China A-share gaming sector surged; Dianhun Network hit the daily limit-up. Da Sheng Culture, Xinghui Entertainment, Shengtian Network, Baotong Technology and Perfect World also advanced.

ECB executive board member Moulin said pension reform would benefit public finances.

Citigroup projects the UAE economy will contract 0.2% in 2026 after 6.2% growth in 2025. Non-oil output is forecast to decline 0.8% in 2026, reversing 2025’s 6.8% gain, while oil-sector growth slows to 1.7% from 4.3% in 2025. Citigroup says the UAE is the Gulf economy most exposed to the Middle East conflict, via trade, tourism, imports and domestic-demand channels. Strong fiscal and external buffers leave the government with scope to respond if shocks persist.