Latin America Macro: ECLAC cut its 2026 growth forecast for Latin America and the Caribbean to 2.2%, citing a tougher external environment, tighter financial conditions and inflation pressure, with a partial rebound to 2.5% in 2027. Dominican Energy Finance: White & Case advised a bank consortium on a US$902.3m senior secured project financing for the Manzanillo LNG-to-power scheme in the Dominican Republic, backing 840 MW of combined-cycle capacity. El Salvador Connectivity: CAF launched a call for studies to build El Salvador’s first submarine cable, aiming to reduce reliance on terrestrial internet operators. OpenAI in Brazil: OpenAI officially launched business operations in Brazil, strengthening its local push as ChatGPT usage grows. Prime Video Spend: Prime Video will invest $2bn+ in Latin America from 2027-2030 across originals and live sports, including Mexico’s national team rights. AI Hardware in Brazil: Brazil plans two AI supercomputers funded via the national science fund—one with Huawei/iFlytek and another expected via a Nvidia-led tender—explicitly to avoid dependence on a single supplier. Tech & Trade: J&T Express reported H1 2026 profit up 124% to $350.6m, with parcel volume jumping 119.9% in Latin America. Energy/Climate Risk: El Niño is worsening Panama Canal congestion and could feed through to consumer prices across supply chains. Security Watch: South Africa uncovered a major crystal meth lab near Zimbabwe, arresting two Mexicans and others, pointing to Latin American cartel expansion concerns.