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Jan Hagemejer in a debate on the future of the tobacco market in Puls Biznesu
The tobacco industry in Poland is facing major challenges. We are the largest producer of tobacco products in the EU, with 85% of production being exported. However, dynamic regulatory changes, including sharp increases in excise taxes and new fiscal burdens, raise many questions about the sector’s future. Jan Hagemejer co-author of a report on the tobacco industry, participated in a debate, organised by Puls Biznesu, on the economic impact of these changes. He emphasized that government policy will gradually aim to reduce the sale of all tobacco products, not just traditional ones. Key Takeaways from the Debate: Sharp excise tax increase – up to 25% in 2025. Risk of losing export dominance – will Poland remain a leading producer? The black market threat – will history repeat itself, as in 2011–2014? Shifts in market structure – the rise of innovative tobacco products. Experts emphasized the need for a predictable tax policy and a balance between health goals and industry stability.

Fact or Fiction: Developing Inquiry and Critical Thinking Skills in Youth
Our mission is to inspire youth aged 12-19 to practice intelligent disobedience—doing what’s right despite pressures. Our main objective is to equip adolescents with the skills to confidently navigate the rapidly evolving digital environment and develop key competencies and digital resilience for independent functioning in adulthood. The project will be based on the participatory approach to ensure our workshop scenarios are evidence-based and address the real needs of today’s youth and educators. Outputs’ testing and implementation will equip participants with essential critical thinking skills for navigating a complex online world. On-site and international online multiplier events will ensure widespread dissemination of our activities and results, amplifying the impact among adolescents and educators. Participants will explore social impact, cognitive biases, and topics like economics and online culture, sharpening their ability to distinguish facts from opinions. Educators will gain insights into digital education tools and strategies for nurturing students’ CT and information verification skills. Deliverables include 18 CT workshops for youth, supported by a report with themed scenarios and exercises for integrating CT skills into daily lessons.

The challenges of VAT beyond VAT in the Digital Age
This study should consider possible improvements to the EU VAT system and assess their feasibility and likely consequences, based on the analysis of its current weaknesses, gaps, inefficiencies. As requested by the ToR, this requires a forward-looking analysis and prospective reflection, combined with and based on the retrospective assessment of the current situation. The study requires, on the one side, a thorough re-assessment of well-known problems of the EU VAT systems, which have been discussed for years by policymakers, scholars and in courts and tribunals, the solutions to which have already been long proposed in the academic as well as policy arena. On the other side, it requires a fresh view to identify new solutions to old problems, new problems and their possible solutions, as well as potential unknown problems, i.e. those that may appear in the future given the current economic, political and legal evolution and the megatrends of the EU and global society. Operationally, the activities needed to achieve the objectives of the study are straightforward. For each of the areas or angle of analysis, the study team will have to: Identify existing weaknesses and challenges of the EU VAT system, including those that may appear in the future given the likely evolution of the current situation. Design solutions to the problems identified. Assess the feasibility and consequences of the solutions identified.

CASE is seeking an Economist
CASE – Center for Social and Economic Research is an independent, fast-paced think-tank comprised of economists, researchers and business development experts. We are currently seeking professionals with a wealth of experience in the economics domain. If you have a strong background in economic analysis and a proven track record of impactful contributions, we want you to bring your expertise to our well-established research team. At CASE, you’ll engage in impactful economic and financial sector projects across EU and non-EU countries. Under the guidance of Senior Management, you will delve into critical topics, including fiscal policies, international trade, growth, investment, innovation and the climate and digital transitions. You will experience a variety of projects, ranging from VAT, excise taxation and fiscal federalism issues to trade policies and barriers, impact of international tariffs and economic sustainability. If you’re driven by solid economic thinking and eager to contribute to high-quality analysis and strategic recommendations, this role offers a unique opportunity to take a leap in your career and further develop as an economist, while gaining experience and exposure to international projects. Key Responsibilities: Work on research-based initiatives in line with CASE strategic priorities. The successful candidate will be expected to take a role in research projects, evaluation and impact assessments within multiple areas, including fiscal policy and macroeconomics. Expand project opportunities via the preparation of proposals and networking with various stakeholders, donors, public institutions and international business organisations Manage and deliver complex research projects to quality, cost, and time standards Assist project teams during the conceptualization and execution of different research projects including data analysis, statistical and econometric interpretation, drafting of analytical papers, etc. Support the research and business development teams in writing research proposals Provide help in the conceptualization and implementation of a new database and modelling capacity Engage with relevant domestic and international stakeholders, including the EU institutions Qualifications: University degree (master’s or Phd) in Economics or related field with highly relevant academic and/or work experience in research in public or private sectors; 3+ years of experience in applied economics, for example acquired as an economist/financial sector expert in an international institution or in an EU institution, economic consulting or applied research centre, think-tank, government or banking (experience gained during PhD will be considered relevant). Good knowledge of quantitative methods of research in economics; Advanced computer skills, knowledge of and experience with major statistical and database packages (STATA, SPSS, Python, MS Excel or equivalent); econometric modelling experience, including macro-modelling would be a plus; experience in fiscal policies and taxation would be an advantage Ability to work with tight deadlines and in fast-paced teams; Public speaking skills; Problem-solving abilities and ability to multi-task and work flexibly in a changing environment; Strong interpersonal and communication skills, team spirit. Excellent knowledge of English. Knowledge of Polish would be an advantage. What we offer: Founded in 1991 in Warsaw, CASE is a leading proponent of evidence-based policymaking and is recognized as a preeminent think tank in Central and Eastern Europe, as well as globally. With over three decades of experience, CASE has a proven record of providing comprehensive research, analysis, training, and solutions to address complex economic, social, and political challenges. Committed to independence, impartiality and excellence, CASE offers a competitive salary, including a bonus scheme in place, a flexible (hybrid) work schedule and a stimulating research and policy work environment. The successful candidate will have access to CASE’s expansive network to discuss and disseminate research findings and interact with policy makers and other stakeholders. We hire and value talent with unique characteristics, creating a work environment where they can be themselves. We believe that Diversity, Equity and Inclusion makes us a performing and innovative organisation. We encourage all suitably qualified and eligible candidates to apply regardless of their gender identity/expression, age, racial, ethnic and cultural background, religion and beliefs, sexual orientation, disability or neurodiversity. Candidates are requested to send their cover letter and CV to case@case-research.eu by February 28th 2025.
Online CASE CPI
Online CASE CPI uses online data to measure price changes in Poland. It compares the average prices of goods from the past four weeks to the average prices from four weeks earlier and is updated weekly.
99.60
CASE CPI index
+0.25

