A Juiced-up Alliance between the US and EU



Good morning! t's time to grab your coffee, put on your thinking caps, and dive into the world of supply chain management. While the rest of the world sleeps in, we know that the supply chain never stops. ☕️

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Both the US and the EU are looking to reduce their carbon footprint and transition towards cleaner forms of transportation, such as EVs, to meet their climate goals. Supporting the adoption of EVs through subsidies is one way to incentivize consumers to make the switch from traditional gas-powered vehicles. By cooperating on EV subsidies, the US and the EU can help support the growth of their domestic EV industries and compete more effectively with other countries, such as China. Therefore… easing their rift on EV subsidies could also lead to a more harmonized approach to regulating the auto industry, which could benefit both regions in terms of trade and consumer protection.

Check out today’s featured article from AP News to read about President Biden’s recent visit with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen over the use of European minerals (critical for semiconductor chips and batteries) and how they may qualify for United States tax credits. Will America and the European Union “kiss and make up”?



Featured Article:

Biden, EU leader launch talks to ease rift on EV subsidies | AP News

“In a potential boost for electric vehicles, President Joe Biden and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said Friday they’ve agreed to open negotiations on the use of European minerals critical in the production of batteries for EVs that are eligible for U.S. tax credits.”


Company Culture & Human Resources 📝

Cash out or move on: GM offers buyouts to cut costs

In January, GM CEO Mary Barra told analysts that the company wasn’t planning for any layoffs. Seems that things have quickly changed! In a bit to accelerate attrition to meet a previously announced goal of $2 billion in cost cuts by the end of next year, General Motors is offering buyouts to most of its salaried workforce. The move is likely to avoid any possible firings at a later date. The buyouts are reportedly one month of pay for every year of service, up to 12 months. Additionally, these employees who accept the buyout will be offered COBRA health care and part of the bonuses they would receive this year if they were to remain on board.

GM’s auto sales remain strong, but the price tag on EV’s is beginning to waver. With automakers increasing production after being hobbled by a global shortage of computer chips, a slowdown in auto sales is forcing companies to offer more lucrative deals to appeal to customers.

Read more from AP News ▶


Company Culture & Human Resources 📝

Employees around the world seem to be benefitting from a 4-day workweek

A 4-day workweek has the potential to benefit employees in a number of ways, and may be a valuable tool for employers looking to attract and retain top talent. With an extra day off each week, employees have more time to pursue personal interests, spend time with family and friends, and take care of errands and other responsibilities. A shorter workweek can also lead to reduced stress levels, as employees have more time to recharge and recover from the demands of their jobs. Studies have shown that employees who work fewer hours are often more productive, as they are able to focus their energy and attention more effectively during the hours they are at work.

A 4-day workweek has the potential to improve employees' physical and mental health, as they have more time to exercise, cook healthy meals, and engage in other self-care activities. Offering a 4-day workweek can be a valuable perk for employees, and may lead to increased job satisfaction and loyalty.

Read more from USA Today ▶


iLevel With You 🏡

More topics for the average American household to consider…

🔋 As the industry transitions to EVs, thousands of autoworkers fear job loss. If companies don’t retrain employees working on manufacturing lines, thousands of jobs could be replaced with automation or robotics. EVs do not require traditional gasoline or diesel engines or transmissions, which could lead to a decrease in demand for these components and a reduction in jobs related to their production. As EVs become more popular, there may be a shift in demand away from traditional dealerships towards online sales and direct-to-consumer models. This could lead to a decrease in demand for dealership-related jobs, such as salespeople and finance managers. While the adoption of EVs may lead to job losses in some areas, it is important to note that it will also create new jobs in others, such as in the production of EV batteries, charging infrastructure, and software development. The transition to EVs will require careful planning and investment in retraining programs to ensure that workers are able to adapt to the changing job market.


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Rails and Roadblocks: The Challenge of Implementing Railroad Safety Measures Amid Union Labor Shortages