US Macro: The U.S. economy slowed to a 1.5% annual pace in 2Q as imports weighed on growth, even as consumer spending stayed solid and inflation eased but remained above the Fed’s 2% goal. China Investment & AI: China plans 4 trillion yuan of new direct investment into computing power networks for 2026-2030, while officials push AI as a driver of high-quality growth and open-source models keep expanding. China Demand Wobble: July factory activity slipped into contraction, with non-manufacturing also weakening—export strength is helping, but domestic demand is still the weak link. Japan Rates: The Bank of Japan held its main rate at 1.0% and lifted its growth outlook slightly, with inflation expectations revised up. Asia Growth Mix: Malaysia’s economy grew 5.8% in 2Q on services and manufacturing strength; Hong Kong expanded 4.3% y/y on trade and resilient demand. North Korea: South Korea’s central bank estimates North Korea grew 3.5% in 2025, driven by deeper trade and cooperation with Russia and China. Digital Economy Deals: Oman and Mauritania signed MoUs to boost digital transformation, smart-city tech, and training. Blue Economy: South Africa is tying maritime security and ocean industries to jobs, trade resilience, and marine protection. Local Business & Housing: Skagit County approved $2.8m in economic development and workforce housing grants, including affordable homes and port-linked projects.