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Stay up-to-date with the latest tech news that’s evolving on the daily with these online resources. Google Blog | googleblog.blogspot.gr This is Google’s official blog, offering insight and news straight from Google. Life Hacker | lifehacker.com This blog provides information, tips, and advice on Mac, Linux, and Windows. ReadWriteWeb | readwrite.com Read up on the business of social media, and gadgets in this informative news blog.
GREECE AMONG TOP 10 DESTINATIONS AMERICANS DREAM OF VISITING With a unique climate, great hospitality, and breathtaking views, it’s no wonder Greece is on the mind of so many Americans. A new study released by TripAdvisor lists Greece as one of the top 10 destinations Americans dream of visiting this year. The list includes Switzerland (#10), Spain (#9), Greece (#8), France (#7), The Caribbean (#6), The United Kingdom (#5), Ireland (#3), Australia (#2), and Italy (#1).
E.U. Parliament Toughens Up T Anti-Money Laundering Rules DIREC The EU aims to make dodgy deals harder to hide, while putting up a stronger fight against tax evasion through new anti-money laundering rules voted by Parliament. The draft law would also require banks, auditors, lawyers, real estate agents, casinos, and others to be more vigilant about suspicious client transactions. Parliament’s main goal in introducing these new laws is to mitigate money laundering and terrorist financing risks. Parliament also voted on the Transfer of Funds Regulation, which aims to improve the traceability of payers and payees, and their assets. The directive (AMLD) includes: 1. Public central registers in each EU country must show who really stands behind companies, foundations, holdings, and trusts. 2. Banks, financial institutions, tax advisors, and others must be more cautious about suspicious transactions made by their clients. 3. Rules regarding high-risk business relationships with politically-exposed people including members of government, court judges, heads of state, and members of parliaments, are extended to “domestic” politically-exposed persons, those entrusted by a member state with prominent public functions.
SDTimes | sdtimes.com This downloadable online magazine focuses on software development. TechCrunch | techcrunch.com Follow the buzz around social media, technology, and gadgets on this tech blog. TechRepublic | techrepublic.com Find plenty of whitepapers, daily posts, and subscribe to tailored newsletters.
DEVELOPMENT MINISTER HATZIDAKIS STRESSES IMPORTANCE OF INNOVATION Among plans to foster the growth of innovation in Greece, Development Minister Hatzidakis at an Innovation Council meeting stressed that entrepreneurship is the future. Among strategies discussed during the meeting were the boosting of venture capital, business incubator promotion, the appointment of a chief technology officer, and support for young entrepreneurs through offering incentives to angel investors. “We consider innovation a key pillar of the new Greek economy. The economy will be reborn through the problems of the crisis,” he stated. The plan falls in line with Prime Minister Andonis Samaras’s decision to double funds allocated to innovation. MAY-JUNE 2014 | BUSINESS PARTNERS | 47