UK Inflation Watch: Britain’s CPI slowed to 2.6% in June (from 2.8%), helped by cheaper fuel and softer food prices, but analysts warn the relief may fade as Middle East tensions push oil back up. Trade Tensions: Canada and the U.S. are set to intensify talks after the U.S. imposed 50% tariffs on Canadian goods, while B.C. Premier David Eby vowed to keep U.S. alcohol off shelves. Middle East Shock: Oil prices are back near $95 as U.S.-Iran conflict escalates, feeding inflation risk globally. AI for Business: OpenAI launched a small-business ChatGPT program, while ANNA Money expanded via acquisitions to automate startup-to-tax workflows; Qumis rolled out AI agents for insurance coverage analysis. M&A/Antitrust: A U.S. judge temporarily blocked the Warner Bros./Paramount merger, and India’s Supreme Court refused an interim stay on a Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs merger case. Energy & Investment: Egypt secured $391m for grid upgrades tied to Gulf of Suez renewables; Australia’s Yanara won €150m to build 2GW+ renewables. Real Economy Pressure: South Africa’s inflation jumped to 5.0% in June, keeping cost pressures front and center.