Wage & Payroll Banking: Al Baraka Islamic Bank has joined Bahrain’s Wage Protection System (WPS), letting corporate and institutional clients manage salary payments through secure banking channels to improve payroll efficiency, transparency and compliance. Housing Allocation: MP Dr Muneer Suroor urged the Housing and Urban Planning Ministry to prioritise plots close to applicants’ home districts under the “Land and Loan” scheme to reduce disruption to jobs, schools and elderly care. IFRS 18 Prep: Bahrain businesses are being urged to start early preparations for IFRS 18 (effective for annual periods from Jan 1, 2027), with focus on how income/expense categories and management performance measures will reshape reporting. Corporate Finance & Compliance: Bahrain’s Finance Minister met UN ESCWA’s executive secretary, reaffirming cooperation on development and Sustainable Development Goals. Property Market Confidence: Marina West investors welcomed progress after the stalled project was auctioned and ownership transferred to Sumou Holding, but buyers say full confidence depends on settlement proceeds being distributed. Digital Payments & Talent: talabat Bahrain launched a “talabat Youth” internship programme for 10 Bahraini students, while CrediMax received a Visa award for highest average spend per card in Bahrain in 2025. Luxury Auctions: Mazad unveiled a curated luxury collection spanning watches, fashion, jewellery, marine craft and electric vehicles, with verified items and competitive starting prices. Energy & Shipping Shock (Regional): Oil prices climbed as Strait of Hormuz disruptions and geopolitical risks tightened supply, while the UAE suspended all trade with Iran following renewed missile fire—raising pressure on regional trade routes that matter to Bahrain-linked flows.