Sanctions Escalation: The US added Iran-related penalties to VTB Bank, saying it opened offices in Iran and built channels with sanctioned lenders—raising the risk of secondary sanctions for foreign partners. AI & Privacy: OpenAI rolled out “Finances in ChatGPT,” letting Plus/Pro users connect bank and investment accounts via read-only access, but experts warn that account takeovers could expose spending patterns. Middle East Banking & ESG: Doha Bank’s MSCI ESG rating was upgraded to BBB, while Gulf central banks met in Bahrain to discuss payment links, supervision, and anti-money laundering. Dealmaking & Capital Flows: Sri Lanka saw foreign investors buy $8.5m in rupee bonds, signaling renewed confidence as the country rebuilds after its 2022 crisis. Investment Summit Politics: Canada’s Mark Carney pushed a $1tn investment pitch in Toronto as protesters—unions, Indigenous leaders, and climate groups—rallied against CEO-led priorities. Corporate/Market Moves: JPMorgan double-upgraded Iren on Nvidia-driven AI infrastructure momentum; NH NongHyup Bank’s overseas loans more than doubled, but profit growth lagged. On-the-ground Finance: HDFC Bank of Sri Lanka and Hayleys Mobility expanded flexible vehicle financing, while police in Estevan investigated fraudulent withdrawals after a bank-impersonation call.