Thailand Payments Scrutiny: A viral clip alleges a Chinese noodle shop in Bangkok refused Thai baht/Thai QR and demanded renminbi, raising questions about foreign-run businesses’ payment practices and compliance. Malaysia Ageing Demand: Malaysia’s share of people 65+ is projected to jump from 8.1% (2024) to 14.5% (2040), boosting demand for senior living, healthcare and long-term care while stressing system costs. Malaysia Power Transition: Tenaga Nasional says it delivered 4.3GW of renewable capacity and backs grid upgrades tied to data-centre growth under RM43bn grid modernisation plans. India Energy Policy: India approved INR100bn ($1bn) for a jet-fuel price stabilisation fund for airlines, while Maruti launched the first flex-fuel Wagon R (E20–E100) to cut import dependence and emissions. China–Africa Trade: China’s zero-tariff treatment for all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties starts May 1, aiming to deepen trade and lower export costs. China–New Zealand Tensions: China imposed a one-year travel ban on four NZ lawmakers after a Taiwan visit, demanding an apology. Japan Storm Disruption: Tropical storm Jangmi cut power to nearly 60,000 homes and disrupted transport and production. Tech & Security: The FBI and Five Eyes warn Chinese spies are using job sites like LinkedIn to recruit targets and extract sensitive information. Markets: Asia-focused banks slid on reports of tighter offshore investment account rules amid Beijing’s capital-outflow crackdown; Indonesia’s rupiah and stocks also tumbled on policy and macro worries.