 2003.

That led to a full-time job as the festival grew, but when it closed down some four years later Harper looked for work through the contacts she had made in the industry. “The closest thing to a project manager in film would be a production manager, and I heard Iris Productions was looking for somebody.

That’s where it all took off.” Harper has since worked for numerous Iris films, “learning by doing” as she puts it.

But eventually she wanted to be able to choose projects, so she took the step to becoming independent.

Harmonious set Her most enjoyable experience recently was working on Skill Lab’s short film 22:22 by Julien Becker. “That was so wonderful, I walked out of there saying ‘ok, I’m going to do this from now on’ even knowing that it doesn’t pay much.

Although Luxembourg is the only ­country that does fund short movies.

In Belgium and France they can’t believe it. Here they really try to help out young Luxembourg directors.”

She was also lucky enough to go to the Reunion islands for Iris’s Belle Comme la femme d’un autre, which has just been released in Luxembourg cinemas, and she also worked on recent release Tip Top directed by Serge Bozon and starring Isabelle Huppert and Sandrine Kiberlain.

Another new release she has been involved with--due out around Easter-is the Luxembourg film Ouni d’Hänn based on award-winning novel Luxem-

54

bourg Amok. Looking further ahead, Harper is also helping Iris develop Sunset Song, the new film by acclaimed English director Terence Davies (Distant Voices, Still Lives).

She explains that while project managing in a bank is not too dissimilar to working as a production manager--“you go through the whole process of what has to be done to achieve a goal, basically”-decisions have to be taken more quickly. “Perhaps you have to be a bit more creative. You have to plan so tightly that you can tackle the things that go wrong, because there is always something that doesn’t go according to plan. The most important thing for me is that the set has to be harmonious, so that whatever is thrown at them they work together.”

With some 100 film industry professionals nominated for artistic and ­technical achievement awards at the Lëtzebuerger Filmpräis, it is not as if the local industry is ignoring those who work behind the scenes. Indeed, make-up artist Katja Reinert is up for a best technical contribution prize for three films--Möbius, D’Schatzritter an

d’Geheimnis vum Melusina and Adieu Paris. She was also responsible for hair and make-up for the last winner of the best film award at the Filmpräis, Beryl Koltz’s Hot Hot Hot, and has worked on Steven Soderbergh’s Ocean’s Twelve.

“Whether it’s a big production or small, a US or European film, it is pretty much the same job,” she explains.

“Movie ­making is like knitting, it is the same ­procedure.” Of course, the introduction of high definition cameras has made Reinert’s job a little more difficult-“everything is more visible in HD.” But Reinert keeps up with the latest developments--she teaches cinema make-up workshops at the D-Mai Paris – École de maquillage--and meets the challenge head-on. Having been in the business for over 20 years (the first film listed on her CV is Pol Cruchten’s ­memorable Hochzäitsnuecht) Reinert also knows just about everybody who’s anybody in the local industry. And she is delighted to see enthusiastic youngsters coming through--some Luxembourgers are even attending the school at which she teaches in Paris.

“It’s a girl’s dream job,” she says..

february 2014

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LIFESTYLE

Cars & motorbikes

A race apart: brothers with a real drive to win Racecar drivers David and Gary Hauser are building on their father’s legacy, breaking records and taking trophies.

Text by Wendy Winn Photography by Charles Caratini

T

he Hauser family was running late for the ACL Gala du Sport Automobile last month in Mondorf, but no one suggested putting the pedal to the metal to get there any quicker. None of them are speed-demons off the track, and none have any points on their drivers’ licenses. “If I got my license taken away, I couldn’t race,” says Gary. The Hausers draw attention when they walk into the well-heeled crowd at the Casino; they’re known here. They’ve each stood on the winner’s podium dozens of times, and their list of records, prizes, trophies and accomplishments could easily fill this page--just take a look at www.racingexperience.lu to see for yourself.

