Why is there still too little construction? What are the economic consequences of the housing shortage? And how realistic is the construction boom announced by the new federal government? In the latest episode of our ECONtribute economics podcast, host Carolin Jackermeier talks to Moritz Schularick about the ongoing housing crisis and the GREIX index. 

Moritz Schularick, president of the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, has been analyzing the German real estate market for many years. We talk about why the traffic light coalition government has failed to meet its housing construction targets, whether falling real estate prices in the short term will help alleviate the housing shortage, and whether a construction boom can even be implemented so quickly. 

This episode is about housing, usury, and election promises.

Follow us now on Bluesky,  Instagram und LinkedIN and don’t miss any more episodes.

Many students encounter the question for the first time during their studies of whether they are required to submit a tax return or whether doing so might be beneficial. Experience shows that there is a high demand for information on this topic. The Institute of Tax Law at the University of Cologne is therefore offering an information session on “Tax Returns for Students.”

Among other things, the session will cover who is required to submit a tax return while studying and the deadlines for doing so. It will also explain which types of income are subject to taxation (e.g. income from working at the university) and which study-related expenses can be deducted for tax purposes (e.g. costs related to a semester abroad). The speakers, Thomas Sendke and Martin Grafen, will also provide practical tips on how to prepare a tax return.

The information session will take place on Tuesday, 24 June 2025 at 7:00 PM in Lecture Hall VI of the main building (Albertus-Magnus-Platz).

All interested parties are warmly invited.
No registration is required.

CologneMUN invites you:

On 25 June 2026 at 6:00 PM, we are pleased to welcome Werner Pfeil, MdL, for an exclusive guest lecture in Lecture Hall XII, Main Building, University of Cologne.
Topic: “Freedom, Law, Security: What Does European Policy Actually Mean for North Rhine-Westphalia?”

The event will be held in German.
Join the discussion on current challenges in Europe and put your questions directly to an experienced state politician!

Looking for an exciting challenge this fall?
In cooperation with Reissdorf Alkoholfrei, we’re giving away 2 relay team entries for the Cologne Marathon on October 5 – each worth €199!

Ready to cross the finish line together? Here’s how to join the giveaway on Instagram:

1. Like the post
2. Tag three friends or classmates you'd love to run the relay with

Winners will be picked at random and will also get free non-alcoholic Reissdorf to celebrate your achievement – the perfect post-run refreshment!

Take part now & reach your goal as a team!
→ https://www.instagram.com/wisokoeln/

Image: © Generali Marathon
Entry deadline and more info in our Instagram post.

Only 2 Weeks Left – Join the 25th World Business Dialogue!

On July 1st, 2025, the 25th edition of the World Business Dialogue will take place at the University of Cologne – featuring inspiring keynotes, interactive panels, exclusive career formats, and a legendary afterparty right in the main lecture hall building.

Under this year’s theme:
“Beyond Human Capital – Navigating Tomorrow’s Labour Markets” you’ll engage with companies like KPMG, Deutsche Bank, Horváth, and SMP to explore
the future of work.

What to expect:

• Keynotes & Panels featuring top speakers from business and politics
  → including Philipp Hitschler (CEO, Hitschies International)
• Dialogue Sessions & Speed Datings with leading partner companies like KPMG
• Free all-day catering, barista coffee, and refreshing drinks

A legendary afterparty with unlimited Kölsch – all included in your ticket!
Special for WiSo students: Get 30% off with the code WISO30

Grab your ticket now: www.2025.world-business-dialogue.com

Are you interested in management consulting and M&A? Then don’t miss the opportunity to get to know RSM Ebner Stolz Management Consultants in an exciting and hands-on workshop!

Gain valuable insights into our approach to M&A advisory and work together with our team on a practical case study from the pharmaceutical sector. You’ll learn first-hand how we support mid-sized companies throughout the entire transaction process – from strategic preparation to successful execution.

During the informal get-together afterwards, you’ll have the chance to connect with our consultants, ask your questions, and find out more about entry opportunities in management consulting.

When? Tuesday, June 24, 2025
Time: 4:00 PM – approx. 9:00 PM
Location: RSM Ebner Stolz, Holzmarkt 1, 50676 Cologne

Agenda:
4:00 PM – Welcome & Introduction to RSM Ebner Stolz Management Consultants
4:45 PM – Case Study Session
6:45 PM – Presentation & Discussion of Results
7:30 PM – Get-together

Application required
Please use the application form on our website:
https://investmentstrategyclub.de/event/rsm-ebner-stolz-x-isc/

Most of us haven’t made millions – but the question of who will still be there for us at 80 is one that weighs on the minds of many older people. Loneliness in old age is a reality for nearly all elderly individuals, especially when mobility is limited, loved ones have passed away, and maintaining friendships becomes increasingly difficult with age. Even in care homes, where healthcare staff do their utmost to ensure residents are comfortable and well looked after, there is often not enough time or capacity for meaningful personal interaction.

At Generationswerk e.V., we want to respond to this need – bringing joy to older people through short walks in the fresh air, friendly conversations, and shared activities.

We meet every Sunday morning at a care home in Cologne’s Südstadt and go on a half-hour walk with the residents. Every week we experience heart-warming moments and hear stories that are touching, fascinating, and full of life.

If you’d like to join us one day or learn more, feel free to get in touch!
More information at www.generationswerk.com, on LinkedIn, Instagram, or by email at kontakt@generationswerk.com.

We welcome everyone who wants to make a difference – no regular commitment required.
Every bit of support matters and makes a real impact!

Win an Amazon voucher: As part of my master’s thesis, I am investigating how company policies are perceived by employees. The survey takes about 8 minutes, is anonymous, and participants have the chance to win an Amazon voucher worth €50 or €30.

You can access the survey via the link.