Editorial Ta Nea: Pride and joy

Greek tax authorities plan a new wave of property auctions, including villas and high-end homes in sought-after areas, as overdue tax debts climb to record levels and enforcement measures intensify.

Authorities launch parallel technical and judicial investigations after a 40-minute collapse of air traffic control disrupted flights, stranded passengers, and exposed concerns over aging infrastructure

A prolonged communication failure in Greek airspace halted flights for hours, prompting investigations into technical faults, possible interference, and the resilience of ageing aviation systems

Greece ranks 28th in Europe’s 2025 Sustainable Development Index, with setbacks on inequality, education and social cohesion, a new report finds

As farmers threaten nationwide highway closures, the government weighs new concessions alongside fines and administrative penalties, signaling that patience with prolonged blockades is running out

Flights to and from Greece were temporarily halted, while only aircraft already airborne were being handled under contingency procedures

Although January 2 is not an official public holiday, most retail stores across Greece are closed for annual inventory checks, while banks operate as normal and supermarket schedules vary

Strong growth forecasts for 2026 hinge on investment delivery, inflation control and the final stretch of EU recovery funds, raising concerns over whether ambitious targets can translate into lasting gains for incomes and productivity

Starting January 15, 2026, IRIS users will benefit from higher daily and monthly transaction limits, making peer-to-peer and professional payments faster, more flexible, and a practical alternative to traditional banking

The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) in Greece will intensify VAT refund checks, increasing targeted audits, cross-checking POS data, and reviewing suspicious claims to combat tax evasion and prevent illegal refunds.

Greece’s 2026 public holiday calendar offers only three long weekends and one four-day Easter break, with several major holidays falling on weekends resulting in a mixed outlook for workers, travelers and families planning time off

In many countries, embodying Santa Claus is taken very seriously. In Greece, Manolis Syllignakis and his “colleague” Sakis Xanthopoulos don the red suit every year and become one with the Christmas myth

Berlin has urged heightened caution for travelers to Turkey around the New Year, citing an elevated risk of terrorist attacks and advising against non-essential travel to border regions and crowded public areas

The Ukrainian leader says key drafts on a peace framework and security guarantees are nearly complete, as territorial disputes and pressure on Russia top the agenda ahead of a potential breakthrough before the New Year

From nostalgic tradition and nature-inspired warmth to playful pastel sweets and theatrical glamour, these are the decorating styles shaping homes this Christmas—where comfort, personality, and atmosphere take center stage.

The Greek Prime Minister, together with his wife and children, exchanged gifts and warm wishes for the festive season.

Prices and rents continued their established upward trend, with Bank of Greece data confirming further growth in commercial property values and rental rates in the first half of 2025.

Check labels carefully, especially expiration dates. Purchase refrigerated or frozen foods last so they reach your fridge as quickly as possible.