ASEAN Strategy: Thailand’s PM Anutin Charnvirakul lays out a three-pronged ASEAN vision—stronger regionalism, resilience to shocks, and people-centred delivery—pushing supply-chain, food/energy security, digital connectivity, and youth readiness. Trade & Services: India-UK CETA (in force since 15 July 2026) is framed as a major export-oriented shift, with broad services market access across IT, telecoms, finance, hospitality and transport while protecting sensitive areas like autos and agriculture. Geopolitics & Shipping: Analysts warn Iran’s Strait of Hormuz leverage is increasingly about maritime disruption and economic pressure, with knock-on effects for global shipping and insurance costs. Singapore AI Skills: Singapore’s Tan Kiat How says the real AI challenge is keeping human expertise and decision-making relevant, with strong fundamentals in software, cybersecurity and systems thinking. Bangladesh Development Finance: Bangladesh expects about $775m in ADB support for power, energy, affordable housing and education, with negotiations underway for multiple projects. Healthcare Market Signals: A wave of new reports flags fast growth across digital health and medical devices—from digital therapeutics and pathology to imaging and monitoring tools—underscoring Asia’s expanding health-tech spend. Business Recognition: Forbes Asia’s 2026 “Best Under A Billion” list spotlights 200 firms across Asia-Pacific, with Malaysia’s count rising to 19, boosted by the AI/data-centre boom.