Digital Banking & AI Execution: Banks are being told to stop spreading AI thin and instead redesign high-value workflows to capture measurable value, with platform engineering framed as the “repeatable” path from AI pilots to ROI. KYC/KYB Data Sharing: Solo Network is running a pilot where banks can reuse customer vetting results from other trusted institutions, while the US Treasury is watching the rollout. Stablecoin Rails & Payments: Yellow Card raised $40m to expand Global USD Accounts and add stablecoin and local payment rails across 50+ countries, while Straata (formerly Utopaya) relaunches as an AI-native service aimed at automating payments revenue growth. Open Finance in the GCC: GCC banks are shifting from digitizing customer access to simplifying the connected tech estate behind it, as open finance moves from frameworks into implementation. Central Banking Watch: India’s RBI held rates at 5.25% as it weighs oil-driven inflation risks. Banking M&A/Infrastructure: MoneyPass Group began operating independently after Fiserv and Bridgeport Partners closed the deal, building a large ATM and cash infrastructure network. Leadership Moves: Bank Asia appointed Ariful Bari as DMD and chief credit officer; SRM named Jeffrey Bray technology practice leader; IAA Credit Union selected Mahalo Banking for nationwide digital modernization. Regulatory/Policy: Lok Sabha passed India’s Bankers’ Books Evidence Bill amid opposition noise, and RBI is set to issue draft norms for “on-tap” licensing of urban co-operative banks.