HKEX & Markets: HKEX’s record profit is being read as a sign Hong Kong’s capital markets are regaining momentum, with mainland tech listings increasingly looking this way. Shein IPO in Hong Kong: Fast-fashion giant Shein priced its HKEX debut around a $26.5b valuation, aiming to raise about $1.7b as investor appetite cools amid tougher competition. US-Iran sanctions pressure: Trump hinted at sanctions on Chinese banks tied to Iran just before Xi’s expected US visit, as Washington expands “Economic D-Day” measures while China warns it will retaliate. Hong Kong finance innovation: Franklin Templeton and HashKey are pushing a tokenized money-market fund (grBENJI) onto HashKey’s Earn channel, reflecting growing demand for tokenized cash products. Local policy & costs: New data highlights Hong Kong retirees’ living costs rising faster than the city average, adding pressure on household budgets. Property: Hong Kong home prices dipped again in July, extending a soft patch for the market. Customs & crime: Hong Kong Customs stepped up cigarette and drug enforcement, including airport seizures and arrests tied to duty-not-paid goods. Tech & AI: China’s semiconductor profits surged on AI-driven demand, while Hong Kong continues rolling out AI initiatives for finance services. Culture & sport: Hong Kong marks tributes to late arts figures and keeps an eye on major upcoming events like Asia Fruit Logistica.