Issuu

Dep. Legal MA-422-2006 - ISSN 2953-42536

Axarquia I No. 2139 I 2 - 8 July 2026 I FREE Newspaper

250th Independence Day Stadium chosen Future looking bright for Malaga

THE tiny Malaga village of Macharaviaya is staging Spain’s largest American Independence Day celebration, marking the historic 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Despite having only 500 residents, this Andalucian community proudly decorates its whitewashed streets with star-spangled banners to honour local hero Bernardo de Gálvez. As governor of Louisiana, Gálvez’s decisive victories against British forces earned him a portrait in the US Capitol, cementing the region’s permanent, undeniable link to world history. This year, the entire Axarquia region is bursting with immense pride over its monumental impact on global liberty. Just down the coast, the lively tourist haven of Nerja joins the grand 250th jubilee,

Credit: Visit AlmuñecarCredit: M FB

TINY AXARQUIA VILLAGE CELEBRATES ITS PLACE IN HISTORY

Macharaviaya celebrates is place in history.

transforming its iconic Balcón de Europa into a spectacular, cross-cultural stage. Together, these neighbouring towns bridge Malaga’s rich past with America’s present, proving that the foundational roots of modern democracy extend far across the wide Atlantic.

Recognised as a Fiesta of Singular Tourist Interest, the diverse festival programme features moving live renditions of the US national anthem, vivid historical re-enactments, costume competitions, and traditional American barbecues. Culmi-

nating in brilliant fireworks over the Mediterranean, the event draws massive international attention to Andalucia’s heritage, proving Malaga isn’t just celebrating a foreign holiday, it is rightfully claiming its starring role in the global fight for freedom.

Torre del Mar kind hearts Credit: TDTdM FB

Bringing relief to families this summer VOLUNTEERS working with Lux Mundi expressed sincere appreciation after June’s food drive in Torre del Mar. Some 39 families received essential supplies this month including 83 adults and 54 children. Organisers believe the heartfelt assistance gave families extra breathing room during tough times. Residents donated food and money despite the hot weather. Others helped by shopping for

Plucky community volunteers.

items, packing bags, collecting donations, sor-

ting goods, driving deliveries and handing out

packages to homes. More help came from collection point volunteers and those spreading the word. Such efforts help households facing difficulties. Gratitude goes to every participant for contributing to a positive effort. Collective action shows how a caring community delivers real help to those in need. Everyone involved shows the power of local solidarity and care.

SINCE Malaga’s groundbreaking entry into LaLiga, the local council has made a decisive move and selected the university zone as the site for Malaga CF’s new 55,000-capacity Rosaleda stadium, a project budgeted at €414 million with completion expected around 2032. Experts chose the 66,037-square-metre university plot over four other locations, including a rebuild of the current La Rosaleda stadium and a site. The selected option scored highest across 68 indicators, including accessibility and planning ease, while proving more cost-effective than the €434 million rebuild and the €588 million San Cayetano proposal. The new venue offers superior capacity compared to a 43,000seat rebuilt stadium, allowing the club to accommodate 17,000 fans currently on its membership waiting list. Furthermore, advanced urban works at the university site will simplify approval procedures. The location boasts strong transport links, offering 4,300 public transport spaces per hour and placing 473,000 residents within 45 minutes of the venue. Existing university parking will serve matchday crowds. Design and construction will take more than three years, during which Malaga CF will continue playing at their current home. Credit: DdM

Original plans for new Malaga CF stadium.

2 - 8 July 2026

LOCAL NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

La Caleta community feria Babylon beats competition Credit:Caron Badkin / Shutterstock.com

Fundraising at Port of Caleta de Velez.

LA CALETA DE VELEZ will hold its annual fair from Thursday, July 2, to Sunday, July 5, with this year’s programme centred on raising funds for a shade structure at the local nursery, Escuela Infantil Virgen del Mar. Residents, volunteers and neighbourhood groups are supporting the project through two community food events and lots of fun. A sardine cook‑out on Saturday, July 4, will be led by espeteros, the coastal grillers maintaining one of the Axarquia’s oldest food traditions. A large paella on Sunday, July 5, prepared by a local neighbourhood association, will continue the fundraising effort. Money raised across both events will go towards installing a protective shade to THE flavours of Torrox have taken centre stage as the winners of the first ever Torrox Tapas and Cocktail Route were recognised following a successful debut that brought together local hospitality businesses and hundreds of food lovers. After a month of tasting, exploring and voting, the public chose their favourite creations from the participating venues. More than 800 people took part in the gastronomic experience, helping to showcase the variety and quality of the town’s culi-

improve outdoor conditions for young children during the summer heat. The fair retains its strong local character. La Caleta de Velez’s fishing heritage is reflected in the sardinada, with dance groups, choirs and youth football teams appearing across the four‑day programme. Events have been planned to include all ages, beginning with Children’s Day on Thursday, July 2, and followed by a Seniors’ Dinner on Friday, July 3. A community pageant will run across three categories, children, adults and seniors. Caleta de Velez Fair has music, dancing, family activities and traditional food, taking place in the beautiful port of Caleta de Velez.

SPANISH motorcycle builder Fran Manen has made custom bike history, after his Velez-Malaga workshop, Lord Drake Kustoms, impressively claimed six major titles at Europe’s biggest Harley-Davidson gathering. Competing at the European HOG Rally Custom Bike Show in Cascais, Portugal, the workshop entered four modified motorcycles and won four championships and two runner-up finishes. No single participant has achieved this tally since the event began more than 30 years ago. One creation dominated the weekend. Babylon, which was built specifically for the competition, claimed the three most sought-after honours, including Best of Show and champion of the Cruiser Class.

Award winning Babylon

Award winning Babylon.

Built on a 2005 Softail Springer frame with a Twin Cam 88 engine, it features a hand-built exhaust and a gold-finished kick-starter. Demand has proved so strong that Lord Drake Kustoms will now produce 10 numbered units. Writing on Facebook after returning from Cascais, Manen said the trophies mattered less

Torrox’s best bite and sip Credit: Ayuntamiento de Torrox

Torrox announces winners of its first Tapas Route.

nary offering. The award for the best tapa went to Hotel Costamar in El Morche, whose dish earned the highest number of votes from participants. Meanwhile, the winning cocktail award was presented to +57 Coffee House in Torrox Costa, recognised as the favourite among cocktail creations. The awards highlighted the important role of the route in promoting

than sharing the weekend with family. Years of long hours and difficult decisions have gone into the business, he said, and having relatives still by his side counts for more than any result. He also thanked colleagues at Lord Drake Kustoms and Nautilus Dragados, saying no achievement is built alone.

local businesses and encouraging visitors to discover the gastronomic attractions of Torrox. Organisers described the event as a success, with the initiative helping to boost activity across the municipality’s bars, restaurants and cafés. With its combination of traditional flavours, creative recipes and community participation, the Torrox Tapas and Cocktail Route has made a strong first impression and could become a much-anticipated event in the local calendar.

NEWS

2 - 8 July 2026

Balcony flag warning POTENTIAL PENALTIES EXPLAINED

Air-con bill check Questions that matter

Photo Credit: Elliott Brown / Flickr

IN the midst of the World Cup, flags on balconies are a common show of patriotism. However, residents and visitors could face fines if they hang a flag from a railing incorrectly. The law is not concerned with patriotism or symbolism, but with safety and coexistence. It sets out rules on the installation and display of national flags to minimise the impact on neighbouring properties and the appearance of façades, and potential risks to passers-by. Residents and holidaymakers may be sanctioned if a flag or other item placed on a balcony poses a risk of falling, is poorly secured, blocks windows or visibility, invades another person’s property, or breaches local ordinances restricting items on balconies and railings. Fines for non-compliance range from €150 to €3,000. Minor offences, such as hanging visible laundry or allowing water to drip onto neighbouring properties or streets, can result in fines of €150 to €750. Serious offences, including ignoring municipal requirements or repeat breaches, carry penalties of €751 to €1,500. Where police identify a danger to passers-by, fines can range from €150 to €3,000. If an

Credit: Phovoir / Shutterstock

euroweeklynews.com

This new EU air-con rule could cut Spain summer bills.

