Geopolitics and Trade: Iran and the US traded strikes in the Gulf after accusations over an attack on a cargo ship in the Strait of Hormuz, putting a fragile ceasefire and shipping stability under fresh strain. Markets and Inflation: Global shares slid as tech stocks faced renewed pressure tied to AI-bubble worries and stretched valuations; oil, gold and Bitcoin also weakened as rate-hike expectations rose. US-Iran Sanctions: The UN Security Council saw sharp blame over Sudan’s humanitarian crisis while the US announced a second round of economic sanctions on Sudan over chemical weapons use. Corporate Dealmaking: Persistent Systems agreed to combine with Nagarro in an AI-led digital engineering push, with a planned takeover offer at EUR 81 per share. M&A/Local Services: Two regional library systems are exploring a merger to streamline catalogs and services across multiple counties. Policy and Business Costs: Sri Lanka moved to speed imported-food inspections and port clearance after delays raised costs for consumers and importers. Trade Negotiations: The Philippines and Canada plan to accelerate free-trade talks during Marcos’s July visit, targeting completion this year. Inflation Measurement: India’s shift from WPI to PPI is set to refine how production-stage prices feed into policy decisions. Small Business Support: Pennsylvania announced a $25M child-care workforce investment, while Hawaiʻi launched a Kona Low recovery grant program with $475,000 for affected non-ag businesses. Sports Business (Trade): The NHL draft opened with major player/pick swaps, while NBA teams continued salary-driven moves, including Isaiah Joe headed to Detroit.