Fusion Funding: Commonwealth Fusion Systems says it has raised $4B total (about 30% of all private fusion money), with a new $1B equity round backing SPARC (about 80% complete, net energy gain targeted for 2027) and ARC (about 400 MW, grid connection early 2030s). Open Banking Pressure: A major US push for consumer financial data rights would require banks to share data securely with authorized third parties, echoing EU rules under the Revised Payment Services Directive. Local Business & Community: A Knutsford town-centre push shows how independent shops can create a “small village” feel inside a bigger town, with 100+ businesses rallying for a community campaign. SME Growth via Partnerships: NEURA Robotics is buying Adlatus Robotics to upgrade autonomous cleaning machines with sensors, AI, and its Neuraverse platform. Startup Expansion to Japan: Calling2Scale Gunma links up to 14 European startups (including Italian cleantech AraBat) with Japanese corporates for pilots and commercial matchmaking. Italian Angle (Payments): Paybis adds MB WAY to expand local crypto payment rails across Europe, aiming to make purchases easier without forcing customers onto a single international method. Policy/Politics: Former centre-left PMs Conte and Renzi argue progressives should move away from “woke” cultural politics and focus on tackling economic inequality.