Incorrectly hanging football flags in Spain can trigger €3,000 fines.

object falls and causes injury, penalties may be unlimited depending on the court’s decision. According to the General Council of Associations of Property Administrators of Spain and legal experts, temporarily displaying a

flag during the World Cup does not constitute a legal or urban planning disturbance. While the law prohibits unauthorised alterations to building exteriors, this generally applies to major works rather than the temporary display of a flag.

A PROPOSED EU rule could help households in Spain avoid costly mistakes when buying air conditioning during the summer heat. The European Commission wants installers who sell energy-labelled products, including air-conditioning units, boilers and kitchen appliances, to show customers the relevant energy label when sending quotes. The measure is not yet active law and still needs to pass through the EU legislative process. But the practical advice already applies: buyers can ask installers for the energy label, product information sheet and exact model number before accepting a quote. For households in Spain, the issue is not only the cost of fitting the unit. A cheaper system may use more electricity, perform poorly in winter heating mode, make more noise, or be unsuitable for the size of the room. The European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL), the EU product database, can also help buyers compare energy-consumption details for appliances sold on the EU market. For anyone replacing an old unit, fitting air-con for the first time or upgrading a rental or holiday home, the key question is simple: ask how much the system will really cost to run before signing off the installation.

Hidden holiday costs

Credit: Carlovis/Shutterstock

REGIONAL CHARGES VARY TOURIST taxes remain a feature of only a limited number of Spanish destinations, but they can significantly increase the cost of accommodation for visitors, particularly during the busy summer season. Unlike some European countries, Spain does not operate a nationwide tourist tax system. Instead, individual regions and municipalities decide whether to apply overnight charges to visitors staying in regulated accommodation. Barcelona currently imposes the highest tourist taxes in the country. In some higher-category hotels, visitors can pay up to around €12 per person per night, when regional and municipal charges are combined. The tax applies to hotels, apartments, hostels, campsites and some cruise passengers staying overnight. The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera, also charge a tourist tax. Rates

vary according to accommodation type and season, ranging from around €1 per night for lower-cost accommodation to approximately €6 per night in luxury hotels during peak periods. Santiago de Compostela applies a smaller municipal tourist tax of roughly €1 per person per night. The measure is linked to managing visitor numbers associated with pilgrimage tourism and city breaks. In contrast, destinations such as Madrid, Andalucia and the Canary Islands currently do not apply general tourist taxes. Although the Valencian Community has approved legislation that would allow such a charge, it has not yet been activated. As a result, travellers may find that accommodation costs differ substantially between regions, even when room prices themselves are similar.

Madrid, Andalucia and the Canary Islands currently do not apply tourist taxes.

euroweeklynews.com The information on this page is intended for general guidance only, and should not be considered legal advice.

LOCAL NEWS Dep. Legal MA-422-200 - ISSN 2953-42536

+34 951 38 61 61

euroweeklynews.com

sales@euroweeklynews.com info@euroweeklynews.com editorial@euroweeklynews.com distribution@euroweeklynews.com

Printed at Recoprint: Polígono Industrial La Palmera, Parcela 3, Av. de la Palmera, 41, 41703 Dos Hermanas, Sevilla The EWN does not accept responsibility for the following: Claims actions and promises made by advertisers; Errors in advertisements reproduced frotm poor quality artwork or inadequate instructions for text layout or for any loss or damage caused by any error; Inaccuracy or non-appearance of any advertisement; More than ONE INCORRECT insertion. No republication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do not affect the value of the advertisement, errors and omissions excepted. EWN Media Group no part of this newspaper may be reproduced without written permission from the publishers. All rights reserved / Todos los Derechos reservados.

Affiliated to

euroweeklynews.com

El Ingenio expansion EL INGENIO shopping centre in Velez-Malaga has received planning approval for a €14 million expansion. The project will add more than 4,500 square metres of commercial space to the popular site on the eastern Costa del Sol. Managed by MVGM, the centre currently operates at maximum capacity with every retail unit fully let. Annual visitor numbers are expected to rise from 9.2 million to more than 10 million once the extension is complete. This high footfall reflects strong demand for retail options in the area. The new space will increase the total number of stores to over 100, improving variety for residents and tourists while creating approximately 155 jobs. The owner, Grupo Sociedad Azucarera Larios, aims to develop a

El Ingenio shopping centre.

broader commercial and services zone to drive economic growth across

the wider Axarquia region. The next stage of construction will feature

a special retail park with medium-sized units to attract specialist operators. The complete development scheme involves a total investment near €100 million. It will deliver a combined shopping facility of roughly 100,000 square metres, positioning it among the largest retail complexes in southern Spain. The wider project includes office space, a hotel, and upgraded road access points, creating over 3,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Accessible Torrox beaches TORROX Town Hall has officially activated its comprehensive assisted beach bathing programme to remove physical barriers across its coastline for summer 2026. Running daily until Thursday, September 17, the local initiative targets individuals with special needs, elderly swimmers, and anyone recovering from temporary injuries. Specialist equipment, including amphibious chairs, adapted crutches, and custom boardwalk ramps, has been rolled out across El Morche, El Cenicero, Ferrara, and El Pe-

Credit:TorroxTH/FB

2 - 8 July 2026

Credit: El Ingenio

Assisted bathing scheme launched.

ñoncillo beaches. Mayor Oscar Medina announced that a 10-strong team of Civil Protection volunteers are driving the summer operation. Daily shifts run from 11am

to 2pm and 5pm to 8pm. Swimmers requiring assistance can easily book by calling +34 952 530 473 or emailing proteccioncivil@ torrox.es. Parallel safety measures have also been ramped up this summer, including legionella screening in public showers and beach hygiene testing. Surveillance upgrades feature high-tech aerial rescue drones and trained water-rescue support dogs patrolling local sands on weekend afternoons. Furthermore, El Morche, Ferrara, and Cenicero-Las Dunas have secured Blue Flag awards for pristine environmental management. The new measures ensure mobility restrictions do not prevent anyone from enjoying the sea this summer. For more information on the service visit the Torrox Town Hall website or Facebook pages.

LOCAL NEWS

Flamenco Fashion Show 2025.

Flamenco hits the runway RINCON DE LA VICTORIA is set to host a spectacular summer evening celebrating Andalucian culture, fashion and local traditions as the III Bezmiliana Flamenco Fashion Show joins forces with the election of the King and Queen of the Feria. The event will take place on Saturday July 11 at 9pm in Plaza Al-Andalus, bringing together designers, young talent and the community in a renewed gala format. The evening will showcase the latest flamenco fashion creations from designers including Candido Luis, Enrique Vicent, Ada Gutierrez, Esther Viegas, Rosa Laura and Abril Design Atelier, each presenting a selection of pieces from their collections. Alongside the

runway shows, candidates competing for the titles of King and Queen of the Feria will take to the stage, including a special appearance featuring the traditional marenga costume, celebrating a key part of Malaga’s cultural identity. With €3,800 in prizes available, the event aims to create a memorable showcase of style, heritage and community spirit. Organisers say the combination of both celebrations will offer a more dynamic experience for residents and visitors, highlighting flamenco fashion, local commerce and the traditions that make Rincon de la Victoria unique. The gala promises to be one of the standout cultural events of the summer, blending music, fashion and feria excitement.

2 - 8 July 2026

Night bus starts VELEZ-MALAGA council has announced a new special night bus service connecting the town centre with Torre del Mar for the summer season. The transport department initiative means to meet the increased demand during the busy holiday weeks, when evening cultural events and local festivals attract larger crowds. Councillor Celestino Rivas outlined the details on Friday, June 26, explaining that the extra services will allow residents and visitors to travel safely without driving after dark. The service will run every night from Wednesday, July 1 until Monday, August 31, with the final buses operating until half past two in the morning. Council planners hope the initiative will ease road congestion and support the local economy

Credit: PorMiPueblo Velez

Credit: Ayuntameinto de Rincon de la Victoria

euroweeklynews.com

Bus from Velez to Torre del Mar.

by making evening entertainment more accessible. Buses will depart from Velez-Malaga each night at 10.30pm, 11.30pm, 12.30am, and 2am. Return journeys from Torre del Mar depart at 11pm, 12am, 1am, and 2.30am. These intervals were chosen to ensure decent

coverage across major residential areas and to manage passenger numbers effectively during peak hours. The scheme provides a practical travel option for holidaymakers exploring the beachside area, maintaining good mobility standards when visitor numbers reach their highest points.

