TikTok Introduces Microdrama Ad Formats and AI Tools to Expand Advertiser Reach Globally

TikTok introduced new microdrama-based advertising formats (Mini Series and Mini Games) to international advertisers during TikTok World 2026. These episodic content formats allow brands to build reach and generate revenue. The company also launched AI-powered advertising tools and expanded its TikTok Shop e-commerce platform. The microdrama format, which originated in China, is designed for mobile viewing with short attention spans and is beginning to gain traction in Western markets.

Portuguese Insurance Broker and Credit Intermediary Join Forces to Simplify Financial Services

Sabseg and Sabcrédito announced a strategic partnership to offer integrated financial services combining insurance brokerage and credit intermediation. The partnership aims to reduce complexity and bureaucracy for customers making major financial decisions by providing coordinated advice on insurance coverage and credit solutions for housing, automotive, and personal loans.

Engie unveils hybrid renewable energy projects across northeastern Portugal

Engie presented hybridization projects combining wind and solar energy with existing hydroelectric facilities in northeastern Portugal. The project involves a 157.5 MW wind park at Picote and three solar projects totaling 354 MWp capacity at Bemposta, Baixo Sabor, and Foz Tua facilities. Portugal’s Environment and Energy Minister emphasized the importance of community involvement and transparency in renewable energy development.

IoMobility 2026 Awards Recognize 15+ European Startups Driving Innovation in Mobility Sector

The 6th edition of IoMobility awards ceremony recognized 15+ European startups and companies innovating in mobility sector. Major winners include: Powandgo (electric vehicle charging sharing network from Brescia), ParkSmart (smart parking from Catania), Btinkeeng (public transport solutions from Trentino), Flowy (public transport ticketing from Florence), Latitudo 40 (geospatial intelligence from Naples), Ses4mo (vulnerable road users protection from Turin), among others. Awards covered categories including energy for mobility, innovative parking, public transport, MaaS, AI/data analytics, autonomous vehicles, smart roads, sustainability, and fleet management.

Danish BioInnovation Institute Launches AI Lab to Accelerate Research Commercialization

The Danish BioInnovation Institute launched a new AI Lab designed to shorten the path from academic research to market implementation. The article discusses whether Poland will develop a similar operational mechanism connecting science, startups, administration, industry, VC funds, and data access.

Italian Biotech Firm Sends Bone Substitute to International Space Station in Landmark Research Mission

GreenBone Ortho, an Italian biotech company specializing in bone regeneration, sent its innovative b.Bone bone substitute to the International Space Station aboard SpaceX CRS-34 on May 15-16, 2026. The experiment aims to test how human bone cells adhere, proliferate, and differentiate on the scaffold material in microgravity conditions. The research is a collaboration with San Martino Hospital and University of Genova, with technical partners Kayser Space and Comat providing the specialized equipment. Initial results are expected by end of 2026.

Fin Launches Operator, an AI Agent to Manage Its Customer-Facing AI Agent

Fin (formerly Intercom) announced Fin Operator, an AI agent that manages the customer-facing Fin AI agent. The product targets support operations teams, automating data analysis, knowledge management, and agent debugging. It runs on Anthropic’s Claude models and includes a human approval system for all proposed changes. The company recently rebranded from Intercom to Fin, signaling that AI agents are now the core business. Fin generates 100 million ARR and is growing at 3.5x, accounting for roughly a quarter of total company revenue.

Portuguese holding company Semapa reports 513.3 million euros in Q1 profits from cement division sale

Portuguese holding company Semapa reported Q1 2026 results showing 513.3 million euros in profits, primarily from the sale of cement company Secil for 1.4 billion euros. Operating performance declined with consolidated revenue at 478.4 million euros (down 14.1%) and EBITDA contracting 40.7% to 70.9 million euros. The company invested 102.9 million euros, including reinforced investment in Gropyus and new investments in CarbonRe and Sybilion through its venture capital arm Semapa Next.

Portuguese Drone Maker Tekever Demonstrates Rapid Deployment Capabilities by Retrofitting Systems for Ukraine

Portuguese drone manufacturer Tekever showcased its operational agility by rapidly retrofitting autonomous systems for Ukrainian forces. The company participated in eRadar conference discussing Portugal’s defense industry growth, with drones representing approximately 20% of Portuguese defense exports. Discussion focused on Portugal’s potential to become a national champion in autonomous systems software and the opportunities presented by European defense investments through initiatives like Space Shield and Drone Shield.