US–South Korea Tensions: Trump ordered a “substantial” reduction in joint drills with South Korea, citing cost and his “very good” relationship with Kim Jong Un, as Ulchi Freedom Shield runs through Aug 27. South Asia Security: Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz praised Trump’s support for the Makkah Joint Defence Agreement linking Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and Türkiye, framing it as deterrence and regional stability. Energy & Markets: India’s Sensex slipped and VIX rose as Iran-war worries kept crude elevated; analysts also expect gold and silver to stay supported but volatile. Energy Security Policy: India set refinery-wise LPG production caps to build a domestic buffer after West Asia disruptions, highlighting import dependence. EV Trade: India’s electric car exports jumped to $369m in Q1 FY27, with Europe leading, especially Spain and the UK. Corporate & Tech: Alibaba agreed to sell Lingxi Games for over $1.5bn as it pivots to AI; Singapore’s Digital Edge appointed Paul Macpherson to expand data-centre operations across APAC. Sports: Bangladesh stunned Australia in the Darwin Test, while Malaysia celebrated its first Commonwealth Games judo gold. Regional Business: VinFast and Indonesia’s Gowa Motor will expand showrooms and service centres via a JV.