Crypto Regulation & Payments: Japan passed a law reclassifying crypto as “financial assets,” bringing insider-trading rules and tighter penalties for unregistered trading, with implementation expected within a year. Binance’s Next Move: Binance is pitching a “super app” strategy beyond trading, betting stablecoin-driven payments and tokenized products will reshape its growth. Semiconductors & AI Supply: ASML said its 2027-28 capacity plans account for demand tied to Elon Musk’s Terafab chip facility in Texas. Banking & Credit Quality: Fitch assigned its first ratings to HDBank, placing it among Vietnam’s highest-rated lenders, citing profitability and capital strength. Corporate Finance & Infrastructure: Standard Bank backed Helios Towers with a $29m social documentary credit facility to expand telecom infrastructure across Africa. Personal Finance & Trust: AARP urged investors to scrutinize advisers’ agreements, compensation, and regulator records before switching firms. Policy & Markets: Nepal’s finance ministry flagged a review of its 10-share IPO policy, saying it fuels short-term speculation over long-term investing. Public Finance & Campaigns: Maryland counties expanded public financing in executive primaries, with candidates touting small-donor support. Geopolitics & Costs: New Zealand’s central bank economist warned renewed oil-price volatility could lift inflation risks as households already adjust spending.