Telecom Consolidation: Melita and Epic Malta (Epic Communications) have agreed to combine, with Melita acquiring 100% of Epic Malta—potentially cutting Malta’s mobile networks from three to two and reigniting competition concerns. Public Finance Watch: Finance Minister Clyde Caruana warned ministers that cash is running out and that spending freezes and postponing major investments may be needed to meet 2026 deficit targets. MFSA & Insurance Oversight: The MFSA has set out data quality expectations for insurers, tightening compliance requirements for the sector. EES Travel Rules: The EU published a full list of 29 countries whose citizens are exempt from EES registration (with Cyprus and Ireland also exempt), shaping how short-stay travellers enter Schengen. Market Integrity: ESMA flagged growing risks in prediction markets, warning about retail harm and manipulation concerns as platforms expand. Protest & Accountability: Thousands marched in Valletta demanding justice after Daphne Caruana Galizia’s alleged mastermind was acquitted, with calls for political and institutional reform. Tourism Funding Pressure: Residents and the Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association urged the tourism minister to intervene over public funding for large party events, warning it’s damaging communities and Malta’s brand. Local Property/Tech Investment: BMIT completed a 49% stake acquisition in Malta Properties Company, linking the deal to data-centre and telecom-exchange real estate income.