Inflation Watch: Albania’s August inflation rose to 3.2% (from 2.3% a year earlier), with the biggest pressure coming from Transport (+12.0%) and Housing-related costs, while INSTAT points to Food and Rent as key contributors. Judicial Pay Clash: Albanian magistrates filed a criminal complaint with SPAK over unpaid August salaries under a new pay formula, naming the finance minister and treasury officials; PM Rama says the issue must go through Parliament and calls the complaint “banal.” Banking Health: Bad loans fell to 3.69% of lending in July, the lowest since 2008, as more borrowers keep up with repayments. Small-Business Credit: The Bank of Albania is seeking EBRD support for a programme to expand micro and small firm lending. Housing Push: Rama unveiled a National Housing Program for young families, using social rentals plus tools like direct purchases, rent subsidies, and conversion of state/confiscated properties. Energy Deal: Argent LNG and Albania signed an MoU to evaluate a coastal LNG storage and regasification terminal (up to 5 mtpa) to strengthen regional energy security. EU Connectivity: Luxair will launch direct Luxembourg–Tirana flights from March 29, 2027. Wage Snapshot: Average gross salary hit 92,150 lek in Q2 2026, but 1 in 4 employees still earn the minimum wage. Fraud Probe: Eleven people were accused in a Tirana call-centre scam using fake trading platforms targeting victims across Europe.