2 - 8 July 2026

SALOBREÑA Council has launched a citizen participation process to develop its Local Circular Economy Plan. Under the slogan “Your opinion counts to build a more sustainable Salobreña,” the initiative aims to create a practical roadmap that increases efficiency and protects the local environment. The circular economy strategy focuses on reducing waste through increased reuse and recycling. This approach aims to optimise resources, lower energy bills, and create new

LOCAL NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

Getting involved economic opportunities in repair services and green products, ensuring long-term development for future generations. Councillor Luis Cano, who leads the initiative, described citizen input as essential for identifying real needs and matching actions to local challenges. He urged neighbours and

businesses to collaborate to build a responsible community capable of meeting future demands. The town hall wants all voices heard to ensure the final document reflects genuine priorities. Residents, businesses, and local associations can share suggestions regarding waste habits, business practices, and com-

munity spaces. This early input will influence future decisions on collection systems, repair networks, and educational campaigns. Residents can participate via the official platform at salobrenaparticipa.es or by scanning QR codes on the council’s social media. Contributions can also be emailed to partici pacion@salobrenaparticipa.es or made by calling 958 610 011. Formal proposals can be submitted through the electronic headquarters at sede.ayto-salobrena.es.

Summer stories FAMILIES in Torre del Mar can once again enjoy an evening of stories, imagination and creativity as the popular Biblioplaya returns with a full summer programme of free children’s activities. Running until August 31, the initiative will take place weekly from Tuesday to Sunday, between 7pm and 8.30pm, offering storytelling sessions led by Mar Villalobos at the Biblioplaya on the Poniente promenade. The programme has been designed to encourage children to discover the joy of reading in a relaxed seaside setting, combining traditional storytelling with plenty of interactive entertainment. Each

Credit: Shutterstock, NadyaEugene

Summer storytime in Torre del Mar.

session will include puppets, costumes, masks, songs and games, followed by a creative craft activity linked to the story of the day. The summer schedule will feature different weekly themes. The

first week will focus on animal stories, followed by adventure tales filled with journeys and audience participation. The third week will bring magical stories inspired by both traditional and modern tales, while the final week will celebrate “crazy stories” full of humour, fun and surprises. Councillor for Beaches David Vilches encouraged residents and visitors to join the sessions and enjoy “an unforgettable experience” combining stories, learning and seaside fun. The activity is free and open to all families. Call 637 070 704 or email pla yas@velezmalaga.es for more information

SPANISH NEWS

2 - 8 July 2026

euroweeklynews.com

Credit: Shutterstock, Anetlanda

Weddings in Spain just got more expensive.

Spain removes Gibraltar as a tax haven.

does not mean Gibraltar becomes a low-tax free-for-all. Existing tax rules, reporting requirements and anti-avoidance measures remain in place, and both governments will continue exchanging tax information. The change is about recognising Gibraltar’s

compliance with international standards, rather than relaxing financial oversight. Looking ahead, the decision is widely seen as another step towards closer cooperation following the recent UKEU agreement on Gibraltar’s post-Brexit future.

WALKING down the aisle is no walk in the park. No, it’s much more stressful and incredibly expensive, especially in Spain where the average price of a wedding has skyrocketed in the last year. In fact, any couples that postponed their 2025 wedding to instead celebrate in 2026 are looking at an extra €10,000 added to the final bill as wedding costs hit record highs. According to a report by Bodas.net, the average cost of a wedding in Spain totals €25,183, with some couples paying upwards of €30,000 towards their special day. This expensive bill doesn’t even cover some of the costlier traditions, like buying the engagement ring or going on a honeymoon. AN 86-year-old Swedish national was arrested at Madrid-Barajas Airport after security officers discovered 4.555 kilograms of cocaine concealed in his luggage. The man had arrived from Costa Rica and was in transit to Brussels when he was stopped for inspection. During the search, officers found nine cylindrical packages hidden inside his suitcase. He was arrested on suspicion of drug trafficking and placed in custody while judicial proceedings and investigations continue. Authorities are examining whether the passenger knowingly transported the drugs or whether he was recruited or exploited by a criminal organisation operating international trafficking routes. Investigators note that drug trafficking groups frequently use mules who are less likely to attract suspicion at airport controls. Elderly pass-

The biggest wedding expense is the venue and catering. Hosting and feeding guests accounts for 53 per cent of the total budget, with around €225 spent on each guest. Once presented with this reality, many couples reassess the guest list, scrapping plus ones and uninviting the cousins they don’t actually like in order to scale back costs. Saving for a wedding takes time - 25 months to be exact. Although, of those Bodas.net polled, some recall saving for three to five years. Even after years of saving, only around 41 per cent of couples stick to their initial budget, relying instead on family support, cash gifts from guests and dipping into savings.

An old mule Photo credit: TaraPatta/Shutterstock

AFTER 35 years, Spain has officially removed Gibraltar from its list of tax havens, marking a significant shift in relations between the two neighbours. The decision follows Gibraltar’s adoption of international tax transparency standards, a tax cooperation agreement with Spain and wider reforms that align its financial system with global rules. For businesses and individuals, the change is more than symbolic and could in fact make life a little easier for both sides of the border. Being labelled a tax haven often meant extra checks, stricter tax rules and added bureaucracy when dealing with Spain. With that label now gone, commercial activity between the two is expected to become smoother and more attractive for investment. With that said, this

Credit: Shutterstock, Gorodenkoff

Economic reset Til’ debt do us part

Drug trafficking groups frequently use mules who are less likely to attract suspicion.

engers travelling alone are sometimes targeted because they may appear less connected to organised crime networks. Some couriers are recruited with financial incentives, while others are misled about the contents of luggage they are asked to transport. Law enforcement agencies across Europe have documented

similar cases involving individuals of varying ages and backgrounds. The cocaine was detected through routine baggage screening and inspection procedures. The investigation is now focused on identifying the organisers and tracing the origin and intended distribution route of the shipment.

SPANISH NEWS

euroweeklynews.com

2 - 8 July 2026

Credit: PL Salou

Looky-looky chaos New foreign top

Local Police in Salou dealing with overspill of looky-looky sellers.

RESIDENTS in Cambrils, Catalonia, have taken their local council to court over the unchecked presence of illegal street vendors on the seafront promenade. Property owners in the Cap de Sant Pere area filed the lawsuit in Tarragona courts, claiming that council authorities have turned a blind eye to the widespread occupation of public space by counterfeit goods sellers for several years. According to community records, up to 200 unlicensed traders operate daily during the peak summer season. This illegal activity blocks the walkway, forcing pedestrians and cyclists to share narrow lanes, which residents claim creates dangerous conditions. Local shopkeepers also report facing unfair competition, with some businesses forced to reloca-

te entirely due to the unregulated trade directly outside their storefronts. The neighbours’ association stated that the makeshift market occupies a 500-metre zone between April and October. Before launching legal action, residents exhausted official channels by meeting with council representatives and reporting the issue to the regional ombudsman. Tensions are also rising with neighbouring Salou, where officials argue that leniency in Cambrils allows the illegal trade to expand across municipal borders, damaging the collective tourist reputation. Public anger intensified when the council suggested altering the promenade layout to deter vendors, a move locals reject as a flat refusal to enforce existing laws.