Brothers David and Gary Hauser first got behind the wheel when they were just four years old, and now, at the ages of 24 and 21, they have no intention of getting out of the driver’s seat. They grew up watching dad race--their father Christian was first a bike racer, but soon gave up two wheels for four and built himself an illustrious career. And later, a solid racing team--Racing Experience--with his talented sons.

“I’m enormously grateful for what he’s done,” says David. “Our interest in racing started with him.”

What motivates people to risk their necks to take impossible curves and break record speeds? “Of course there’s

56

the thrill,” says Gary, “but it’s more about pushing the limits of the car, and especially about finding your own limits.”

His older brother David says “a lot of people think it’s glamorous and that a weekend’s race is a holiday, but it’s a lot of work, and racing takes an enormous amount of time. All summer I think we had two weekends off. But it’s one of the most important things in my life.”

David dreams of going professional but says it’s not that easy in Luxembourg.

“It’s a small country and it’s hard to grab the interest of sponsors. But it’s still my dream.” He’s studying motor sports engineering in Paris, “so I can always be near the track, even if I don’t get to go on it as a pro.”

Gary is studying too, but economics in Strasbourg, not necessarily with any connection to racing, but because it interests him. He commutes a lot in his BMW, and doesn’t easily relinquish the wheel. “I’m a bad co-pilot,” he laughs.

But a great team player, adds David, who loves sharing experiences and thoughts about racing with him.

So, is it all car talk around the Hausers’ dinner table? What about the boys’ mother? After decades of seeing her husband and sons race, Karin surely deserves a medal of her own--the cross of bravery. David agrees. “If she didn’t love racing too, none of this would be possible,” he says..

Gary and David Hauser On the right track

FEBRUARY 2014

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LIFESTYLE

Hit the road

Looking for a new ride? Delano presents a guide to Luxembourg’s Auto Festival--the event through February 10 where dealers across the Grand Duchy have special promotions at their ­showrooms--as well as where to find the coolest classic cars.

Text by Wendy Winn

01

Oldtimers

The Étoile network includes 11 Citroën showrooms throughout the country, which all will offer an innovative “Eat & Drive” option during the festival.

Come at midday, test drive the car of your choice, and enjoy lunch afterward, offered by the showroom.

And of course, you can come at other times too and check out models like the DS3 Cabrio Racing 2014, which will undoubtedly be one of the festival’s leading stars. www.etoilegarage.lu

Get an exclusive preview of the Jaguar F-Type Coupe model (photo)--which will only be launched in May--and see other brand new models too at the Grand Garage Luxembourg. Also on show: the latest from Toyota--the Auris Touring Sports, the Corolla, the RAV4 and the Land Cruiser. Last but not least, you can catch the latest from Lexus, which is exclusively showcasing hybrids: the restyled CT 200h, the new GS 300h and the IS 300h. www.ggl.lu

Buyer’s paradise

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Audi

Exclusive Jaguar preview

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Jaguar Land Rover

A tasty way to test drive!

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Citroën

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Sure, the young models get all the ooos and ahhs in the showroom, but the old gals can still wow ‘em.

If you doubt it, think back to when you last saw a string of four or five oldtimers drive past.

Chances are you turned your head.

Lots of people have a soft spot for older beauties: 3,500 to 4,000 locals are passionate enough to belong to one of the nearly 50 clubs that are part of the ­Lëtzebuerger Oldtimer Federation, says LOF president Jean-Marie Schmit.

While young models shine in February, oldtimers dazzle in March at the annual AutoJumble. “Last year we had about 5,000 visitors,” says Schmit. “Stands are mostly clubs and cars, but also garages and restoration firms.”

Featured cars will include classic postal delivery vehicles from the PostMusée (www.postmusee.lu).

Another big event will be the FIVA World Rally, hosted here from September 19 to 21. “There will be cars from all over the world; we’ll drive through the ­countryside for a few days and stop for nice meals.”

As you can imagine, spouses happily come along for the ride. “There’s a great ambience,” says Schmit.

“We enjoy talking--and going out for a drive.” . www.lof.lu

VW, Seat, Skoda, Bentley, Porsche…

Garage Losch has new and used cars from leading makes and is highlighting great offers at their dealerships throughout the country (such as on the Audi A5 Sportback, pictured).

