New job: Loyola University New Orleans has appointed Deidre Deculus Robert as vice president, general counsel and director of government affairs. Most recently CEO of Build Baton Rouge, Robert previously served as general counsel for the Southern University System and has held leadership roles in st ate and federal government. At Loyola, she will advise university leaders and strengthen relationships with government and community partners. Biz New Orleans has the full story. On budget: Woodside’s $17.5 billion Louisiana LNG project in Calcasieu Parish was 28% complete by the end of Q2 2026 and remains on budget, with first LNG cargo targeted for 2029. Construction is advancing on three LNG trains and two massive storage tanks, with Train 1 35% complete, Train 2 25% complete and Train 3 18% complete. Woodside says the project will create lasting economic opportunities in southwest Louisiana while delivering energy to global markets. Offshore Energy has the full story. Edging higher: The average 30-year U.S. mortgage rate edged up to 6.66% this week, nearing its 2026 high of 6.69%, while the 15-year rate rose to 5.98%. Higher borrowing costs are limiting homebuyers’ purchasing power and contributing to a sluggish housing market. Mortgage rates have been pushed higher by rising Treasury yields, inflation concerns and worries over U.S. government debt. The Associated Press has the full story. State's future How optimistic are you about Louisiana’s economic future? Very optimistic Somewhat optimistic Neutral Somewhat pessimistic Very pessimistic Δ ...read more read less