Middle East Spillovers: The World Food Programme warns the Iran war is starving millions via higher food and fuel costs and disrupted trade, with WFP forced to ration aid after major US/UN funding cuts. Pakistan Budget Push: Pakistan’s NEC approved a FY2026-27 development budget of 3.669tn rupees and set a 4% growth target, while the Economic Survey flags missed targets and rising inflation. EU Governance & Resilience: Vietnam and the EU reviewed economic governance support, while Ireland’s Tánaiste met EU Finance Ministers on resilience, competitiveness, and energy-driven inflation risks. Housing Affordability Shock: In metro Phoenix, even $140k incomes struggle to clear today’s home prices, underscoring how affordability—not just supply—has stalled the market. Ghana Digital Jobs: A Bolt/Ipsos study says Ghana’s gig and platform work now supports about $1bn a year, helping people earn flexibly across ride-hailing, delivery, and freelancing. South Africa Financial Risk: SARB flagged rising developed-economy sovereign debt as a global stability threat as refinancing and borrowing costs tighten. Nigeria Reform Debate: The IMF praised Nigeria’s reform progress but warned inflationary pressures from higher oil prices; meanwhile, opposition leaders attacked the government’s economic direction. Telecom Cost Cuts: MTN South Africa plans to cut R4bn–R6bn in costs by 2029 to offset weak home-market growth.