FOREIGN home buyers accounted for 18.8 per cent of all home purchases in Spain during 2025, according to figures from the Consejo General del Notariado. International buyers bought 52,781 properties, demonstrating that interest remains strong despite a small drop from the 21.1 per cent share seen in 2023. Most foreign activity remains concentrated in coastal regions, including the Comunidad Valenciana, Andalucia, Catalonia, Murcia and the Canary Islands. However, the demographic of these international buyers is evolving. Dutch nationals have taken the top spot among non-resident buyers, purchasing 6,289 homes in 2025. This placed them ahead of German buyers, who bought 6,233 properties, and British purchasers, who

Credit: Vitalii Biliak - Shutterstock

King’s Day in Torremolinos.

accounted for 6,152 transactions. Belgian buyers recorded 4,305 deals, while French buyers completed 3,913. The Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol attract the strongest Dutch demand. Property agents state that Dutch buyers increased by nearly 50 per cent between 2023 and 2025. Experts attribute this growth to lifestyle appeal and tax drivers, such as the Box

3 wealth rules in the Netherlands. Many buyers seek holiday rental income alongside personal use. In Alhaurin el Grande, a town in Malaga province, Mayor Anthony Bermudez noted that the foreign community was traditionally British and Moroccan. He stated that the Dutch are on track to overtake British residents for the first time.

Desert fuel fiasco LEAPY LEE SAYS IT

OTHERS THINK IT THE other day, purely as the direct result of an unreliable gauge, the car actually managed to run out of petrol. Don’t ask! It did however remind me fervently of the time I managed to run a tank dry in the middle of the desert. Living and working in Saudi Arabia in the 70s and seeing my latest venture fold meant that money was becoming a constant problem. Subsequently, when an associates inquired as to if I could deliver a shiny innovative fire engine to a new airport being constructed some 600 kilometres away in the desert, I gave the request some very serious thought. Being young and adventurous, and certainly needing the money, I finally decided to give it a go. A couple of days later, with sirens whooping and lights flashing, off I set. Naturally I had a full tank of petrol, but to be assured of arriving safely (and completely miscalculating

how many kilometres the vehicle did to the gallon!) I had also loaded two extra 10 gallon drums in the spacious cab of the very futuristic vehicle I was now in control of. The first night, deep in the desert, was an incredible, never to be forgotten experience. To escape the night antics of the scorpions, snakes, and camel spiders, I ensconced myself to sleep on the roof of the vehicle. Laying there wrapped in a blanket, I gazed up in wonder at an incredible night sky with more heavenly lights and shooting stars than I had ever imagined. The total silence and realisation that I was alone and completely untouchable (and beyond any assistance!) soon lulled me into a deep sleep. Tomorrow was another day. Shortly after sun up, once again off I set. I won’t bore you with the aspects of the long journey, safe to say it abounded with rough tracks and sand dunes which my latest vehicle basically managed to negotiate without too many problems. However, I did finally notice my petrol tank was once again extremely

low. Although I had begun to realise It was extremely unlikely I would come across a petrol station, (which my colleagues had told me undoubtably existed!), I managed to pour in the two 10 gallon spare cans and set off once again. Some hours later, with still no sign of petrol pumps or indeed any form of habitation whatsoever and still a long way to go, I began to realise I was definitely not going to make it. On and on I trundled until finally, after a few more hours, with a number of disgruntled coughs the tanks finally ran dry. And there I sat, in utter silence, in the middle of the desert, in a fire engine, experiencing the sun beating down with enough intensity to blister paint. It rather made my recent running out of petrol on the Palma ring road a positive doddle. Did I get through it? Well, I’m here writing this. You’ll need to tune in next week for the finale of this perfectly true though almost unbelievable tale of Leapy’s law. 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.

euroweeklynews.com

Return of the sunbed wars BRITISH tourist Rachel Rogers has sparked a fierce online debate after filming herself pulling towels off unused sun loungers at a Tenerife hotel. The video, filmed in Playa de las Americas, shows Rodgers removing towels left on poolside loungers by guests who had reserved them but were nowhere to be seen. Calling the culprits “nasty sunbed hoggers,” Rodgers shared the footage online, where it quickly went viral. The reaction was split. Some praised her for tackling a holiday frustration many travellers know all too well, with one commenter saying she had done “exactly what the hotel should do.” Others accused her of unnecessarily policing the pool area, pointing out that there appeared to be plenty of empty loungers available. The clip reignited the annual row over so-ca-

The clip reignited the annual row.

Photo credit: Rachel Rogers on TikTok

FEATURE/SPANISH NEWS

10 2 - 8 July 2026

lled sunbed wars, a familiar sight in busy holiday resorts. Guests often claim loungers early in the morning with towels before returning hours later, leaving rows of supposedly occupied sunbeds sitting empty. While some hotels remove unattended towels or ban reserving loungers altogether, enforcement is often patchy. The incident struck a chord because it reflected a holiday argument that refuses to go away, with opinion once again divided between those who see reserving loungers as selfish and those who view it as part of resort life.

SPAIN’s extraordinary mi‑ grant regularisation process closed on Tuesday June 30, leaving a mountain of bu‑ reaucratic delays across the country. Figures released on Monday June 29 by the Fun‑ dación para la Ciudadanía Global show applications have reached one million. This total is double the go‑ vernment’s original estimate of 500,000. Latin Americans make up nearly 70 per cent of appli‑ cants, led by Colombia at 30 per cent and Venezuela at 10 per cent. Moroccans account for 14 per cent. More than half of the applicants are un‑ der 35 years of age. While the programme aimed to integrate workers into the formal economy, the high volume has overwhel‑ med the immigration sys‑ tem. Long queues and severe delays affect appointments, leaving long-term foreign re‑ sidents unable to renew their TIE residency cards. The situation was particu‑ larly acute in southern Spain,

Credit:Klymenko Mariia/shutterstock

Can TIE renewals return? Beach shower backlash Credit: CSIF Instagram

New water charges trial.

Waiting for extraordinary regularisation of immigrant status.

where sectors like tourism, hospitality, caregiving, and construction expect future workforce stability but face immediate disruption. Ex‑ patriates on the Costa del Sol report that appointment slots disappear rapidly, as officials prioritised regula‑ risation cases over routine requests. As the deadline has

now passed, public pressu‑ re grows on local resources. Supporting organisations are calling for extra adminis‑ trative funding to clear the massive application backlog. The main focus must now turn to reducing processing times so routine residency services can finally return to normal.

A PILOT “smart shower” installed at Matalascañas Beach in Huelva has sparked a backlash after it emerged the system could eventually charge people to rinse off sand and seawater. The de‑ vice, introduced as a drou‑ ght‑management measure, monitors water use and can be activated by QR code or coins. Although currently free during testing, the tech‑ nology is designed to allow payments, with a quick rinse expected to cost about €1. A family of four could therefo‑

re spend €4 simply to wash their feet. The reaction has been fierce because public beach showers have always been free in Spain. Many see the move as a step towards char‑ ging for basic services. Social media users warned that “little by little, we normalise paying for everything,” whi‑ le others joked that “next they’ll charge us to walk on the sand.” Critics also question the practicality of using mobile phones at the shower or re‑

lying on coins when many beachgoers carry neither. Some fear that, if the trial is deemed successful, other coastal towns facing drought pressures could follow. In previous years, some Anda‑ lucian councils simply swit‑ ched off beach showers en‑ tirely to save water. For now, the Matalascañas installation remains a one‑off experi‑ ment. Beachgoers heading to Spain this summer will still find free showers and can spend their €4 on an ice cream instead.

EUROPRESS

euroweeklynews.com

Vespa at 80 Temperature control Credit: Viktar Malishevsky X

MORE than 10,000 Vespa enthusiasts from 48 countries gathered in Rome to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the iconic Italian scooter. The three-day event featured parades, exhibitions and special product releases across the capital city. A massive parade caused widespread traffic disruption as riders on vintage and contemporary models passed the Imperial Forums and occupied Via Cristoforo Colombo. Car drivers reacted with anger to gridlock in temperatures near 40°C. The traffic issues hit surrounding neighbourhoods and blocked some ambulances, though bystanders still watched the procession with national pride. Mayor Roberto Gualtieri opened the main festival centre at Foro Italico. The venue hosted the European Vespa Rally Championship and the World Gymkha-

2 - 8 July 2026

Credit: Gianluca Pellegrinelli FB

Crowd control: Berlin police deploy water cannon to cool people down. 10,000 Vespas bring Rome to standstill.

na Championship obstacle courses. Visitors also explored a historical exhibition displaying classic models, including one signed by Salvador Dali. To mark the anniversary, the Italian State Mint presented a special coin, and producers released 1,946 units of a limited-edition scooter. Individual riders shared their passion, inclu-

ding Walter from Feltre, who drove a custom scooter modified with skis to the North Cape and Patagonia. First launched in 1946 at Pontedera, almost 20 million Vespa units now circulate worldwide. Two million scooters were produced in the last decade alone, proving the vehicle remains a global symbol of design and freedom.

