Banking Results: Maybank reported 1Q 2026 net profit of RM2.48bn, down from RM2.58bn, as revenue fell to RM14.91bn but improved net interest margins and stronger wealth/investment banking fees helped cushion the hit. Energy & Data Centres: Malaysia’s TNB says its RM43bn grid modernisation is being geared for data-centre growth, cutting connection timelines from 36 months to as little as 12 months via its “Green Lane” approach. M&A in Paper: Sappi and UPM signed binding agreements to form a 50-50 joint venture combining their European graphic paper businesses, aiming to reduce exposure to structural decline and refocus on packaging and pulp. Compliance & Finance: GoldenSource appointed Jesper Cordes as Chief Customer Officer to lead global account management and customer success as capital markets face rising data complexity. AI & Security: TrendAI (Trend Micro) says it has been named a Gartner Leader in Endpoint Protection Platforms 21 straight times. UK Food Costs: A Food and Drink Federation survey found 82% of UK manufacturers expect price rises and 33% plan job cuts amid energy-driven cost pressure. Local Business Support: Essex’s NEEB Link will run June 2026–April 2027, offering free one-to-one help, masterclasses and vouchers for rural micro-businesses and SMEs. Capital Markets Upgrade: Nigeria’s SEC, CSCS and market operators completed testing for the T+1 settlement rollout on June 1.