Central Banking Reform: Nepal’s House Finance Committee met bankers and business groups to discuss the Nepal Rastra Bank Act amendment bill, with stakeholders pushing for changes that could affect digital banking, central bank digital currency, and governance structure. Digital Payments: Eastern Bank launched Visa Payment Passkey in Bangladesh, using biometric/device-based authentication to replace OTPs for online card transactions—another step toward safer e-payments in the region. Banking Regulation Debate: MPs argued over the number of NRB deputy governors and possible disqualification rules for bank CEOs/directors, warning that overly strict provisions could trigger leadership shortages. Flood Disruption in Kathmandu: Heavy monsoon rains caused waterlogging and traffic disruption; Bagmati River at Gaurighat crossed the warning level, with authorities urging residents in riverine areas to stay alert. Hydropower & Power Sector: NEA is extending Power Purchase Agreement-related RCOD deadlines for stalled hydropower projects, while electricity VAT rules are now in effect for domestic “end consumers,” keeping the policy debate alive. Energy Utility Enforcement: Nepal Electricity Authority ran an electricity leakage control drive in Banke, finding abandoned meters and targeting illegal usage to improve revenue. Infrastructure Update: Sisnekhola–Nagdhunga tunnel will open first for emergency vehicles, then expand in phases as trial operations begin. Regional Security: BIMSTEC endorsed maritime law-enforcement guiding principles and HADR guidelines at its security chiefs’ meeting in New Delhi, with Nepal among participants. Madhes Investment Push: Madhes Province plans an investment summit to boost industrial, trade and service activity and raise its GDP contribution. Local Governance: Nine local levels missed the legal budget deadline and became budgetless, highlighting weak financial discipline at the local tier.