While the deals vary depending on the car, Garage Losch explains that buyers will find advantageous terms on loans and leasing too during the auto fest. If you’re thinking about getting a car--February is ­definitely the right time to do it! www.losch.lu

Take a Harley out for a spin It might be the Auto Festival, but it doesn’t exclude motorcycles-just taking a look at the new Harley Davidsons will make you dream of the open road and adventure. The “Project ­Rushmore” 2014 models include the 883 Roadster, the Iron 883, the 1200 Custom and the Forty-Eight with its distinctive big front wheel. Even the names make you want to take one out for a spin--and you can! Just call ahead to book the bike of your choice. www.hdl.lu

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ThreeIfByBike/Creative Commons

PostMusée

Beauty doesn’t fade!

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LIFESTYLE

16 live shows

Luc Deflorenne

02

As we dive into the depths of winter, solace can be found in a slew of live shows ranging from the exquisitely sweet and savage sound of Anna Calvi to intimate two-hander drama from Actors Rep and the epic scope of Carl Davis’s live cinema score for D.W. Griffith’s Orphans of the Storm.

Jean Muller

01

One of Luxembourg’s most talented and internationally acclaimed musicians, pianist Jean Muller returns to the Philharmonie for a concert in the grand auditorium. Muller plays a programme of works by Franz Liszt including the Dante Sonata and the Mephisto Waltz No.1 (The Dance in the Village Inn).

February 24, Philharmonie, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, www.philharmonie.lu 03

Skunk Anansie The British rock band led by Skin is approaching its 20th anniversary and tour with an acoustic show that was first performed in April last year. The resulting recording--An acoustic Skunk Anansie – Live in London--received positive reviews and showcases all of the band’s hits.

This is a chance to catch one of the most loved bands of the 1990s in a special performance--the concert is all seated.

March 13, Rockhal, Esch-Belval, www.rockhal.lu 04

Anna Calvi

Mesmerising nuance Brian Eno has called Anna Calvi “the biggest thing since Patti Smith.” That is praise indeed for the young singer-songwriter who is only two albums into a career that took off in the autumn of 2010 with the release of debut single ‘Jezebel’ after she had supported Interpol, Arctic Monkeys and Grinderman on tour. She played a gig at den Atelier in March 2011 on the back of an eponymously titled debut album that had critics swooning--NME called it “perhaps the first great record of 2011.” Now she has released a follow-up record, One Breath, which has also been lavished with praise--Jason Schneider in Exclaim! said the album showed that Calvi’s “work reaches a level of nuance that the majority of contemporary music lacks.”

Her live shows and the band she employs have also been applauded by music journalists for their sweeping sonic scope, with Calvi herself described as mesmerising.

March 22, den Atelier, Luxembourg-Gare, www.atelier.lu

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Zeltik 2014 Now moved to an indoor venue, Dudelange’s annual celebration of Celtic music and dance is a great way to warm up for St. Patrick’s Day. The 2014 line-up includes regular guests Red Hot Chili Peppers and The Luxembourg Pipe Band as well as Scottish band Skerryvore, Irish band Cara and local folk rock wave band Schëppe Siwen. Connemara dance troupe Celtic Legends will also perform under choreographer Ger Hayes.

March 15, opderschmelz, Dudelange, www.opderschmelz.lu

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LIFESTYLE 05

Actors Rep

Olivier Minaire

Straight from the heart

Joan As Policewoman Joan Wasser returns to Luxembourg following a show at the Omni festival in July 2011. New album The Classic is due out in March, and promises to be a slightly eclectic mix of genres showcasing Wasser’s exquisite songwriting talent. Her live shows have been described by Caroline Sullivan in The Guardian as an “emotional rollercoaster” whether she is singing “loungey soul” or taking a turn as a “marvellous torch singer.”

