Murcia athletes gather in Alcantarilla for good cause
ATHLETES in the Region of Murcia got the opportunity to participate in the 12th edition of the Alcantarilla Air Base Popular Race, a special sports-based event in the area that also has a strong charitable focus. The event, which offered athletes a choice of the 14 kilometre or five kilometre lengths, was the fifth event of the Region of Murcia Running Challenge Circuit.
The races, organised by the Alcantarilla Air Base, the Murcia City Council and the Alcantarilla Town Council, the Municipal Board of Sangonera la Seca and the FAMU (the Athletics Federation of Murcia), both kicked off on the Calle Mayor in Alcantarilla, near Plaza Adolfo Suárez.
The race was also a charitable affair, with proceeds from registrations going to local charities and non-profit organisations, including the Blue Star Project Foundation, the Neighbourhood Coordinator, Crece con Dabadá, and the Association of Families of
Charity competition Tapas triumph
TAKING place in Puerto de Mazarron until March 22, this year’s edition of the Tapas and Cocktail Route for the San José Festival will have the highest number of participating venues to date, with more than 20 local establishments taking part. The event is a gastronomic festival that sees participation from local bars, cafes and restaurants in the municipality.
Children with Cancer of the Region of Murcia.
The Alcantarilla Air Base Popular Race has been a regular event since 2014, with the aim of uniting athletes and supporters in town, ex-
tending a helping hand to local charities, and celebrating the personnel at the base. The event continues to bring sports closer to the community while also contributing to its needs.
Flavours, cocktails, and prizes await
The event will allow locals and visitors to try special tapas recipes, cocktails and desserts, prepared specifically for the gastronomic route. The dishes will also be competing to win the best gastronomic proposal at the San José Festival.
The Puerto de Mazarron Tourist Office in Plaza Toneleros will be providing locals and visitors with a special passport that can be stamped at the participating establishments, which they can then submit for a chance to participate in various prize draws. Once the route is completed, participants can also vote for the best tapa.
Robotics rivals
CARTAGENA celebrated the Lego League Robotics Tournament for the first time, in which more than 200 schoolchildren competed in an educational programme that inspired scientific thought, research, and innovation among students between the ages of six and 16.
The event, which took place at the School of Industrial Engineers of Cartagena brought together a total of 27 teams distributed in two categories, ‘Explore,’ with children from six to nine years old; and ‘Challenge,’ with children from 10 to 16 years old. The Lego League Robotics Tournament was a chance for students to show off their skills and knowledge about robotics, as well as defend their innovation projects and the robots they designed, built, and programmed in order to solve challenges posed by the organisers.
In this year’s edition of the national final, which will be the 15th edition held in the Region of Murcia, a total of 15 teams participated in the ‘Explore’ category and 12 participated in the ‘Challenge’ category. The Electronic Falcons ended up taking the first prize and will represent the Region of Murcia in the national phase.
Cartagena hosts first Lego League tournament with 200 students competing.
Charity-focused Alcantarilla race draws runners for 5km and 14km events.
Costa Cálida I No. 2124 I 19 - 25 March 2026 I FREE Newspaper
Youth employment
CARTAGENA has launched a new youth employment programme offering practical training and support to more than 50 young people aged 16 to 30.
Part of the 'Escuelas de Empleo Joven' scheme, the initiative aims to improve employability by combining classroom learning with hands-on work placements and personalised guidance. Participants will gain both technical skills and real-world experience, helping them transition into the labour market more effectively.
The programme focuses on developing skills that employers are actively seeking, while tackling one of the main barriers for young jobseekers: limited practical experience. By integrating training with workplace exposure, organisers aim to bridge the gap between education and employment.
Alongside formal training, participants will receive ongoing mentoring, career advice and support in accessing job opportunities. This structured approach is designed to guide each participant towards sustainable employment.
The scheme is part of a wider effort by Cartagena’s local authorities to boost youth employment. Similar initiatives
Cartagena’s new youth employment scheme combines training, work placements and personalised support for young participants.
have already delivered free training courses to hundreds of young people, reflecting continued investment in improving job prospects.
With youth employment remaining a key issue across Spain, programmes like this aim to reduce unemployment by providing early professional experience. Limited places mean strong demand is expected from young residents looking to build skills and secure stable work.
Assota Trail race Murcia
A BUSY weekend of popular races brought runners across the Region of Murcia together, with the Assota Trail in Caravaca de la Cruz standing out as one of the main events.
Held on Sunday March 15, the Assota Trail attracted participants of all levels, offering routes of 12km, 17km and 27km through the mountainous terrain surrounding Caravaca.
The race formed part of a wider programme of sporting events taking place across the region over the weekend.
The trail featured a mix of technical sections, elevation and scenic landscapes, making it a key date in the regional running calendar. With different distances available, it welcomed both experienced athletes and those newer to trail running.
Sunday was the busiest day, with several races also taking place in locations such as Librilla, Murcia City, Lorca and Beniel.
These included mountain races, charity runs and traditional road races, highlighting the
diversity of the region’s running scene.
The weekend had already begun on Saturday March 14 with additional events, including races in Murcia and La Manga, contributing to one of the most active weekends for grassroots sport in the area this year.
Events like these reflect the growing popularity of running and outdoor sports in Murcia, as well as the strong community atmosphere that continues to drive participation across the region.
