Economy - Page 15
2854 news
EU Fines AliExpress €550 Million for Failing to Stop Illegal Sales
The European Commission has imposed a €550 million fine on AliExpress. The platform failed to prevent the sale of illegal and dangerous products. This is the largest penalty under the EU’s digital services rules so far.
Plus Ultra Executives Admit Paying Commission to Secure State Bailout
Plus Ultra’s top management has confirmed to the National Court that a 1% commission was paid to intermediaries, including José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, to obtain a €53 million state bailout. The admission details the sums and the urgency behind the decision.
SEPE Clarifies: Special Social Security Agreements Don’t Unlock Over-52s Subsidy
Many nearing retirement hope that paying into a special Social Security agreement will help them qualify for Spain’s over-52s unemployment subsidy. SEPE now confirms this route alone is not enough, and explains what actually counts when applying for the benefit.
Plus Ultra President Names Zapatero in Airline Bailout Commission Case
Julio Martínez Sola, head of Plus Ultra, has told the court that José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero was involved in efforts to secure €53 million in public aid for the airline. The case raises questions about political influence in pandemic-era bailouts.
Zapatero Implicated in Plus Ultra Bailout by Key Associate
A written statement sent to the National Court reveals that José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero played a direct role in the Plus Ultra bailout. The document details a 1% commission agreement and outlines the ex-president’s influence in securing public funds.
Gadis Demands €1.2 Million From Unions Over June Strike Losses
Gadis is suing four unions and eight union leaders for €1.2 million, citing damages from a June strike in A Coruña. The move has sparked strong reactions from labor groups, who call the claim an attack on the right to strike.
Andy Burnham Announces Plan to End Rough Sleeping Across the UK
Andy Burnham, the UK’s new prime minister, has set out a 10-year strategy to tackle rough sleeping and overhaul the economy. His first speech focused on urgent action for housing, youth employment, and the cost of living.
Zapatero Accused of Directing Plus Ultra Bailout Strategy
Julio Martínez, under investigation in the Plus Ultra bailout case, alleges that José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero played a decisive role in securing public funds for the airline. The case highlights high-level involvement in pandemic-era financial aid.
The Little-Known CAE Discount That Cuts the Cost of a New Electric Car
Spanish buyers of new electric cars can now combine the upcoming Plan Auto+ with the CAE certificate, unlocking up to €1,000 extra savings. This little-known scheme rewards those who trade in older combustion vehicles for cleaner models.
Moonshot AI Halts Kimi K3 Subscriptions Amid Surge and IPO Plans
Moonshot AI has suspended new Kimi K3 subscriptions after demand outpaced capacity. The move comes as the company seeks new funding and prepares for a Hong Kong IPO. Existing users remain unaffected, but future access is uncertain.
Catalan Government Begins Work on 2027 Budget Amid Economic Optimism
Catalonia’s Department of Economy and Finance has started preparing the 2027 budget. The move comes as the region posts strong growth but faces global uncertainty. Fiscal targets and spending rules are already outlined for the coming years.
Catalan Government Confirms Rental Market Slowdown After Price Caps
The Generalitat acknowledges a marked slowdown in Catalonia's rental market after introducing price caps. Official data show a shift towards seasonal and room rentals, with Barcelona most affected.
Cultural Sector Faces Sharp Drop in School Trip Bookings Across Catalonia
Hundreds of Catalan schools have suspended trips and camps for the next academic year. The move, led by teachers, is already hitting theatres, museums and rural centres. Many fear layoffs if bookings do not recover by September.
Sánchez Seeks Gas Deal in Algeria to End Diplomatic Rift
Pedro Sánchez travels to Algiers aiming to secure more gas for Spain and close the chapter on a diplomatic crisis sparked by Madrid’s Sahara stance. Talks will also address Spanish business interests and regional security.
Chinese Car Brands Slash Prices by Building in Spain
Chinese carmakers are rapidly setting up production in Spain, aiming to bypass EU tariffs and cut costs by up to €5,000 per vehicle. This strategy brings jobs and investment, but also raises questions about the future of Spain’s auto industry.
Driving Schools in Crisis as DGT Delays Threaten Survival
Spain’s driving schools are facing a financial squeeze as exam backlogs at the DGT force students to pause lessons. Owners warn that fixed costs keep mounting, pushing many small businesses to the brink.
China Presses Indonesia for Clear Mineral Sector Rules Amid Closer Ties
China has called on Indonesia to guarantee stable and transparent rules for its mineral sector. The demand comes as both countries expand economic cooperation. The issue was raised during high-level talks in Shanghai.
Property Investor Pascual Ariño Slams Spain's Tax Burden on the Self-Employed
Pascual Ariño, a real estate investor with 16 properties, has publicly criticized Spain's tax system for self-employed workers earning modest incomes. On 'laSexta Xplica', he argued that high taxes and social security costs are driving professionals abroad and fueling the underground economy.