March 23, den Atelier, Luxembourg-Gare, www.atelier.lu

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Sandrine Monteiro

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Iberian-Lux jazz Laura Simó and Carme Canela are two great ladies of Catalan jazz--Simó has performed regularly on stage and even performed with Ray Charles, while Canela has over 50 recordings under her belt. They perform here with pianists Francesc Capellá and Joan Monné, respectively, and are also joined on the programme by the great Luxembourg jazz singer Sascha Ley and her group Kalima (photo). The concert climaxes with all seven musicians on stage.

March 8, CAPe, Ettelbrück, www.cape.lu

A. R. Gurney’s Love Letters has attracted a swathe of star actors to the roles of its two characters--the likes of William Hurt, Christopher Walken, Jeff Daniels, Sigourney Weaver, Elaine Stritch and Kate Nelligan have appeared in versions on and off Broadway. Now it is the turn of Actors Rep players Timothy Lone (right in photo with director Erik Abbott) and Louisa Graf to play Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III, who read through letters that form a correspondence detailing some 50 years of their friendship, triumphs, disappointments and love.

Gurney had his breakthrough with The Dining Room in 1982 and has since written numerous plays, many focusing on white middle classes of the east coast of the USA. In 2007 he was awarded the PEN/Laura Pels Award as a “Grand Master” American playwright. Love Letters was a finalist for the 1990 Pulitzer Prize in Drama.

Lone and Graf were last seen on stage together in the Actors Rep production of Edward Albee’s The Goat at the TNL last summer, and their on stage chemistry is sure to fire again in this two-hander, presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger, Ltd. The show takes place in the intimate setting of the Art Café’s theatre space, in the courtyard behind the Théâtre des Capucins. Each performance starts at 8 p.m.

February 10-13, Art Café, Luxembourg-Centre, www.actorsrep.lu 09

The Boxer Rebellion Formed by an international quartet of musicians, The Boxer Rebellion is one of those groups that have been on the verge of a breakthrough for decades.

Lead singer, Tennessee-native Nathan Nicholson, has an engaging voice and phrasing not dissimilar to The National’s Matt Berninger. He is backed by a decent rhythm section in Adam Harrison (bass guitar) and Piers Hewitt (drums) from the UK, while Australian guitarist Todd Howe tops off the memorable melodies with some fine fretwork that at times takes the band into post-rock territory.

March 9, den Atelier, Luxembourg-Gare, www.atelier.lu

Nina Persson Cardigans lead singer Nina Persson has just released her debut solo album, some five years after her last public outing with husband Nathan Larson, A Camp’s Colonia, and close to ten years since the last Cardigans album. She did spend much of 2012 touring with The Cardigans, but now strides out on her own with Animal Heart, whose catchy lead single of the same name, topped by Persson’s distinctive voice, will sound familiar to fans of the Swedish band.

February 28, Kulturfabrik, Esch-Alzette, www.kulturfabrik.lu

FEBRUARY 2014

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LIFESTYLE 10

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William Fitzsimmons

Cynthia Loemij & Mark Lorimer

Describing himself as “equal parts ­songwriter and psychotherapist” multiinstrumentalist William Fitzsimmons has made four studio albums filled with deeply personal and confessional songs.

His fifth album, Lions, is due for release mid-February, just in time for Fitzsimmons to return to den Atelier for a second show following his acclaimed performance in December 2011.

March 11, den Atelier, Luxembourg-Gare, www.atelier.lu

Cynthia Loemij and Mark Lorimer return to the Grand Théâtre with a new work titled Dancesmith – Camel, Weasel, Whale. The pair are long-time collaborators of the acclaimed Rosas company out of Belgium, and here work with graphic designer and dancer Clinton Stringer, who performs a live visual installation.

March 1, Grand Théâtre, www.theatres.lu 15

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The 1975

Kabaret Warszawski

Inexplicably voted the best album of last year by Guardian readers, the 1975 hark back to the early jangly indie guitar sound of the 1980s for their debut release. Wikipedia claims they hail from Manchester, but they are out of the ultra middle England enclave of Wilmslow--frontman Matt Healy is the son of C-list British celebs-and their music is catchy but derivative.