The Assota Trail brought runners together as part of a busy weekend of races.
Tenants’ shield
LEASE PROTECTIONS EXPLAINED
SPAIN’S rental legislation offers robust protections for tenants, allowing them to remain in a property for several years even if landlords wish to end the contract earlier. The Ley de Arrendamientos Urbanos sets mandatory minimum durations for residential leases to promote housing stability.
Tenants renting from private individuals can stay up to five years, while leases with corporate landlords extend to a minimum of seven years. Contracts often start with a one-year term but must automatically renew annually at the tenant’s request until the legal minimum is reached. Provided tenants meet obligations such as paying rent and maintaining the property, landlords generally
cannot terminate the agreement early.
Exceptions are limited. Landlords may reclaim the property if needed as a permanent residence for themselves or close family, but this usually must be specified in the contract with advance notice.
If the property is not used as stated within a set timeframe, the former tenant may have the right to return or claim compensation.
After the minimum period, leases can continue through tacit extension under Article 10, renewing yearly unless either party gives notice. Landlords must give four months’ notice to terminate, while tenants must give two months.
Bridal bill alert
PLANNING a Spanish wedding?
Couples are being warned to keep a close eye on their balance sheets as Hacienda, the national tax agency, intensifies its scrutiny of wedding gifts.
Authorities are reminding newlyweds that cash and presents qualify as taxable donations, a move designed to close revenue loopholes as digital transfers replace traditional cash envelopes.
With the average Spanish wedding now exceeding €24,000,
many couples rely on guest contributions to offset costs. However, under Spain’s inheritance and gift tax laws, any asset transferred without compensation must be declared. Digital trails from bank transfers and even social media posts now make it easier for officials to track undeclared income. The financial stakes for non-compliance are high.
Hacienda can probe records up to four years after the ceremony. Undeclared sums up to €3,000 may attract 50 per cent penalties,
while larger amounts or cases of fraud can trigger fines of up to 150 per cent of the unreported value. The taxman’s reach varies by region, as some autonomous communities offer exemptions for close family members.
Experts advise couples to consult a tax professional and maintain detailed records of all donors. While the crackdown has sparked social media backlash over ‘taxed honeymoons’, the current rules demand strict vigilance to avoid a post-wedding audit.
Public holiday compensation
Law interpretation shifts
IN Spain, workers may be entitled to compensation when a public holiday falls on a Saturday, following recent court interpretations distinguishing statutory holidays from weekly rest days. Under the Workers’ Statute, employees are entitled to 14 paid public holidays annually. Traditionally, if a holiday coincided with a non-working weekend day, employees received no substitute day off. However, Supreme Court rulings have clarified that public holidays and rest days are separate legal rights, potentially allowing employees additional leave or financial compensation if both fall on the same day.
These rulings do not create a universal entitlement but depend on sector-specific collective agreements. Some agreements already provide substitute days for holidays falling on rest days, while others remain silent, prompting potential disputes. Employees have up to a year to submit claims, beginning with internal discussions and possibly escalating to labour courts.
The issue highlights differences for expatriates, who may expect automatic substitution for weekend holidays as in other countries. Spanish labour law emphasises negotiated agreements and sector-specific practices rather than blanket rules. Courts are increasingly adapting interpretations to evolving work patterns, including shift work and flexible schedules. While legal guidance has strengthened the case for compensation, whether workers receive additional leave depends on their employment contract, collective agreement, and employer practices. The topic remains a key discussion point in Spain’s employment landscape.
Landlords may reclaim the property early if they need it as a permanent residence for themselves.
Reuse rise programme
THE Cartagena Chamber of Commerce is carrying out a campaign to promote the use of reusable bags in the municipalities of Cartagena, Fuente Alamo, Mazarron and La Union.
The campaign will see the free distribution of cloth bags to small busi nesses so they can give them to their custo mers and encourage reuse.
This new initiative rai ses awareness among both business owners and con sumers about the impor tance of reducing the use of single-use bags, and using a more sustainable model. The new cloth bags will be distributed to customers free of charge during their shopping trips.
ON Pi Day, several areas along the Costa Calida celebrated the ‘Mathematics in the Street’ programme, a long-awaited activity as part of an educational initiative to inspire students and residents with a love for mathematics. Around 80 educational centres (around 30 of these from Murcia City) participated in the activities, which took place in the streets of towns, as well as in primary and secondary
Not only will the cam-
paign reduce the use of single-use plastic bags, it will also reduce waste from daily consumption in the municipality and encourage citizens to pick up more responsible purchasing habits by promoting reuse over
disposable products.
The action reinforces the Cartagena Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to sustainability, and promotes responsible practices within Costa Calida’s commercial sphere.
The ‘Mathematics in the Street’ programme took place in Cartagena, Molina de Segura, Cieza, Cehegin, Mazarron, Sangonera, and Murcia City, on Saturday, March 14.
The initiative, run annually by the Regional Ministry of Education and Vocational Training, offers a wide variety of activities for students to take part in, learn, and socialise in a programme that inspires creativity and logical thinking. Some of the activities included in the programme included logic games, chess matches, building figures using geometric pieces, making cards based on fractal patterns, composing mosaics, performing magic tricks based on mathematical properties, exploring deformed images, making foldable geometric figures, solving sudokus of different difficulty levels and other mathematics-based activities.
