New decree proposes tenant compensation if landlord doesn't renew
Real Decreto-ley 28/2026 proposes that landlords who do not renew a lease pay tenants at least 12 months' rent. After five years (seven for legal entities), the lease would be extended for successive periods unless either party terminates it. The government's minority in the Diputación Permanente gives the measure little chance of passing, Heraldo reports.
Supreme Court suspends vote for 163.020 naturalized citizens
The Supreme Court confirmed the suspension of voting rights for more than 163.020 Spaniards who acquired nationality under the 'nietos' law ahead of the 29N general election, according to El Diario. Only those with a consular certificate proving their ancestors' exile may vote; those who relied on the 1936-1955 presumption are excluded. The government says carrying out the order is "materially impossible."
IMF raises global growth forecast on AI boom
The IMF expects the world economy to grow by 3,1% in 2026 and 3,4% in 2027, boosted by AI investment, while warning about debt costs and cyberattacks. Spain's forecast improved by four tenths to 2,5%, remaining the fastest-growing major European economy. Germany improved by six tenths to 1,3%; France was cut by two tenths to 0,4% in 2026 and 0,7% in 2027.
New pensions top €1.700; from 2027, 38,5 years to retire
New retirement pensions in Spain topped €1.700 per month for the first time in August, averaging €1.711,4. From January 1, 2027, workers need 38 years and 6 months of contributions to retire at 65 without penalties, and 37 years for 100% of the regulatory base. Those below that threshold must wait until 67.
Spain-Morocco tensions: Navy frigates deployed; King Felipe VI visits Ceuta
The Spanish Navy deployed up to three vessels after Moroccan warships entered Ceuta's waters without authorization, El Diario reported. The incursions coincided with mass migrant arrivals through Tarajal; Mohamed VI rejects cooperation under "any pressure, threat or blackmail." King Felipe VI is visiting Ceuta and Melilla, the first royal visit since 2007.
Consumer credit soars above 12% amid prices and usury claims
Consumer credit has been growing at more than 12% all year, driven by purchases of appliances, phones, cars and holidays, according to Banco de España statistics. Rates on revolving cards exceed 18%, and some cases end up in the Supreme Court on usury grounds. This growth comes as interest rates rise and Frankfurt signals further moves.
Flex living expands in Madrid from niche to growth alternative
Spain's flex living stock grew from about 2.000 beds in 2020 to around 16.500 in 2026, according to CBRE's 2026 survey, and is forecast to exceed 40.500 beds by 2028. The model combines apartment privacy with shared services and includes furnished units, utilities, Wi-Fi, cleaning, reception, coworking and a gym. This offers more flexible rental options in Madrid.
Best one-year fixed deposits approach 3,5% in October
After the ECB raised the deposit facility to 2,50% in September, banks are offering one-year fixed deposits with returns up to 3,45% TAE. BluOr Bank, a Latvian bank, offers 3,45% TAE with a minimum contribution of €1 and a maximum of €100.000; early cancellation is not allowed. Deposits are backed by the Fondo de Garantía de Depósitos up to €100.000 per holder.
EU to ban social media for under-13s
The EU will prohibit social media access for all minors under 13 and require parental supervision for accounts held by those aged 13 to 15. Until adulthood, access will be restricted on platforms that use algorithms designed to provoke addiction. A child psychologist compares the rules to a traffic light to help parents explain the limits.
Doctors, teachers and housing protests shape election campaign
Doctors and teachers have been protesting for months and will continue, with a general strike over housing planned for November 11. Doctors demand their own legal framework, separate from that of other health workers, while teachers want more resources. Housing has become the central issue of the election campaign.