Czech Economy & Work: The number of self-employed people in Czechia jumped in the first half of 2026, with 51,534 starting business activity and 27,300 ending it, for a net gain of 24,234—up 49% year-on-year, according to CRIF. Heat & Fire Risk: Czechia is bracing for another heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 39°C and a very high to extreme heat burden, while wildfire danger stays elevated, especially in southern Moravia. Crime & Finance: A Czech National Bank employee accused of theft has been remanded in custody; police say the suspect worked in the Brno branch and allegedly stole cash worth tens of millions of crowns, prompting an extraordinary audit. Migration & EU Politics: Spain installed a 500-meter sea barrier at Ceuta after a deadly surge of migrants from Morocco; Spain says at least 67 died and most arrivals have returned, while EU leaders—including Czech PM Andrej Babiš—push for emergency talks and possible Schengen action. Culture & Travel: Malešov Fortress near Kutná Hora will host the Kingdom Come: Deliverance Fanfest on 15 August, with medieval music, developer talks, dice and cosplay events. Sports (Czech spotlight): Linda Noskova and Karolina Muchová headline Czech nominations for the Billie Jean King Cup finals in Shenzhen, with doubles ace Katerina Siniakova also named.