Aviation & Tourism: Jet2 is set for a record-breaking summer weekend (18-19 July) with almost 200,000 customers and 1,000+ flights, with Mallorca, Alicante and Faro leading demand—plus Malta among the popular destinations. Energy & Industry Policy: Malta says it secured key concessions in the EU ETS overhaul for maritime and aviation, but the Malta Business Bureau warns the reform still won’t fully protect island economies from decarbonisation costs. Digital Identity & Payments: Malta is moving ahead with an EUDI wallet tender (€15.6m/€15.7m) while the ECB shortlisted 36 payment providers for digital euro trials starting in 2027. Planning & Development: Malta’s watchdogs have reversed course on a Buskett “farmer’s quarters” plan, sending it back toward the Planning Commission despite earlier objections. Infrastructure & Power Reliability: The Nationalist Party blasts ongoing summer electricity cuts and voltage problems, blaming poor infrastructure planning. Air Connectivity: Aer Lingus will cut US routes and jobs (up to 500) and make some services seasonal, including Malta becoming summer-only. Maritime & Environment: Malta tops a Europe-wide ranking for water-sports interest, while separate reporting highlights Cyprus and Bulgaria among the cleanest bathing-water performers in Europe. Gaming & Compliance: Malta-licensed 7Signs Casino details its game catalogue and security approach, as EU gambling standards and player protection remain in focus. Business & Growth: PwC Malta’s Summer 2026 update flags population-driven pressure on infrastructure, with hospital capacity a key concern.