Nigeria Politics & Cost of Living: Atiku Abubakar says CBN household survey data shows Nigerians are being priced out of homes, cars and basic goods, citing weak buying conditions for vehicles, durables and property. Iran–US Economic Pressure: Iran’s officials warn the U.S. blockade and sanctions could push the economy toward collapse, while Tehran links any Strait of Hormuz reopening to major U.S. concessions. US Labor Market: The U.S. economy unexpectedly shed 23,000 jobs in July; unemployment eased to 4.1% but participation fell, keeping the “two-speed” economy debate alive. Housing & Finance (Nigeria): FMBN launched a diaspora National Housing Fund mortgage loan to help Nigerians abroad buy homes through a “Register. Contribute. Participate. Invest. Own your home” program. Africa Macro Outlook: Afreximbank expects medium-term growth supported by domestic demand and intra-African trade, but flags energy security and FX buffers as key to surviving shocks. Trade & Regional Deals: Serbia and Ukraine pledged to deepen economic cooperation and push a long-stalled free trade agreement, while UAE trade ministers advanced rules-based trade at BRICS. Infrastructure & Jobs (Africa): Kenya’s treasury urged engineers to lead project planning as PPPs expand; Nigeria’s defence minister highlighted Alaba Market’s role in electronics, jobs and tech growth.