Category: Europe

Gas in Europe at its most expensive since 2022. LNG deliveries from the Persian Gulf down 80%, storage 75% full

Wholesale gas prices in Europe have passed €97 per megawatt-hour, the highest since 2022. LNG deliveries from the Persian Gulf have fallen by about 80%, and EU storage is less than 75% full. This could push up UK bills from the new year and raise business costs.

Bulgaria chooses between dialogue with Moscow and support for Ukraine. Presidential run-off on 1 November

Bulgaria’s incumbent president Iliana Iotova, an advocate of dialogue with Russia, won the first round with 34.76%. Pro-European Andrey Gyurov took 31.94%. The result will be decided in a run-off on 1 November. We explain what it could mean for EU policy on Ukraine and for business.

France: general strike on 5 November. SNCF trains to stop – what it means for travellers from the UK and Poland

Rail unions have called a strike at SNCF for 5 November, and the CGT has called for protests in all workplaces. Disruption may affect TGV, TER and Intercités services. We explain what it means for people travelling through France from the UK and Poland, and what to check.

France: riots after protests, government announces curfews

Saturday's protests across France turned into riots. More than 2,500 people were detained. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu says curfews will be imposed wherever needed.

The middle-power dilemma in a fragmented global economy

Trade policy now affects investment strategy far beyond international relations.

The hidden infrastructure question behind Europe's next technology boom

Growth in software and data services ultimately depends on energy, physical networks and public trust.