MSMEs & Local Traders: Malaysia’s Domestic Trade minister said a “grassroots gap” exists between GDP growth and everyday conditions, pushing empowerment for MSMEs and traders to make growth more inclusive. Food & Jobs via Value Chains: Uganda’s Busoga festival spotlighted coffee/cocoa value addition and agro-tourism as a jobs engine, while Guyana plans furniture and jewellery training to create local income. Conflict Hits Costs: A regional leader warned West Asia disruptions are straining global oil and gas shipments, feeding higher prices and uncertainty. AI Policy Push (US): Trump announced an “AI Force” and an AI coordinator, arguing against broad AI restrictions as data-center costs and safety concerns rise. Markets & FX (Nigeria): The naira held near N1,331/$1 at NAFEM; NGX gained on telecom/financial stocks, with broader sector gains lifting the All-Share Index. Energy Prices: Oil slipped but stayed above $100 as strikes and supply risks keep investors cautious. Regional Trade: Uzbekistan and Syria agreed to set up a joint economic and trade committee, while ASEAN economic ministers met in Manila to advance trade, digital transformation, and MSMEs. Public Finance (EU/Bulgaria): Bulgaria’s finance minister discussed AI’s impact and banking competitiveness, stressing capitalization and manageable regulatory burden.