Central Asia Logistics Push: Airport Authority chair Fred Lam says Central Asia could become Hong Kong’s next logistics hub as cargo volumes between the city and Kazakhstan/Uzbekistan nearly quintuple year-on-year, with airport passenger traffic potentially rebounding to ~70 million this year. Vatican–China Debate: Cardinal Stephen Chow’s elevation to the College of Cardinals is drawing fresh alarm among critics who argue his stance signals alignment with the Vatican’s China policy. Cross-Border Finance Rules: Hong Kong’s Stock Connect still lacks an “IPO connect,” leaving mainland AI IPOs largely out of reach for cross-border investors. Smart Port Upgrade: The Port Community System is now strengthening Hong Kong’s smart-port push, giving logistics firms end-to-end cargo visibility and streamlining cross-border customs workflows on one digital platform. HKMA Banking Compliance: The HKMA says mainlanders can still open bank accounts in Hong Kong under new rules, aiming to clarify compliance expectations. Public Health Partnership: GX Foundation and Fiji National University sign an MoU to expand public health training and youth development through exchanges, workshops, and joint research. Wildlife Trade Warning: A report flags Kenya’s legal exotic pet trade surge—despite most traded species declining in the wild—highlighting loopholes and monitoring gaps. SpaceX IPO Restrictions: Banks underwriting SpaceX’s IPO were told not to accept orders from mainland China and Hong Kong investors due to US export-control compliance risks.