Spain’s Auto+ Car Grant Set for Imminent Launch, Confirms Minister
After months of uncertainty, Spain’s Auto+ program is finally poised to open for applications. The €400 million scheme promises up to €4,500 for buyers of electric and European-made cars, with retroactive eligibility and new incentives.
Andalusian Farmer Revives Prickly Pears After Years of Decline
Once a common sight along rural paths, prickly pears nearly vanished from Andalusia. Now, a 63-year-old farmer in Chiclana is rebuilding one of the region’s largest plantations, supplying local markets and facing down a persistent pest threatening the crop’s survival.
Galician Marble Expert Warns of Looming Skills Crisis as Orders Surge
Juan José Martínez, a marble worker with 38 years of experience in Galicia, says orders for marble work remain strong, but the trade faces a critical shortage of young talent and formal training. Without new recruits, the sector risks losing decades of expertise.
Servinabar at the Center of Corruption Probe Involving PSOE Figures
A police report reveals Servinabar 2000 as a key channel for irregular commissions tied to public works. Nearly 90% of its funds came from Acciona and companies under investigation. The case implicates high-profile PSOE officials.
Spain’s Appliance Swap Rebates Return—But Your Discount Depends on Where You Live
Spanish households looking to upgrade old fridges, washing machines or dishwashers can once again access appliance swap rebates—but the amount, eligible models and deadlines all depend on your autonomous community. The rules and funding vary widely, and handing over your old appliance is usually mandatory.
Junts Opens Door to FLA Debt Relief Law but Demands Larger Write-Off
Junts will allow the FLA debt relief bill to proceed in Congress but seeks a higher reduction for Catalonia. The party distances itself from the government, citing unfulfilled agreements. The debate intensifies after the EU court's amnesty ruling.
Chinese JAC E30X to Be Built in Linares: Spain’s New Budget EV
The historic Santana Motors factory in Linares is set to produce the JAC E30X, a compact Chinese electric car expected to cost under €20,000. This move brings new life to the plant and could reshape Spain’s EV market.
China Sells 34 Million Cars in a Year, Leaving Spain’s Market Far Behind
China’s car market shattered records in 2025, delivering over 34 million vehicles—25 times Spain’s annual sales goal. The surge, driven by new energy vehicles and exports, is redrawing the global automotive landscape.
Gotion High-Tech to Invest Over €950 Million in Valladolid Battery Plants
Gotion High-Tech will invest more than €950 million in two new battery facilities in Valladolid. The project aims to create a full production chain with a potential value of €5 billion. The move marks a significant step for the region's industry.
15 Years of Contributions Do Not Guarantee a Full Spanish Pension
Many Spanish workers mistakenly believe that 15 years of contributions entitle them to a full pension. In reality, this period only grants access to half of the regulatory base, with the full amount reserved for much longer careers. The calculation is more complex than most expect.
Balearic Islands Launch €10,000 Housing Grant for Under-40s
Young residents in the Balearic Islands can now apply for a €10,000 grant to purchase their first home. The program, open to those aged 40 or younger, is available from July 2026 until the end of 2027 or until funds run out. Strict eligibility and income limits apply.
Experts Warn of 'Súper Niño' Threatening Spain With Extreme Weather
A powerful 'El Niño' is forecast for late 2026, raising the risk of severe drought, wildfires and heatwaves. Spanish authorities are preparing for possible record temperatures and economic impacts.
Celver Acquires Gesico 2000, Expanding Satellite Internet Reach in Spain
Celver, led by Iago Campo Vidal, has acquired Gesico 2000, a veteran satellite telecom firm. The deal boosts Celver’s presence in underserved Spanish regions and marks a rapid rise for the young company.
Two New Homes in Málaga to Be Raffled for €10 a Ticket
A Málaga developer is raffling two finished homes in Cuevas del Becerro. Each ticket costs €10. The draw is limited to 200,000 entries and is open only to adult residents of Spain.
Retired Farmer Ordered to Repay €46,800 for Working While on Pension
A retired farmer in La Rioja must return nearly €47,000 after authorities found he continued managing his agricultural business while receiving a full pension. The court's decision highlights the strict incompatibility rules between retirement benefits and ongoing self-employment in Spain's farming sector.
Spain and UK Set to Deepen Ties After Gibraltar Border Deal
Spain and the UK are moving to strengthen their partnership after a landmark Gibraltar agreement. The new deal promises smoother border crossings, deeper economic links, and a long-awaited royal visit.
Leapmotor B05 vs BYD Dolphin Surf: Which Electric Car Wins at €20,000?
The Leapmotor B05 and BYD Dolphin Surf are shaking up Spain’s affordable EV market. One offers space and range, the other agility and price. Here’s how they compare on design, performance, and value.
Page 15 by 20