As Art Basel Hong Kong ramps up for its much-anticipated opening this week, the art world is buzzing with optimism and caution. According to a detailed analysis by Ilaria Maria Sala featured in ARTnews, several factors are shaping the current art market in the region. While Hong Kong grapples with only modest GDP growth of 2.6%, a sluggish economy in mainland China, and ongoing US tariffs on imports from China, there remains a glimmer of hope. Sala highlights that galleries, museums, and less conventional art spaces are presenting strong offerings this week, signaling resilience in the face of these challenges. Hok-hang Cheung also shares insights on eight compelling yet under-the-radar exhibitions to catch in Hong Kong, noting that the local art scene has evolved significantly post-Covid lockdowns, making this year's events particularly dazzling for collectors flocking to the city.

In the UK, nearly 50 art businesses have been penalized for non-compliance with new money laundering regulations, according to reports from the Art Newspaper. Notable galleries, including Opera and Carl Kostyál, along with a fundraising initiative by White Cube, have found themselves on the list. Fines issued to these establishments range from approximately $3,000 to $17,000. Some dealers lamented feeling "punished for being honest" in their dealings with authorities. However, a spokesperson from HM Revenue & Customs emphasized the necessity of these measures aimed at supporting businesses in shielding themselves from criminal exploitation.

In other significant news, historian Tiffany Jenkins has been appointed as a trustee at the British Museum and openly opposes the return of the Elgin Marbles to Greece. Her book, *Keeping Their Marbles: How the Treasures of the Past Ended up in Museums… and Why They Should Stay There*, outlines her stance on the subject.

Looking ahead to the future of art exhibitions, the Nordic Pavilion at the upcoming 2026 Venice Biennale has announced its featured artists, which include Benjamin Orlow, Tori Wrånes, and Klara Kristalova, with curation by Anna Mustonen from the Kiasma Museum in Helsinki.

Meanwhile, in Rome, the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art is implementing a controversial three-hour time limit on visits starting this month as a measure to control crowds, eliciting mixed reactions.

In the realm of art attribution, a recently uncovered painting at the Muséum de la Chartreuse in northern France has been reattributed to Renaissance artist Lavinia Fontana, rectifying its long-standing attribution to the Flemish painter Pieter Pourbus.

Archaeological discoveries continue to intrigue; researchers recently revealed a large, circular stone ceremonial platform from the Bronze Age in Farley Wood, Derbyshire. While only a single, 6.6-foot-tall stone remains today, evidence suggests there were once several stones that formed a significant ancient site.

Stay informed and connected to the ever-evolving world of art, as new stories unfold each day across the globe!