Iran Pressure Campaign: US officials are signaling “unprecedented” economic pressure on Iran, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and allies pointing to sanctions and a naval blockade as the main levers—while critics warn any escalation could boomerang onto the US economy. Iran Economy Strain: Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian says the war has worsened prices and state finances as oil sales fall, factories are damaged, and tax revenue shrinks. US Macro Mix: US inflation cooled in July, but retail sales dropped and jobless claims rose, keeping the Fed and voters focused on affordability. Tariff Refunds Boost Growth: The Trump administration’s tariff refunds are lifting corporate profits and adding support to GDP growth, with economists citing a faster 4.3% pace. Jordan Revenue Resilience: Jordan’s domestic revenues rose to JD5.625b by end-July, helped by improved tax collection and a resilient economy. UAE Trade Expansion: The UAE says it has signed 38 CEPA deals, boosting non-oil trade and market access. Nepal Power Exports: Nepal’s energy minister says electricity trade reforms should move in parallel with regulation and investment groundwork. Namibia Merger Rules: Namibia’s competition authority plans to raise mandatory merger notification thresholds to reduce both missed competition risks and paperwork burdens. Ghana Growth Plan: President John Dramani Mahama announces a US$10bn “New Economy” investment push focused on agriculture and jobs. Victoria Toll Relief: Victoria’s opposition proposes a $50-a-week toll cap to cut costs for families and small businesses. Morocco Migration Anxiety: Despite Morocco’s growth, young people still risk crossing to Europe, driven by inequality and youth unemployment.