Australia Economy: Australia’s March-quarter GDP grew just 0.3% as cyclone disruptions hit exports and net trade dragged growth, though business investment rose 6% on a surge in machinery and equipment spending tied to data centres. Turkey Growth: Turkey posted modest Q1 2026 growth of 2.5% YoY, led by services and household consumption, while exports fell 12.7% and industry contracted. South Africa Power & Budget: President Cyril Ramaphosa said load reduction is ending as tax revenue stays strong and debt stabilises, but warned the Gulf war could slow growth and job creation. Central Banking Watch: New Zealand’s Reserve Bank kept policy steady with a more hawkish path implied, while India’s RBI is widely expected to hold rates in June before potential hikes in FY27. Trade & Tariffs: The USTR proposed 12.5% additional duties on India and 59 other economies over forced-labour import failures, raising the risk of broader tariff escalation. AI & Markets: Robot-related Korean stocks jumped on physical AI optimism, while oil rose on renewed Middle East tensions and investors weighed inflation and geopolitics. Local Business Pressure: Idaho’s new bathroom law is prompting employers to prepare for July 1, and UK enforcement data shows record raids and fines on businesses hiring illegal workers. Nonprofit Stress: Phoenix Pride filed for Chapter 11 as corporate sponsorship and donations decline amid shifting political climates. Energy Transition: Malaysia highlighted partnerships as key to scaling its energy transition at ETCon26.