Energy & Deals: Shell has agreed to sell its Cyprus Aphrodite gas stake to MOL Group in a deal worth up to $720m, with MOL set to join Chevron and NewMed as partners in the deepwater development. Business Sentiment: Cyprus’ economic outlook brightened in July as the University of Cyprus’ CypERC survey showed stronger confidence in services and retail, even as construction and industry cooled. Transport & Consumer Impact: Hybrid cars are gaining ground in Cyprus, with hybrids at 51.7% of new passenger saloon registrations in H1 2026, while the EU overall saw a rebound in battery-electric registrations. Local Governance: Municipalities are set to stage a three-hour protest Monday against what they call growing central-government interference in local finances and administration. Property & Finance Practicalities: Cyprus property valuers warn that online valuation tools and automated valuation models should be treated as only indicative, not as a substitute for professional assessments. ID & Banking Readiness: Older Cyprus ID cards without an expiry date will become invalid from Monday, Aug. 3—an issue that can quickly affect travel and banking. Digital Insurance: CAN Sigorta is expanding remote, digital insurance services across North Cyprus as it marks 68 years in operation. Cyber Regulation: MiCA’s full effect is now in force in Cyprus, with CySEC reminding investors that crypto-asset services are limited to authorised providers.