Dep. Legal A PM 42-2025 - 140 - 2004 - ISSN - ISSN 3015-1309 2488-1686
Mallorca I No. 2143 I 30 July - 5 August 2026 I FREE Newspaper
We are sailing
Brits boost bookings
BEST KNOWN for his timeless hit Sailing, Sir Rod Stewart has brought the lyrics to life after cruising into Mallorca aboard a luxury superyacht for a family summer getaway. The 80-year-old music legend has been enjoying the island’s southwest coast with wife Penny Lancaster and their family, dropping anchor near the exclusive marina of Puerto Portals. During their stay, the group reportedly spent time browsing the marina’s luxury boutiques before returning to the yacht for lunch. Fans were also treated to a glimpse of the holiday after Penny Lancaster shared a series of sun-soaked photographs on her Instagram account, showing the family relaxing on board and enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Balearic Islands. The posts quickly attracted thousands of likes and comments from followers. The visit marks a return to familiar waters for the couple, who also holidayed in Puerto Portals by yacht around 25 years ago. Before arriving in Mallorca, Stewart had been seen enjoying time in neighbouring
Credit: Instagram/PennyLancaster Instagram/Rodstewart
The legendary singer spotted near Portals on superyacht
Sir Rod and family on holiday
Ibiza as the family cruised around the Balearic Islands. One of Britain’s most successful musicians, Stewart has sold more than 250 million records worldwide during a career spanning more than six decades. His unmistakable voice has produced classics including Maggie May, Da Ya Think
I’m Sexy?, Forever Young and, of course, Sailing, the song that has become synonymous with the singer. Stewart is the latest in a growing list of international celebrities choosing Mallorca for a summer escape. In recent weeks, tennis great Roger Federer and basketball icon Michael Jordan
and David Beckham have all been spotted on the island. As the Sailing star continues his Mediterranean voyage, Mallorca has once again proved why it’s one of the world’s favourite destinations for music legends, sporting icons and Hollywood stars alike.
NEW figures showing holiday demand in Mallorca remains higher than last year and British visitors continue to play a vital role in the island’s success. Latest data from travel technology platform Travelgate shows bookings for the Balearic Islands were 1 per cent higher than during the same period in 2025, although reservations dipped by 3.3 per cent compared with the previous week. Even so, the islands retained their place as Spain’s third most popular holiday destination. The Balearics accounted for 8.5 per cent of all bookings made across Spain, behind only Catalonia and Andalusia. Spanish travellers generated the highest number of bookings, with British tourists remaining the second-largest market and Germans third. Couples made up most bookings, while breaks of two-five nights proved the most popular. Separate figures from Turespaña also showed the Balearic Islands welcomed 2.3 million international air passengers in June, the highest total of any Spanish region. The islands received almost 21 per cent of all international arrivals into Spain. The numbers tell a clear story: Mallorca remains a firm holiday favourite. Credit: Shutterstock/AnaIacobPhotography
Tourists arrive at Palma airport
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LOCAL NEWS
30 July - 5 August 2026
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Credit: Facebook/UEP!SóllerMatters
A DETERMINED group of neighbours in Sóller has shown what community spirit can achieve after collecting an astonishing 219 bags of rubbish from the town’s bypass in a volunteer clean-up. Rather than waiting for someone else to deal with the growing litter problem, residents spent nearly two weeks clearing around 1.5 kilometres of roadside, removing everything from plastic bottles, cans and food packaging to tyres, toys, building waste and even the remains of two dead sheep. The volunteers organised the initiative themselves after becoming concerned about the condition of one of the town’s main approach roads. Their efforts have transformed the area and highlighted the difference local people can make when they work together. While the clean-up tackled years of accumulated rubbish, organisers hope it will also encourage greater awareness about littering and inspire others to take pride in keeping Mallorca’s streets and countryside clean. The group has also called for continued cooperation between residents and local authorities to help maintain the area in the future. The initiative has been widely praised as a positive example of neighbours coming
Credit: Instagram/RafaNadalMuseum
Community cleans up Federer visits Nadal museum
Paid a special visit whilst in Mallorca
219 bags of rubbish cleared
together for the good of their community. With thousands of visitors enjoying Mallorca during the summer, the volunteers’ achievement is a timely reminder that protecting the island’s natural beauty is a shared responsibility, and that even small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact.
ROGER FEDERER has honoured his lifelong friendship with Rafael Nadal by touring the newly renovated Rafa Nadal Museum at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor during a visit to Mallorca. The Swiss tennis legend was welcomed by Nadal’s father, Sebastián Nadal, Academy Tennis Director Gustavo Marcaccio and museum manager Gonzalo Pérez, who guided him through the redesigned attraction. Nadal himself was not present during the visit.
The revamped museum takes visitors through Nadal’s career with interactive displays, audiovisual experiences, trophies, memorabilia and exhibits charting his rise from a young Mallorcan talent to one of the greatest players in tennis history. It also includes a section dedicated to the iconic “Big Three” era of Nadal, Federer and Novak Djokovic. After completing the tour, Federer praised the transformation, describing the museum as “beautiful” and saying it was “very moving”
to see the work that had gone into showcasing his friend’s achievements. Federer and Nadal shared one of sport’s most celebrated rivalries, facing each other 40 times between 2004 and 2019, while building a close friendship that has continued beyond their playing careers. The visit came just days after the pair enjoyed a round of golf together in Mallorca. The museum is open to visitors at the Rafa Nadal Academy in Manacor and offers an immersive look at Nadal’s remarkable legacy.
30 July - 5 August 2026
Balcony noise risk
Summer energy advice The air-con temperature myth
Credit : Toyakisphoto, Shutterstock
QUIET HOURS MATTER
A balcony washing machine can become a problem if it creates excessive noise.
A WASHING machine on a balcony is not illegal in Spain, but if it creates excessive noise it could lead to complaints and, in some cases, fines of up to €3,000. Several municipalities are reminding homeowners and tenants that household appliances must comply with local noise regulations, particularly during night-time quiet hours. Many homes in Spain have washing machines on balconies or enclosed terraces to save space. The location is not the issue. What matters is the level of noise and whether it exceeds
limits set by the local council. During the spin cycle, some machines, particularly older or poorly installed models, can produce around 70 decibels. If vibrations or noise travel through walls or the building’s structure and disturb neighbours, the appliance could breach municipal rules. A neighbour’s complaint alone is not usually enough to trigger a fine. Local police or the relevant authority must normally verify the disturbance and measure the noise before any penalty is imposed.
Quiet hours vary by municipality. In Madrid they usually run from 11pm to 7am, while in Valencia and Bilbao they generally begin at 10pm. Barcelona applies restrictions from 9pm until 8am. Running a noisy machine during these periods may be treated as a more serious offence, particularly if complaints are repeated. Authorities advise residents to ensure washing machines are properly installed, on a stable surface and do not create excessive vibrations to help avoid disputes or possible sanctions.
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Setting your air-con to lower temperatures doesn’t mean faster cooling times.
Credit: Juan Roballo / Shutterstock
NEWS
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WALKING into a hot home and turning the air conditioning down to 19°C may feel like the quickest route to relief, but the lower number will not make the room cool any faster. The temperature shown on the remote is a target, not a speed control. Selecting 19°C simply tells the appliance to keep working until the room becomes much colder, potentially consuming more electricity than necessary. Spain’s Institute for Energy Diversification and Saving says 26°C or above can provide sufficient comfort when suitable summer clothing is worn. Consumer organisation OCU recommends setting domestic air conditioning between 24°C and 26°C. OCU estimates that each additional degree of cooling can add around 10 per cent to the appliance’s running cost, although the actual difference depends on the unit, insulation, room size and temperature outside. Closing blinds before direct sunlight enters, ventilating early in the morning and cleaning filters can also reduce the work required from the system. During periods of extreme heat, however, keeping the home safe remains more important than reaching a precise money-saving setting. For most homes, beginning at around 24°C to 26°C offers a more economical route to comfort than immediately pressing 19°C. Credit : Irina Mikhailichenko / Shutterstock
Pool safety warning EYES ON CHILDREN FAMILIES are being reminded that swimming pools may pose a greater risk to young children than the sea, despite many parents naturally focusing on beaches. Water safety experts say the pool’s calm, familiar environment can create a false sense of security, leading adults to lower their guard when children need constant supervision. The warning comes after more than 200 people have died from drowning in Spain so far in 2026, with over half of the fatalities occurring at sea. However, specialists stress that private, hotel and community pools are often where young children are most vulnerable because adults become distracted or assume someone else is watching. Experts say drowning is usually quick and almost silent, unlike scenes in films. A child can get
into difficulty while parents are chatting, preparing food, checking their phones or briefly stepping away. Water safety organisations recommend that one adult should be solely responsible for supervising children near water and urge parents not to use mobile phones while doing so. For homes and holiday villas, specialists advise installing pool safety barriers, self-closing gates and secure access points. They also remind families that inflatable armbands and floating toys are not lifesaving devices and should never replace direct adult supervision. Obeying lifeguard flags, avoiding dangerous conditions and maintaining constant supervision remain the most effective ways to stay safe.
