Central Banking & Markets: Central banks are buying record amounts of gold, with official holdings at the highest level since 1975 as demand accelerates after 2022—fueling price strength and signaling reserve diversification. Development Finance: The World Bank approved $1.1 billion for Bangladesh to blunt fertiliser and fuel price shocks, including $300m for emergency food security and a larger contingent response for cash transfers, livelihoods, and essential supplies. Banking Appointments & Operations: First National Bank and Trust promoted Chelsea Ballou to executive vice president, while Citizens Community Bank CEO Amy Rhoads announced retirement and handed leadership to Nathan Christensen; NRBC Bank added Shaheen Howlader as DMD and CBO. Digital Payments & Fraud: UK consumer watchdog Which? warned that “card replacement” updater services can let fraudsters keep spending even after a card is cancelled, and Kerala cyber police opened a case over forged court orders used to defreeze accounts and transfer funds. Global Finance Hubs: India’s GIFT City will spotlight its scaling IFSC activity at the Vibrant Gujarat summit, citing rapid growth in banking assets, fund management, and leasing. Regional Banking & Trade: China authorized Standard Bank and ICBC to jointly act as an RMB clearing bank for Africa, expanding offshore RMB payment infrastructure. Household Finance & Risk: A report found 51% of India’s Gen Z invest via mutual funds/SIPs but delay buying health insurance, leaving them exposed.