Neighbours, families, and students of all ages were invited to participate in this fun and educational initiative, which aimed to apply mathematics from a different, closer, and more dynamic perspective.
Photo Credit: Cartagena Chamber of Commerce
LOS ALCAZARES gears up for one of the region’s biggest summer events as Fan Futura Fest returns on July 24-25 at Parque del Gonio. Now in its sixth edition, the festival has become a major attraction, drawing crowds from across Spain and beyond with a mix of electronic, pop, and urban music.
Fan Futura returns
The event is known for bridging generational tastes, bringing together established performers and emerging talent to create a dynamic, inclusive atmosphere. After recent successes in national venues, the festival continues to strengthen its reputation as a hub for contemporary Spanish music. Tickets for the sixth edition are selling at record speed - the first 1,000 passes disappeared within an hour, highlighting the event’s popularity.
PUERTO DE MAZARRON beca-
me a hub for rowing on the Costa Calida during the day on Saturday, March 14. The municipality hosted the fourth regatta of the Liga de Llaüt del Mediterráneo 2026, a race that was held in front of the Club de Regatas Mazarron, complete with a specially designed course in the bay.
During the competition, six rowing clubs took part, with a total of 15 teams competing in the event. The regatta brought together clubs from all over the Region of Murcia, as well as the Community of Valencia.
The event formed part of the Liga de Llaüt del Mediterráneo, a traditional Mediterranean rowing competition. It was presented at the Club de Regatas Mazarron, along with representatives from the Region of Murcia, the Mazarron Town Council, and local rowing clubs.
Beyond concerts, Fan Futura offers a carefully curated experience, including activities connected to the Mar Menor and initiatives promoting sustainability. Organised by Animal Sound Group and supported by regional institutions, local councils, and media partners, the festival demonstrates how a well-plan-
ned event can transform a town’s summer calendar into a cultural landmark.
For residents and visitors alike, Fan Futura Fest provides more than music - it offers a two-day celebration that energises Los Alcazares, drawing communities together and creating memories that last for a long time.
Riveting rowing
This regatta is intended to promote the sport of rowing in Mazarron; the event marks the beginning of a collaborative project between the Federation, the city council and the Mazarron Rowing Club to continue to promote rowing in the municipa-
lity. With this exciting event, Puerto de Mazarron has once more consolidated its position as one of the most important sporting hotspots in the Costa Calida, helping to reduce its seasonality and attracting athletic visitors to its sparkling shores.
Puerto de Mazarron hosts Mediterranean rowing regatta with regional clubs.
CREDIT: Quino AI/Unsplash
Semana Santa
SEMANA Santa 2026 in Spain will run from Sunday March 29 to Sunday April 5, marking one of the year’s first major chances for residents to travel, rest or attend traditional celebrations. As Easter follows the lunar calendar - falling on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the spring equinox - the dates shift annually. In 2026 they arrive slightly earlier than some expect. The only nationwide public holiday is Good Friday on April 3. Maundy Thursday on April 2 and Easter Monday on April 6 depend on the autonomous community, so the length of the break varies.
In Andalucia, Madrid, Galicia, Aragon, Asturias, Murcia and the Canary Islands, Maundy Thursday is also a public holiday, creating a four-day weekend from Thursday to Sunday. Easter Monday is recognised in Catalonia,
the Valencian Community, the Balearic Islands, Navarra, the Basque Country, La Rioja and Castilla-La Mancha. Some areas observe both days, effectively extending the spring break without additional leave. Checking regional calendars is essential when planning travel or booking time off.
Beyond its religious significance, Semana Santa is
one of Spain’s busiest travel periods. Warmer weather and longer days encourage domestic trips and city breaks. Destinations famed for processions, particularly in Andalucia, draw large crowds, while coastal and rural areas see an early seasonal surge. As demand rises, flights and accommodation often increase in price well before the holiday week.
Traditional Semana Santa procession in Spain.
Credit : Jose Manuel Gavira, Shutterstock
Motorhome nomads
AS property prices soar and rentals decrease, an increasing number of people in Spain are swapping bricks and mortar for life on four wheels. Once a symbol of holiday freedom, motorhomes have become permanent residences for families and workers priced out of the traditional market.
‘grey water’ drainage issues in areas where vehicles remain stationary for months.
Legally, Spain does not explicitly ban yearround motorhome living. However, the Directorate General of Traffic classifies them strictly as vehicles, not ‘habitual dwellings’. This creates a bureaucratic nightmare for the ‘Empadronamiento’ (local registration), which is essential for accessing healthcare and schools.
The trend has accelerated since the introduction of the digital nomad visa in 2023. By late 2024, thousands of remote professionals had relocated to Spain, many choosing WiFi-equipped motorhome zones over expensive city flats. However, coastal hotspots like Ibiza, Mallorca, and Marbella are struggling.
Local authorities have reported overflowing car parks and beachside lay-bys, with some residents complaining of poor sanitation and
While industry body Aseicar insists these vehicles are for leisure and cannot solve the housing deficit, the nomadic population continues to grow. For many, the choice is simple: endure the legal grey areas and administrative hurdles, or face a housing market that no longer welcomes them.
Centre of Fuengirola inundated with mobile travellers.
Easter spend increase
Roman forum beneath hotel
SPANIARDS are set to increase their holiday budgets this Easter, with average spending intentions rising to €538 - a 13 per cent jump from last year. According to the latest Observatorio Cetelem report, this surge comes despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East driving up fuel costs.