BERLIN police deployed water cannons to spray a fine mist over residents on Saturday, June 27, as temperatures broke previous records across the capital. Officers dispensed 9,000 litres of water by mid-afternoon around the Brandenburg Gate and Potsdamer Platz to provide relief from the oppressive heatwave. The weather station at Berlin-Tempelhof recorded 39.5°C on Saturday, June 27, breaking the pre-

vious regional high of 38.6°C set in 2015. Potsdam reached 39.9°C on the same day. Forecasters warned that temperatures could reach 41°C, with the extreme conditions last some time. Public swimming pools reached capacity rapidly, forcing many outdoor facilities to turn visitors away by early afternoon. Staff at the historic Charlottenburg indoor baths halted ticket sales at 4.30pm, leaving frustrated crowds queuing

outside in the heat. Emergency services reported a sharp rise in heat-related incidents. Fire and rescue crews responded to an increased number of callouts for circulatory issues, cardiac arrests, and emergencies at swimming locations. The heat also caused severe damage to the A2 motorway linking Brandenburg with Saxony-Anhalt. Police closed several junctions near Ziesar after the road surface deteriorated.

FINANCE Melting away

ICE-CREAMS are shrinking, and not because they are melting in the sun. The average size of a Magnum, for example, was 120ml until the 2008 economic crash, at which point it was reduced to 110ml. In 2026, Magnums shrunk in size again to 100ml, despite prices rising to more than €3 per unit. To hide the smaller servings, many brands have been known to use the same packaging filled with more air.

EasyJet takeover

EASYJET has rejected a €5.9 billion takeover from US private equity firm Castlelake. Castlelake has made several proposals, its most recent offered £7.26 per share, a 24 per cent premium to the most recent closing price. EasyJet has accused Castlelake of taking advantage of its precarious situation, as war hikes jet fuel prices, essentially claiming they’re trying to buy the airline “on the cheap.”

Future farmers

SPAIN’S farming sector needs new blood. Currently, only 7.7 per cent of industry professionals are under 40 years old, while 40 per cent are over 65. Because of this, the Future Harvest initiative is set to launch in Spain, with 200 future farmers receiving agricultural training, preparing them to take over operations when the current generation retires. Future Harvest plans to reach 900 farmers across Europe.

World Cup wager

WITH the start of the World Cup, sports betting has surged. According to a study by TransUnion, it’s young adults aged 25-34 lead the charge in the UK. Around 43 per cent admitted to betting more frequently during the World Cup, placing larger bets than any other age group. However, their research revealed a worrying statistic: one in eight would be a victim of betting fraud.

euroweeklynews.com • 2 - 8 July 2026

STAT OF WEEK

2.5%

Overnight stays in Spanish hotels increased by 2.5 per cent in May compared to the same month in 2025, generating revenue of €123.7 per occupied room.

Generational divide GEN-Z and Millennials are constantly arguing over which generation had it best, or rather, which had it worst. A new report from the Resolution Foundation could add kindling to the fire, as it claims Gen-Z is better off financially, earning a higher wage than Millennials did at the same age. According to the Resolution Foundation, Gen-Z - those born between 1997 and 2012 - saw an increase in their pay-packet that Millennials never did. Millennials - those born between the early 1980s and mid-1990s - had the unfortunate luck of coming of age during the 2008 economic crisis. This significantly hindered their ability to get on the career ladder, let alone climb it. The report analysed how much each generation earned on average at age 24. The Resolution Foundation determined the wage earned by those born in the late 1990s

Apple lawsuit APPLE is facing a £3 billion lawsuit in Britain, with 40 million iCloud users potentially involved in the class action. Apple is accused of trapping customers into using its iCloud storage service by restricting how files can be saved, hindering consumers’ ability to switch to rival providers, and weakening competition.

Credit: Shutterstock, Drazen Zigic

Millennials or Gen-Z, who earns more?

to be 12 per cent higher than those born in late 1980s. What’s more, those born in the early 2000s, the 24-year olds of today, are earning more than any generation before them. These figures show a steady pay increase for each generation, but that doesn’t mean the pay-check stretches the same distance. Despite being recognised as

Crypto fail

the most educated generation in history, Gen-Z is contending with underemployment, with more than a million British 16-to-24 years olds not in employment or education. Historic levels of inflation has also made any pay-bump null and void for both generations, making it near impossible to reach the typical adult milestones like buying a house or starting a family.

TO coincide with the start of the World Cup, Spain’s national football team launched its own cryptocurrency $SPAIN, designed for fans to unlock exclusive rewards. But within 24 hours of trading, its stock plummeted 40 per cent, the price of each token dropping from €0.88 to €0.52.

Heathrow nose dive HEATHROW AIRPORT has made big promises regarding its third runway, claiming the £33 billion project could boost the UK’s GDP by 0.5 per cent. However, analysis by the Department for Transport (DfT) has revealed those estimations to be a gross exaggeration. DfT estimated the true benefit to be 0.05 per cent, with that figure potentially dipping to 0.03 per cent. Heathrow representatives refuted these claims. They describe the analysis as “very narrow,” claiming DfT did not consider factors such as rising cargo trade and passenger growth. Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow’s chief executive, strongly believes “the UK cannot realise its full economic potential without an expanded Heathrow.” And so, the debate over the necessity for a third runway continues. Supporters praise the project’s po-

Credit: Shutterstock, Rob Atherton

BUSINESS EXTRA

Heathrow’s third runway take a nose dive.

tential to create thousands of jobs and training opportunities, but those against claim the financial and social costs outweigh any potential benefits.

Mobile pay

Healthy spending

Housing dilemma

MASTERCARD confirmed that 50.7 per cent of Spaniards typically leave their wallet at home, instead paying by phone. Card usage is at an all-time high, reaching 97.6 per cent in 2025. Online purchases are also starting to eclipse physical payments, with 79.1 per cent of people ordering online in 2025.

RESEARCHERS predict the rise in GLP-1 weight loss drugs will fundamentally change consumer habits in the UK. Because weight loss medication reduces craving and simulates fullness, the first foods to go from the basket would be snack items. A study by PwC Strategy found 70 per cent of GLP-1 users were cutting out snacks and confectionery, with 60 per cent spending more on fresh food. Additionally, 40 per cent were reallocating funds to buy vitamins and supplements. To accommodate the shift, many supermarkets are introducing more nutrient rich foods.

FINDING permanent accommodation in Spain can feel impossible. Rental prices are soaring and new builds are failing to meet demand, yet somehow 3.8 million homes across Spain sit empty. It seems like a complicated riddle, but in reality, the situation is simple: the houses are in the wrong place. Around 70 per cent of Spain’s population is concentrated in major cities and coastal regions, while the empty homes are located in depopulated rural areas. People leave rural towns only to end up in cities filled to capacity and full of tourist rentals, adding further pressure to the housing market.

Eclipse bookings CAMPSITES across northern Spain are fully booked ahead of August’s solar eclipse. Campsites along the path of totality have experienced a 300 per cent increase in bookings, with the greatest demand in Asturias, Castilla y Leon and Valencia. Data reveals 75.4 per cent of all bookings are from international tourists.

Wall Street woes WALL STREET recently experienced a volatile day of trading, when investors sold-off semiconductor chip stocks and AI related shares. Concerns have been raised about the massive investment in debt-funded AI infrastructure. Many have scrutinised its profitability and lost confidence in ever seeing a return.