Experts warn that swimming pools can pose a hidden drowning risk for young children if they are left unsupervised.
euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.
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30 July - 5 August 2026
LOCAL NEWS
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Credit: Facebook/MÉSperMallorca THOUSANDS of people marched through the streets of Palma on Sunday July 24 to protest against mass tourism, insisting their campaign is not aimed at visitors but at what they describe as an unsustainable tourism model. Organised by the platform Menys Turisme, Més Vida (Less Tourism, Organisers stated “we are not against tourists… but More Life), the demonshow overstretched the island has become” tration drew between 25,000 people, according to police, and 70,000, according peaceful, tensions flared after its offito organisers. Protesters carried ban- cial conclusion when police blocked ners calling for action on the growing protesters from entering the Ses Volpressures they say tourism is placing tes area, where organisers had planon Mallorca. ned to read their manifesto. Clashes Campaigners argue that record vi- followed after some demonstrators sitor numbers are contributing to a allegedly threw objects at officers, worsening housing crisis, rising li- with police using batons and rubber ving costs and increased pressure bullets to disperse the crowd. on roads, public transport, water suOrganisers are now considering pplies and other public services. They launching a class-action lawsuit stressed their message was being mi- against the police, claiming officers sunderstood. used disproportionate force against “We are not against tourists,” or- peaceful demonstrators. The propoganisers said. “We are against how sed legal action comes as debate conoverstretched the island has become tinues over how Mallorca balances its because of too many tourists.” booming tourism industry with the While the march itself was largely concerns of many residents.
Credit: Instagram/MarcelRemus
Message behind the march Priscilla pays a visit
Here for the glamorous Remus Lifestyle Night
PRISCILLA PRESLEY has arrived on the island ahead of one of the summer’s most exclusive celebrity events, adding another famous name to Mallorca’s growing list of star visitors. The 81-year-old actress and businesswoman landed at Palma Airport on Tuesday July 28, where she was welcomed by luxury real estate entrepreneur Marcel Remus before the annual Remus Lifestyle Night. The event, held at the Hilton Mallorca Galatzó, has become one of the island’s most glamorous so-
cial occasions, attracting celebrities, entrepreneurs and high-profile guests from across Europe. This year’s expected attendees also include, Spanish actress Mónica Cruz and British-American actress Mischa Barton. Although forever linked with Elvis Presley, Priscilla built a successful acting career of her own, appearing in the television series Dallas and starring in The Naked Gun films. Her visit is the latest reminder of Mallorca’s enduring appeal among international celebrities seeking luxury & privacy. Dep. Legal PM - 140 - 2004 - ISSN 2488-1686
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Heatwave plea MALLORCA’S restaurant industry is calling for urgent action to help businesses cope with soaring summer temperatures, warning that extreme heat is making outdoor dining increasingly difficult. The Restaurants Association of CAEB (Confederation of Business Associations of the Balearic Islands) has submitted a formal request to the Spanish Government Delegation in the Balearic Islands asking for temporary measures to help protect customers during official heatwaves. Among its proposals is permission for restaurants to use water misting systems on outdoor terraces when high-temperature alerts are in force. Current drought restrictions generally prohibit this type of water use, but CAEB argues a temporary exemption would improve customer comfort while supporting businesses during the busy tourist season. The association says outdoor terraces are essential to many restaurants’ income, yet prolonged periods of intense heat are discouraging people from eating outside during the hottest hours of the day. CAEB believes any relaxation of the rules should apply only while official heat alerts remain active and says the measure would help the hospitality sector adapt to increasingly frequent extreme weather. The request comes as Mallorca continues to experience high summer temperatures and repeated heat warnings. Credit: Shutterstock/StephenParker1
Want to use a cooling mist spray.
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30 July - 5 August 2026
LOCAL NEWS
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It’s true! Spandau Ballet’s Tony Hadley headlines Saturday 1
Spandau Ballet classics and songs from his own catalogue, while also paying tribute to musical influences such as Frank Sinatra and Tony Bennett. The concert will take place at the waterfront venue in Port Adriano, one of Mallorca’s bestknown summer music settings, where international artists perform against the backdrop of
the Mediterranean. Doors open at 8.30pm, with the concert starting at 10pm. Tickets are available from €50. For residents and holidaymakers alike, the evening offers the chance to hear the original voice behind some of the decade’s most enduring pop anthems in one of the island’s most scenic concert venues.
Palma airport confirms several dates for strikes Credit: Shutterstock/Markus Mainka
FOR anyone who still knows every word to True and Gold, one of Britain’s most recognisable voices is heading to Mallorca this summer. Tony Hadley, the legendary former frontman of Spandau Ballet, will perform at Port Adriano on Saturday, August 1, as part of the marina’s annual music festival, bringing with him a set packed with some of the biggest hits of the 1980s. Hadley helped define the New Romantic era as the lead singer of Spandau Ballet, whose string of international chart successes included True, Gold, Only When You Leave and Through the Barricades. The band sold millions of records worldwide and became one of Britain’s biggest musical exports. Since launching his solo career, Hadley has continued touring internationally, performing both
Credit: Facebook/TheTonyHadley
A legend performs Airport strikes
Staff walkout
HOLIDAYMAKERS or residents travelling through Palma Airport next week are being warned to prepare for possible delays as ground handling staff continue a series of planned strikes during the peak summer season. Following an initial walkout on 28 July, further partial strikes are scheduled for 1, 4 and 8 August after talks between Swissport and union representatives failed to resolve a dispute over pay and working conditions. The industrial action is expected to take place during two of the airport’s busiest periods, from 7am to 12pm and 7pm to 10pm, raising the risk of longer queues, baggage
delays and slower boarding procedures. The CCOO union says workers are seeking better pay in line with the national collective agreement, more full-time contracts, additional staff and improved recognition for certain operational roles. Swissport provides key airport services including check-in, baggage handling and aircraft turnaround for several airlines operating at Palma Airport. Spanish minimum service laws mean the airport is expected to remain operational, but passengers flying on the proposed strike dates are advised to check with their airline.
30 July - 5 August 2026
LOCAL NEWS
ONE of Mallorca’s leading businesswomen has been recognised with a prestigious regional award celebrating female entrepreneurship and leadership. Susana Carrillo, general manager of Globales Hotels, has been named the Balearic Islands winner of the 2026 CaixaBank Empresaria Award, which honours women who have made an outstanding contribution to business through innovation, leadership and social commitment. Carrillo has led the family-owned hotel group since 2015, taking over from her father, José Luis Carrillo. During her tenure, she has overseen the continued growth and modernisation of the company, including guiding it through the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. Today, Globales Hotels operates 57 hotels across Spain, Argentina, Belgium and Nicaragua and employs more than 4,000 people. The company
Stompers back in town
Credit: CaixaBank
Female entrepreneur honoured
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Credit: Bourbon Street Stompers
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Stompers back in town with a new incredible show CEO of Globales Hotels, Susana Carrillo, wins top CaixaBank award
has a particularly strong presence in the Balearic Islands, where it runs 39 hotels. The CaixaBank Empresaria Awards recognise more than financial success. Judges also consider innovation, international expansion, job creation, sustainability and the wider contribution business leaders make to their communities and local economies. As the Balearic Islands
winner, Carrillo will now represent the region in the national stage of the awards, competing alongside finalists from across Spain. The overall winner will also have the opportunity to take part in an international programme bringing together leading female entrepreneurs from around the world. The award shines a spotlight on both Carrillo’s leadership and Mallorca’s influential tourism industry.
