Iran Sanctions & Shipping Pressure: The U.S. Treasury issued new sanctions on an international network it says helps Iran procure weapons, escalating pressure amid Strait of Hormuz hostilities. Banking & AI Results: Bank of America’s CFO says AI investment is translating into measurable gains, pointing to improved efficiency and stronger profitability. Mortgage Demand Cools: Mortgage applications fell as the 30-year fixed rate rose to 6.65%, squeezing homebuyer activity even as refinancing held up. Crypto Policy Shock: Illinois’ new crypto tax starts in 2027 and applies at the transaction level even when trades lose money, raising concerns for investors. Regulation & Cybersecurity: Canada’s securities regulators updated cybersecurity guidance after reviewing 73 firms, citing AI-driven cyber risk. Mortgage Tech Modernization: Solidifi became the first to complete FHA EAD certification for UAD 3.6, aiming to speed lender adoption. Energy & Infrastructure: Wisconsin announced Realta Fusion will move its HQ and fusion research to Madison’s former Oscar Mayer plant, while grid battery tech faces durability limits under extreme heat. Markets: U.S. stocks closed higher as inflation cooled, and bank shares led sentiment. Corporate Deals: Delfin Midstream advanced its FLNG2 project with Siemens Energy via a limited notice to proceed. Personal Finance: The Saver’s Match is set to launch, but millions of eligible workers—especially women—may miss it without retirement accounts. Fraud & Enforcement: U.S. details emerged in the Abu Trica extradition case tied to an alleged $8M romance scam targeting elderly victims.