Italian Household Finances: Istat reports Italy’s tax burden rose to 43.5% of GDP in Q2, while the household saving rate fell to 6.7%, with consumer spending up 1.7% in the quarter. Eurozone Inflation Watch: Bundesbank chief Joachim Nagel says inflation risks remain high in the euro area (3.8%), but there are still no clear signs of wage-price “second-round” effects—while energy and refining capacity pressures could keep prices elevated. ECB Policy Pressure: ECB economist Philip Lane warns surging energy costs, weaker budget support and higher borrowing costs could limit how much the ECB needs to tighten, even as inflation stays a concern. Payments for Consumers: Five European payment providers, including Italy’s Bancomat, are creating the European Network for Payments to enable cross-border account-to-account transfers, starting with person-to-person payments. Retail & Food Industry: Eaton agreed to buy COL Group for €810m, expanding medium-voltage power distribution capacity across Italy (Turin, Milan, Bergamo, Catania). Travel & Consumer Costs (Italy-linked): Italy’s energy shock and fuel-price pressures are part of the broader European debate as G7 countries push diesel and oil reserve releases to calm prices.