Index Reform in Malaysia: EPF’s CIO Mohamad Hafiz Kassim says expanding the FBM KLCI beyond 30 stocks could cut banks’ benchmark weight (banks are ~40% now), with FTSE Russell proposing a move to 50 constituents plus optional capping, pending consultation. US Science Overhaul: A new White House report, “Science: A New Golden Age,” shifts funding toward individual researchers, AI-driven discovery and a $5bn “Genesis Mission” platform to boost output against global rivals. Philippines AI Hub Pushback: Makati Business Club says President Marcos’ Pax Silica AI industrial hub lacks a concrete execution roadmap on governance, investment and safeguards. Iraq-Türkiye Dealmaking: Erdogan and Iraqi PM Ali al-Zaidi signed three MOUs on industry, police training and youth affairs, with talks also focused on the Development Road corridor and energy and security cooperation. Peru Power Transition: Keiko Fujimori was sworn in as Peru’s president for 2026-2031, promising a hardline security crackdown amid gang violence. Kuwait Freelance Licensing Pause: Kuwait temporarily stopped issuing new single-owner freelance business licenses while it updates rules and links licensing data electronically. Tunisia Power Cuts Hit Farms: Load shedding is devastating poultry operations near Tunis, with vets estimating massive losses as ventilation and water fail. Singapore Central Bank Profit: MAS reported FY2025/26 net profit of S$20.0bn, driven by strong investment gains, while warning of uncertain risks ahead. UK Science Leadership: IChemE Fellow Chris McDonald appointed UK science minister after a reshuffle, taking over from Lord Patrick Vallance. Consumer Mood Slips in US: Conference Board consumer confidence fell as gas prices rose again amid the Iran conflict.