FINANCE

14 2 - 8 July 2026

euroweeklynews.com

LONDON - FTSE 100

Closing Prices 29 June

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

3I Group.....................................2.561,00............2.579,00......... 2.519,00.......... 438,2K Admiral Group.............................3.474,0..............3.486,2........... 3.442,0........... 36,61K Airtel Africa................................. 340,80...............343,60............336,12.......... 262,99K Anglo American...........................3.658,0..............3.685,0........... 3.604,0.......... 500,38K Antofagasta................................3.731,00............3.743,00......... 3.684,00.......... 125,2K Associated British Foods.............1.973,0..............1.994,5........... 1.971,1........... 88,01K AstraZeneca...............................13.980,0............14.086,0......... 13.948,0......... 223,18K Auto Trader Group Plc................ 480,40...............489,40............480,20............2,13M Aviva........................................... 646,40...............647,80............641,80.......... 474,76K B M European Value Retail.......... 206,60...............209,20............205,00.......... 611,06K BAE Systems..............................1.761,50............1.800,00......... 1.759,50......... 697,89K Barclays...................................... 512,90...............518,60............510,30............5,71M Barratt Redrow............................ 293,44...............301,80............293,20............1,72M Beazley.......................................1.285,00............1.285,00......... 1.284,50......... 975,74K Berkeley......................................3.592,0..............3.762,0........... 3.592,0.......... 133,39K BP............................................... 471,85...............477,80............471,15............6,76M British American Tobacco...........4.788,0..............4.804,0........... 4.731,0.......... 600,32K BT Group.................................... 192,40...............193,55............191,80............2,41M Bunzl...........................................2.656,0..............2.674,0........... 2.638,0.......... 121,59K Centrica....................................... 176,70...............178,15............176,65.......... 990,65K Coca Cola HBC AG......................4.804,0..............4.816,0........... 4.758,0........... 61,08K Compass...................................... 32,10.................32,32..............31,63........... 226,76K ConvaTec Group......................... 208,38...............212,00............208,00............2,18M Croda Intl....................................3.048,0..............3.177,0........... 3.015,0........... 94,55K DCC.............................................6.230,0..............6.250,0........... 6.230,0........... 36,91K Diageo.........................................1.567,5..............1.584,5........... 1.562,5.......... 710,48K Diploma.....................................7.000,00............7.130,00......... 6.990,00.......... 27,73K EasyJet........................................ 573,94...............583,00............565,60.............2,7M Entain.......................................... 561,80...............573,86............559,84.......... 478,93K Experian......................................2.463,0..............2.503,0........... 2.461,0.......... 674,78K F&C Invest.................................. 343,60...............347,00............342,80........... 452,4K Flutter Entertainment...................7.226,0..............7.264,0........... 7.172,0............ 5,07K Frasers........................................ 731,00...............750,00............729,00........... 90,53K Fresnillo.....................................2.789,00............2.791,00......... 2.740,00......... 140,42K Glencore...................................... 512,25...............520,20............506,50............7,65M GSK plc......................................1.952,00............1.972,50......... 1.948,50......... 771,89K HALEON...................................... 347,90...............350,00............347,40............1,56M Halma..........................................3.880,0..............3.926,0........... 3.880,0.......... 135,61K Hikma Pharma...........................1.522,00............1.540,00......... 1.518,00.......... 20,17K Hiscox........................................1.851,00............1.865,00......... 1.849,00......... 107,48K Howden Joinery.......................... 865,95...............877,50............863,00.......... 174,28K HSBC.........................................1.424,20............1.438,00......... 1.419,00...........3,03M IAG.............................................. 482,90...............488,30............482,00............2,93M ICG PLC.....................................1.628,00............1.658,00......... 1.623,00........... 54,8K IMI PLC......................................2.918,00............2.942,00......... 2.912,00.......... 42,27K Imperial Brands..........................2.817,00............2.836,04......... 2.780,00......... 262,55K Informa....................................... 883,00...............896,40............879,60.......... 254,05K InterContinental........................... 171,4.................173,3..............171,2............ 57,51K Intertek........................................5.805,0..............5.805,0........... 5.800,0.......... 189,62K

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

J Sainsbury................................. 315,10...............316,09............312,00............1,12M JD Sports Fashion........................ 85,26.................86,89..............85,12.............1,49M Kingfisher.................................... 291,40...............295,90............291,40.......... 832,59K Land Securities........................... 655,20...............664,50............655,00.......... 773,78K Legal & General.......................... 286,20...............288,00............281,71............2,63M Lloyds Banking........................... 109,80...............110,10............109,30...........20,73M London Stock Exchange..............7.918,0..............8.000,0........... 7.776,0.......... 143,19K Londonmetric Property............... 189,60...............191,30............189,20.............1,3M M&G........................................... 333,10...............335,10............332,80.......... 625,37K Marks & Spencer........................ 375,40...............380,93............374,90........... 943,4K Melrose Industries...................... 466,40...............471,20............464,70.......... 458,47K Mondi.......................................... 702,00...............718,40............699,80.......... 637,93K National Grid..............................1.256,73............1.262,00......... 1.246,00......... 781,45K NatWest Group........................... 656,00...............661,80............651,80............1,78M Next...........................................14.645,0............14.865,0......... 14.645,0.......... 33,86K Pearson......................................1.152,00............1.159,50......... 1.149,00.......... 98,79K Pershing Square........................3.754,00............3.824,00......... 3.746,00.......... 36,24K Persimmon.................................1.113,0..............1.147,0........... 1.113,0.......... 721,26K Prudential...................................1.005,50............1.008,50...........994,20............2,14M Reckitt Benckiser........................4.853,0..............4.873,0........... 4.830,3.......... 136,33K Relx............................................2.303,00............2.365,00......... 2.303,00......... 953,34K Rentokil....................................... 430,80...............436,20............430,20.......... 411,88K Rightmove.................................. 425,30...............436,70............424,10.......... 367,88K Rio Tinto PLC..............................7.179,0..............7.215,0........... 7.128,0.......... 301,74K Rolls-Royce Holdings................1.410,20............1.436,40......... 1.404,80...........2,11M Sage............................................ 790,91...............799,40............790,40.......... 194,75K Schroders.................................... 586,0.................586,0..............585,0........... 148,47K Scottish Mortgage......................1.388,00............1.400,50......... 1.380,00......... 552,63K Segro.......................................... 880,24...............885,80............877,20............1,95M Severn Trent...............................2.954,0..............2.980,0........... 2.952,0........... 33,37K Shell............................................2.894,5..............2.916,0........... 2.886,8............1,28M Smith & Nephew........................1.136,50............1.150,65......... 1.136,00......... 277,63K Smiths Group.............................2.562,00............2.589,00......... 2.559,00.......... 49,58K Smurfit Westrock........................3.359,0..............3.402,0........... 3.356,0................0 Spirax-Sarco Engineering...........6.860,0..............6.950,0........... 6.840,0............ 9,34K SSE............................................2.391,00............2.441,00......... 2.389,00......... 526,19K Standard Chartered....................2.032,00............2.055,00......... 2.020,00......... 635,41K Standard Life............................... 836,00...............839,00............830,00.......... 271,58K Taylor Wimpey............................. 83,78.................86,20..............83,70.............3,63M Tesco.......................................... 461,70...............463,50............458,70............3,28M Unilever.......................................4.612,0..............4.621,0........... 4.397,8.......... 652,87K Unite........................................... 524,00...............528,00............520,50.......... 121,68K United Utilities............................1.301,00............1.312,00......... 1.296,00......... 235,61K Vistry Group................................ 266,80...............285,00............265,48.......... 960,66K Vodafone Group PLC................. 105,050.............106,300..........104,750...........6,56M Weir Group................................2.362,00............2.380,00......... 2.356,00.......... 57,75K Whitbread...................................2.448,0..............2.524,0........... 2.447,0.......... 191,42K WPP............................................ 244,30...............251,80............243,90............1,45M

0.86318 1.14006

1.15849

0.9226 7.4750 11.3230 10.0850 Contact our team of currency experts

+34 952 906 581 currenciesdirect.es

DOW JONES

Closing Prices 29 June

Company

Price(p)