The highest spenders are those aged 35 to 39, who plan to part with an average of €688. For those heading away, the typical budget reaches €856, with accommodation accounting for the lion’s share at €376. Conversely, those staying at home expect to spend a more modest €279.
Travel plans remain largely domestic. On Monday, March 16, data confirmed that 80 per cent of holidaymakers
DGT.es
will stay within Spain, opting for rural tourism (40 per cent) or coastal escapes (37 per cent). Only 14 per cent of citizens intend to travel abroad.
Recent disruptions to the high-speed rail network, including derailments and strikes, have pushed many towards road travel. Despite higher petrol prices, travellers have allocated €172 for transport to avoid rail uncertainty.
While only 44 per cent of the population will officially travel, local leisure remains a priority. Dining out is the most popular activity, cited by 52 per cent of travellers. This year’s Semana Santa reflects a spirit of adaptability, balancing traditional celebrations with measured, domestic-focused consumption.
A ROUTINE lift installation at the Gran Hotel Barcino in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter has triggered a historic archaeological breakthrough, unearthing a monumental 2,000-year-old Roman pavement.
This discovery, announced in late February, is described by experts as one of the most significant finds in the city’s recent history, effectively forcing historians to rewrite the urban map of ancient Barcino.
The excavation, which spanned two years, revealed 42 square metres of precisely fitted Montjuïc stone slabs. These stones served as the surface for the city’s forum, the beating civic heart of the Roman colony founded between 15 and 10 BC.
The orientation of the slabs has stunned researchers; they run parallel to the decumanus
Roman remains continue to be uncovered beneath modern cities like Barcelona, where construction work recently revealed part of the ancient Roman settlement of Barcino.
(east-west axis) rather than the cardo (north-south axis) as previously theorised. This 90-degree shift challenges decades of academic consensus regarding the layout of Roman Barcelona.
Beyond the paving, archaeologists discovered hydraulic systems, including two deep square wells connected by a siphon, suggesting a sophisticated fountain or water-management
feature. In a rare display of public-private cooperation, the hotel owners, Gargallo Hotels, financed the entire project and adapted their construction plans to preserve the ruins in situ. The site will be integrated into the hotel, with plans for occasional guided public tours, allowing visitors to stand exactly where the citizens of Barcino once gathered two millennia ago.
Everyone driving to the coast for Easter.
Too noisy for Morrissey
BRITISH indie rock icon Morrissey has sparked controversy after abruptly cancelling his debut performance in Valencia. The former Smiths frontman, 66, reportedly reached his ‘tether’s end’ following a two-day bus journey from Milan, citing the relentless noise of the city’s famous Las Fallas festival.
The singer’s official website claimed the constant ‘rhythmic thud’ of techno music, firecrackers, and megaphone announcements left him in a ‘catatonic state’. Rather than relocating to a quieter hotel, Morrissey opted to scrap the sold-out show at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía. Nearly 1,500 fans, who had purchased tickets within minutes of them going on sale, were left in limbo.
Promoters have yet to issue a formal cancellation notice or provide details regarding refunds.
Credit:
The disruption coincides with the UNESCO-listed Las Fallas, an annual event on the eastern Mediterranean coast known for round-theclock street parties and pyrotechnics. While the festival symbolises cultural renewal, it proved a step too far for the outspoken singer.
This cancellation marks a rocky start to his tour promoting Make-up Is a Lie, his first album in six years. Fans now look ahead to his scheduled appearances in Zaragoza on Saturday, March 14, and Sevilla on Monday, March 16. Whether these dates will proceed remains uncertain given the singer’s temperamental reputation.
Front of the new Morrissey album.
Morrissey Official
FINANCE
BUSINESS EXTRA
Beckham boom
BRITISH fashion and beauty company, Victoria Beckham, increased sales by 19 per cent in 2025, totalling more than €156 million. The success is largely attributed to the brand’s new leather goods department, which generated 13 per cent of sales. Now the company’s focus is expanding physical retail locations internationally.
Rents soar
RENT prices continue to soar across Spain, as demand vastly outweighs supply, especially in major metropolitan areas and coastal towns. By far the most expensive city in February was Barcelona, where prices exceeded €30 per square metre, followed by Madrid at €29.61 and San Sebastian at €21.21.
Record-breaking
MERCADONA cements its place at the top of the supermarket food chain, closing 2025 with a record-breaking revenue of €41.9 billion. Net profit increased by 25 per cent to €1.729 billion. This allowed for the creation of 5,000 new jobs, and increased bonuses for over 115,000 employees.
Porsche cuts
PORSCHE plans 1,900 additional job cuts, after a €3.9 billion write-down from scaling back its electric vehicle strategy. Falling sales plus US tariffs and delayed electric models hurt profits. The company will now streamline operations, delay some electric cars, and focus more on petrol and hybrid vehicles.
Insurance probe
THE CNMC is probing potential anti-competitive practices in Spain’s insurance sector. Inspections focused on claims coverage, client data exchanges, fee arrangements, and professional vetoes. These actions could breach Article 1.1 of the Competition Defense Law and Article 101 of the EU Treaty.
Average UK house prices rose to £301,151, an annual growth of 1.3 per cent, according to Halifax
Telegraph takeover
AXEL SPRINGER has reached an agreement to purchase an iconic British institution, The Telegraph.