The fabulous Bourbon Street Stompers will be back in Mallorca in September; this time, with the highly-acclaimed vocalist, Julie Silvera, from the USA. It is now over 33 years that the seven musicians formed the band in Essen in Germany, and the line-up has remained unchanged throughout that time. It is regarded as one of the best in Europe, if not the world. For this special performance, they are joined
by Julie Silvera, an acclaimed jazz vocalist from the USA whose soulful voice, musical sophistication and charismatic presence create a truly memorable concert experience. With Julie Silvera, the program evokes the spirit of the great jazz vocalists - from the elegance and joyful swing of Ella Fitzgerald, including her legendary musical dialogue with Louis Armstrong, to the soulful depth and individuality of Nina Simone, the sophistication
of Sarah Vaughan and the blues-infused soul of Dinah Washington. Together with Julie, the Stompers create a concert experience rooted in the golden age of jazz while remaining lively, warm and accessible for today’s audience. The concert is to be staged at the Auditorio de Palma at 20.30 pm on Friday 25 September. Tickets cost €38 can be booked online at auditoriumpalm a .c o m /t h e - b o u rb o nstreet-stompers
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SPANISH NEWS
30 July - 5 August 2026
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Credit: FlugKerl2 - wiki CC
Plane on sale for €10 Visa warning issued
The Piper PA-23.
SPANISH airport operator Aena has placed an abandoned twin-engine aircraft up for public auction at Seville Airport with an extraordinary starting price of just €10. The aircraft is a classic American-built Piper PA-23 151/160 Apache, registration EC-GKA. Piper produced the model as its first twin-engine design, with the prototype taking to the skies in 1952. The monoplane features two engines and a single main wing on each side of the fuselage. It currently sits under a legal declaration of presumed abandonment, awaiting a new owner. Interested buyers must first request the official conditions document by emailing svq.economico.compras@aena.es. This
paperwork outlines the auction rules, offer submission process, and buyer obligations. Bidders must also lodge a small guarantee deposit of 50 cents alongside their formal offer before the submission window closes. Staff will subsequently open all sealed bid envelopes at Seville Airport on a date to be announced. For aviation enthusiasts, collectors, or licensed pilots, this auction presents an unusually accessible opportunity to purchase a private plane. Bidders should review the official documentation thoroughly, pay the deposit, and submit their final figure. With a starting bid cheaper than a couple of pints, someone could soon walk away with a piece of aviation history for mere pocket change.
THE GIBRALTAR GOVERNMENT has issued an urgent warning after false claims circulated online suggesting travellers could use Gibraltar as a way to bypass UK, Spanish or Schengen visa requirements. Officials said the misinformation has appeared on social media following the introduction of Gibraltar’s new post-Brexit border arrangements and stressed that the changes do not create any visa loopholes. The government made it clear that anyone who requires a visa must still obtain the correct documentation before travelling. People arriving without the necessary visa or permission to enter will be refused entry. It also rejected suggestions that flying into Gibraltar provides an alternative route into Spain or the wider Schengen Area. Travellers remain subject to immigration
Credit: Shutterstock/BBA Photography
False claims circulating on social media
checks and must meet all legal entry requirements, regardless of how they arrive. The warning comes after new border procedures were introduced to streamline travel between Gibraltar and Spain while maintaining security and immigration controls. The government said the updated system is designed to make legitimate travel easier, not to change existing visa
rules. Officials are urging travellers to ignore unofficial advice shared online and instead rely on information published by government authorities before making travel plans. Anyone who is unsure whether they need a visa is encouraged to check the official entry requirements in advance to avoid disruption, delays or being refused entry at the border.
rca Baleares/C onselldeMal lo
Sineu set to celebrate
MALLORCA
Credit: Bra vo
ONE of Mallorca’s most authentic summer celebrations is set to return from Thursday July 30 as the historic inland town of Sineu prepares to host the Festival runs from July 30 to A ugust 15 Festes de la Mare de Déu d’Agost, bringing together centuries-old traditions, liA major highlight is the vely street parties and comMucada, a uniquely Maoffers visitors the chance to munity celebrations. llorcan celebration that has experience a different side Culminating on Saturbecome one of the island’s of Mallorca away from the day, August 15, the festival biggest summer parties. busy coastal resorts. Duhonours the Feast of the Created in 2003 around the ring the festivities, the town Assumption, one of Spain’s fictional characters Much comes alive with a vibrant most important religious de Reig and Na Muca, the atmosphere while still preholidays. Alongside church event sees thousands of serving the traditions that services and traditional cepeople dressed in pink deshave defined the celebraremonies, visitors can enjoy cend on Sineu for a day and tion for generations. concerts, cultural events, night of music, dancing and With thousands expecfamily activities and evecelebration. ted to attend, visitors are ning entertainment in the Known for its medieval advised to arrive early, partown’s picturesque streets streets and the island’s olticularly around the main and squares. dest weekly market, Sineu celebrations on August 15.
Magical opera nights
ONE of Mallorca’s most presworld’s leading Beethoven intigious cultural events is terpreters, will perform muset to return as Festival sic by Mozart, BeethoCap Rocat welcomes ven and Schubert. The world-renowned opesame day also inclura singers and classides the festival’s Inscal musicians to the pira: Impulso al Talenisland for three nights to programme, which of performances in showcases promising one of Europe’s most young opera singers. spectacular concert seThe festival concluttings. des on August 2 with a Taking place from Friconcert performance of Credit: CapRocat day July 31 to Sunday Au- Stunning venue and worldPuccini’s Tosca, conducgust 2, the festival will once class talent ted by Pablo Mielgo and again transform the historic featuring an international Cap Rocat fortress overlooking the Bay of cast including Lise Davidsen, Freddie De Palma into an intimate open-air venue for Tommaso and Ludovic Tézier, accompainternationally acclaimed artists. nied by the Orquestra Simfònica de les Illes The opening night features celebrated PeBalears. ruvian tenor Juan Diego Flórez, accompaNow in its sixth edition, Festival Cap Ronied by pianist Vincenzo Scalera in a recital cat has become one of the Balearic Islands’ of works by Bellini, Rossini, Verdi and other leading classical music events, combining renowned composers. world-class performances with the unique On August 1, Austrian pianist Rudolf Bubackdrop of the impressive former military chbinder, widely recognised as one of the fortress overlooking the Mediterranean.
Royals show support
King Felipe and Queen Letizia spoke with displaced families
KING FELIPE VI and Queen Letizia interrupted their summer programme in Mallorca to visit families forced from their homes by Spain’s devastating wildfire crisis. The royal couple travelled to the La Chopera sports centre in Villamanta, where evacuees from communities including Villa del Prado and Aldea del Fresno are being sheltered after fast-moving fires swept across parts of central Spain. King Felipe travelled from Mallorca to Madrid after the visit was added to the Royal Household’s agenda as the emergency escalated. Before meeting residents, he received a briefing from Spain’s Military Emergency Unit (UME), having also joined the State Emergency Coordination Committee by videolink from Mallorca
earlier in the week. During the visit, the King and Queen spoke with displaced families and thanked Civil Protection volunteers, Red Cross staff and emergency workers supporting those affected. Queen Letizia also listened to residents’ concerns. Speaking afterwards, King Felipe praised the coordination of the emergency response, describing the work of the services as “exemplary”. Over the last few weeks Spain has battled some of its largest wildfire emergencies in recent history. Tens of thousands of hectares have burned, while more than 100,000 people had been evacuated from affected areas in Madrid, Ávila and neighbouring provinces. Thousands still unable to return home.
