Semiconductors & AI Push: South Korea unveiled a massive chip-and-AI megaproject plan, with Samsung and SK hynix backing new memory fabs and advanced packaging to double DRAM capacity and shift production beyond the Seoul belt. Capital Markets: India regained its spot among the world’s top five stock markets by market cap, helped by crude oil easing and renewed investor interest after profit-taking in Taiwan and South Korea. Central Banking: The RBI is consulting on opening up the term money market so more non-bank lenders and corporates can access short-term funding, aiming to keep liquidity flowing. Retail Pressure: Ireland’s retail insolvencies jumped 35% in the first half of 2026, while Scottish Labour warned retail crime is escalating, with assaults on workers and shoplifting rising sharply. Consumer & Business Moves: Li Auto opened its first Macao retail center and localized vehicle tech for Hong Kong/Macao customers; Malaysia’s RT Pastry Holdings made its ACE Market debut and plans East Coast expansion. Energy Transition: New market reports point to continued growth in solar panels, lithium-ion batteries, and biogas as decarbonization and storage needs accelerate. Local Economy: Dublin’s deposit-return scheme is driving bin-rummaging as people chase recyclables, highlighting the real-world strain on vulnerable households.