March 10, Rockhal, Esch-Belval, www.rockhal.lu

The cabaret troupe from Poland uses the atmosphere of post-9/11 New York as their inspiration, then adds influences from John Van Druten’s play I Am a Camera (adapted from Christopher Isherwood’s Weimer novel Goodbye to Berlin--the source material for Bob Fosse’s Cabaret) and John Cameron Mitchell’s hilariously graphic exploration of NYC sexual mores, Shortbus.

March 6 & 7, Grand Théâtre, www.theatres.lu

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Mariam The Believer Swedish singer Mariam Wallentin released her debut solo album as ­Mariam The Believer, Blood Donation, in January. Pre-release single ‘Invisible Giving’, is an undulating track that says Michael Cragg in The Guardian, has “raw emotion bubbling up to the surface and simmering back down only to be unleashed again when you least expect it.”

February 15, Exit07 (CarréRotondes), Luxembourg-Hollerich, www.rotondes.lu

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Live cinema

Orchestral storm British composer and conductor Carl Davis returns to Luxembourg for his annual foray into live cinema with the Orchestre Philharmonique du Luxembourg at the invitation of the Cinémathèque. The film he has chosen for the occasion is D.W. Griffiths’ French ­revolution epic Orphans of the Storm.

Davis has been coming to Luxembourg every year since 1987, when he was invited to perform at the 10th anniversary celebrations of the Cinémathèque. Indeed, in an interview two years ago he said he was probably the longest serving ­conductor who has been coming to work on a regular basis with the OPL (although back in 1987 it was known as the RTL Symphony Orchestra).

Davis is renowned for his film scores to silent classics--most notably for Abel Gance’s 1927 epic Napoléon, which was restored and expanded with Davis’ music for cinematic release.

Orphans of the Storm is, says Martin Hunt of the ­Edinburgh University Film Society, “an implausible tale” of sisters Henriette and Louise enduring a series of tribulations “designed to tug at the heart strings”. The sisters are cruelly separated and while ­Louise, who is blind, is raised by thieves, Henriette is a sweet innocent plundered by lecherous aristocrats. Griffiths’ favourite actress, silent icon Lillian Gish, plays ­Henrietta and her sister Dorothy plays Louise.

A family edition matinée featuring short films suitable for all ages takes place on Saturday afternoon, March 22.

March 21 & 22, Philharmonie, Luxembourg-Kirchberg, www.philharmonie.lu

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James Arthur One of the hippest acts to win the X Factor--in other words he sports ­tattoos and doesn’t do sugary ballads-James Arthur has enjoyed a stellar, though controversial, career since being crowned king of the talent show in 2012. His indie rock background and soulful voice give Arthur crossover appeal, though he still attracts more women than men to his shows.

March 1, Rockhal, Esch-Belval, www.rockhal.lu

FEBRUARY 2014

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LIFESTYLE

Ainhoa Achutegui

Taking the reins

Meet the new chief of one of Luxembourg’s best known cultural centres, Neumünster Abbey.

Text by France Clarinval Photography by Julien Becker

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inhoa Achutegui, new director of the Centre ­ ulturel de Rencontre Abbaye de Neumünster, C officially starts on February 15 but that does not ­prevent her from already working and thinking about the centre’s future programming.

Born in Venezuela 35 years ago and raised in Austria, Achutegui describes herself as “upbeat and positive”.

After her philosophy and theatre studies in Vienna, she directed various cultural projects in film, dance and theatre. In 2004, she became assistant to the ­artistic director at Werkstätten und Kulturhaus and took his place six months later at the tender age of 26. “It was a large organisation with hundreds of artists in residence-a real challenge for the young woman that I was”.

Barely two years later, in order to follow her significant other to Luxembourg, Achutegui applied for the position of artistic director at the Centre des Arts Pluriels in Ettelbruck. Five years on, her contract was extended due to her commitment, her bold programming and the new audience she acquired. Now at 35, she finds herself in charge of a team of 45 people and running a major cultural centre in the country.

