Reindeer Tracking Comes to Life
In an intriguing twist on the slow TV phenomenon, viewers can now immerse themselves in the tranquil daily lives of three reindeer as they roam the picturesque Fells of Finnish Lapland. This unique experience invites audiences to connect with the serene yet captivating world of these majestic creatures.
A Closer Look at Finland’s Pension System
Meanwhile, domestic outlets are once again shedding light on the nuances of Finland’s pension framework. Online news source Verkkuuutiset delves into the financial realities shaping the retirement landscape.
As life expectancy rises, so too does the retirement age. For those born in 1994, the statutory pension age is expected to be 67 years and 10 months. The average gross monthly pension for 2024 is estimated at 2,100 euros, with earnings-related pensions typically providing around half of an individual’s pre-retirement income.
The underlying mechanics of this system are straightforward: both employees and employers contribute. Starting in 2026, wage earners will contribute 7.30% of their earnings, while employers will shoulder a heavier burden, paying just over 17% into pension funds.
For those looking to calculate their retirement benefits and anticipated age, resources are readily available.
The Decline of Convenience Stores
In other news, R-Kioski convenience stores, a long-standing tradition in Finland, are facing a wave of closures that hints at broader challenges within the retail sector. Hufvudstadsbladet reports that approximately 70 R-kiosks—accounting for one-fifth of all outlets—are slated to shut their doors soon, although the company has remained tight-lipped about which specific locations will be affected.
The past few years have been tumultuous for R-Kioski, which has now experienced six consecutive years of losses. Despite generating 220 million euros in revenue, the firm reported a 4.9 million euro deficit. The challenges are attributed to three primary factors: increased competition from liberalized grocery store hours, the repercussions of the pandemic, and stricter gambling regulations that have depleted customer foot traffic.
Wildlife Streaming: A New Delight
For wildlife aficionados, following the endangered Baltic ringed seals has been a delight, and now another iconic Finnish creature— the forest reindeer—takes center stage. A new channel, aptly named “Porolive” or roughly “Reindeer Live,” launched on December 1st, allows viewers to witness reindeer in their natural habitat on channel 24 of Finland’s digital terrestrial network.
This channel provides a real-time video feed showcasing the wanderings of three tagged reindeer: Kaija, Snare, and Blacksmith. Live footage from the Nuuksio Reindeer Park adds to the viewing experience, offering an intimate glimpse into their world. Broadcasts will continue until the declaration of Christmas Peace on Christmas Eve, offering a charming holiday diversion for viewers. For those tuning in via terrestrial television, a quick channel search will uncover these enchanting antlered residents of Lapland.