Banking & Capital Markets: India’s IDFC FIRST Bank secured its first international investment-grade ratings from S&P (BBB-/A-3, stable), a move aimed at widening access to global funding and trade finance. RBI & Rates: Suryoday Small Finance Bank lifted fixed-deposit rates for tenures under ₹3 crore, topping out at 8.25% (8.5% for seniors) for five-year deposits. FX & Liquidity: The RBI is set to close its special foreign currency deposit window on Aug 31, while FCNR(B) inflows are framed as stable bank funding rather than a rupee game-changer. Tax Rules for Investors: The Philippines’ BIR clarified PERA early-withdrawal penalties, limiting the 20% charge to the gross income from the specific assets withdrawn and protecting remaining principal and unrealized gains. Corporate Finance & Deals: Emirates NBD launched the UAE’s first dedicated Transition Finance Framework, and Ingenico secured €150m new capital led by a PIMCO group to accelerate product innovation. Markets & Macro: China’s July data disappointed across industrial output, retail sales and fixed-asset investment, raising pressure for growth support. Crypto & Compliance: Reuters reports Binance provided Russian authorities with client data tied to alleged terrorism financing, despite its stated exit from Russia. Investing & IPOs: Shiprocket’s IPO drew near-100x subscription and plans to raise ₹1,617 crore, mixing fresh issuance with investor offer-for-sale. Energy & Governance: South Africa’s top court blocked Shell’s offshore exploration renewal, spotlighting community consultation and environmental safeguards. Regional Investment Talks: Malaysia and the Philippines kicked off their 9th Joint Commission Meeting to push trade, cross-border investment and cooperation in halal/Islamic finance, energy and security.