CCRN’s multicultural approach is what attracted Achutegui, who hopes to bring more contemporary art to the centre. For now, she is watching and studying the current programming and learning about the workings of the Abbaye, especially its financial aspects.

“I know that, at first, people will compare me to [outgoing director] Claude Frisoni, but I’m not afraid”.. www.ccrn.lu

Ainhoa Achutegui Upbeat about the Abbaye

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February 2014

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LIFESTYLE

Happy kids: the real dirt

From under the ground and on the ice to fun fish and nifty optical illusions, there are plenty of activities to keep the kids stimulated through March.

Text by Wendy Winn 01

Natural fun

TimMcniff/Creative Commons

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Thrills on ice

Go fish

Creative cure

Hop on a Honda kart and do speeds of 50 km/h at the only outdoor rink in the country to offer ice karting.

It’s only offered evenings from 7 to 9 p.m., and you have to book in advance (except Thursdays). Renting six karts will set you back €175 per half hour.

It’s a chunk of change, but that’s less than €30 each for 30 minutes of thrills.

There’s regular ice skating too, sometimes until late at night! Beaufort ice rink is open through March 9. www.patinoire.lu

Sure, summertime is the most popular time for anglers, and while the Wasserbillig Aquarium is open daily in high season, it’s also open throughout the year on weekends. That means you can make an outing anytime Friday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to check out exotic fish like Japanese koi (photo) and neon tetra as well as local species like eels, bream and zander.

Maybe afterwards, a trip to the sushi bar, or would that be totally disgusting? aquarium.wasserbillig.lu

It’s often the youngest ones who get the worst case of cabin fever. If you’re looking for activities for kids 3 to 12, get in the habit of checking out Mudam’s “Mudamini” events, listed on their website. On February 20, for example, kids 6 to 12 years old are invited to create their own artwork, inspired by fairy tales and other stories. As well as offering events for tiny tots, the museum hosts “Art Freak” events for older art fans, ages 13 to 21. www.mudam.lu

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Mudam

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Hash Milhan/Creative Commons

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Discover a treasure that belongs to us all, and is ours to protect as well--the soil beneath our feet! This new exhibition at the nature museum offers a whole new take on buried treasure and explores the richness of the soil that supports all life--plant, animal, human!

The exhibition runs to March 30, and like all the ­exhibitions at the Natur Musée is interactive and ­child-friendly. Check out the terrarium, the greenhouse, the mushrooms… and walk barefoot along the dirt path. The hope is that the more we know, the more we’ll understand why it’s vital to protect the biodiversity of the soil and prevent its erosion, especially as the world’s population continues to grow. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.--so now you know what to do with the kids on a cold winter’s Sunday between lunch and dinner! There’s a cafeteria too, a gift shop and of course the permanent collections--our faves are the real moon rock and a room where you can see what happens to a living room when an earthquake hits.. www.mnhn.lu

Saarbrücker Zeitung

Natur Musée

There’s buried treasure beneath your feet!

Change your perspective!

If you haven’t yet discovered the Dynamikum Science Center in nearby Pirmasens, Germany, now’s a good time, because through March 15 they’ve got an exhibition on anamorphosis, or distorted perspective. Leonardo’s Eye is the earliest known example, ­created by da Vinci himself in the 15th century. Here you can see toys and objects that explore this phenomenon, and visit this cool hands-on science museum’s permanent collection too. www.dynamikum.de

FEBRUARY 2014

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U N D E R T H E H I G H PAT RO N AG E O F H E R RO YAL H I G H N E SS T H E G RAN D D U C H E SS

NY–LUX

EDWARD STEICHEN AWARD 2004–2014 E X H I BI T I O N 1 4 .0 2 .2 0 1 4 – 0 6 .0 6 .2 0 1 4 O PE N I N G 1 3 .0 2 .2 0 1 4 , 6 PM– 8 .3 0 PM ART I ST S: BE RT I L L E BAK , É T I E N N E BO U L AN G E R , JE F F D E SO M, SO PH I E JU N G , MARI A L O BO D A, C L AU D I A PASSE RI , SU - ME I T SE

In collaboration with :

