Crypto Derivatives Push: The CFTC approved the first U.S. bitcoin perpetual futures on a regulated exchange, ending offshore dominance and giving traders onshore perpetual exposure. Regulation Overhaul: India’s RBI issued 64 draft Master Directions across nine areas in FY26, aiming to simplify banking rules by merging thousands of circulars into standardized frameworks. Banking Security & AI: Japan’s megabanks plan to use a new OpenAI model to strengthen defenses against cyberattacks, as regulators and banks warn AI raises hacking risk. Mortgage Pressure Relief: UK lenders cut mortgage rates, with Barclays, NatWest and Coventry Building Society among those lowering borrowing costs. Retail Banking Sentiment: Deutsche Bank downgraded UK retailers including B&M, Wickes, Currys and Dunelm, citing a “calm before the storm” debate over consumer spending and margins. Africa Energy Finance: African lenders urged tighter coordination and more local capital to back Mission 300, targeting $238bn to expand energy access. M&A in Community Banking: Coastal Carolina Bancshares and Beacon Holding announced an all-stock “merger of equals” to build a larger South Carolina community bank franchise. Fraud & Counterfeit Trends: RBI data showed counterfeit detections rose 5.7% in FY26, with fake Rs 500 notes up sharply.