SPANISH NEWS
30 July - 5 August 2026
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Tanks to remain empty AFTER five years of applications and arguments, Nueva Pescanova has withdrawn its plan to build what was intended to be the world’s first commercial octopus farm at Las Palmas port. On July 23, the company formally abandoned the concession application submitted in May 2021. The Las Palmas Port Authority will now archive the file, bringing the Gran Canaria project to an end. Nueva Pescanova said new administrative requirements and the need for a fuller environmental assessment had substantially changed the project’s scope, timetable and regulatory demands. At full production, the farm was expected to supply approximately 3,000 tonnes of octopus each year. That scale turned a familiar Spanish dish into a much larger ethical question: should an animal known for solving problems, learning from experience and feeling pain be raised intensively in tanks? The documentary My Octopus Teacher released in 2020 also brought the debate to a much wider audience. Some
Credit: Angelo Giampiccolo / Shutterstock
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More than 300 scientific studies found “very strong evidence of sentience” in octopods.
viewers say it stopped them eating octopus and put the animal’s intelligence and debate on whether they should be caught into the limelight. Campaigners have welcomed the withdrawal, but it is not a national ban on commercial farming. Proposed legislation remains before Congress, while Nueva Pescanova has not ruled out different technology or another location. For Las Palmas, however, the project is now over before a single commercial tank was built.
FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS
Sweet revenge LEAPY LEE SAYS IT
OTHERS THINK IT REVENGE! Not being a particularly vengeful person, this so called ‘sweet’ act of retribution is not particularly high on my ‘to do’ list. However, there are exceptions, and one example I heard recently certainly fits the bill. Our hero in this intrepid Irish tale was on the verge of getting married. He was a nurse by profession and most of his friends worked with him at the local hospital. Just before the wedding, his colleagues organised a boozy stag do. The night was a rip-roaring success and the future groom, utterly and completely inebriated, was taken home and finally passed out on his own sofa. And this is when our devilish plot begins to thicken. In a pre-determined plan, one of his ‘friends’ had raided hospital supplies and brought along all the paraphernalia needed to plaster up broken bones. With our hero duly out for the count, the party goers began their devious work. Careful not to disturb his
drunken slumber, they proceeded to plaster up one of his arms. And what a job they did of it. Not only did they cover his whole arm, but they fitted one of those wire affairs that keeps the arm bent at the elbow and away from the body. They then all left, leaving him still out for the count and snoring peacefully. Early the next morning, his closest friend received a hysterical phone call. It was our (naturally) panic-stricken hero, pleading to know what had occurred the night before. After calming him down, the ‘friend’ then managed to convince him that toward the end of the evening, when he was blind drunk, he had fallen over and broken his arm. They had visited the local hospital, had him X-rayed and subsequently plastered up. He was to go back in six weeks to have it removed. With their victim hardly able to remember anything at all, he finally accepted the story. Having no other choice, he then proceeded to carry on with the plans for his wedding the following day. Thinking it was all still a great joke, the stag party jesters still didn’t let on.
On the morning of the wedding, still no one had owned up. Subsequently they were then treated to our hero, walking up the aisle with his blushing bride on one arm and the other still uncomfortably stuck out in front of him! And still not one of the instigators said a word. Almost unbelievably, they actually let him, still blissfully unaware, have his reception and ultimately leave on his honeymoon. It wasn’t ‘til he returned that they finally let the cat out of the bag. Naturally our beleaguered bridegroom went totally ape. Well, you would, wouldn’t you? For some weeks he didn’t even bother talking. As time went on however, he appeared to put it all behind him. They all then began to look forward to the next big event. The marriage of his closest friend; the one who had been the ringleader of the stag night plastering ‘joke’! And on that juicy note, we’ll have to leave it all till next week. Don’t forget to tune in. The sweetest of revenge awaits. Keep the faith, Love Leapy leapylee@gmail.com
Leapy Lee’s opinions are his own and are not necessarily representative of those of the publishers, advertisers or sponsors.
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Hidden evolution Photo credit: LFRabanedo/Shutterstock
12 30 July - 5 August 2026
SPAIN’S humble wild rabbit has surprised scientists with a secret two million years in the making. Researchers have discovered that the Iberian rabbit, found only in Spain and Portugal, followed its own evolutionary path after becoming isolated on the Iberian Peninsula around two million years ago. The findings show that what many assumed was simply another European rabbit is, in fact, a genetically distinct lineage found nowhere else on Earth. The study, led by scientists from the University of Oviedo, the University of Porto and Spain’s National Research Council (CSIC), was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). It suggests the peninsula acted as a natural refuge, allowing rabbit populations to evolve separately over millions of years. The discovery has important conservation implications. The Iberian rabbit is a keystone species, providing food for more than 40 predators, including the endangered Iberian lynx and the Spanish imperial eagle. Scientists say protecting its unique genetic diversity is more important than ever because rabbit populations elsewhere in Europe could never replace what has evolved naturally on the peninsula.
Credit: AlexML2020 - Shutterstock
Volcano awakens
Mount Teide on Tenerife, smoking.
MORE than 1,000 low-magnitude earthquakes have been recorded beneath Mount Teide in Tenerife over two days, according to Spain’s National Geographic Institute. Activity intensified between Wednesday July 22 and Thursday July 23, when 550 tremors were logged, followed by more than 500 micro-earthquakes in subsequent days. The event represents the tenth seismic swarm recorded on the island this
year and the sixteenth since 2016. Most hypocentres lie between 10 and 15 kilometres below sea level in the Las Cañadas del Teide area, near the south-western villages of Guia de Isora, Vilaflor and Santiago del Teide. Volcanologists at the institute and the Canary Islands Volcanology Institute report that the quakes consist of low-magnitude hybrid signals. Accompanying measurements show a minor increase in carbon
dioxide emissions from Teide’s crater and slight ground deformation. Experts attribute these signals to hydrothermal fluids circulating deep underground rather than magma rising towards the surface. Authorities state clearly that the episode does not increase the risk of an eruption in the short or medium term. Public alert levels remain unchanged, and daily life and tourism across Tenerife continue as normal.
FEATURE/EUROPRESS
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Mad about pizza
Fake accident
emergency service workers, and hungry members of the public waiting outside. Ovens remained lit until everyone in line received a meal. After a formal civic reception hosted by Lambesc mayor Philippe Razeyre, Provence is now preparing for the Pizza World Cup in Rome, running from Tuesday, September 29 to Thursday, October 1. He plans to mentor two trainees at the event before retiring from competitive cooking to focus entirely on teaching.
Gibraltar’s rock-solid reset! NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS
NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.
AT last! When much of the world is busy putting up borders, Gibraltar and Spain knocked one down. As midnight struck on July 14, frontier checks disappeared, sparking celebrations on both sides - as recently reported in these pages. With a landmark EU-UK treaty dismantling police and customs posts, Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez hailed this as “the last wall in continental Europe” to fall. More than a Brexit clean-up, the agreement could also boost defence co-operation between two NATO allies guarding the entrance to the Mediterranean. Life beneath the Rock always depended on Spain. Over 10,000 workers cross daily from La Linea, while
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Credit: AP Insta
Every pie had to be round, roughly 30 cm in diameter, free of tears, and the correct weight. Defective items were discarded immediately. High temperatures tested the team as the warm conditions made the dough difficult to stretch. Working continuously without breaks or food, the crew maintained a relentless pace until organisers confirmed the final count around 7pm. All 12,800 pizzas were donated to local charities feeding sick children,
13
Fake crash, real theft
Guinness Book of Records award holder, Aymeric Provence.
THREE-TIME world pizza champion Aymeric Provence has helped break a Guinness World Record by producing 12,800 pizzas in nine hours. The 44-yearold from Cheval-Blanc in the Vaucluse region joined a 50-strong international crew of pizza makers in Naples on Tuesday, June 30. The team comfortably beat the previous record of 12,000 pizzas made over a twelve-hour period. Official adjudicators enforced strict quality standards for the attempt.
