US–Iran Deal Momentum: Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz Sharif says Washington and Tehran have agreed “final wording” for a memorandum aimed at ending the war, with mediators working on next steps; Iran’s FM Abbas Araghchi also signals closeness, while US officials describe a framework that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and move nuclear dismantlement into later phases. Market Pulse: US stocks finished the week higher on oil easing and peace-talk optimism; Bitcoin holds near $64,000 as risk sentiment improves. Gulf Logistics & Energy: US forces intercepted Iranian one-way drones near Hormuz and said shipping remains unaffected; Gulf refined-fuel exports are rebounding as more tankers slip through, though volumes remain far below pre-war levels. UAE–Iran Funds Claims Denied: The UAE foreign ministry rejects reports of releasing $3bn+ in frozen Iranian funds, saying no transfers occurred. Iraq Finance & Security: An Iraqi economist steps back after a Parliament payroll dispute over staffing and salary figures; Iraqi forces arrest a senior ISIS financier in al-Anbar. Saudi Labor Rule Update: Saudi Arabia requires Premium Residency holders to get a dedicated work permit via Qiwa, with a SR100 fee. FinTech/AI: Arabic.AI and Stanford launch HELM Arabic Enterprise to standardise enterprise evaluation of Arabic AI models. World Bank Macro Shock: The World Bank cuts 2026 global growth forecast to 2.5%, citing Middle East conflict-driven energy and inflation pressures.