Middle East conflict & trade routes: Middle East oil exports have climbed back above pre–Iran-war levels on several late-September days, with Kpler citing alternative routing and higher insurance costs keeping prices elevated; a separate report floats the idea that some Gulf states may be paying Iran to let cargoes through. Cybersecurity & resilience: The UAE Cybersecurity Council partnered with Veeam to boost national cyber resilience via drills, training, recovery simulations, and AI-ready security practices. Banking & risk outlook: Malaysia’s central bank says spillovers from Middle East conflict are manageable, with resilience in banks and households but warnings that escalation could hit commodities, supply chains and growth. Payments & fintech adjacent: Visa and the ADI Foundation teamed up on blockchain-powered digital payments, while Egypt saw Basata expand B2B payment and collection solutions. Regional investment ties: India and the UAE discussed expanding trade and investment cooperation in Dubai. Corporate finance: UK bank bosses are set to meet Chancellor John Healey over potential tax changes, as the banking surcharge debate heats up. Startup funding: myTVS raised ₹425 crore in a Series D led by CE-Invests, aiming to scale its tech-led aftermarket platform across MENA. Aviation & security: Australia launched a probe into an Omani FlyDubai co-pilot’s past after his alleged attempt to seize an Israel-bound aircraft.