UK seasonally adjusted retail sales rose 1.2% MoM in May versus 0.5% expected; April was revised to -1.0% from -1.3%.

BANK OF JAPAN minutes: some members said if the Middle East conflict persists the central bank should raise rates faster to avert potentially excessive inf.

European Council president's spokesman said on June 18 that EU leaders agreed to extend economic sanctions on Russia for 12 months, the first time the bloc has moved beyond its prior six‑month renewal routine. The measures target trade, finance, energy, industry, transport and luxury goods; an EU Council statement on Dec. 22, 2025 set the new expiry at July 31, 2026. Russia has not commented.