6 chapters across the catalog
The city of Chicago has implemented a 9% "cloud tax" on electronically delivered amusements and computer leases, affecting services like Netflix, Spotify, and Amazon Web Services. Legal experts suggest the tax may violate the Internet Tax Freedom Act by discriminating against online services.
Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban rescinded a proposed internet tax following massive public protests. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel reportedly warned that she will no longer fight to keep Britain in the EU if David Cameron limits intra-EU immigration. The hosts discuss the rise of the UKIP party and the potential for a "point of no return" for the United Kingdom's membership in the bloc.
Massive protests erupted in Budapest, Hungary, involving tens of thousands of citizens demonstrating against a proposed tax on internet data usage. Analysis suggests the unrest may be tied to geopolitical tensions regarding Hungary's agreement to host Gazprom's South Stream pipeline. U.S. Assistant Secretary of State Victoria Nuland recently delivered a speech criticizing "democratic backsliding" in Central Europe, leading to speculation that the protests are part of a broader effort to influence Hungarian policy toward Russia.
Marketplace Fairness Act, Internet Sales Tax
Senate Bill 336, the Marketplace Fairness Act of 2013, is introduced as a federal effort to mandate the collection of sales tax for online purchases across state lines. The hosts note that major retailers like Walmart and Target support the bill to eliminate the price advantage of online-only competitors. They mock the list of Senate sponsors, including Senators Enzi, Durbin, and Alexander.
Austin Goolsbee, Internet Sales Tax Question Dodge
During a live White House internet event, economist Austin Goolsbee is asked about the "unfair advantage" of tax-free internet sales. Before he can provide a substantive answer, President Obama appears to "interrupt" the session, which the hosts interpret as a staged maneuver to avoid a difficult policy question.
IMF Warnings, Civil Unrest, Media Distractions
The Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has warned that advanced nations could face civil unrest if the economic crisis is not managed properly. The hosts observe a lack of serious coverage of these warnings in mainstream U.S. news, which instead focuses on retail crowds and celebrity gossip. A brief mention is made of a proposed internet tax in New York.
