Central Banking & Growth: Ireland’s central bank lifted its growth forecast to 3.8% for 2026 (3.4% in 2027), citing stronger demand for software and data-centre equipment tied to AI, plus resilient consumer spending—while warning against extra Budget stimulus and flagging housing starts revised down. Energy Costs & Inflation Pressure: In the US, AAA data put diesel at a record $6.27 a gallon, raising shipping and grocery costs as inflation stays above target and higher rates threaten household budgets. Markets & Rates: Bond yields and Fed expectations are back in focus, with analysts weighing another rate hike and the knock-on effects for borrowing costs. US Politics & Economy: A New York Times/Siena poll says Democrats hold an edge on the economy heading into midterms, while Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent faced sharp questioning over inflation, tariffs and war-driven fuel prices. Crypto Regulation: The US Senate failed to advance Trump-backed comprehensive crypto legislation, dealing a blow to digital-asset firms and GOP supporters. Local Business & Housing: Topeka’s Economic Outlook Conference will share business confidence and hiring signals, while Stratford’s official plan discussion projects population growth to nearly 53,000 by 2056 and about 7,200 new housing units. Tech, Data Centres & Rules: Lowell moved toward data-centre zoning updates after a moratorium, and Nepal’s electricity regulator advanced open-access directives to improve competition and access. Aviation & Travel: Etihad unveiled its Beyond Borders A330 cabin experience, and Emirates is adding a higher, electric privacy divider to premium economy. Healthcare Payments: Medicare’s ACCESS model is shifting chronic disease reimbursement toward outcomes, with concerns about keeping care coordinated through primary physicians. Corporate & Investment Moves: Canada’s PM Mark Carney said Ottawa will wait for the right trade-war conditions with the US and expanded investment tax breaks; i-payout expanded US money-transmitter licensing and pushed for a European EMI license. Tourism Impact: Notre Dame home games are projected to generate over $36m in economic impact for St. Joseph County, boosting hotels and restaurants. Energy Transition & Storage: A new study will assess environmental impacts of large battery energy storage systems. Digital Economy Push: Pakistan outlined a roadmap to reach a $1tn economy by 2035, driven by broadband expansion and tech exports.