Middle East Shock to Trade and Travel: IATA says West Asia conflict cut global air passenger demand 3.4% y/y in April, with Middle East carriers hit hardest; air cargo demand rose 4.0% y/y, led by Asia-linked trade, but Gulf disruptions are still reshaping routes and capacity. Global Growth Outlook Worsens: The World Economic Forum reports chief economists expect weaker growth and higher inflation, warning Strait of Hormuz disruption could rival COVID-era damage if it drags on. EU Competitiveness Push: Bulgaria’s EC representative argues Europe needs economic strength to compete globally, pointing to single-market reforms and EU plans to cut bureaucracy and boost competitiveness funding. Markets Jolt on US-Iran Strikes: Oil jumped and stocks slid after renewed US-Iran exchanges, reviving fears for shipping through Hormuz and broader economic pressure. Tech and Cybersecurity Momentum: Investors are rotating toward cybersecurity names as AI adoption expands attack surfaces; CrowdStrike, Palo Alto Networks and SailPoint are among the standouts. Corporate Moves and Deals: Comscore sold its movie data business for $70m cash to Advaya Capital, to be rebranded as Rentrak. Business and Policy in Focus: Meta plans expanded subscriptions for creators and businesses, while a US sanctions action targets Iran’s Persian Gulf Strait Authority over maritime extortion. Corporate Earnings Watch (Malaysia): QL Resources posted slightly lower FY2026 profit, while Berjaya Corporation’s 3Q loss widened amid weaker services and non-food retail performance.