Thailand Growth Upgrade: Thailand’s finance ministry lifted its 2026 growth forecast to 2.5% on a rebound in private investment and consumption, plus stronger exports. Armenia Trade Status: Armenia is pushing the US to recognize it as a market economy for antidumping/countervailing cases, a move tied to ongoing Commerce Department review talks. Armenia Budget: Armenia reported a first-half 2026 budget surplus, with revenues up 14.7% and spending rising 7%. South Korea Output: Korea’s economy grew 0.6% quarter-on-quarter and 3.7% year-on-year in Q2, driven by semiconductor exports. Korea Inflation Watch: In New Zealand, Westpac flagged June inflation as above the RBNZ’s forecast, keeping pressure on further rate hikes. Energy & Inflation Risks: Renewed Gulf hostilities are reviving stagflation fears as oil tops $100 and tariffs add price pressure. Eurozone PMI: Eurozone business activity returned to growth in July, with the PMI rising to 51.9. Climate Finance: Mongolia and the IFC agreed to strengthen climate-risk management in banking supervision. Crypto Security: BlackRock, Coinbase and others formed a $15m Bitcoin Security Consortium focused on quantum-era protection. Retail Demand Shift (UK): UK retail sales rose in June, but retailers warn Middle East risks and household budget strain could bite ahead. Tourism Incentives (Dubai): Dubai launched a “Dubai Invite” scheme offering residents benefits worth up to £610 to bring visitors back.