Sanctions & Crypto: The U.S. Treasury sanctioned Iran’s Nobitex crypto exchange, alleging it helped the IRGC-Quds Force route transactions around sanctions—another reminder that financial tools are getting pulled into the Iran-Israel conflict. Consumer Pressure: In the U.S., retailers say shoppers are still spending, but they’re quietly changing habits—more careful fuel stops and fewer discretionary trips—while economists warn retrenchment could widen once refunds fade. Aviation Cost Shock: IATA warned airline profits could be cut in half in 2026 as jet fuel costs jump about 40% from the Iran war, with Middle East airspace disruptions and delivery delays compounding the squeeze. Egypt Retail & FMCG Expansion: Lipton Teas & Infusions opened a new Alexandria production line, boosting automated packaging capacity as Egypt pushes investment-friendly reforms. Egypt Trade Support: Egypt appointed Hatem El Nawawy to lead the Export Development Authority to expand the exporter base and help Egyptian products reach new markets. Payments Upgrade: Backbase teamed with Mastercard to embed Mastercard Move into its AI banking platform, aiming to speed up cross-border payments for banks. Private Jet K-Shape: Private jet travel is rising despite the war-driven fuel hit, as wealthy travelers keep booking while lower-income groups tighten budgets.