Restaurants set for €330 million revenue surge
Zeta Italy News Around six million people in Italy are expected to dine out this weekend, taking advantage of the Valentine’s Day celebrations, according to FIPE (Federazione Italiana Pubblici Esercizi). With an average spending of 50 euros per person, total revenues for the restaurant sector are estimated to reach approximately 330 million euros.
Storm hits Isola d’Elba in Tuscany
On the night of February 13, Isola d’Elba was hit by a heavy downpour, with fire services rescuing 28 people trapped in cars and intervening in three homes to save residents from rising waters. The storm affected Tuscany, causing flooding and damage in Orbetello, Talamone, and Giglio Campese.
First case of medically assisted death in Lombardy
A 50-year-old woman with progressive multiple sclerosis, who had been suffering for over 30 years, died in Lombardy after self-administering a lethal drug provided by the national health service. The drug and necessary equipment were delivered following a 9-month wait. This follows the 2019 Constitutional Court ruling on assisted death.
Two foreign nationals investigated for fraud scheme
They allegedly solicited large sums from professionals and entrepreneurs, claiming the money was needed to pay ransoms for nonexistent journalists kidnapped in the Middle East. The Milan Prosecutor’s Office has frozen Dutch accounts containing €1 million, including funds from businessman Massimo Moratti.
Crack down on illegal crypto platforms and fraudulent trading sites
Consob, Italy’s financial markets’ regulator, has blocked unauthorized crypto operators Dobibo and Fameexn under the new EU MiCAR rules. It also shut down Fininvestonline.com, which falsely used the Fininvest/Mediaset brand—linked to ex-PM Silvio Berlusconi’s media empire—to promote illegal services. Four more trading sites were banned, totaling 1,226 since 2019 in Italy’s crackdown on financial fraud.
Giorgetti to introduce measure on energy prices, calls for market review
Speaking at the Senate’s question time, Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti stressed that energy prices and bills are influenced by external speculative factors beyond government control. He also called for a review of the transition to the free electricity market, a decision made by previous administrations.
Driver arrested after fatal hit-and-run crash in Sardinia
The three occupants of the car fled on foot but were quickly apprehended by police. The incident occurred at night, on February 13, in Alghero, Sardinia, when a car ran a stop sign, striking a rider’s scooter and throwing him against a building. Driver was arrested while the rider remains in critical condition at the hospital.
Venice carnival kicks off on Valentine’s Day to celebrate Casanova’s 300th anniversary
The theme, “The Time of Casanova,” will transform Piazza San Marco into a stage for performances, including music, dance, and historical reenactments. The event begins at 6:30 PM with “Valentine’s Night. Heart to Heart” performance. To ensure safety, 56 new carabinieri have been deployed, with additional police and support during peak times.
Sanremo’s third night crowns singer Settembre
Settembre won the Nuove Proposte section of Sanremo 2025 with “Vertebre,” beating Alex Wyse’s “Rockstar.” Top five included Olly, Coma_Cose, Francesco Gabbani, Irama, and Brunori Sas. Fourth night is dedicated to covers and will see artists perform Italian and international songs with guest collaborations. The results will not affect the overall standings.
Ranieri’s show in Europa League
Claudio Ranieri criticized referee Stieler after Roma’s 1-1 draw against Porto, which saw Roma receive eight yellow cards and one red. “I didn’t want the players to greet him. He didn’t deserve it after that game,” said Ranieri. He also targeted UEFA referee committee president Rosetti, referring to the ongoing tension between Roma and the referee since the Budapest Europa League final in 2023.
