Protest & Accountability: Thousands marched in Valletta after the acquittal of Yorgen Fenech in the Daphne Caruana Galizia assassination case, chanting “Mafia!” and calling for protection of journalists and an end to impunity. Public Finance: Finance Minister Clyde Caruana warned ministers cash is running out for 2026 spending, with likely austerity including freezes on new disbursements and postponing major investments. Local Security & Tourism: Gozo divers detained a suspected van thief at Cathedral Cave; Robert Farrugia received an eight-month suspended jail term and a fine. EU Policy & Borders: Brussels agreed to allow nine Schengen countries, including Italy and France, to delay full EES biometric checks, keeping travel friction in focus. Labour Market: Eurostat data put Malta’s job vacancy rate at 3.1% (highest in the EU after the Netherlands and Belgium). Minimum Wage: Eurofound reports Malta’s minimum wage is falling behind average earnings, despite a 2026 rise. Industry & Circularity: EU ministers backed the Circular Economy Act aimed at removing barriers for circular business models and boosting competitiveness. Shipping Decarbonisation: Cyprus, Greece, Malta and Italy aligned on shipping carbon rules. Travel & Aviation: Emirates entered winter with strong booking momentum and 8.6m passengers carried over July–August. Microelectronics Contract: BAE Systems secured a $16m award to qualify radiation-hardened RH45 microelectronics, with fabrication linked to Malta, New York.