30 July - 5 August 2026
many Gibraltarians own homes across the border. With so much at stake, it’s hardly surprising 96 per cent voted to remain in the EU. After five years of negotiations, Gibraltar effectively joins the Schengen travel area and EU customs union for goods. British arrivals clear Spanish passport control, while new taxes and duties bring Gibraltar closer to EU rules, ending its “bargain-booze” reputation... The deal parks the sovereignty dispute, replacing confrontation with co-operation. Supporters believe greater certainty will attract investment and encourage more European flights to Gibraltar. Political arguments will continue, but it’s hoped that as well as resolving unfinished Brexit business, this landmark deal could signal a more pragmatic UK-EU reset. But with a new UK PM in office, only time will tell... Thanks for emails to my website below. Thrilled you enjoy my column – and novels!
Nora Johnson’s 14 critically acclaimed psychological suspense crime thrillers, including the latest ‘The House of Secrets’ (www.nora-johnson. net), all available online at Amazon etc. Profits to Cudeca cancer charity.
A SMALL knock against your car can seem like an unlucky moment on an otherwise ordinary drive. For dozens of victims, it has emptied their bank accounts. Portugal’s Public Security Police (PSP) have flagged a new twist on the fake accident scam, after more than 50 complaints in a single month reported losses exceeding €200,000. Criminals stage a minor collision on purpose, then turn hostile, accusing the driver of causing the crash. Loud, aggressive behaviour is used to fluster victims, who are warned they face losing licence points or a lengthy insurance dispute. Most reported cases have occurred in Greater Lisbon. A quick resolution is then offered: pay a
small sum on a portable card reader and the matter disappears. But as the victim enters their PIN, an accomplice swaps the genuine card for a fake one. Scammers then withdraw large sums before the theft is noticed. Drivers aged 70 to 90, travelling alone, make up most of the recorded cases. Police believe criminals are deliberately targeting older motorists. Officers insist a bank card should never be handed to anyone, whatever the circumstances. Anyone approached should call the police immediately rather than pay. Victims are urged to note the suspects’ appearance, vehicle and registration, then report the incident straight away. Families are encouraged to warn elderly relatives.
FINANCE NEXT year, the London Stock Exchange will launch LSE 24, an online platform allowing for almost continuous trading. During the week, the service will be operational from 5pm to 7.50am. Working around the London Stock Exchange’s traditional trading hours, experts believe this will strengthen London as a financial hub.
Aer Lingus cuts
RISING industry costs and increased competition has forced Aer Lingus to restructure. After posting first quarter losses of €103 million, the Irish airline will be cutting its flight capacity by 6 per cent, and reducing its workforce by 500 jobs, including pilots, cabin crew and head office employees.
Sustainable living
ACCORDING to a survey by Fotocasa, 78 per cent of home buyers in Spain are willing to pay more for a sustainable property. Energy efficiency has become a priority amenity, along with natural ventilation, especially as the frequency and ferocity of heatwaves increase annually.
Corporate sales
AMAZON BUSINESS, the division for corporate customers, achieved €20 billion in sales in the second quarter or 2026. Those with an account reportedly saved a combined €800 million in reduced costs. In that time, 1.8 million new businesses signed up, increasing Amazon Business’ customer base to 11 million worldwide.
Pay gap
THE gap between employers and their employees has widened. Analysis found that the bosses of the UK’s biggest companies earned 130 times the salary of the average full-time worker. The median salary for UK workers is £39,000. Meanwhile, FTSE 100 firms paid top executives a combined £857 million.
STAT OF WEEK
2.8 %
Annual inflation in the euro area was down 2.8 per cent in June 2026, according to Eurostat.
Victory pays off SPAIN’S triumph over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final was a major win for the country, boosting morale and the national team’s reputation. In addition to the coveted gold trophy, Spain’s football team will reportedly earn €43.7 million euros in prize money, the highest cash prize in the tournament’s history. But what does the win mean for Spain’s economy? According to a 2024 study by economist Marco Mello, winning the World Cup doesn’t create much of an economic impact. At most, the winning nation’s GDP grows around 0.48 per cent. This is generated largely through exports, as the prestige of being the reigning World Cup champions acts as a global advertising tool for goods and services. When Spain won the World Cup in 2010, the country saw little economic benefit, although at the time
Melia leaves Cuba
AFTER more than 30 years, the Spanish hotel chain, Melia, has ceased operations in Cuba, as US sanctions made it impossible to maintain stability. Melia was one of the first Spanish hotel groups to establish itself in Cuba in the 1990’s and amassed a network of 14,000 rooms. While the company has said it will do what it can to facilitate an easy transition for staff, suppliers, and clients, the closures will hit Cuba’s collapsing economy hard.
Credit: Ángel Martinez/RFEF/Seleccion Española de Futbol
Trading app
euroweeklynews.com • 30 July - 5 August 2026
Spain’s big football and financial win.
around 20 per cent of the country was facing unemployment, double the current 10 per cent rate. This time around, Spain is expected to see a €4 billion boost. Spanish authorities will collect around €6 million by taxing the 17 resident squad members. However, according to Polymarket, the IRS (the USA’s federal tax agency)
could also tax Spain’s cash prize. Under US law, payments to non-resident foreign athletes are subject to a 30 per cent federal withholding. Similar laws were in place in previous host countries, but FIFA negotiated a tax relief for participating teams. It is unclear whether a similar agreement was in place for the 2026 edition.
Holiday expenses
Sick leave surge ABSENTEEISM in Spain has become a major point of contention as of late. Staff absences reportedly reached a daily average of 1,789,369 in 2025, most of which were due to sickness. The absences cost the economy €59.1 billion, an 11.7 per cent increase compared to 2024. This is a trend that is on track to be repeated in 2026. The majority of sick leave absences only lasted a few days, but that’s part of the problem. An employee being off sick comes at a high price for employers and the Social Security system. The short but frequent absences have a large cumulative economic impact. Looking closer at absenteeism figures, recent reports have revealed that public sector employees request 12.5 per cent more sick leave compared to private sector workers. This disparity is potentially due to several
Eclipse economy
SUMMER in Spain is always busy, but the Spanish government estimates an additional 446,000 visitors will arrive in August, travelling to witness the total solar eclipse. The eclipse has prompted a 7.9 per cent increase in flight bookings, and 17.8 per cent increase in hotel bookings in provinces along the path of totality. This will generate an estimated economic impact of €347.6 million - €247.29 million from international visitors, €94.9 million from Spanish residents.
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BUSINESS EXTRA
14
Taking sick leave is more common in the public sector.
factors, including an ageing workforce, longer healthcare wait times, a higher burnout rate and stronger sick pay incentives.
Petrol revenue
Winter relief
SO far in 2026, petrol stations in Spain have experienced a 15 per cent increase. More than €11.2 billion in revenue has been generated in the first half of 2026, compared to €9.7 billion during the same period in 2015. More specifically, sales have reached €62.3 million per day, reaching an average peak of €69.5 million in April. These high revenue figures do not translate to profit. Petrol stations around the world have been squeezed by the high cost of crude oil, which has hovered close to $100 (€87.6) a barrel since January.
IN his first move as Prime Minister, Andry Burnham announced plans to cut VAT on electricity. Downing Street revealed, from October, electricity bills will be reduced by an average of £45 a year, offering households some relief during the winter months. This move will come at a cost of £850 million a year, and is said to be funded by the scrapped Digital ID programme, which is due to save £1.8 billion over three years. Cutting electricity on VAT is a strong example of how Burnham plans to lead a “cost of living government” during his time in Number 10.
SINCE 2020, prices of holiday accommodations have increased by almost 40 per cent especially in Andalucia where the average weekly price of a beachfront property is €1,270 in August. According to the 2025 Coastal Rental report, Puerto Banus, Marbella, was the most expensive place to stay, with the average rent reaching €3,700 per week. Meanwhile, the cheapest destination for accommodation was on the Torrenueva Costa, Granada, where a week in an 80m2 apartment costs around €800.
