IMF Rescue Update (Sri Lanka): The IMF completed its Fifth and Sixth Reviews under Sri Lanka’s EFF, unlocking $695M in cash support and lifting total IMF funding since the 2022 default to $2.4B, though officials warn the economy is “stable, but not out of danger.” Financial Inclusion Gap (Iraq): Exchange and money-transfer offices are expanding as about 87% of Iraq’s money supply remains outside the banking system, keeping cash transactions dominant even as inclusion rises above 40% in 2025. Trade Talks Watch (India–US): India’s Section 301 concern is simple: a deal may cut tariffs today, but new US investigations could reimpose them tomorrow, making the talks in New Delhi a test of tariff protection. Market Signals (India): Indian stocks opened mixed with IT leading; Nifty slipped while tech strength stood out, as foreign selling and Middle East-driven inflation worries linger. Digital Economy (ASEAN): ASEAN wrapped negotiations on a Digital Economy Framework Agreement covering cross-border data flows, digital payments, online consumer protection, and AI/fintech rules. AI & IP (China): China’s new trade secret rules now explicitly protect data, algorithms, source code, and AI-related tech, tightening enforcement for remote work and digital collaboration. Household Pressure (Australia): Australia’s cost squeeze is pushing more households toward insolvency and “recession-like” behavior, while data-centre and fuel imports are dragging trade and growth. Companionship Economy (China): China’s “companionship economy” is growing fast, with paid services for social help and experiences valued at about $7.4B in 2025.