Regional Outlook: The World Bank expects Middle East and North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan economies to contract 2.1% in 2026, with Gulf economies down 4.3% on average as Strait of Hormuz disruption hits energy flows. Qatar and Kuwait face the steepest projected declines. Currency Moves: Iraq raised the public dollar rate to 1,520 dinars, a 200-dinar increase, as oil disruption and a projected budget deficit intensify pressure; lawmakers are challenging the move. China’s central bank, meanwhile, says market forces should guide the yuan and denies seeking a weaker currency. Banking: India’s RBI has removed Paytm Payments Bank from its scheduled-bank list after revoking its licence; the Delhi High Court has ordered the bank wound up. Investment: Penang says US manufacturers invested RM18.2 billion in the state from 2020 through mid-2026. In the Philippines, Peza’s approved investments reached P297.14 billion in the first nine months, nearing its annual target. Private Capital: Conversant Capital closed its first real estate fund with $845 million in commitments, above its $500 million target. Financial Education: The Philippine House approved a bill providing free financial training for overseas workers and their families.