Strait of Hormuz & Consumer Impact: Shipping and oil-market jitters are back in focus after a reported drone attack on a cargo vessel and subsequent US strikes on Iranian sites, with BIMCO urging clearer US-Iran terms for safe passage as evacuations were paused and transits remain uneven. Energy Bills & Inflation Pressure: Even as oil eases, households still feel the lag—US consumer sentiment improved in June mainly as gas prices moderated, while other regions are bracing for higher power costs tied to Middle East disruptions. Iran Sanctions Relief Dispute: Iran’s central bank rejects US claims of shortages, saying $3.7bn was allocated for essential imports, while banking outages and cyber disruptions continue to disrupt everyday payments. Regional Retail Payments: Network International launched “Slice” in the UAE, letting eligible credit cardholders convert purchases into instant interest-free installments at the point of sale. Egypt Consumer & Auto: SOUEAST debuted two plug-in hybrid SUVs in Egypt (S06 DM, S08 DM), signaling more hybrid options for local buyers. Luxury & Jewelry: UAE lab-grown diamond retailers are expanding vintage-style old-cut collections as Gulf demand grows for heritage-inspired bridal and gifting. Tech & Services: InstaeVisa expanded global visa assistance as travel and overseas education demand rises. Market Outlook: Goldman Sachs lifted India’s 2026 growth forecast to 6.8% after the US-Iran peace deal, citing lower oil prices and steadier supply chains.