The all-cash deal for the Telegraph Media Group includes ownership of the Daily and Sunday Telegraph
These media outlets will join Axel Springer’s impressive portfolio, which includes Europe’s biggest newspaper, Bild, as well as digital brands such as Politico and Business Insider.
The German enterprise proposed an extraordinary £575 million deal that overshadowed the rival £500 million offer from Lord Rothermere, owner of the Daily Mail
The purchase effectively ended a lengthy battle over the ownership of the newspaper group and brought three years of uncertainty to a close. Telegraph staff are said to be put at ease, following three years of uncertainty since the Barclay family lost control of the group due to
£1.16 billion in unpaid debts to Lloyds bank. The titles were later put up for sale as creditors attempted to recover those debts, triggering a prolonged bidding process.
Mathias Dopfner, Axel Springer’s seasoned chief executive, has long desired a Telegraph takeover. He previously lost out to the Barclay brothers in 2004 who purchased the Telegraph for £665 million.
Dopfner emphasised that the
Supply chain strained
THE conflict in the Middle East is sending shockwaves worldwide, causing major disruptions to trade as transport routes close and logistical costs rise.
Air transport is currently feeling the brunt of the impact. Rates on Asia-Europe routes have almost doubled, rising from €2.26 to €3.41 per kilo. Asia-America routes have also increased significantly, from €3.53 to €5.13 per kilo.
This rise is driven by the almost immediate increase in fuel costs and the closure of critical transport corridors. Air transport enables high-speed turnover of collections and rapid retail delivery, something maritime transport cannot easily replicate.
Maritime shipping has also been affected, although at a more gradual pace. One key route is
publication’s editorial independence and legacy would be preserved while investing in technology, including artificial intelligence, to modernise its journalism. Moving forward, the company will focus on a rapid digital and US expansion, with the company aiming to strengthen the Telegraph’s global reach. If approved by regulators, the acquisition will mark Axel Springer’s long-awaited entry into the British newspaper market.
the Strait of Hormuz, through which around 20 per cent of the world’s oil supply passes. Due to escalating security concerns, the route is becoming difficult to use, adding pressure to global supply chains.
Leased fleet Absent workforce High ham exports
SPAIN’S cured ham exports reached 9.2 per cent growth in 2025. Exports exceeded 64,138.78 tons totalling €802.8 million in value. On average, hams sold abroad for €12.52 per kilo. The EU was the biggest market, accounting for 70 per cent of exports, or 45,046.91 tons. Outside of the EU, China and the UK stand out as the biggest markets, with the UK having the highest price of €17.6 kilos. Despite considerable gains, the swine fever outbreak could create challenges.
OFFICIAL data reveals 1,500,000 people - 7 per cent of the workforce - are absent every day, a total which is 68 per cent higher than the European average. Sickness is not the leading cause of absenteeism, rather family obligations account for the majority of absences. Followed by disability due to illness or injury, mental health and other personal matters.
Experts claim high absenteeism is due to a structural issue. An ageing workforce, the rise in mental health issues and a lack of work life balance all contribute. They suggest work-life balance support schemes may be the solution.
AS the cost of owning a car continues to rise, more and more drivers in Spain are turning to a more flexible alternative: leasing. Leasing a car is a more budget friendly option. There’s fewer upfront costs involved, and drivers can also easily predict their monthly expenses.
According to the Spanish Leasing and Renting Association (AELR) 54,429 lease agreements were registered as of February 2026, representing a 15.6 per cent increase on last year. Data reveals that one in five cars on the road were acquired through leasing, totalling 22.7 per cent of Spain’s registered fleet.
AN increasing number of companies are falling victim to cyberattacks, including big-name franchises like Jaguar Land Rover and Marks & Spencer’s. A recent study by S-RM found that 24.3 per cent of targeted companies paid ransom demands in 2025, up 14.4 per cent on 2024.
AI has become a weapon, used to infiltrate systems, identify sensitive information and target vulnerable threats. On average, ransom demands range from €10,000 to €1 million, with the average ransom payment being €254,000.
REPSOL has announced a new strategic plan that includes investing between €8.5 billion to €10 billion by 2028. Around 55 per cent of the total investment will be directed to Spain and Portugal, with the remainder largely focused on the United States. The plan aims to strengthen its multi-energy model, combining traditional oil and gas operations with lower-carbon initiatives such as renewable fuels, hydrogen and biomethane, while maintaining strong shareholder returns.
VODAFONETHREE may gain access to Virgin Media O2’s network in a potential wholesale deal, enabling it to expand broadband without building its own fibre network. For Virgin Media O2, the agreement could boost wholesale revenue and better utilise its infrastructure, reflecting a shift from a fully vertically integrated model. The move aligns with broader trends of fibre-sharing, supporting network economics and competition while expanding coverage without duplicating infrastructure.
International trade feeling impact of the conflict.
Telegraph sold for £575 million.
