AI & Media Regulation: Global music bodies (IFPI, RIAA and others) rolled out a voluntary AI labeling system, using “Created by AI” and “AI-assisted” tags to improve transparency for listeners, with streaming services like Deezer already auto-tagging. Construction Sector: Nepal’s infrastructure ministry automatically canceled licenses of 44 construction firms for non-renewal, tightening compliance under the Construction Business Act. Advertising Policy: The government unveiled National Advertising Policy-2083 to modernize the sector, strengthen consumer protection, and bring social media, influencer marketing and AI-generated ads under formal rules. Central Banking & Liquidity: Nepal Rastra Bank kept a cautiously flexible monetary stance for FY 2026/27, targeting 7% growth and 5.5% inflation, and plans to collect Rs 60 billion deposits via a tender to manage liquidity. Banking Compliance: NRB directed banks to reduce dormant accounts by mid-2026 through customer outreach and easier account closure processes. Public Finance Watch: Auditor General-linked analysis says budget execution has been imbalanced, with revenue contraction and slow capital spending pressuring the economy. Energy for Growth: PM Balendra Shah told IPPAN energy is key to transformation, jobs and exports, promising coordination to address PPAs, stalled projects, grid access and licensing hurdles. Market Pulse: NEPSE fell to 2,600.78 on Friday as turnover hit Rs 1.50 billion. Diplomacy & Trade: UAE trade officials met President Paudel as “UAE Trade Days” explored new cooperation on trade and investment. Road & Transport: Daunne road congestion eased as Narayangadh–Butwal expansion nears completion. Protest & Governance: Protests erupted after Pathao rider Ganesh Nepali’s self-immolation, with questions now focused on police conduct and institutional accountability.