US Tariffs on Brazil: The U.S. imposed a new 12.5% Section 301 tariff on Brazilian goods, replacing a temporary 10% rate and stacking on top of the 25% duties that began July 22—potentially pushing some exports to as high as 37.5%, with Amcham Brasil estimating $12.5bn in annual exports affected. Brazil Trade Response: Brazil rejected the forced-labor tariff rationale and said it will pursue action at the WTO. Amazon Enforcement: Brazil is using “gold fingerprinting” forensic lab work to trace whether seized gold came from protected areas, targeting illegal mining tied to deforestation and mercury pollution. Health & HIV Prevention: Merck signed early voluntary licensing deals for low-cost generic versions of its once-monthly HIV prevention pill alimatravir, including manufacturers in sub-Saharan Africa and India, aiming to speed access in 129 low- and middle-income countries. Digital Payments: Coinbase launched direct USDC-BRL conversion for Brazilian users, making stablecoin trading easier without extra steps through crypto exchanges. Tech & Privacy: A U.S. judge dismissed a WhatsApp privacy lawsuit alleging Meta could access encrypted messages, though plaintiffs can refile. Culture: Anitta released a 35-minute film for her album “Equilibrium II,” pairing music with themes of spirituality, love and empowerment.