US-Iran Deal & Hormuz: Oil prices slid back below pre-Iran-war levels as Strait of Hormuz traffic picked up after the US-Iran MOU, while Washington and Tehran traded conflicting signals on nuclear inspections and shipping fees; Trump also insisted Iran won’t impose tolls or charges, even as Iran’s IRGC warned against an “unapproved” Hormuz route. US Domestic Politics: Trump asked Congress for about $87.6bn in supplemental funding, mostly for Iran-war costs, as Republican lawmakers clashed with him and polls showed many Americans doubt the war’s value. Gulf Diplomacy: Marco Rubio toured the GCC in Bahrain to reassure allies that any Iran framework won’t undermine Gulf security or Hormuz freedom, but Gulf states pressed for clarity on nuclear, missiles and maritime control. Egypt Economy & Markets: Egypt reported 5% Q3 FY2025/26 growth, with Suez Canal activity up 23.6%, while EGX shares edged down and food prices fell; Egypt also signed multiple health, education and green-industry deals with AFD/EU/French firms. Egypt Business Finance: MSMEDA and the Egyptian Exchange inked a protocol to expand MSME access to financing tools, and Copper for Commercial Investment turned profitable in Q1 2026. Regional Trade Logistics: Turkmenbashi port in Turkmenistan is operating at just 25–30% due to visa and permit red tape, even as interest in the Trans-Caspian route rises amid Hormuz disruption fears. Banking Reshuffle: Standard Chartered said it will explore selling its Ghana retail and wealth business after 130 years, keeping corporate and investment banking in place.