AI Infrastructure Arms Race: China plans a 2 trillion yuan ($295bn) nationwide network of interconnected AI data centers over five years, with state firms building most facilities and at least 80% of tech sourced domestically—aimed at reducing reliance on US hardware. Cyber & Consumer Tech Risk: CrowdStrike says China-nexus adversaries targeted the technology sector most, stealing AI/IP and pushing downstream compromises—raising stakes for Asia’s connected consumer ecosystems. China Cost of Living: China’s May CPI rose 1.2% YoY with core up 1.1%, keeping consumer inflation moderate. Starbucks Japan Shake-up: Starbucks is reportedly exploring options for its Japan business, including a stake sale valued at 400–500bn yen. Retail Payments: Contactless tap-to-pay is accelerating in India, with RBI rules enabling PIN-free payments up to ₹5,000. India Energy Push: India waives excise duty on E22–E30 ethanol-blended petrol to speed alternative fuel adoption. FMCG Outlook: JP Morgan stays constructive on India’s consumer staples, backing HUL, Nestle, Tata Consumer, Marico and GCPL for ~12% FY27 revenue growth. Data Center Supply Chain: ELANTAS Beck India expands specialty chemicals for data centers as demand grows for power, cooling and electronics protection. Corporate Restructuring: Opendoor is winding down India operations, cutting nearly 250 jobs as it shifts to smaller AI-native teams in the US. Crypto Market Signal (Japan): Osaka Exchange plans Bitcoin futures by 2028 as Japan’s crypto investment framework evolves.