Auto Manufacturing: Mercedes-Benz officially inaugurated its €1bn expansion at the Kecskemét plant, doubling capacity and kicking off production of the new all-electric C-Class, with battery assembly and more on-site component making to cut supply-chain friction. EU State Aid & Finance: The European Commission approved a EUR 2bn capital injection into Hungary’s Hungarian Development Bank (MFB) under EU State aid rules, funded via the Recovery and Resilience Facility, aimed at SME growth, green/digital transition, and rental housing/student dorms. Retail Labor: IKEA workers in Hungary continued a strike for a third day, disrupting store operations and pushing wage and pay-transparency demands; management cites business-year constraints despite recent wage investments. Energy & Infrastructure: Hungary’s crude and motor fuel reserves were replenished, while a feasibility study for a Paks–Budapest district heating pipeline points to longer-term heat network planning. Transport & Tourism: The Beloiannisz historic passenger ship returned to Lake Balaton waters after steel and structural restoration, signaling a renewed tourism/transport role for the restored vessel. Hospitality Costs: Hungary’s hotel sector is feeling pressure from labor shortages, taxes, energy bills—and a strong forint that squeezes margins.