US-Iran Escalation: The US reinstated sanctions on Iran’s oil trade, revoking a short waiver after renewed tanker attacks and strikes in the Strait of Hormuz, with markets watching the interim ceasefire’s mid-August expiry. Global Energy & Markets: Fresh US-Iran strikes pushed the dollar near a week high and lifted crude, while analysts warned shipping disruptions could raise energy and trade risks. Philippines Jobs: Manila blamed a rise in unemployment in May on the global oil shock from Middle East conflict, citing job losses and sector impacts. Capital Markets Clash: The Philippine Stock Exchange criticized the SEC’s move to allow a crypto trading partner into a regulatory sandbox, warning it could siphon retail investors from equities. EV Push in Malaysia: Malaysia outlined plans to expand EV charging by building power substations and offering incentives for charging operators. Armenia Investment Plan: Armenia’s PM chaired talks on priority investment for Yerevan and Gyumri, with targeted state steps to make up for lost time. Ghana–South Africa Tensions: Ghana postponed a planned presidential/binational meeting with South Africa amid xenophobic violence, adding diplomatic confusion over the event’s status. Business & Finance Deals: MasTec agreed to buy Superior Group for $1.65bn to expand data-center electrical infrastructure; ADB signed a $100m loan to Vietnam’s HDBank to back women-owned MSMEs. Corporate Governance & Crime: US prosecutors alleged jailed gangster Lawrence Bishnoi runs an international syndicate from prison via contraband phones. Regional Security: Explosions in Damascus wounded at least 18 during a French presidential visit, underscoring instability.