Apple Price Hikes in India: Apple has lifted prices for MacBooks, iPads and some accessories by up to about ₹70,000, blaming a surge in memory and storage chip costs tied to AI data-centre demand—sparking a broader consumer-tech affordability worry across Asia. US-China EV Crackdown: Polestar says it’s being blocked from selling in the US from 2027 under rules targeting China-linked connected-vehicle tech, adding pressure to the region’s EV supply chains and brand strategies. India Retail & Payments: Chinabank and Landers in the Philippines launched the Landers Executive Visa Signature with up to 7% rebates, while India’s MSME Day 2026 spotlights new digital platforms to help small businesses access finance and markets. Energy Security Push: India’s Sunsol Cleantech plans to back 2 GW+ of solar deployment by 2030, and Southeast Asia households are turning to rooftop solar as Middle East tensions raise electricity-price uncertainty. Trade & Diplomacy: India and Iran discussed oil cooperation after years of curtailed trade, while India-UK CETA is set to start July 15, and India-US talks continue amid tariff pressure. Local Consumer Safety: A proposed Tesco external ATM in Chineham faces objections over visibility and “bush ambush” concerns. China Beauty Shake-up: Beijing Liyuan is reportedly seeking to sell its 35% stake in its Shiseido cosmetics JV, signaling a potential exit from a decades-long China partnership. Sports Retail Culture: Trader Joe’s $2.99 tote bag is trending as a status item across Asia.