The rapid rise and widespread global adoption of cryptocurrencies in recent years has fundamentally transformed the international financial landscape, with digital assets increasingly being recognized for their potential to influence the stability and performance of traditional capital markets. Against this backdrop, this study aims to empirically investigate the impact of cryptocurrency returns on Islamic vs. conventional stock returns in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. The salient distinctions between Islamic and conventional stock markets include fundamental differences in principles, investment allocations, and risk profiles, underscoring the importance of examining the impact of cryptocurrency returns on these distinct equity segments. Daily data were collected from stock indices in five GCC countries over the period 2016–2019, including two sub-periods: before and after the 2017 crypto crash. Pooled OLS, fixed effects, random effects, and generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to analyze the data collected during the study. With the GCC increasingly focusing on cryptocurrency markets, there is growing concern about these markets’ potential impact on regional stocks. This study addresses the important questions of whether the impacts of the cryptocurrency market on Islamic vs. conventional stock markets differ throughout the GCC region and how these impacts have evolved since the crypto crash period. The findings reveal that cryptocurrency returns had a negative impact on both GCC Islamic and conventional stock market returns for the full sample period (2016–2019), and the negative effect was far more pronounced for conventional stocks. For the two sub-periods before and after the crash, only the cryptocurrency market and conventional GCC stocks remained negatively correlated, while the cryptocurrency market and the GCC Islamic stock markets became uncorrelated. Thus, for the calmer sub-periods before and after the crypto crash, the rise in cryptocurrency returns may have enticed GCC investors away from conventional stocks, perhaps resulting in a decline in their investment in these stocks. Meanwhile, those who invest in Islamic stocks may not be exposed to this temptation.

AI is revolutionizing teacher education by creating immersive learning experiences that simulate real classroom environments. Through AI-powered tools such as simulated teaching platforms, intelligent tutoring systems, and virtual teaching assistants, pre-service teachers can gain hands-on experience and develop crucial teaching skills. These technologies offer personalized learning experiences, allowing teachers to practice at their own pace, receive instant feedback, and engage in reflective practices to refine their instructional techniques. AI's ability to provide tailored support for diverse learning styles further enhances teacher development. However, challenges related to the lack of human interaction, ethical concerns, and the potential for over-reliance on technology must be addressed to ensure responsible implementation. As AI continues to shape teacher education, it offers transformative potential in preparing educators for the dynamic and complex classroom of the future.

Digital strategies are essential for advancing education in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4, which focuses on inclusive, equitable, and quality education. By utilizing mobile learning, online platforms, and artificial intelligence (AI), education systems can enhance access, equity, and learning outcomes for diverse students. These tools enable personalized learning, foster global collaboration, and support professional development for educators. Digital strategies also contribute to SDG 13 by incorporating sustainability education, equipping students with the skills to address environmental challenges. Moreover, these strategies promote SDG 17 by fostering global partnerships and cross-cultural understanding. However, addressing the digital divide and ensuring equal access to technology is crucial for achieving these goals and creating an inclusive, sustainable future in education.