Regulatory Changes in US Options Exchanges - Major US equity options exchanges, led by Cboe Global Markets (CBOE) and Nasdaq (NDAQ), are shifting to a new billing methodology based on prior-month trading activity instead of real-time volume [2][3] - This change, effective from early February 2026, aims to comply with SEC Regulation NMS Rule 610(d) and improve transparency while preventing exchanges from collecting fees for trades executed on competing platforms [3] Geopolitical Developments in Latin America - Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has ordered a temporary halt to oil shipments to Cuba to avoid potential tariffs from the Trump administration, causing internal conflict within Mexico's ruling Morena party [4][5] - This decision is significant as Mexico has recently become Cuba's primary oil supplier, surpassing Venezuela [5] Lebanon's Financial Stabilization Efforts - Lebanon's Prime Minister Nawaf Salam is advocating for the approval of the Financial Stabilization and Depositor Recovery (FSDR) law, which aims to address a funding gap exceeding $70 billion [6][7] - The proposed law includes provisions to repay small depositors up to $100,000 over four years, while larger deposits would be converted into tradable, asset-backed securities with maturities of up to 20 years [7] Infrastructure Development in Israel - The Israeli Cabinet has approved the construction of a new international airport, Tekuma Airport, near the Gaza periphery, with an estimated cost of NIS 7 billion [8] - This project is expected to create thousands of jobs and is seen as a strategic necessity to alleviate congestion at Ben Gurion Airport [8][9] Weather-Driven Economic Trends in the US - A severe winter in the Northeast has led to increased consumer spending on luxury winter apparel and spa services, benefiting retailers like Canada Goose (GOOS) and Columbia Sportswear (COLM) [11] - In contrast, California is facing a massive winter storm that could bring up to 8 feet of snow, prompting utilities like PG&E (PCG) to prepare for potential power outages and travel disruptions [12]