Finnish expansion SPANISH energy company Iberdrola has agreed to acquire an 80 per cent stake in Finland’s largest electricity distribution operator, Caruna, in a deal valuing the business at around €5 billion, including debt. The acquisition strengthens Iberdrola’s regulated networks business and expands its presence in a stable, highly rated market with strong electrification potential. Caruna serves 740,000 customers through 89,300 km of network. The transaction is expected to be completed by late 2026 or early 2027.
FINANCE
16 30 July - 5 August 2026
euroweeklynews.com
LONDON - FTSE 100
Closing Prices 27 July
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3I Group.....................................2.775,00............2.802,88......... 2.736,00......... 400,23K Admiral Group.............................3.590,0..............3.609,8........... 3.576,0........... 35,05K Airtel Africa................................. 346,20...............346,60............337,00.......... 408,96K Anglo American...........................3.701,0..............3.792,0........... 3.698,0.......... 506,34K Antofagasta................................3.638,00............3.719,00......... 3.634,00......... 103,67K Associated British Foods.............2.001,0..............2.019,0........... 1.992,5............ 54,6K AstraZeneca...............................12.871,7............12.934,0......... 12.660,0......... 522,08K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 502,40...............503,80............496,90.......... 399,58K Aviva........................................... 693,80...............698,80............692,00............1,14M B M European Value Retail.......... 217,20...............218,00............212,88.......... 475,85K BAE Systems..............................1.965,00............1.998,00......... 1.952,00.......... 625,2K Barclays...................................... 536,10...............536,40............528,79...........12,84M Barratt Redrow............................ 295,71...............300,25............293,70............4,01M Beazley.......................................1.291,50............1.294,00......... 1.290,50......... 354,08K Berkeley......................................3.442,0..............3.482,0........... 3.422,0........... 13,43K BP............................................... 529,50...............533,20............525,50............8,74M British American Tobacco...........4.547,0..............4.600,0........... 4.537,0........... 180,2K BT Group.................................... 197,38...............197,45............193,90............2,03M Bunzl...........................................2.754,0..............2.770,0........... 2.744,0............ 80,5K Centrica....................................... 160,75...............163,79............159,05............4,29M Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.850,0..............4.914,0........... 4.834,0........... 43,95K Compass...................................... 30,55.................30,90..............30,54........... 375,89K ConvaTec Group......................... 218,80...............221,04............217,40.......... 562,74K Croda Intl....................................2.947,0..............2.990,0........... 2.919,0........... 43,84K DCC.............................................6.365,0..............6.375,0........... 6.330,0.......... 513,92K Diageo.........................................1.579,0..............1.581,5........... 1.560,9.......... 409,73K Diploma.....................................7.585,00............7.602,87......... 7.535,00.......... 29,56K EasyJet........................................ 626,60...............633,44............623,80.......... 684,52K Entain.......................................... 563,84...............570,00............555,00.......... 371,39K Experian......................................2.795,0..............2.806,0........... 2.765,0........... 377,5K F&C Invest.................................. 336,60...............337,40............335,98.......... 671,84K Flutter Entertainment...................7.769,3..............7.819,1........... 7.687,0........... 19,85K Frasers........................................ 782,54...............786,00............748,50............ 79,3K Fresnillo.....................................2.560,00............2.626,00......... 2.554,00.......... 74,79K Glencore...................................... 525,20...............539,20............523,70............7,28M GSK plc......................................1.949,11............1.951,00......... 1.932,00...........2,34M HALEON...................................... 367,85...............368,20............365,70............7,92M Halma..........................................3.639,9..............3.656,0........... 3.628,0.......... 123,11K Hikma Pharma...........................1.590,00............1.596,00......... 1.582,00......... 111,58K Hiscox........................................1.844,00............1.849,00......... 1.839,00......... 251,91K Howden Joinery.......................... 767,50...............781,00............763,50.......... 570,73K HSBC.........................................1.564,00............1.566,20......... 1.555,00............3,3M IAG.............................................. 444,30...............454,93............443,00.............4,3M ICG PLC.....................................1.902,16............1.905,00......... 1.880,00.......... 275,7K IMI PLC......................................3.040,00............3.076,00......... 3.018,00......... 100,92K Imperial Brands..........................2.799,00............2.832,00......... 2.780,00.......... 207,3K Informa....................................... 885,80...............893,40............885,00.......... 228,46K InterContinental........................... 159,2.................160,1..............158,5............ 254,2K
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
Intertek........................................5.820,0..............5.845,0........... 5.819,0.......... 515,52K J Sainsbury................................. 347,10...............350,10............345,90............1,11M JD Sports Fashion........................ 92,86.................93,90..............89,64.............6,85M Kingfisher.................................... 303,26...............306,48............301,20.......... 520,16K Land Securities........................... 705,00...............706,25............698,50.......... 337,87K Legal & General.......................... 298,20...............302,68............297,50............4,83M Lloyds Banking........................... 114,90...............115,45............113,95...........70,98M London Stock Exchange..............8.940,0..............8.952,0........... 8.776,0.......... 140,87K Londonmetric Property............... 197,30...............198,40............196,00............1,31M M&G........................................... 357,90...............359,20............356,10........... 782,9K Marks & Spencer........................ 386,80...............390,50............385,90............1,19M Melrose Industries...................... 473,80...............483,80............461,80............1,15M Mondi.......................................... 761,20...............765,80............734,20.......... 144,91K National Grid..............................1.230,50............1.245,50......... 1.223,72...........4,14M NatWest Group........................... 686,00...............687,60............681,60............2,46M Next...........................................15.015,0............15.040,0......... 14.955,0.......... 44,55K Pearson......................................1.240,50............1.241,50......... 1.232,50.......... 88,87K Pershing Square........................3.813,25............3.814,00......... 3.764,00.......... 32,96K Persimmon.................................1.110,9..............1.129,0........... 1.107,5.......... 314,36K Prudential...................................1.112,90............1.114,25......... 1.105,50...........2,98M Reckitt Benckiser........................5.002,0..............5.036,0........... 4.979,0.......... 121,52K Relx............................................2.666,00............2.674,00......... 2.592,00......... 704,15K Rentokil....................................... 421,80...............425,10............419,70............1,42M Rightmove.................................. 444,15...............447,00............439,25.......... 742,65K Rio Tinto PLC..............................6.866,0..............6.977,0........... 6.859,0.......... 238,02K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.438,49............1.464,80......... 1.426,80...........3,26M Sage............................................ 883,00...............884,20............865,40............3,15M Schroders.................................... 588,5.................590,0..............588,0............. 90,9K Scottish Mortgage......................1.340,00............1.341,50......... 1.325,50......... 427,27K Segro.......................................... 982,00...............985,02............980,60............1,51M Severn Trent...............................3.016,0..............3.050,0........... 2.998,0........... 46,82K Shell............................................3.249,6..............3.259,5........... 3.232,5............1,17M Smith & Nephew........................1.153,50............1.156,50......... 1.147,50......... 198,32K Smiths Group.............................2.690,00............2.715,00......... 2.677,00......... 776,83K Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........7.108,9..............7.225,0........... 7.075,0........... 35,74K SSE............................................2.398,00............2.437,00......... 2.383,00......... 257,59K Standard Chartered....................2.164,50............2.168,00......... 2.145,00...........1,67M Standard Life............................... 912,50...............920,50............908,00.......... 836,48K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,67.................84,92..............83,14.............4,27M Tesco.......................................... 480,50...............485,50............478,90............7,97M Unilever.......................................4.571,5..............4.636,5........... 4.553,0.......... 793,48K Unite........................................... 557,75...............558,50............554,50.......... 397,93K United Utilities............................1.367,00............1.376,43......... 1.359,00.......... 96,08K Vistry Group................................ 285,00...............289,20............282,40.......... 219,78K Vodafone Group PLC................. 119,800.............120,200..........117,200..........13,32M Weir Group................................2.648,00............2.672,00......... 2.634,00......... 200,99K Whitbread...................................2.485,0..............2.518,0........... 2.476,0.......... 115,87K WPP............................................ 286,80...............289,19............284,40.......... 894,32K
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DOW JONES
Closing Prices 27 July
Company
Price(p)
Maximum
Minimum
Net
