Trade & Investment: India and Canada launched a trade and investment forum to deepen business links and push negotiations toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by year-end. Payments & SME Growth: iFAST Global Bank rolled out SEPA capabilities for its multi-currency business current account, aiming to simplify cross-border euro payments for SMEs. AI in Private Markets: EQT partnered with Google Cloud to accelerate AI adoption across 300+ portfolio companies, focusing on deploying AI agents in day-to-day operations. Energy Transition & Finance: Malaysia’s central bank reported US$129.73bn in official reserves at end-March 2026, while RAM Ratings kept a positive outlook on Malaysia’s power sector as renewables and grid-scale storage expand. Banking Watch: Maybank posted softer 1Q 2026 earnings but maintained guidance, with analysts flagging deposit competition and asset-yield pressure. Business Sentiment: The Philippines’ business confidence fell again in April as inflation and the Middle East conflict raised operating-cost worries, though firms expect a partial rebound later in the year. Regional Business Platforms: The 23rd China-ASEAN Expo in Nanning will spotlight digital and green growth opportunities under CAFTA 3.0. Corporate Moves: Mapfre is expanding its large-risks underwriting push in Europe and the US, adding cyber and parametric insurance growth areas.