Jul 31, 2026, 10:00 AM UTC

Tesla chief executive Elon Musk has dismissed reports that the electric vehicle manufacturer is planning to spin off its Chinese operations. The denial follows a report by The Wall Street Journal, which cited an unnamed source claiming Tesla considered the restructuring to facilitate a potential merger with space exploration company SpaceX.

According to the report, Tesla's extensive business presence in China could present regulatory or strategic hurdles for a closer integration with SpaceX. Musk publicly rejected the claims on social media, labeling the reporting "Fake News".

SpaceX and Tesla remain separate corporate entities. Neither firm has issued further formal statements regarding corporate restructuring or potential consolidation between the two companies.

Sources: FAZ.

European regulators have granted CE mark approval for the PRIMA subretinal eye implant developed by Science Corporation, marking the first approval in Europe for a microchip designed to treat severe vision loss caused by dry age-related macular degeneration. The condition affects millions of people worldwide and leads to the deterioration of central vision.

The miniature microchip is implanted beneath the retina, where it converts light into electrical signals to stimulate surviving nerve cells. Industry observers view the regulatory clearance as a major milestone in ophthalmology, providing a new option for a condition that previously had limited treatment possibilities. The technology will now undergo further deployment across European medical centers.

Sources: FAZ.

A new economic impact study conducted by PwC indicates that the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid is projected to contribute 467 million euros to the regional economy. The updated figures show the event is also expected to create 8,850 jobs, representing roughly 5.7% of the direct gross value added within the Community of Madrid's recreational activities sector. Based on real sales and investment data from ongoing event preparations, the report further estimates that the Grand Prix will generate nearly 83 million euros in tax revenues.

Sources: Marca.

Extreme heat in southern France is pressuring the historic winemaking region of Saint-Émilion to adapt to changing climate conditions. Temperatures reaching 40 degrees Celsius during the peak summer tourist season have left the medieval town's streets unusually empty, as intense heat alters daily life and local business.

Saint-Émilion, known for cultivating grapes since Roman times, is facing growing challenges from rising temperatures. The severe heatwaves are forcing local winemakers and community leaders to rethink long-standing agricultural and commercial practices. Although the town's historic limestone architecture has traditionally provided insulation against seasonal climate extremes, recent heat patterns are testing the resilience of Bordeaux's renowned viticulture sector.

Sources: Aftenposten