In memory of Henry J. Leir

Étienne Boulanger, Grafts, 2004–2006 (detail) © Photo: Étienne Boulanger

Mudam Luxembourg Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean

3, Park Dräi Eechelen L-1499 Luxembourg t + 352 45 37 85 1 www.mudam.lu

11 MARCH 2014 Atelier Concert

den Atelier presents

WilliAm Fitzsimmons

Win rt ce c o nk e t s ! tic

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Send an email mentioning “den Atelier/WilliAM FitzSiMMonS” to contest@delano.lu Deadline for entries is 28 FEBRUARY 2014 Winners will be notified by email

28/01/14 16:05

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MY OTHER LIFE

Fouad Rathle

Scope of LIFE A financial executive brings things into focus by sharp shooting.

Text by Tonya Stoneman Photography by Olivier Minaire

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ouad Rathle’s favourite gun is his Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum. It’s not a hard gun to like if you like guns--Clint Eastwood made the revolver famous when his character Dirty Harry found himself alone in a standoff with an armed gang. “We’re not just gonna let you walk out of here,” he says to the leader. “Who’s we, sukka?” the man retorts, with a menacing chuckle. “Smith and Wesson and me,” answers Eastwood before drawing his pistol and blowing the place to pieces.

Apart from the firearm’s notorious reputation, it is genuinely a fabulous machine.

Rathle owns 15 guns, and, in his opinion, this one outshines them all. “It handles, well, it fits well into my hand, it’s accurate, aesthetically pleasing and powerful,” he says.

Rathle grew up in Egypt where people were not permitted to have more than one gun, but he’s been handling firearms all his life. To fulfil his national service duty, he served in the Egyptian Army as a corporal 1st class--the experience is something he will never forget. After he left the military, he continued to hone his shooting skills and began collecting guns.

In 1995, he joined a gun club in Luxembourg and applied for a licence. The Grand Duchy has strict gun laws. In clubs, members shoot at specific targets from a prescribed distance according to a security protocol with a fire master present. Gun owners must be fully licensed and keep their guns in a secure room and locked in a certified gun safe. They are only permitted to take the weapons out in order to go to the club. After shooting, they must return directly to their home and stow the guns accordingly.

Despite the commotion that surrounds the sport, shooting is really a harmless pursuit, Rathle says, if the security restrictions are followed.

In his heyday, Rathle went to the club a ­couple of times a month to work on his shoot-

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Fouad Rathle Photographed at home with his 7 shot Smith & Wesson .357 Magnum

ing technique. Like anything, marksmanship requires a great deal of practice. To become an accomplished sniper, for example, you would have to practice two hours a day.

But more than anything, “I am a collector,” he says. “If you like guns and if the legal envi­ ronment allows, you update your collections.” The oldest gun in his lot is a Webley Scott .32 mm revolver from World War I. He doesn’t buy guns with fancy marble inlay or carvings or gold platings or visual “bling”, per se. There are two reasons Rathle buys a gun: to help him master his technique and to sate his curiosity. “I’ll buy a special weapon that ­captures my imagination,” he says.

“Like my .357 revol­ver that has a seven bullet chamber. That’s unu­ sual for a revolver. The standard is six. Also, if you wish to master a tech­nique in a field, you must observe certain things--a 9 mm not 45 mm. They require ­different handling.”

“When you shoot, there’s a surge of adrenaline seldom duplicated by anything else,” he says. ­“It forces you to concentrate. It’s one moment of total concentration. You forget ­everything completely.”

At this stage in Rathle’s life, as manager of the Turkish bank Garanti’s branch in the Grand Duchy and a member on several ­Luxembourg boards of directors, what he loves most about shooting is less about bravado and more closely aligned with the present day Eastwood, who said: “Hollywood, as ­ everyone knows, glamorises physical courage. If I had to define courage myself, I wouldn’t say [it’s] about shoot­ ing people. I’d say it’s the quality that stimulates ­people, that enables them to move ahead and look beyond themselves.”.

FEBRUARY 2014

13/01/14 17:18

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