Middle East Energy Shock: Oil prices rose as Iran warned the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed unless US conditions are met, while shipping disruptions kept traders on edge. Tata Group Leadership Jolt: Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran’s resignation sent TCS and other Tata stocks sharply lower, with investors focused on what the transition means for the conglomerate’s next phase. AI in Business Operations: A new push toward “agentic AI” is raising practical questions for executives on what tasks can be safely delegated, what systems must prove, and where human sign-off stays essential. Singapore Market Outlook: JPMorgan lifted its Singapore stocks target, citing resilient growth, stable currency, and improving valuation support. Malaysia Trade & Compliance: Malaysia’s customs and port rules are under scrutiny after concerns over tax treatment for commingled oil cargo in shore tanks at Tanjung Langsat. Renewables Finance Reality Check: Malaysia’s renewable energy sector faces bankability hurdles, with lenders urged to rethink risk models for emerging clean technologies. China–ASEAN Trade Momentum: Freight links and intermediate-goods trade are driving faster China–ASEAN commerce, with rail services boosting cross-border supply chains. Zimbabwe “Open for Business”: President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is reviewing licences and shifting toward beneficiation and manufacturing as inflation stays below 5%.