Critical Minerals & Manufacturing: NexTech Batteries says its lithium-sulfur cylindrical cells are cycling nominally in orbit aboard NearSpace Launch’s SPEAR-1 mission, a milestone for U.S. energy-storage capability in defense space. Lithium Market Infrastructure: Fastmarkets picked TMX Trayport to power Fastmarkets Connect, aiming to improve electronic price discovery and spot liquidity access in the physical lithium market. Advanced Defense Tech: Eva Defense unveiled a next-gen low-noise autonomous drone prototype built for stealth-oriented ISR missions, with future integration planned for its SwarmOS ecosystem. Mining Update (Nevada): NevGold reported expanded oxide-gold mineralization at its Limousine Butte project, including high-grade intercepts outside the 2026 pit-shell. Tungsten Supply Chain: A new commentary highlights how tungsten price spikes are turning into working-capital strain for major industrial users, underscoring the squeeze beyond just commodity prices. Local Public Safety Funding: The NC Law & Fire Council says it has directed about $1.4M since 1999 to Nevada-area police, fire, rescue and a new criminal justice CTE gear push. Housing & Rentals: Realtor.com reports Las Vegas among metros with high landlord concessions, reflecting vacancy pressure and giving renters more leverage. Energy Policy: The U.S. Senate unanimously passed the Hydropower Licensing Transparency Act, requiring FERC annual reporting on relicensing status—Nevada’s Catherine Cortez Masto is a sponsor.