Credit: Shutterstock, chrisdorney
3I Group 2.954,00 2.987,00 2.948,00 98,5K
Admiral Group 3.279,5 3.312,0 3.279,5 66,7K
Airtel Africa 350,80 353,00 348,80 155,78K
Anglo American 3.086,0 3.136,0 3.076,0 262,44K
Antofagasta 3.495,00 3.538,00 3.460,00 163,76K
Associated British Foods 1.866,0 1.874,0 1.861,0 50,05K
AstraZeneca 14.300,0 14.392,0 14.274,0 75,19K
Auto Trader Group Plc 488,10 497,00 486,50 205,05K
Aviva 632,99 636,40 629,62 610,07K
B&M European Value Retail SA 181,00 183,00 179,00 592,22K
BAE Systems
2.304,00 2.329,00 2.298,00 320,42K
Barclays 383,15 388,15 382,35 3,07M
Barratt Redrow 289,30 290,60 287,20 469,29K
Beazley 1.288,50 1.292,00 1.287,00 507,27K
Berkeley 3.682,0 3.706,0 3.652,0 17,33K
BP 542,20 546,00 538,43 8,33M
British American Tobacco 4.557,0 4.559,0 4.517,0 136,52K
IN collaboration with Nvidia and Deloitte Spain, Unicaja is developing a ‘conversational’ banking model. Using AI, customers will be able to ask financial questions or give instructions, striking up a conversation with the banking app. The project is part of UniCaja’s €250 million digital transformation and will be open to clients sometime in 2026.
Botin buys
BANCO SANTANDER president, Ana Botin, recently purchased 300,000 shares of the company for €3 million. In three transactions, she purchased 100,000 shares for an average price of €9.68, €9.48 and €9.79 per share. As of December 2025, Botin controlled 2.34 million Santander shares directly and another 31.5 million indirectly.
THE Euribor, the key benchmark for eurozone loans, has reached its highest level in 11 months, driven by concerns that inflation may rise due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran. This increase affects homeowners, renters, consumers, and businesses across Spain. Rising Euribor rates make borrowing more expensive for variable-rate mortgages, personal loans, credit cards, and business financing. Even households without loans may feel indirect impacts through higher rents, increased consumer prices, and costlier services. Popular areas such as Marbella, Fuengirola,
Euribor peaks
are expected
Sanctions standoff
RUSSIAN oligarch Roman Abramovich is battling with the British government over how £2.5 billion Chelsea FC proceeds should be spent. In 2022, the UK and EU imposed sanctions against Abramovich following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, prompting a hasty sale of Chelsea FC. This money now sits in limbo, locked in a UK bank account
as Abramovich and British officials disagree on how the funds should be used going forward.
Britain wants to allocate the money to Ukraine to cover war costs, while Abramovich said the money would be used “for the benefit of all victims of the war in Ukraine”, signalling the money could go to Russian recipients.
Local advisers recommend residents review loan agreements, track Euribor levels, and consider fixed-rate options to protect against rising repayments. Renters should monitor rental agreements, while businesses may need to adjust budgets for higher financing costs.
The rise reflects broader economic concerns: energy price increases and inflation expectations could keep the European Central Bank from lowering interest rates soon. While homeowners with mortgages are directly affected, all residents should be aware that higher borrowing costs could influence household budgets, spending, and the overall cost of living.
Financial markets will continue monitoring developments, and residents are advised to plan ahead for potential longer-term impacts on borrowing and everyday expenses.
Murray invests
TENNIS champion Andy Murray has reportedly joined a star-studded cohort of investors, supporting luxury golf brand, Manors, in their latest round of funding. The UK company plans to leverage its collected £3 million investment to fuel its international expansion into the US market.
Historic funding
‘GODFATHER of AI’ Yann LeCun’s new start-up Advanced Machine Intelligence (AMI) raised €1 billion, the largest seed funding round in Europe. His new company has the goal of creating an artificial intelligence capable of understanding the physical world, with the long-time goal of powering robots and autonomous cars.
Alicante, and Torrevieja
to feel these effects most strongly.
Local advisers recommend residents review loan agreements.
I’m losing the plot
LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT
IF you even bothered to watch it, I’ve no doubt you thoroughly enjoyed the cock up at the Oscars ceremony this week. As usual the ‘stars,’ who often find it impossible to connect two words without a script, were utterly tongue tied at the award, producing more waffles than Dicks fast food Diner.
True to form, in their usual predictable arrogance, a number of them subsequently decided to use the opportunity to spout their knowledge of world affairs.
Why is it, that purely because they have attained success in their particular field, they automatically assume they have now earned the right to deliver their political views to all and sundry? As entertainers, theirs is primarily a profession that should help its fans to escape, not indulge in the trials and tribulations of our real, often depressing existence.
Why don’t they stick to what they are grossly overpaid for? We also need to re-
member that most of the ‘stars’ of the acting industry are uneducated drop outs. High school failures, who decided that egotistic greatness was more important than educational gratification. Hardly the qualifications that give them the right to advise us on world issues. If I want to listen to politicians I’ll tune in to ‘Politics Today’ or ‘PMQ.’ Give us a break.
They are of course often encouraged to regale us with rubbish. I actually recall that when I achieved my ‘overnight stardom’, (twinkle twinkle!), I was suddenly inundated by a whole host of media outlets for my views on just about everything; from politics to purism.
All I had actually achieved to suddenly become an authority on all these Earthly affairs, was to warble a three minute, albeit quite catchy, tune on a bit of vinal! Hardly a qualification to become a bottomless pit of invaluable knowledge! Couldn’t help but also notice how many ordinary everyday words seem to have disappeared from the English language. Especially from the woke impregnated TV newscasters. Not because they were rude, not because they were vindictive. Simply because, somewhere along the line, someone, somewhere de-
cided they might possibly upset somebody else. So out they went.
