Volkswagen & Private Equity: Volkswagen will sell a 51% stake in Everllence to Bain Capital in a deal expected to raise about €7.4bn, while keeping 49% and aiming to push growth in areas like data centres, energy and shipping. Auto Expansion: JETTA, the FAW-Volkswagen value brand, has entered Uzbekistan, starting with exports of the VS5 and VS7 SUVs and planning phased localization to tap a fast-growing Central Asian market. Energy Markets: European gas prices stayed flat as TTF hovered around €40.90/MWh amid US-Iran peace-talk hopes and stable supply expectations, with Germany’s wind output set to rebound. Business Climate: Germany’s ifo business climate improved in June, but weak orders and subdued demand still weigh on the outlook; carmakers remain the most cautious. Trade Policy: The EU imposed definitive anti-dumping duties on 1,4-butanediol from China, Saudi Arabia and the US, targeting a key chemical used across textiles, automotive and plastics. Tech & Enterprise Software: LG CNS launched PerfectWin ERP Edition, using agentic AI to automate SAP ERP testing for S/4HANA migrations and new rollouts. Cyber & Operations: Germany’s rail network disruptions were linked to a nationwide IT/radio communications failure, underlining ongoing resilience pressure for critical infrastructure. Sustainability & Industry: Barmag and partners proved 100% recycled polyester carpet material can be processed into BCF yarn on a closed-loop basis, supporting circular textile manufacturing. Consumer Data & AI: A Usercentrics survey found Germans are most willing to pay for AI transparency on data use, with 73% ready to pay a premium.