Ethanol Fuel Clarity (India): BIEPA pushed back on viral E20 claims, saying the ethanol-blending programme is backed by studies, vehicle testing and standards, and urged consumers to rely on official sources as EBP helps cut crude imports and supports rural supply chains. Inflation Watch (India): India’s retail inflation rose to 4.4% in June, driven mainly by food and fuel, while wholesale inflation also climbed—keeping rate expectations in focus for households and retailers. AI Chip Controls (Asia): Nvidia tightened its Asia buyer whitelist after US pressure, excluding more than half of prior regional customers via stricter due diligence in Singapore, Malaysia and Japan—an important signal for consumer tech supply chains. Energy Shock (Asia): Oil jumped after US-Iran tensions escalated around the Strait of Hormuz, pushing Brent above $85 and raising near-term cost pressure for India’s import-heavy economy. China Consumption Plan (China): China’s first five-year consumption push targets about US$9tn in annual retail sales by 2030, with more emphasis on services like healthcare, elderly care and tourism. Connected TV Growth (APAC): A market outlook flags rapid expansion in internet-enabled TV across Asia, led by India’s internet base and smart TV adoption in ASEAN. Travel Retail Loyalty (Japan/Asia): Marriott Bonvoy and JAL launched reciprocal elite status matching and enhanced member benefits, aiming to deepen cross-border travel spending. E20 Compatibility Claims (India): Separate coverage continued to address E20 concerns, including automaker guidance after viral mileage-miss claims. Robotics Investment (Serbia/China): Serbia plans to start producing Chinese-backed humanoid robots in August, positioning Belgrade as a regional tech manufacturing hub. Venture Push (India): Elevation Capital launched a $500m fund focused on seed and Series A AI startups, betting on early-stage deep tech demand.