It’s like having a censor sitting on your shoulder with a red pen. You start a perfectly innocent sentence and halfway through it your brain suddenly shouts ‘careful’ and you change direction like avoiding a pothole.
Take something as simple as describing a person. Once upon a time you could describe them as tall, short, thin, large, old, scruffy, smart, grumpy, young, cheerful or a dozen other harmless observations. They weren’t insults, they were descriptions Now you hesitate and mentally sift through a list of acceptable alternatives before committing yourself.
Even compliments have become tricky territory. You tell someone they look well and immediately worry that they will assume you mean you previously thought they looked dreadful. You admire a person’s energy and then wonder if that somehow implies criticism of another who prefers an afternoon cup of tea.
I dunno, perhaps I’m losing track of the plot, but then I’m a columnist innit! Keep the Faith Love Leapy leapylee2002@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
What weather at Easter?
SPAIN prepares for a classic spring mix as Semana Santa 2026 approaches, running from Saturday, March 28 to
What weather will we have on the Spanish Costas this Easter?
Monday, April 6. While long-range forecasts remain subject to spring’s notorious unpredictability, early trends suggest a mostly mild outlook for the millions expected to attend traditional processions or head to the coast.
Holiday highlights include Jueves Santo on Thursday, April 2 and Viernes Santo on Friday, April 3. Meteorologists indicate a 60 to 70 per cent probability of warmer-than-normal conditions across the peninsula and the Balearic Islands. Southern regions like Andalusia typically see highs of 23°C, though inland cities such as Madrid may feel fresher at 18°C.
However, visitors should prepare for the occasional dampener. Historical data shows a 70 to 80 per cent chance of rain during Easter week. Atlantic ridges could bring showers, particularly to the north, making waterproofs essential for those watching outdoor parades. Travel is expected to remain smooth, though tourists from outside the Schengen area are advised to arrive at airports an hour early to navigate the Entry/Exit System (EES) digital gates. While hotel prices in hubs like Seville remain elevated, the mild climate continues to draw northern Europeans seeking a respite from the cold. Travellers are encouraged to pack layers, as evening temperatures will drop significantly once the sun sets.
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Costa del Sol TechPark record highs
MALAGA’S reputation as the ‘Silicon Valley of Southern Europe’ reached new heights in 2025, with the Parque Tecnológico de Andalucia (PTA) reporting record-breaking growth across all sectors. According to year-end data released on Monday, March 16, the tech hub now employs over 29,000 professionals, marking a 3.8 per cent annual increase. Notably, 94 per cent of these workers reside in Malaga Province, highlighting the park’s role in local talent retention.
Total turnover surged by 17 per cent to reach €4.9 billion. While telecommunications remains the dominant force - employing 52 per cent of the workforce - the microelectronics sector is gaining significant momentum, bolstered by the imminent arrival of the research giant IMEC.
Global leaders including Google, Vodafone, and Oracle continue to anchor the park, driving private R&D investment up by over 50 per cent to €54.5 million.
Axarquia Plans to fill beaches
ALMUÑECAR is sharpening its coastal appeal attractiveness of the peak tourist season. Local authorities have approved 60 new business concessions under the latest Plan de Explotación de Playas, covering the popular shores of both Almuñecar and neighbouring La Herradura.
The move guarantees a wide range of seasonal facilities will be ready for visitors. Concession holders are set to provide traditional sun umbrellas and loungers, alongside leisure equipment such as pedal boats, kayaks, paddleboards, and floating trampolines.
These services are vital for the ‘Sexitano’ coastline, encouraging holidaymakers to spend longer on the beaches and support nearby seafront restaurants.
The awarding process, led by the council, follows months of preparation dating back to June 2025. Other than improving the town’s tourism image, the plan provides a significant economic boost to the community.
Mallorca Sunbathing goes digital
MALLORCA beach days are getting a digital upgrade. Calvia Town Hall has introduced a new mobile booking system that allows beachgoers to reserve sunbeds and parasols in advance, changing how residents and visitors plan time on the sand. The move comes as several popular beaches in the southwest of Mallorca reopen for the season, but it’s the new tech that’s drawing the most attention from locals and expatriates.
For the first time, visitors will be able to reserve loungers and umbrellas using a mobile app instead of searching for available sunbeds when they arrive. By checking availability and booking ahead, beachgoers can secure their place before leaving home. Officials say the app is designed to improve accessibility and streamline beach services.
The booking system launches alongside the reopening of six beaches in Calvia: Es Carregador, Na Nadala and Son Maties in Palmanova, and Palmira, Torà and La Romana in Peguera.
Costa Blanca South Shamrock spectacle
ORIHUELA Costa was painted in shamrock green for the annual St Patrick’s Day Parade, one of the largest parade celebrations on the Costa Blanca. The famed event, considered the most important on the festive calendar of Orihuela Costa, boasted an attendance of 30,000 people and featured the participation of more than 50 groups, dressed up and dancing for this widely-celebrated cultural holiday. This event, once more, transformed the streets of the municipality into a widespread festival of colour and music in celebration of St Patrick’s Day, a holiday that commemorates the death of the patron saint of Ireland.
