EU Enlargement Watch: Iceland’s voters rejected restarting EU accession talks in a tight referendum (52.8% No to 47.2% Yes), with fisheries and sovereignty concerns beating geopolitical arguments tied to US pressure over Greenland. Moldova Budget Pressure: Moldova’s 2026 state budget deficit is set to rise to 23.07 billion lei as “unplanned” spending grows, driven by higher debt-service costs, social obligations and weaker grant support. Tax & Fuel Costs: Romania is cutting diesel excise taxes again, while Moldova is preparing fuel and VAT-related increases; Moldova’s finance ministry also explains VAT/excise changes for farmers and diesel. Sanctions & Finance Risks: Investigations keep spotlighting Ilan Shor’s Russia-linked crypto network as a way to route money around Western sanctions. Water & Business Impact: Drought warnings persist: Dniester and Prut flows are far below normal, with codes Orange/Red urging rational water use by households and economic agents. Digital Banking: Iute Group reports strong H1 results and continued rollout of its digital banking platform, including Moldova’s Energbank transformation. Local Economy: Moldova’s “Local Product 2026” exhibition drew 300+ manufacturers, including a record-breaking sour cherry pie.