US-Iran Economic War: The US launched “Operation Economic Outcast,” signaling a new push to sever Iran’s financial lifelines, while Reuters reports Washington is threatening tougher sanctions on countries doing business with Iran but holding off on penalties for now. Gulf Shipping Shock: Iran blacklisted 45 tankers over Hormuz rules as attacks and rerouting keep pressure on oil flows and global trade routes. UAE Cuts Off Iran: The UAE halted all trade and financial transactions with Iran, underscoring how the conflict is reshaping regional commerce. Cambodia SME Export Bottleneck: A reform to speed business registration helps, but one key gap remains: export licensing costs can still be around $4,000, blocking small home-based exporters from using ASEAN tariff benefits. Philippines Growth Watch: ASEAN growth slowed as investment and construction weakened; the Philippines’ Q2 slump dragged the ASEAN-5 average, while Davao Region posted P1.14T GRDP and 5.1% growth. India Digital Inclusion: India is near gender parity in bank accounts, but women lag sharply in online banking use. Cybersecurity Push: SEBI launched India’s Cyber Suraksha Portal to share vulnerability warnings and incident insights. Corporate & Deals: TCS to buy Porsche’s German IT unit MHP and set up an AI Mobility Centre; Zetrix AI posted RM269.25m Q2 profit on AI/Web3 services. Energy Transition: Tata Power Renewable commissioned a 190.5MW solar-plus-115MWh battery project in Rajasthan. ASEAN Climate Security: Philippines, as ASEAN chair, urged integrating climate resilience into the region’s security agenda and mobilizing climate finance.