The long-awaited parade set off from Calle Agua, and looped back around for the main event on the famous Cabo Roig Strip, filled with merrymaking locals and visitors. Drummers, dancers, bagpipe players, stilt walkers, musicians, and circus performers were the main highlight of the parade, as well as the typical Irish food and drink.
Almeria
Old traditions celebrated
MOJACAR residents recently joined hundreds across Almeria in celebrating Dia de la Vieja, a beloved tradition in the Levante Almeriense region. Every year, in the middle of lent, family, friends and neighbours convene in the countryside to eat, drink and ‘break old people’.
Of course, no old people are actually harmed, rather it is piñatas designed to look like the elderly that become the targets. These effigies are readily available to buy, however many families prefer to make their own, adding a creative originality to each one. Mojacar residents were especially imaginative this year, their colourful creations perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the event. After making the piñata, all that’s left to do is break it. Mojacar’s youngest residents lined up to throw rocks and sticks at the ‘viejas’ until they broke apart. The children made quick work of the destruction and reaped the rewards with the sweets that spilled from the piñatas. The day is often also celebrated with a communal lunch.
Costa Blanca North Costa del Cheltenham
BENIDORM once again transformed into ‘Costa del Cheltenham’, as thousands of British racing fans flocked to the Costa Blanca to watch this year’s famous horse-racing festival. The event ran from Tuesday March 10 to Friday March 13, with bars, pubs and hotels across the resort packed with visitors following every race live on big screens. Travel figures showed just how big the trend has become, with hotel bookings soaring by 225 per cent compared with previous years - making 2026 one of the biggest Cheltenham weeks Benidorm has seen. Not everything went exactly as expected for visitors hoping for spring sunshine. The first two days of the festival brought unsettled weather and rain, pushing many race fans indoors to crowded sports bars and pubs. But by day three the skies cleared and the sun returned, allowing terraces and beachfront venues to fill with cheering crowds as the racing reached its final stages.
Estimates suggest around 40,000 British visitors travelled to Benidorm during the four-day festival.
Veggie diets for pets
AS more pet owners explore plant-based lifestyles, questions arise about feeding cats and dogs vegetarian or vegan diets. While dogs are omnivores and can adapt to a carefully balanced plant-based diet, cats are obligate carnivores and require nutrients found naturally only in animal products. For dogs, protein can be sourced from legumes, soy, and specialised commercial vegan dog foods. Essential amino acids such as lysine and methionine, along with vitamins like B12 and minerals including calcium and zinc, must be adequately supplied. When balanced correctly, dogs can maintain healthy weight, energy levels, and coat condition. However, poorly planned diets can
lead to deficiencies, immune issues, and even heart problems.
Cats, on the other hand, face greater challenges. Nutrients such as taurine, arachidonic acid, and preformed vitamin A are crucial for their heart, vision, and overall health. Vegan diets risk serious deficiencies, which can result in irreversible damage. While some commercial vegan cat foods exist, they require careful supplementation and regular veterinary monitoring.
Owners considering plant-based diets for pets should consult a vet and choose nutritionally complete, scientifically formulated foods. While dogs may thrive with the right approach, cats are far less flexible, making plant-based feeding a high-risk option for them.
Find pet-sitters who love pets to care for yours
OUR house-sitters are great pet lovers and exchange their time for free accommodation
Many home and pet owners worry about meeting new sitters. It is a natural concern. However, by doing the due diligence, choosing a good house-sitting platform and reading the reviews for both the platform and the house-sitters you will learn a great deal and then you can decide how to trust in your choice of sitter.
You can relax on holiday knowing your pets are being cared for in their own environment, at no cost to you by sitters that are recommended. The pet-sitters will offer their time and service in exchange for free accommodation. It allows the sitter to discover a new location from the comfort of your home. It’s like old fashioned barter. How it works
1. Register at HouseSitMatch.
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sitter and enjoy your holiday worry-free
Real savings, real peace of mind
Each house-sit benefits both the homeowner and the house-siter. Your pets receive one-on-one attention at home, your property stays protected, and you avoid expensive kennel fees. Take Philippa - she saves over €1,500 annually using house-sitters instead of boarding kennels for Panda and her other animals.
For a small annual registration fee, you can connect with verified house-sitters willing to provide free pet care and home security. Your pets deserve the comfort of their own home, and you deserve an affordable holiday.
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Laser danger
CATS love laser pointers. They’ll happily try to catch the shining dot for hours, providing top rate entertainment for you and your feline friends. The same can’t be said for dogs. In fact, playing with lasers can be incredibly dangerous for dogs as there’s a possi bility they could develop a condition called Laser Poin ter Syndrome.
It might sound silly, but the condition is serious. As a dog tries and fails to catch the laser, they become increasingly frus trated. Unlike a cat, who might give up and walk away once bored, dogs become trans fixed and develop obses sive tendencies.
These OCD symp toms manifest in dogs constantly being on the lookout for the laser, even once it’s been put away. They become anxious and agitated. Always on
edge, they will try to catch and leap at other lights, shadows and reflections. It’s best to avoid playing with lasers around your pup. Stick to fetch. Or alternatively, try playing with a flirt pole - a large pole
create a similar playful effect without the harmful results. You can tease your pup, make them chase back and forth in pursuit of their toy but crucially, once they start showing signs of frustration, they have a tangible prize to
Credit: Shutterstock, Chendongshan
Can your beloved pet be a vegetarian?
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