Economic dynamics in the former Soviet Union countries amidst global shocks
This event will examine the economic developments and transformations in the countries of the former Soviet Union amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine and other external shocks. The discussion will focus on seven Eastern European nations—Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Russia, and Ukraine—providing insights into their macroeconomic performance, financial stability, trade, investment, migration, and energy sector dynamics.

Assessing the Economic Resilience of the Republic of Moldova in the Context of Recent Security Threats
The report provides an in-depth evaluation of Moldova’s capacity to adapt to crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, the energy crisis, and geopolitical tensions resulting from Russia’s war in Ukraine. It examines Moldova’s position as a small, open economy with significant exposure to external shocks, highlighting vulnerabilities in energy imports, trade imbalances, and political stability. Key topics include Moldova’s shift toward European integration, with milestones such as EU candidate status and expanded trade relations, which have helped reduce reliance on Russia. The report analyzes macroeconomic trends, financial sector stability, and energy dependency, identifying progress in institutional reforms and external support mechanisms that have bolstered the economy. However, ongoing challenges remain, such as inflation, fiscal deficits, and the unresolved Transnistria conflict, requiring targeted policy reforms and sustainable strategies for long-term resilience.

180th mBank-CASE Seminar Proceedings: BNPL: Buy Now Pay Later. Deferred Payment– An Established Idea Gaining Traction
The publication examines the growing popularity and implications of the Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) financial model in Poland and globally. It features expert analyses and discussions from a seminar held on March 14, 2024, including insights from key players like PayPo, PKO BP, and the Credit Information Bureau (BIK). The publication focuses on: BNPL Evolution and Success: Originating in Sweden, BNPL has transformed global online shopping, offering deferred payment options as an alternative to credit cards. Poland’s BNPL market, still in its infancy, shows rapid growth due to firms like PayPo, Twisto, and Allegro Pay. Comparison with Credit Cards: Unlike credit cards, BNPL offers simpler, targeted transactions that resonate with younger demographics and more women. It avoids the complexities and high fees associated with traditional credit cards, fostering higher adoption rates. Polish Market Dynamics: By the end of 2023, nearly 2 million Poles had used BNPL, representing 12% of active borrowers. PayPo leads the market with innovative features, while PKO BP introduces seamless banking integration for deferred payments. Challenges and Growth Potential: Despite its success, establishing a universal BNPL business model remains challenging. However, its consumer-centric approach signals continued growth, especially as it aligns with modern purchasing behaviors. The report provides a nuanced understanding of how BNPL reshapes financial landscapes, blending fintech innovation with traditional banking.

Local and regional success stories of investing in disaster resilience
The aim of the study is to collect, map and share good practices, examples and success stories of investing in disaster resilience (including but not limited to in response to past disasters and the lessons learned from them) at local and regional level. The study focuses on collecting evidence on initiatives, good practice examples and measures taken by the NAT commission members to improve disaster resilience. The study will be built on interviews with NAT commission members based on a questionnaire. The study will also draw conclusions on the benefits of investing in disaster resilience and make some recommendations to local and regional authorities for moving forward based on the success stories collected from the members demonstrating that smart investment at local and regional level can make a difference in disaster risk reduction. The focus will be mainly, but not exclusively, on extreme weather events and climate-related disasters, given their growing frequency, intensity and impact. The study will contribute to knowledge sharing and exchange of good practices, by collecting and sharing success stories from and by members who have invested in reducing vulnerabilities and strengthening disaster resilience at local and regional level. As a repository of local and regional good practice examples, initiatives and measures relating to disaster preparedness and resilience, the aim of the study is also to feed into a bigger and longer-term project to map success stories of investing in disaster resilience on the ground.
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