Social Protection & Cost of Living: Malaysia starts Phase 3 STR cash aid payments today for 5.3 million recipients, with RM1.2bn disbursed in stages; payouts range RM150–RM600, and total 2026 STR phases 1–3 reach RM3.6bn. Policy Credibility & Investment: Malaysia’s finance and regulatory institutions are being cited as key to investor confidence, with emphasis on policy stability and professional implementation across political cycles. Trade Compliance & Tariff Evasion Claims: Malaysia’s Port Klang Free Zone rejects a US report’s implication of tariff evasion, saying customs screening and origin certification are handled through national authorities. EU–US Trade Friction: The US presses the EU to ease supply-chain green rules tied to due diligence and reporting, while the EU says its regulatory autonomy is not up for negotiation. US–Canada Tariff Talks: Canada says it and the US remain far apart on a draft deal ahead of Aug. 19’s 50% tariff deadline, with talks continuing through the weekend. South Korea–US Pressure: South Korea sacks its chief trade negotiator as US tariff pressure grows and disputes over investment commitments and e-commerce fines loom. Energy Market Liberalization: Nepal moves to amend electricity law to allow private sector participation in electricity trading, aiming to untangle legal gaps. India Growth Narrative: SBI Research reiterates India’s resilience and fast growth, citing strong credit demand, deposit growth, and FCNR(B) inflows. Africa Exports Boost: China’s zero-tariff policy for 53 African countries is already lifting trade, with early gains highlighted for Nigeria’s industrial transition.