Banking & Infrastructure Finance: Bank of America unveiled a $250B Critical Infrastructure Finance Initiative to fund US data centers, semiconductors, power and transportation over 18 months, as demand for computing and energy security keeps rising. SME Credit Conditions: Malaysia’s central bank said overall SME financing remains supportive, with CGC guarantees topping RM103B for 544,000+ SMEs, while warning that temporary relief can’t replace productivity and resilience upgrades. Islamic Social Finance: Malaysia moved to mainstream Islamic social finance, tasking JAWHAR to improve governance and professionalism of Islamic NGOs and pushing collaboration with universities and the private sector. Investor Protection & Market Integrity: India’s NSE warned investors about unregistered social media accounts and a Telegram channel allegedly offering stock tips, urging people to avoid schemes promising assured returns. Wealth Management & Behavior: Financial advisors stressed emotion control amid volatility, warning against confusing short-term swings with permanent loss and making rushed cash moves. AI & Financial Services: UK regulators are debating AI’s systemic risks, including concentration among providers and correlated market behavior, even as AI boosts productivity. Dealmaking & Expansion: Merit Financial Advisors agreed to acquire $900M Bridgeway Group, expanding its Southern California footprint. Cross-border Trade: Pakistan and Belarus agreed to deepen cooperation across agriculture, energy, tech and defense, with a focus on trade and investment. Geopolitics & Risk: UN officials said the West Bank is at a critical breaking point as violence, displacement and settlement expansion accelerate. Regional Labor & Investment: Kenya and Qatar agreed to institutionalize consultations, with employment and labor agreement reviews high on the agenda.