UAE-Iran Shock: Abu Dhabi suspended all trade and financial transactions with Iran “until further notice” after missile attacks, citing regional escalation and pledging to protect the integrity of the international financial system. Market Mood: European stocks mostly fell as Hormuz tensions lifted oil and pushed bond yields higher, keeping investors cautious. AI Capital Markets: Anthropic met prospective investors ahead of a planned IPO, facing scrutiny over AI growth durability, cheaper China rivals, and US data-centre opposition. Private Markets: Siguler Guff closed a $500m India-focused mid-market private equity fund (GEMGO II), aiming to back high-growth businesses. Fintech & Investing Access: Interactive Brokers expanded Latin America funding via Paysafe’s SafetyPay, enabling local-currency bank transfers into global markets. Insurance-Linked Investing: Old Mutual Uganda bundled comprehensive motor insurance into selected unit trust products to reduce motorists’ financial shock risk. Regional Trade Deals: Oman-India CEPA entered into force, cutting or eliminating customs duties and opening wider market access. Corporate Finance: NH Investment & Securities’ 120bn won IMA offering was fully subscribed in two days, supported by a higher performance-fee benchmark. Equity Flows: Korean retail investors boosted US exposure, with $840m net into SK hynix ADRs. Local Economy: Bahrain reported net job growth in financial services driven by Bahrainisation despite digital banking shifts. Governance & Risk: An Ohio watchdog filed a complaint seeking disbarment review tied to the STRS retired teachers’ pension scandal.