globalEDGE Blog Archive February 2024

Romania, nestled in Southeast Europe, holds a welcoming attitude towards Americans and U.S. products, which offers a promising landscape for business ventures. With its EU membership, strategic location, and robust economy, Romania stands out as an attractive destination for trade and investment.

We have heard of artificial intelligence from all over the world, and it has been used in various industries. But there are mixed reviews when it comes to the area of music. Many artists have come forward to discuss their opinions on the use of AI in creating music and how it could affect the state of the industry. This can also be an opportunity for companies to further innovate their technologies for efficient and innovative creation, such as their songwriting tools and synthesizers. Whether you are for or against the movement, the important thing is the balance and the measures taken regarding copyright and the way AI is used. 

Whether someone is buying or renting a house, there is a significant advantage if a home buyer pays in U.S. dollars. The dollar has surged against the British pound and euro in recent years. This led Americans to flock to countries like France and the United Kingdom to buy homes at a discount. The euro has since regained some of its strength, but those buying with the U.S. dollar can still see big savings in countries like Canada.

The popularity of cruises has increased astronomically since the significant dip it took due to COVID-19 in 2020. The global cruise market is estimated to reach 37 billion U.S. dollars by 2028. Currently, the United States is the leading country by far in terms of revenue created by cruises. In 2025, it is estimated that the United States will generate a little under 16 billion dollars of revenue from the cruise industry.

The Grammy Awards were held for the 66th annual time this past week. The show is always full of monumental moments, triumphant or controversial. It is also a perfect look into the music industry and the trends that are currently happening. From the acts performing to the artists winning, much of the show can be read into. 

Happy Valentine's day! Today is one of the most significant consumer holidays after Christmas. With its presence felt in over 30 countries, this celebration isn’t just about love; it’s a lucrative opportunity for industries across the globe.

In June 2016, Britain voted to end its 40-year membership in the European Union. On January 31, 2020, the controversial decision to leave the union went into effect. Since that decision, Britain has had conflicting economic results with higher inflation and lower GDP.

The nail polish industry is a fast-growing business driven by fashion. Millennials are propelling nail industry innovation by demanding bright acrylics and ombre accents for everyone, everywhere, and all at once. Influencers such as Kylie Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Nicki Minaj, Billie Eilish, Cardi B, and others have contributed to the popularity explosion of acrylic nails, relying on skilled professionals to cater to their nail needs.

In the intricate network of global economics- where markets are known to constantly fluctuate and industries can undergo change at the blink of an eye-, one figure has emerged at a highly influential level over the past couple years: Taylor Swift.

Sports betting is an intriguing field with a long history that has evolved with technical improvements and human history. It has been around for thousands of years, making people more engaged in the events they watch. The appeal of betting on sports has always existed, attracting bettors of all ages who want the thrill of action and the possibility of financial gain.

In the mid-to-late 2010s, a new trend emerged that caught the attention of many in the hospitality space: vacation rental homes becoming popular. The top players in this new market were Airbnb and Vrbo, and together they created a massive network of individual property owners who rented their space to travelers from around the world. Many believed that the world’s largest hotel chains would be forced to either adapt or be left behind by this revolutionary business model. But over 15 years after Airbnb’s founding, hotel chains continue to thrive and make profit in the hospitality market.

The countdown is on for Super Bowl XLVIII, and all eyes are on the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, Nevada, where the San Francisco 49ers are gearing up to take on the defending champs, the Kansas City Chiefs. This 2022 rematch is scheduled for February 11, 2024, and this clash marks the 58th consecutive Super Bowl - a staple event that’s become engraved in American culture. The Super Bowl is not just a clash of titans on the field but a powerhouse of economic activity. With millions of dollars flowing in each year, it transforms the chosen host city into a focal point of notoriety and attention.

Rice, a food staple in many countries, holds cultural and dietary significance in Japan. However, concerns are growing over the future of rice farmers in Japan as the demand for this essential food experiences a decline. The rice industry faces additional challenges with the recent ban on rice exports from India, one of the world’s leading rice exporters. The once-stable and crucial rice sector faces uncertainties threatening its long-standing role in Japanese agriculture and the global economy.