China Finance: China’s social financing mix improved in the first half as corporate direct funding rose, with bonds and equity from non-financial firms taking a bigger share of new lending. AI & Industry: Nvidia is pushing “physical AI” in Japan, lining up major manufacturers to build robots and factory systems, while Fujitsu and top robot makers pitch AI for labor shortages and safer automation. Robotics in Malaysia: A Johor firm plans to manufacture AI-powered cleaning robots for export and local use under a China tech-transfer deal, with first units due for testing late July. Cambodia’s AI Pitch: A Chinese company proposed four AI projects in Cambodia, from an ASEAN computing centre to digital commerce operations. China-Taiwan Diplomacy: Papua New Guinea moved to close Taiwan’s representative office, praising “administrative alignment,” as Taipei says its office will keep operating. Trade & Policy: India-UK CETA came into force, promising wider market access for Indian exporters and potential price shifts for select UK goods. Energy & Transport: India is set to launch its hydrogen-powered train on July 17, aiming to expand green rail where electrification is harder. Cybersecurity: India’s Kudankulam-linked contractor breach exposed thousands of files on the dark web, raising concerns about sensitive infrastructure data. Rare Earth Risk: The IEA warned China’s full rare-earth export curbs could endanger $6.5tn of downstream production outside China. Sports: Malaysia’s pairs advanced to the Japan Open quarter-finals as India’s badminton campaign ended early.