Maximum

Minimum

Net

3M.............................................. 167,97...............169,76............166,62............2,38M Amazon.com............................... 227,01...............232,32............225,55...........77,86M American Express....................... 342,46...............352,52............340,92............3,52M Amgen........................................ 352,82...............359,10............350,06............2,34M Apple........................................... 275,15...............288,80............273,75..........107,25M Boeing......................................... 218,12...............224,13............217,16............4,69M Caterpillar...................................1.057,01............1.057,07......... 1.015,00...........4,65M Chevron...................................... 172,24...............172,77............169,27............7,96M Cisco........................................... 118,97...............121,14............117,56...........26,93M Coca-Cola..................................... 80,42.................81,38..............79,97............16,03M Goldman Sachs..........................1.065,09............1.105,25......... 1.062,10...........1,95M Home Depot................................ 345,00...............348,64............341,82............6,98M Honeywell................................... 231,24...............237,37............227,77............5,85M IBM............................................. 258,27...............268,76............256,00............8,54M J&J............................................. 244,88...............248,19............240,89...........10,13M JPMorgan................................... 335,12...............343,45............334,76...........10,05M McDonald’s................................. 264,54...............273,34............264,53.............6,2M Merck&Co................................... 125,45...............125,96............121,00...........14,05M Microsoft.................................... 352,83...............364,23............349,20...........66,36M Nike.............................................. 40,90.................41,86..............40,44............29,25M NVIDIA........................................ 195,74...............200,80............192,13..........150,21M P&G............................................ 148,50...............152,29............147,82............11,2M Salesforce Inc............................. 150,19...............154,00............148,78...........11,33M Sherwin-Williams........................ 339,08...............344,00............335,40.............2,7M The Travelers.............................. 318,29...............325,89............318,16............1,46M UnitedHealth............................... 415,53...............417,58............406,65............6,02M Verizon......................................... 46,07.................46,26..............45,33............17,59M Visa A.......................................... 330,52...............339,94............330,07............7,05M Walmart...................................... 115,78...............118,58............115,38............20,4M Walt Disney.................................. 98,05................101,58.............97,99............12,07M M - Million Dollars

NASDAQ

Closing Prices 29 June

Company Change Net / % Volume Most Advanced Triller.............................................................. 296,45 %.......................224,21M Nexera Tech..................................................... 95,56 %.........................326,7M Autozi Internet Technology.............................. 73,68 %.........................66,21M iQSTEL............................................................. 47,22 %.........................104,4M Ptl.................................................................... 40,38 %........................314,57K Atlantic International........................................ 33,32 %.........................83,79M Lichen China.................................................... 32,54 %...........................1,5M Roboai............................................................. 28,29 %.........................13,31M Groupon........................................................... 24,89 %..........................3,91M Eshallgo........................................................... 23,51 %.........................10,12M M - Million Dollars

Most Declined Aditx................................................................-75,79 %........................362,99M Nano X.............................................................-43,95 %.........................18,15M Redcloud Holdings...........................................-43,44 %.........................17,58M Wing Yip Food Holdings ADR..........................-39,79 %..........................2,25M Curis................................................................-39,51 %..........................4,71M Paranovus Entertainment Tech........................-37,43 %.........................41,64M GD Culture.......................................................-37,04 %.........................955,7M Digital Currency X Tech....................................-36,65 %..........................7,03M CDT Equity.......................................................-34,59 %..........................1,77M Lucas GC..........................................................-34,20 %..........................3,98M Identiv..............................................................-32,25 %..........................1,45M M - Million Dollars

FINANCE

euroweeklynews.com

ASK THE EXPERT ROXANNE MULLENGER Peter Loveday - HEAD OF DEALING Contact me at SOUTHERN EUROPE.

2 - 8 July 2026

Pound wobbles as Starmer resigns, US dollar strengthened by hawkish Fed repricing

Euro EUR/GBP: Unchanged at £0.86 EUR/USD: Down from $1.16 to $1.13 The euro initially got off to a robust start in June, with the single currency being underpinned by the European Central Bank’s (ECB) interest rate hike. However, the single currency struggled to sustain this support amid renewed USD demand and subsequent comments from ECB President Christine Lagarde, which tempered bets for further hikes. Turning to July, the euro may face headwinds if Eurozone economic releases continue to point to weakness in the bloc through the end of the second quarter. Pound GBP/EUR: Unchanged at €1.15 GBP/USD: Down from $1.34 to $1.32 UK political developments kept GBP investors on their toes in recent weeks, with Andy Burnham’s convincing by-election victory and Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s resignation infusing volatility into the pound.

The euro rose at the start of June, but later lost momentum.

At the same time, the Bank of England’s (BoE) decision to leave interest rates unchanged, coupled with its revised inflation forecasts, sapped expectations the

bank may hike interest rates later in the year. Looking ahead, Burnham’s first couple of weeks in 10 Downing Street will be clo-

sely watched by markets in July, with a particular focus on whether he can keep the bond market on board with his fiscal policies. US Dollar USD/GBP: Up from £0.74 to £0.75 USD/EUR: Up from €0.85 to €0.87 The US dollar enjoyed strong support through June, striking new multi-month highs against both the pound and euro. This upside was initially linked to Middle East uncertainty before a hawkish turn by the Federal Reserve helped to accelerate the US dollar’s gains despite the announcement of a US-Iran peace agreement. Upcoming US economic indicators will be in the spotlight for USD investors in the coming weeks, with further signs of resilience potentially strengthening Fed rate hike expectations. Currencies Direct have helped over 500,000 customers save on their currency transfers since 1996. Just pop into your local Currencies Direct branch or give us a call to find out more about how you can save money on your currency transfers.

VISIT US AT OUR SPANISH OFFICES IN COSTA DEL SOL, COSTA ALMERIA, NORTH COSTA BLANCA AND SOUTH COSTA BLANCA. TELEPHONE UK +44 (0) 207 847 9400 SPAIN +34 950 478 914 • EMAIL EUROWEEKLY@CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM • WWW.CURRENCIESDIRECT.COM.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE SPONSOR GO TO WWW.LINEADIRECTA.COM

18 2 - 8 July 2026

FEATURE

euroweeklynews.com

• News from Our Other 6 Newspapers •

Costa del Sol

Costa Blanca North

Dog survives major fall

Pego celebrates history

A GERMAN Shepherd has miraculously survived a harrowing 60-metre fall down Ronda’s iconic El Tajo gorge, spending the night trapped on a narrow cliff ledge with only minor injuries. The incident occurred at around 9pm on Wednesday, June 24, as a group of young people walked the dog along the Paseo de Los Ingleses. The animal unexpectedly leapt over the safety wall, tumbling down the precipice. The event was so traumatic that paramedics treated the owner at the scene for a severe anxiety attack. Local Police and firefighters launched an immediate search operation in pitch darkness. Searchers finally spotted the dog at 12:25pm on Thursday, June 25, wedged between a rocky outcrop and a crevice. Remarkably, the pet sustained only a single leg injury. Rescuers extracted the animal, transported it to a veterinary clinic, and later reunited the dog with its grateful family.

THE streets of Pego became a spectacular openair stage as the town’s annual Moors and Christians festival culminated with the Entrada, a major event in the Marina Alta calendar. Thousands of spectators watched elaborately dressed participants march through the historic centre, accompanied by brass bands and choreography. The Christian side opened the procession, led by Ambassador Filà Templaries and Captaincy Filà Feixucs, before the Moorish groups concluded the evening with richly decorated costumes. Commemorating the Reconquista period, the festival celebrates the region’s shared heritage. In Pego, it forms part of the wider patron saint celebrations honouring the Santísimo Ecce-Homo. Music played a central role, with parades accompanied by live bands performing pasodobles, Christian marches, and Moorish marches. The weekend also featured traditional dianas, embassies, and a children’s procession.

