UPI MDR Shake-Up (India): NPCI’s revised UPI merchant discount rate framework starts 15 Oct, charging 0.4% on select P2M transactions above ₹2,000 (capped at ₹300), while keeping UPI free for consumers and P2P always free—sparking fresh upside talk for banks and payment firms. Market Impact (India): Analysts flag a potential ₹16,000–18,000 crore annual revenue pool for the ecosystem, with YES Bank and other UPI-heavy players seen as key beneficiaries as shares react to the new economics. Regulatory Clarity (India): The Union government reiterated that banks can’t levy charges on UPI payments up to ₹2,000 (including RuPay debit cards), aiming to reduce confusion ahead of the MDR rollout. RBI Court Move (India): RBI filed a caveat in Bombay High Court over Tata Sons’ listing battle, seeking a chance to be heard if challenges or stays are filed. Fintech Expansion (Europe): Revolut applied for a Swiss banking licence and plans to invest over CHF 150m to expand services in Switzerland, including salary accounts and deposit insurance access. Wealth/Capital Markets (Global): Goldman Sachs Alternatives raised $11.7bn for flagship private equity vehicles, underscoring continued appetite for buyouts and growth deals. Banking Performance (Africa): Tanzania’s CRDB and NMB made Forbes’ World’s Top Performing Banks 2026 list, highlighting profitability and resilience gains. Co-op Banking (India): NABARD’s Gujarat pilot shows cooperative banks mobilising Rs 65,662 crore via rural co-ops, with micro-ATMs and financial literacy scaling across districts.