EU's Vestager: Continued Disagreement With U.S. on Apple

The transcript discusses the EU's decision requiring Ireland to collect $14 billion in taxes from Apple, highlighting jurisdictional issues and the EU's role in enforcing fair competition. It covers the dialogue between the EU and Apple, the involvement of other companies like Amazon and Starbucks, and the legal differences between the US and EU. The transcript also touches on ongoing inquiries into Google and the Bayer Monsanto merger, emphasizing the importance of basing decisions on facts despite public pressure.

What was the main reason for the EU's decision to require Ireland to collect $14 billion from Apple?

• Apple voluntarily offered to pay more taxes.

• Apple's global tax rate was too high.

• Apple was accused of not paying sufficient taxes.

• Ireland requested the EU's intervention.

How does the EU obtain the data it uses to make decisions on corporate taxation?

• Through public records available online.

• By relying on data provided by the companies themselves.

• By conducting independent audits.

• Through information shared by other countries.

What characterizes the dialogue between the EU and Apple regarding the tax decision?

• It was hostile and unproductive.

• It was secretive and closed.

• It was frank and constructive.

• It was mediated by a third party.

Why are the penalties for companies like Amazon and Starbucks expected to be smaller than those for Apple?

• They operate in fewer countries.

• They have already settled with the EU.

• They have better legal representation.

• They have smaller unpaid taxes due to their size.

What is a significant difference between the EU and US approaches to corporate taxation?

• The US prohibits tax breaks for businesses.

• The EU has a prohibition on negotiating tax breaks.

• The US and EU have identical tax laws.

• The EU allows tax negotiations with states.

What is the EU's stance on public reaction to mergers and tax cases?

• Decisions are made based on media coverage.

• Decisions are based solely on facts and evidence.

• Public reaction is ignored completely.

• Public opinion is the primary factor in decision-making.

What is the EU's approach to ongoing investigations like those involving Google?

• They are waiting for US input.

• They are open to Google's defense and responses.

• They have already decided on fines.

• They have closed all investigations.