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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said Russia has broadened its strikes beyond energy infrastructure to target Ukraine's data centres, a shift that could disrupt communications, banking and government services. The claim underscores the growing impact of the war on Ukraine's civilian digital infrastructure and its critical systems.

The Israel Defense Forces has reinforced its troop deployment across the West Bank, citing concern that Palestinian militants could carry out terror attacks during the upcoming holiday period. Additional units are being moved into the territory to strengthen security and respond quickly to potential incidents, as Israeli authorities remain on heightened alert during the festive season.

Brazilian digital bank Nubank is reportedly in early-stage talks to acquire UK challenger bank Monzo in a deal that could value Monzo at up to £10 billion. The potential takeover would mark one of the largest acquisitions in the European fintech sector and a major expansion by Nubank into the UK market. Details of the discussions have not been confirmed by either company.

The European Central Bank's digital euro has entered wholesale financial markets for the first time, marking a step beyond retail pilots into interbank use. The move signals that the eurozone's central bank digital currency is moving from experimentation toward practical infrastructure for settling transactions between financial institutions, a development drawing attention from banking and finance watchers.

Switzerland's finance minister has said it is unlikely that UBS would move away from its home base, in comments addressing questions about the future of the country's biggest bank following its state-brokered takeover of Credit Suisse. The remarks aim to reassure concern over the bank's commitment to Switzerland, though speculation continues about whether tighter regulation could prompt it to consider relocating.

Morgan Stanley is dealing with an accidental leak after a misdirected email exposed a list of the investment bank's deals. The incident is drawing attention in finance circles, with commentators weighing in on the potential confidentiality breach and what it says about internal controls at one of Wall Street's largest firms. The scope of the leaked information and any regulatory fallout remain to be seen.

Bond yields reaching the 5% level have drawn retail investors' attention to three financial stocks, according to Yahoo Finance coverage. Rising yields tend to boost interest and net interest margins for banks and financial firms, while also pulling money away from riskier assets, prompting traders to reassess their positioning in the sector.

The Wall Street Journal reports on the growth of 'almost-premium' credit cards — products positioned between basic no-fee cards and high-end premium cards that carry lower annual fees but offer some travel perks and rewards. Issuers are targeting consumers who want a taste of premium benefits without paying $395 or more a year. The piece examines how banks are using this middle tier to attract customers priced out of top-tier cards.

The UN has blacklisted 61 additional companies over their ties to Israeli settlements in the West Bank, bringing the total number of listed firms higher. The move is part of the UN Human Rights Council's database of businesses operating in or linked to settlements, which it deems illegal under international law. Israel has reacted angrily, condemning the blacklist as biased and politically motivated, while rights groups welcomed the step as accountability for corporate complicity.

The United Nations has expanded its database of Israeli companies operating in West Bank settlements, adding firms to bring the total to 215. The list, compiled by the UN Human Rights Council, names businesses deemed to support or benefit from Israel's settlement enterprise, which most of the international community considers illegal. Israeli officials have condemned the blacklist, while human rights groups see it as accountability pressure.