Markets & Energy: Oil and gold climbed across Asia as investors braced for key US inflation data, while Middle East and West Asia shipping risks and North Korea missile activity kept nerves high; South Korea’s Kospi surged on tech buying. West Asia Tensions: Reports say Iran has adapted drone and missile tactics to stress US air defenses as Patriot interceptor stocks tighten, with attacks tied to the Strait of Hormuz debate. ASEAN Economy: Malaysia’s Q2 growth is likely faster (Reuters poll) on strong exports and resilient domestic demand, with data-centre momentum in the background. Cybersecurity: An IBM study puts 2026 data-breach costs in Southeast Asia at a record average of about $4.12m, warning AI is making attacks cheaper and faster. Women’s Finance in South Asia: Sri Lanka’s Women Entrepreneurs Finance Code gets its first annual report, tracking progress since adoption in March 2025 with ADB support. Infrastructure & Trade: China’s Pinglu Canal begins vessel trials ahead of a September opening, while Malaysia’s customs agencies and India’s counterparts move to ease cross-border clearance. Sports & Culture: Crunchyroll and Sony secure global rights for Makoto Shinkai’s next anime film outside most of Asia, and Abu Dhabi’s T10 seeks a cleaner reset after past integrity issues.