Crypto & Sanctions: A Financial Times report says Iran is using bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies for cross-border settlements, with the central bank “quietly” encouraging traders while turning a blind eye as the rial weakens. Payments Modernisation: Syria launched its first locally issued, internationally accepted payment card with QNB Syria and Mastercard, aiming to reconnect the payments ecosystem to global networks after more than 15 years. Energy Shock for Finance: LNG supply losses from the US-Iran war are driving Asia’s developing markets into costly spot purchases, with Bloomberg estimating a $7.4bn spend surge (about $9.4bn) since the conflict began. Oil Market Volatility: Fresh strikes around Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf pushed Brent up about 3% and renewed rate-hike fears, while Saudi’s East-West pipeline shutdown threatens export supply. Regional Trade & Diplomacy: Gulf-Iran talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz were postponed in Oman, with Iran linking any reopening to US conditions. Labour & Skills: Qatar’s labour conference push highlights reskilling and workforce planning as AI and digital transformation reshape jobs. Venture Capital: Intrepid Growth Partners raised $525m for its first AI-focused fund, with Middle East sovereign wealth participation noted. Geopolitics & Risk: Iraq faces a September 30 deadline tied to bringing Iran-aligned factions under state control, raising financial and security uncertainty. Culture/Policy: Israel’s culture minister vowed to seek citizenship revocation for NAZA filmmakers after the Venice win—an issue likely to spill into funding and sanctions debates.