Presidential Race: Bulgaria’s former interim PM Andrey Gyurov confirms he will run for president on Oct 25, pairing with Georgi Kandev as vice-president, positioning a pro-EU, reformist campaign focused on an “economy of knowledge.” Pension Reform: From Sept 1, Bulgarians can choose how their second-pension savings are managed under the new multi-fund model starting Jan 1, 2027, with automatic allocation by age if no choice is made. Infrastructure & Justice: Regional Development Minister Ivan Shishkov says Hemus Motorway construction will speed up toward Veliko Tarnovo, while the whole project remains “in the prosecutor’s hands” over alleged illegal works and financing. Business & Trade: The Bulgarian Chamber of Commerce and Industry will co-organize an EU–Australia business forum in Sofia on Oct 7, highlighting opportunities in clean energy, digital/AI, pharma, agri-food and education. Logistics & Services: Transport Minister Georgi Peev calls for modernization at Bulgarian Posts, citing low pay, staffing issues, and underused technology, with plans like POS terminals and better scanners. Energy Prices: BPGA warns Bulgaria has enough fuel, but diesel pricing depends on international markets as European refining capacity shrinks and supply shifts. Digital Innovation Funding: Three Bulgarian European Digital Innovation Hubs will receive nearly EUR 6m extra to expand AI and tech services for SMEs and public bodies. Inflation Watch: Eurozone inflation hits 3.3% in August, driven by energy costs, keeping pressure on ECB rate expectations. Consumer Pressure: Ikea announces a €1.2bn Europe-wide price-cut push to spur demand amid tighter household budgets, with Bulgaria linked via franchise operations.