AI & Markets: US stocks slid as AI CEOs urged a slowdown, hitting chip and memory names while software and some cybersecurity firms held up; the debate is now driving expectations for data-centre, chip and energy spending. Middle East & Rates: Oil stayed elevated after Iran pulled out of talks over the Strait of Hormuz, pushing yields higher and raising odds of a Fed move. Small Business & Wages: ACT unveiled a plan to freeze the adult minimum wage for three years and introduce a 60% “training wage” for under-20s, alongside tighter personal grievance rules. Tax Policy Watch: National’s Nicola Willis hinted at further income tax bracket changes and possible tweaks to the R&D tax credit after the pre-election fiscal update. Local Government Clash: Auckland Mayor Wayne Brown warned Auckland Council could quit the Auckland Deal if the Government bans voting rights for Houkura members. Banking Pressure Point: The Banking Ombudsman reported disputes at a decade high, with lending complaints up sharply and fraud/scam complaints down. Energy & EVs: Evnex passed 20,000 smart charger installations across NZ and Australia, as EV uptake accelerates. Property Snapshot: REINZ said August prices were steady nationally but sales fell, with regional divergence between North and South. Business Leadership: ASB CEO Vittoria Shortt will step down in December, with Sinead Taylor appointed as successor. Tourism & Events: Raglan is confirmed for the World Surf League Championship Tour in 2027, backed by government support.