Strong Christmas demand reshapes the outlook Next has revised its profit expectations upward after delivering a stronger performance than anticipated during the crucial Christmas shopping season. The fashion retailer said customer demand in the final weeks of the year exceeded its internal forecasts, reflecting resilient spending habits despite a challenging economic backdrop. Sales at full […]
A modest rise in confidence at year end Consumer confidence recorded a slight increase in December, signaling a cautious improvement in how households view the economic outlook. According to new data released INE, the indicator rose as consumers reported more positive expectations about the country’s economic situation and their willingness to make significant purchases. While […]
A major penalty welcomed travel agencies Calls to impose tougher penalties on low cost airlines have intensified after the Italian Competition Authority fined Ryanair €255 million for abusing its dominant market position. The decision has been welcomed ANAV, which represents Italy’s National Association of Travel Agencies and has long argued that airline practices are distorting […]
A higher tourist tax approved the municipality The tourist tax in Vila Nova de Gaia is set to increase, with visitors now paying an additional 50 cents per night. Following approval in a private executive meeting, the municipality confirmed that the city tax will rise to three euros and will be applied throughout the entire […]
A classroom unlike any other In most universities, professors begin the semester learning their students’ names, backgrounds and academic goals. At one elite French institution, that simple routine does not apply. Professor Xavier Crettiez openly acknowledges that he often does not know who his students really are. The names they provide may not be real, […]
A shift toward a fairer local tourism policy The municipality of Matosinhos has introduced changes to its tourist tax rules in an effort to make the system fairer and more aligned with local realities. The city council has decided to stop charging the municipal tourist tax for overnight stays lasting less than four hours, as […]
The growing popularity of staycations is continuing to reshape Portugal’s hospitality sector, with domestic travel playing an increasingly important role in hotel performance. In 2025, Solverde Casinos & Hotels recorded a notable rise in guest numbers and occupancy rates, underlining how Portuguese residents are choosing to holiday closer to home amid shifting travel habits. Domestic […]
China is preparing a new wave of regulations aimed at strengthening protections for children as artificial intelligence becomes more deeply embedded in everyday digital life. The proposed rules would place clear responsibilities on AI developers, particularly those building chatbots and interactive tools, to prevent harmful content and reduce risks linked to mental health, violence, and […]
Across Europe, Christmas markets have evolved from simple seasonal traditions into powerful economic engines. For Zagreb, the festive season has become a strategic opportunity to reshape its tourism identity and reduce dependence on summer travel. positioning its Christmas market as one of the best in Europe, the Croatian capital is pursuing a long term plan […]
Britain’s largest household energy supplier Octopus Energy is preparing to spin off its fast growing technology arm Kraken Technologies into a standalone business, marking one of the most significant tech separations ever seen in the UK energy sector. The move follows a landmark investment deal that values the platform at approximately 8.65 billion dollars, highlighting […]