Mallorca

Costa Blanca South

Magaluf lights up

United in Fire

HUNDREDS of residents and visitors gathered in Magaluf to celebrate the official opening of the resort’s newly transformed promenade with one of Mallorca’s biggest free summer events. Families arrived early to claim spots on the beach, while local restaurants and businesses welcomed visitors with special offers and discounts, creating a lively festival atmosphere. An enormous stage overlooking the bay hosted the Balearic Symphony Orchestra. After dark, as some spectators swam in the Mediterranean Sea, the orchestra performed famous film scores accompanied by giant screens showing movie scenes. The evening concluded with around 300 drones rising into the air to form spectacular illuminated shapes above Magaluf Bay, including the Eiffel Tower, a camel, and Superman. The carefully choreographed display captivated spectators and marked a new chapter for Magaluf, bringing together locals, holidaymakers, and businesses to celebrate the resort’s future.

MORE than two million people filled the streets of Alicante as the city staged another spectacular Hogueras de San Juan festival. For five unforgettable days, residents welcomed visitors from across Spain and around the world to share in the city-wide celebration, which relied on the dedicated teamwork of thousands of volunteers, artists, musicians, and commission members. The event featured daily mascletas in Plaza de los Luceros and midnight fireworks over Postiguet Beach, drawing packed crowds. Throughout the year, neighbourhood commissions worked to design and build the iconic Hogueras monuments to preserve these generational customs. Emergency services, street cleaners, council workers, and volunteers ensured the celebrations ran safely before swiftly restoring the city once the final bonfires burned. Recognised as a Festival of International Tourist Interest, the event highlighted the community’s ability to unite and celebrate.

Almeria

Costa Calida

Full-throttle action

Horses and heritage

ALBOX witnessed an intense weekend of motorsport during the second Ascent to the Sanctuary of Saliente. Serving as the second round of the 2026 Andalucian Mountain Championship, the event also decided crucial points for the Murcia Mountain Championship, the Almeria Provincial Council Cup, and the Andalucian Hill Climb Championship. Building on last year’s debut, the competition expanded to 60 teams, up from 39 in 2025. Sunday’s action featured touring cars, single-seaters, and car cross cup disciplines. Drivers tackled a demanding 3.8-kilometre route from the Los Aceituneros neighbourhood up the steep, hot slopes of the Al-7100 road. The event concluded with three decisive victories. Miguel Angel Clemente Hatero won the touring cars category, Esteban Perea Oriola extended his single-seater championship lead, and Juan Manuel Ramirez Martinez topped the Car Cross Cup podium, where a mere 37 thousandths of a second separated second and third place.

SAN PEDRO DEL PINATAR celebrated one of its most emblematic and historically significant days at the end of June during its annual Patron Saint festivities, centred on horses and equestrian culture with the opening of the CCXXVIII Royal Livestock Fair (Real Feria de Ganado), one of Spain’s oldest livestock gatherings. Blending centuries-old rural heritage with modern equestrianism, the fair attracted participants from across the country, particularly Murcia, Alicante and Almeria. Throughout the morning, locals and visitors admired an impressive display of horses, oxen and donkeys. The event also honoured veterinarian Martín Alcázar Cuadrado, the fair’s official veterinarian for 25 years. His dedication has helped ensure animal welfare, enforce health regulations and enhance the event’s reputation. The celebrations concluded with the 31st Villa de San Pedro Carriage Meeting, a colourful equestrian parade that drew residents, visitors and animal lovers from across the town.

• EUROWEEKLYNEWS.COM •

FEATURE/EUROPRESS

euroweeklynews.com

Pamplona - prose, plaza & picadors NORA JOHNSON BREAKING VIEWS

NORA IS THE AUTHOR OF POPULAR PSYCHOLOGICAL SUSPENSE AND CRIME THRILLERS AND A FREELANCE JOURNALIST.

A CENTURY after Ernest Hemingway’s ‘The Sun Also Rises’ first burst on to the literary scene, San Fermín Festival returns next week (July 6-14), bringing to Pamplona its familiar mix of devotion, danger and little sleep. Pamplona’s Plaza del Castillo, looking much as it did when Hemingway first took his seat here, serves as the ‘stage’ for his novel - where the expats’ internal chaos meets the external explosion of the San Fermín Festival. While the locals are celebrating with a sense of tradition and religious fervour, Jake Barnes and his hard-drinking companions are here to witness their own disintegration in a

public setting. Published in Britain as ‘Fiesta’, the novel begins in Paris and ends in Madrid, but its heart beats in this square. Hemingway first arrived in Pamplona in 1923 and was enthralled by the encierro - six bulls and several steers hurtling through the cobbled streets with the subtlety of express trains. The following year he joined the novillada, facing younger bulls intended for novice matadors. The grand finale is the Plaza de Toros de Pamplona (“high and white and concrete-looking,” according to Hemingway - do keep up!). Here 20,000 spectators gather each July to cheer, gasp and watch, through white-knuckled fingers, all the corridas - and afterwards eat the meat with such gusto that makes Hannibal Lecter look like a mere vegetarian! Thanks for emails to my website below. Thrilled you enjoy my novels too!

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.

Sheep detectives

tures Pic ny

TOP Trending

brought to you by Revolution Technology

H O L LY W O O D ’ S fluffiest film, Sheep Detectives, is finally available to stream on Prime Video. Part comedy, part mystery, completely comforting. Sheep Detectives follows a flock of sheep who take things into their own hooves when their beloved shepherd is found Credi t: S o

dead. It’s a bonkers concept for a blockbuster, but it works.

Voicemails for Isabella

ix tfl

NETFLIX’S newest ﬁlm is less of a romcom, more of a rom-sob. After the death of her little sister, Jill’s only remaining comfort is leaving voicemails. These calls are a way for Jill to share every intimate thought with her lost sister. But what she doesn’t realise is that the new owner of the phone number is listening in on the other end, and falling deeper in love with every new voice mail.

MORE than 1,000 spectators gathered in Copenhagen for Denmark’s annual Mullet Championship, as the unusual hair competition continued its rise from internet novelty to major cultural event. Held at Onkel Dannys Plads in the Vesterbro district in June, the fourth edition of Mullet Mesterskabet featured 12 competitors battling for national mullet supremacy through hairstyling, performance art and theatrical displays. Founded by Danish electrician Steffen Stiw Weber, the championship began after he underwent a hair transplant and decided to grow a mullet himself. After discovering that the American Mullet Championship restricted participation based on citizenship, Weber launched a Danish version of the contest. Organisers describe Mullet Mesterskabet as Denmark’s biggest mullet celebration, with at-

2 - 8 July 2026

Mullet mania Mullet Mesterskabet/FB

Business in the front, party at the back.

tendance increasing each year. Events ran from around 4pm until 9.30pm and included live music, on-stage judging, live haircut demonstrations and entertainment performances. Judging extends beyond hair alone, with competitors assessed on creativity, stage presence, commitment to mullet culture and artistic expression. Judge and Copenhagen

salon owner Bobby Agren described the ideal mullet as something “ridiculous or maybe ugly in a beautiful way.” Contestants embraced the spirit of the competition with wrestling-style entrances, choreographed dance routines, beer-drinking performances and elaborate costumes. One participant even styled his mullet to resemble the Danish flag.

Farm heat crisis

HUNDREDS of thousands of poultry deaths in France have exposed how extreme heat is now testing the systems behind Europe’s food supply. According to Reuters, the losses were concentrated in Brittany and Pays de la Loire, France’s two biggest poultry-producing regions. Carcass collection services were reportedly overwhelmed, with authorities considering controlled on-farm burial after technical and environmental checks. The impact goes beyond poultry. Heat stress can reduce animal feed intake, increase water demand and affect production. Reuters reported that one dairy farmer near Angers saw milk output fall by 15 to 20 per cent as cows struggled in the heat. Harvests are also being disrupted. In Deux-Sevres, local authorities temporarily restricted harvesting, mowing and

pressing during the hottest hours because of fire risk. For households, this does not mean food is unsafe or that prices will rise immediately. But repeated heat episodes can increase costs, reduce

farm productivity and put pressure on meat, eggs, dairy and fresh produce. Heatwaves are no longer only a health or weather issue. They are becoming a food-system stress test.

Credi t: N e