Critical Minerals & Batteries: International Graphite (ASX) signed a binding JV with Alkeemia to build a graphite processing hub near Venice at Porto Marghera, aiming for 10,000 tonnes/year first and up to 15,000 tonnes using cash flows, leveraging Alkeemia’s hydrofluoric acid production to speed downstream battery-materials growth. Auto Industry & Investor Sentiment: Ferrari CEO Benedetto Vigna defended the €550,000 Luce price tag after backlash and an 8% Milan share drop, arguing demand from ultra-wealthy buyers and insisting the car’s innovation is distinct from other EVs. EU Economy Watch: The EU economic sentiment index stayed broadly flat in May, while employment expectations improved slightly; Italy’s sentiment edged up marginally, and industry confidence softened across the bloc. Italian Textiles Export Push: ACIMIT and ICE led a “Made in Italy” textile machinery delegation to Turkmen Textile Expo 2026 in Ashgabat to deepen technology ties as Turkmenistan ramps up cotton processing. Shipping & Trade Events: Posidonia 2026 in Athens is set for record global turnout, with Italy among the major maritime participants despite geopolitical headwinds. Local Business Expansion: Segafredo rolled out its Italian espresso range into Australia’s Woolworths stores, moving from café presence into mainstream retail. Legal/Consumer Rule: Italy’s Supreme Court upheld that hotels are not obliged to serve free tap water to guests, reinforcing limits on consumer expectations.