ECB Rate Hike: The European Central Bank resumed interest-rate increases after nearly three years, lifting borrowing costs by 25 bps to 2.25% as Iran-linked energy shocks keep inflation pressure elevated. World Bank Cut: The World Bank slashed its global growth forecast to 2.5%, citing the Iran war’s hit to energy markets, inflation and financing costs. EU Migration Rules: The EU’s Migration and Asylum Pact starts this week, with border screening, faster procedures for “safe” countries and potential border detention, but many member states still aren’t fully ready. EU Supervision Push: ESMA and Cyprus’ regulator called for stronger EU-level oversight as cross-border finance and AI/crypto reshape markets. Cyprus Budget Talks: Cyprus’ presidency published updated EU budget negotiation text for the 2028–2034 MFF, with concrete allocations now appearing by spending heading. Crypto & Fraud: Regulators and platforms face rising scrutiny as AI-fuelled scams spread and banks’ crypto access remains a flashpoint. Energy Trade & Sanctions: The EU expanded Iran sanctions to target entities that impede navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, while Russia-China energy deals keep bypassing Western influence. Poland Logistics: Chinese investment is deepening Poland’s logistics role, from warehouse automation to cross-border e-commerce.