Spain raises 2026 growth forecast to 2.6% despite Middle East conflict
The Spanish government on Monday raised its economic growth forecast for 2026 to 2.6%, up from its previous estimate of 2.2%, arguing that the country’s economy is well placed to withstand the impact of the Middle East conflict and wider global uncertainty. The revised forecast forms part of the government’s new macroeconomic framework, which will […]
Spotlight: social media bans – imperfect steps in the right direction
On 15 June 2026, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced that children under 16 will be banned from social media. Snapchat, TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, X. All of it. The ban is planned to come into force in spring 2027, and Starmer made clear that if tech companies push back, he intends to push harder. […]
Up to 3,000 Santander employees could be offered early retirement in Spain
Spanish banking giant Santander has entered negotiations with labour unions over a voluntary early retirement programme that could eventually cover thousands of employees in Spain, according to a report published by financial newspaper Expansión on Wednesday. The discussions come as banks across Europe prepare for the growing impact of artificial intelligence (AI), which is expected […]
Bank of Spain maintains growth outlook but raises inflation forecast amid Middle East tensions
Spain’s central bank has maintained its economic growth forecasts while raising its inflation outlook, warning that higher energy prices linked to the conflict in the Middle East could weigh on the country’s economic prospects. The Bank of Spain said on Thursday that the economy likely expanded by between 0.5% and 0.6% in the second quarter […]
Spain seeks leading role in European AI push with €719m investment
Spain has approved a €719 million investment in a planned artificial intelligence (AI) gigafactory as part of a wider effort to strengthen technological sovereignty, boost industrial competitiveness and secure a leading role in Europe’s next generation of AI infrastructure. The funding was authorised by the cabinet on Tuesday and will be channelled through the Spanish […]
Spotlight: the ‘Solar Tycoon’ taking his Marbella company national
At 31, a Scottish civil engineer moved to Marbella, became co-owner and CEO of a small local solar company, and built it into one of Spain’s fastest-growing companies – while dozens of rivals collapsed around him. Roman Mitchell arrived in Marbella in 2024 with a civil engineering degree and a plan to revolutionise the solar […]
Spain’s employment hits record 22.3m as summer hiring surges despite slower fall in unemployment
Spain’s labour market continued to strengthen in May, reaching a new employment record as the summer tourism season gathered pace, although the fall in unemployment showed signs of losing momentum. According to figures published on Tuesday by the Ministries of Labour and of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration, the number of people registered as unemployed […]
Try This 31-Day ‘Active Recovery’ Fitness Plan to Rebuild Muscle
Summer is flying by. If you haven’t taken the opportunity to slow down and relax a bit, here’s your chance. Many people tackle health goals by going all in — pushing your body and committing to an intense workout plan. But rest is an essential piece to the fitness puzzle: It gives your muscles time […]
Ariana Grande says her decision to step back is not ‘reactive or impulsive’
Singer Ariana Grande has reassured fans that her decision to step back from the spotlight “was not a reactive or impulsive thing.” Speaking during a performance in Chicago, Illinois, on Monday, Grande addressed the reaction to Sunday’s announcement that she will be suspending future appearances and taking a break from the public eye. Ariana Grande […]
Tom Holland can hold his own on the red carpet, actually
EDITOR’S NOTE: Featuring the good, the bad and the ugly, ‘Look of the Week’ is a regular series dedicated to unpacking the most talked about outfit of the last seven days. It can’t be easy being Zendaya’s co-star — at least in terms of vying for red carpet attention. While promoting “The Odyssey” this summer, […]