3M.............................................. 172,62...............173,35............169,46.............4,1M Amazon.com............................... 232,11...............234,95............231,34...........35,02M American Express....................... 326,17...............329,05............318,20............6,37M Amgen........................................ 376,04...............379,41............372,16............2,49M Apple........................................... 333,02...............334,37............321,62...........47,49M Boeing......................................... 209,52...............212,49............208,40............3,74M Caterpillar.................................... 888,73...............902,82............881,19............1,98M Chevron...................................... 194,79...............196,87............193,80.............6,7M Cisco........................................... 114,17...............114,57............112,20...........19,13M Coca-Cola..................................... 82,25.................82,33..............80,90............11,98M Goldman Sachs..........................1.061,23............1.077,38......... 1.051,82...........1,38M Home Depot................................ 332,98...............333,46............323,23............3,87M Honeywell................................... 243,15...............247,75............239,12............3,82M IBM............................................. 214,19...............216,10............206,80...........10,58M J&J............................................. 263,40...............263,71............259,61............6,35M JPMorgan................................... 353,21...............353,37............347,50............7,52M McDonald’s................................. 264,76...............266,46............262,90.............3,7M Merck&Co................................... 131,07...............131,71............130,24............6,15M Microsoft.................................... 381,70...............389,03............380,65...........27,66M Nike.............................................. 41,70.................42,15..............40,89............26,18M NVIDIA........................................ 206,84...............211,91............204,81..........114,84M P&G............................................ 147,41...............147,99............145,40............6,62M Salesforce Inc............................. 163,66...............164,45............159,55............10,9M Sherwin-Williams........................ 317,51...............320,14............313,01............2,02M The Travelers.............................. 387,26...............389,11............377,87............2,54M UnitedHealth............................... 420,74...............429,00............418,92............3,75M Verizon......................................... 46,38.................46,44..............43,73............40,76M Visa A.......................................... 355,74...............355,84............351,05............4,48M Walmart...................................... 109,47...............109,60............108,01...........18,41M Walt Disney.................................. 94,85.................96,29..............93,00............12,15M M - Million Dollars
NASDAQ
Closing Prices 27 July
Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced STAK Inc......................................................... 602,27 %........................67,08M Wearable Devices............................................. 58,30 %.........................29,71M NIP ADR........................................................... 47,20 %........................111,96K Scribe Therapeutics......................................... 44,33 %........................990,79K Safety Insurance.............................................. 41,49 %..........................1,65M Vivakor............................................................. 37,26 %........................106,97M 707 Cayman..................................................... 33,97 %.........................15,75M Raytech Holding............................................... 30,74 %..........................17,3K AiRWA............................................................. 28,69 %.........................91,38K Noodles & Co................................................... 24,37 %........................417,23K M - Million Dollars
Most Declined China SXT Pharma...........................................-80,82 %........................324,05M C3is Inc............................................................-45,94 %..........................5,24M Robin Energy...................................................-43,66 %........................841,15K Golden Sun Education......................................-39,60 %........................133,67M Baosheng Media Group Holdings.....................-31,58 %.........................84,09K Yimutian ADR..................................................-28,88 %..........................7,76M Maison Solutions.............................................-28,40 %.........................14,77M Baiya International...........................................-27,99 %..........................3,46M Aterian.............................................................-27,09 %........................810,56K Lion Group Holding..........................................-26,57 %.........................519,3K Codexis............................................................-25,63 %.........................10,38M M - Million Dollars
FINANCE
euroweeklynews.com
Wind farm win
SCOTLAND recently approved construction of two wind farms that could power two million homes. Ocean Winds has invested £1.7 billion into the project, which will consist of 140 turbines across 429 kilometres in the Moray Firth. The next step will include obtaining ministerial approval for environmental mitigation plans.
Nestle sale
NESTLE is negotiating the sale of a 50 per cent stake in its European water business to Platinum Equity, valued at around €5 billion. The proposed joint venture includes brands such as Perrier and San Pellegrino and forms part of Nestle’s strategy to streamline operations and focus on core businesses.
Borrowed for basics HIGH cost of living and stagnating wages is forcing many Spaniards to take out loans. The outstanding balance on credit loans has reached almost €200 billion. With 35.9 per cent of consumers anticipating having to take out a loan in the next six months, this balance is expected to climb higher. Such an increase is partly due to the ease in which a small loan can be obtained nowadays. Not only has the interest rate
Credit: Tada Images / Shutterstock
BUSINESS EXTRA
30 July - 5 August 2026
Households forced to borrow to cover essentials.
Fair pay THE French Open became the first grand slam to offer its players a share of the event’s revenue, marking a major step in the ongoing dispute over fair pay. Players want all grand slam tournaments to guarantee 16 per cent of revenue will be contributed to the prize fund, with that increasing to 22 per cent by 2030.
No agreement has yet been made, but the announcement puts considerable pressure on other tournaments, namely the upcoming US Open. If the US Open follows previous precedent of increasing the prize money by 20 per cent, players could be competing for a share of a $100 million (€87.6 million) prize pot.
dropped from 8 per cent in 2023 to 6.7 per cent, but many services now offer instalment plans for all kinds of purchases. With the help of ‘buy now, pay later’ (BNPL) services, people aren’t just financing major purchases like household appliances or a car, but smaller everyday essentials. Struggling households are increasingly paying for their groceries in weekly instalments, because food prices have risen at such a rate they can no longer afford to pay upfront. BNPL services can offer a major relief to those whose budgets can only stretch so far. However, BNPL’s are relatively new and largely unregulated. Experts warn consumers not to become too dependent on these services to avoid overspending and racking up uncontrollable debt.
17
Profit drop WITH summer in full swing, Ryanair should be flying high. However, the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict is continuing to affect the budget airline. Consumer reluctance forced Ryanair to cut fares by around 6 per cent to stimulate demand, leading to pre-tax profit dropping 34 per cent to €593 million in the second quarter of 2026.
Summer distractions
HOMES in the UK aren’t selling. According to Rightmove’s latest house price index, summer house sales dropped by 1 per cent in July, much higher than the average 0.2 per cent summer lull. Rightmove claims the World Cup and summer heat has “distracted” buyers, forcing sellers to reduce their asking price to attract interest.
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20 30 July - 5 August 2026
FEATURE
euroweeklynews.com
• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •
Costa del Sol
Costa Blanca South
Famous walk gets WhatsApp
Seaside Ride
VISITORS heading to Malaga’s Caminito del Rey can now receive real-time updates after the famous walkway launched an official WhatsApp channel. The free service will notify followers about temporary closures, weather-related disruptions, ticket releases and other important announcements before they travel. It joins the attraction’s existing website, social media and Telegram service, giving visitors another convenient way to stay informed. Safety is the main reason for the new channel. Conditions in the Gaitanes Gorge can change quickly, particularly during strong winds or severe weather. Subscribers will also receive information about ticket availability, operational changes and special announcements, which could prove especially useful during busy periods when entry slots sell out well in advance.
MORE than 1.5 million people travel to Alicante’s beaches by bus every summer, and the popular BeachBus campaign is back to make getting to the coast easier than ever. A total of 10 bus routes connect Alicante’s neighbourhoods and nearby towns with the coastline. Seven urban services, operated by Vectalia, carried more than 1.3 million passengers last summer, while three interurban routes transported almost 263,000 more. The network provides easy access to Alicante’s main beaches. During the busiest weeks of summer, several routes will operate more frequently, with buses displaying the BeachBus logo to make them easier to spot. Passengers can check routes, timetables and live updates through the Alicante se Mueve app, the city council’s mobility website or Vectalia’s website.
Axarquia
Almeria
David Guetta does Dreambeach
Albox scouts home safe
DREAMBEACH is set to launch a new era in Velez-Malaga, bringing one of Spain’s biggest electronic music festivals to the new area. Running on Friday, July 31 and Saturday, August 1, 2026, the event moves from its long-time home in Almería to a purpose-built venue expected to attract tens of thousands of music fans. More than 90,000 people attended the 2025 edition, and organisers hope the new location will build on that success. Four stages will feature techno, house, drum and bass, hardstyle, melodic techno and urban electronic music. David Guetta tops the bill with his exclusive Special Monolith Show, featuring spectacular visuals and production. Day tickets start from €49, while two-day passes cost from €89.
