US Labor & Budget: The US Senate passed a continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December, aiming to avert a shutdown while extending key programs and preserving some import incentives. US Jobs Watch: New data showed employers cut 23,000 jobs in July and unemployment fell to 4.1% as fewer people looked for work—an uneven signal for the labor market. Iran & Shipping Economics: Iran’s officials warned the US blockade could push the economy toward collapse, while talks on reopening the Strait of Hormuz hinge on major sanctions and asset demands. Trade Disruptions at BRICS: BRICS trade ministers in Jaipur pushed stronger trade links and SME support, with UAE officials calling for the Strait’s immediate reopening. Nigeria Cost-of-Living Politics: Atiku attacked Nigeria’s economic management using CBN survey results showing weak willingness to buy vehicles, durables, and property. Customs & Digital Trade: Nigeria’s customs chief urged lawmakers to overhaul outdated customs laws to match digital trade realities. EU Migration Leverage: The EU’s migration commissioner floated using visa and trade tools to press Morocco on migration cooperation. Tech & Startups: India’s commerce ministry signed MoUs to back startups via digital payments, cloud, fintech, AI, and global market access. Affordability Policy: Seattle moved to block grocery retailers from using personal data to set different prices for different shoppers. Energy Infrastructure: Nigeria’s federal projects in Benue were pitched as trade boosters and job creators, while Zambia broke ground on a 100MW Kasama solar plant to diversify power supply.