A VILLAGE brass band became an unlikely distraction for 73 Albox youngsters after a wildfire forced them from summer camp in Granada. Members of Grupo Scout 106 del Saliente and their adult leaders were evacuated from ValleScout near Restábal on Saturday July 25, as flames spread close to the Béznar reservoir. Around 100 people left the site as a precaution and luckily no one at the camp was hurt. They were later moved to Restábal school, where the council provided food and temporary shelter. With the village fiestas coincidentally under way, music from a charanga (street marching band) helped lower the tension and keep the youngsters entertained while crews tackled the blaze. The fire was declared controlled at around 10pm on Sunday July 26.
Costa Blanca North
Costa Calida
Joe Jonas in Javea
Open air exhibit
AMERICAN pop star Joe Jonas has chosen Jávea for his latest Mediterranean holiday, sharing snapshots of the Costa Blanca town with millions of followers on social media. The Jonas Brothers singer posted a series of Instagram Stories showing him relaxing aboard a boat off the coast, including views of the iconic Cap de la Nau cliffs. According to local reports, Jonas spent part of his stay exploring Jávea’s crystal-clear waters by boat. Joe Jonas first found global fame alongside brothers Kevin and Nick as part of the Jonas Brothers, one of the biggest pop acts of the late 2000s. Jávea has become an increasingly popular retreat for high-profile visitors thanks to its picturesque coves, dramatic cliffs and relaxed atmosphere.
Art lovers and curious visitors alike have a unique opportunity this summer as “The Prado in the Streets” transforms Mazarron into an open-air gallery. Having opened on July 24, the exhibition has already begun attracting residents and holidaymakers keen to experience some of Spain’s greatest masterpieces without travelling to Madrid. Located in the Plaza de las Comunidades Autonomas, the free exhibition features 50 life-size photographic reproductions of iconic works from the Museo Nacional del Prado. Visitors can admire paintings by celebrated artists including Velazquez, Goya, Rubens, Rembrandt, Titian, Caravaggio, Bosch and Sorolla. Bilingual panels and QR codes provide even more insight, making the exhibition accessible for all ages and nationalities. The exhibition remains in Mazarron until September 6.
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Can you care for Seve as a Dog sitter? SEVE adores the sea One of the things you need to know about Seve the red Labrador is that he loves company, dog sitters in particular, and dog sitters who like the beach he loves even more. He loves nothing more than messing around on the beach, playing catch and just being in the water. He is very well behaved, has excellent recall and his owners say like likes meeting new people. So could you dog sit for Seve? Or perhaps another pet might take your fancy. Check out our Housesit Match listings. How It Works: Your Next Step to Adventure Joining our network is simple, secure, and collaborative: 1. Register at HouseSitMatch.com. 2. Create Your Profile with photos highlighting your property features and pets 3. Match & Explore with your perfect housesitter partner and
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A DAY at the beach may be every dog’s dream, but veterinarians warn it can quickly become a medical emergency if owners aren’t careful. As Spain’s summer temperatures continue to soar, vets are reminding pet owners that heatstroke, hot sand, seawater and even ordinary beach games can pose serious risks to dogs enjoying the coast. Heatstroke remains the biggest concern. Unlike humans, dogs struggle to regulate their body temperature, making them especially vulnerable after running across hot sand or spending too long in direct sunlight. Experts recommend visiting beaches during cooler parts of the day, providing constant access to fresh water and ensuring pets have plenty of shade. Another overlooked danger is sand ingestion. Dogs often swallow sand while chasing balls or chewing toys, which can lead to painful intestinal blockages requiring urgent veterinary treatment. Owners are also warned
Credit: Alexander Sánchez
Dog’s beach day
Heatstroke remains the biggest concern.
against allowing dogs to drink seawater, which can cause dehydration, vomiting and serious complications linked to excessive salt intake. Meanwhile, scorching sand, broken shells, fishing hooks and hidden debris can all result in painful injuries. Veterinary experts say most beach-related emergencies are
entirely preventable with sensible planning and supervision. The message is simple: Spain’s beaches should create happy summer memories, not emergency trips to the vet. A few simple precautions could make the difference between a perfect day by the sea and a life-threatening ordeal.
Third eyelids
BOTH dogs and cats possess a third eyelid called a nictitating membrane. Hidden in the inner corner of the eye, this translucent shield clears away debris, keeps the cornea moist, and produces a significant portion of their protective tear film - acting like a built-in windshield wiper.
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CRYSTAL-CLEAR Mediterranean waters, a spectacular stretch of coastline and a true test of endurance await competitors in the XIV Travessa Son Serra de Marina, taking place on Saturday, August 1. One of Mallorca’s most popular open water swimming events, the annual challenge attracts experienced swimmers eager to tackle the stunning 5 kilometre route between Son Bauló and Son Serra de Marina. Far more than just a race, it offers participants the chance to experience the island’s breath-taking northern
Sea sprint coastline from a completely different perspective, with every stroke bringing them closer to the finish in one of Mallorca’s most picturesque settings. The action gets underway at **9.00am**, with swimmers setting off from Platja de Son Bauló before following the beautiful coastline towards Son Serra de Marina. Throughout the event, a dedicated team of safety boats, kayaks and paddleboards will accompany competitors, ensuring
they can focus on the challenge ahead. From seasoned open water specialists chasing a personal best to swimmers taking on the distance for the first time, the Travessa Son Serra de Marina promises an unforgettable morning of determination, achievement and spectacular scenery. With places filling quickly each year, another memorable edition of this much-loved event is set to make waves on Mallorca’s sporting calendar.
Inca hosted an incredible day of racing.
Inca classic THE streets of Inca came alive on Saturday as the LXXXVI Trofeu Ciutat d’Inca, incorporating the XXXIII Trofeu Jaume Mestre, delivered another memorable afternoon of racing on one of Mallorca’s most established urban cycling circuits. Organised by Club Ciclista Inca, with support from the Mallorca Council and Inca Town Hall, the event once again proved a highlight of the island’s summer calendar. Scorching July temperatures added another layer of difficulty, with riders battling both the fast, technical circuit and the relentless heat. Despite the demanding conditions, competitors produced an exciting spectacle across seven official races, alongside two
events for the youngest cyclists. Race distances ranged from 45 kilometres for the top-level and junior riders to shorter contests for youth categories, ensuring cyclists of all ages had the chance to compete. The first-category race was officially started by Inca mayor Virgilio Moreno, while the prize ceremony recognised standout performances, including Matias Montenegro, who received the Jaume Mestre Combativity Award. The event celebrated not only competitive cycling but also the strength of Mallorca’s grassroots racing scene, bringing together riders, families and supporters for a day of fast-paced action and community spirit in the heart of Inca.
Futsal boom ILLES Balears Palma Futsal are proving that futsal has become a major part of Mallorca’s sporting identity, with the club closing in on a new milestone of almost 3,400 season ticket holders for the 2026/27 campaign. The figure would represent a record number of supporters for the Palma side and highlights the rapid growth of the sport across the island. Once seen as a smaller alternative to football, futsal is now attracting a passionate following in Mallorca. The atmosphere at the Palau Municipal d’Esports Son Moix has become one of the club’s biggest strengths, with fans turning each home match into a lively celebration of the game. Palma Futsal’s success on the court has played a key role in
Credit: Illes Baleares Palma Futsal
Swimmers race along northen Mallorca coastline.
Credit: Federacio de Ciclisme de les Illes Balears
Futsal fans go wild in the stands. this rise. Their continued presence among Spain’s top teams and achievements in European competition have helped bring greater attention to the sport, inspiring new generations of players and supporters. The growing number of season ticket hol-
ders reflects more than just sporting success. It shows a community connecting with a team that represents Mallorca on a national and international stage. With nearly 3,400 fans ready to fill the stands, futsal’s popularity on the island shows no signs of slowing down.