Vietnam–Malaysia Defence Ties: Malaysia’s Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin began a two-day visit to Hanoi to deepen cooperation, including maritime security, capability development and defence industry links, with both sides pointing to the 2023 defence MoU and shared ASEAN priorities. US–Vietnam Naval Visit: The USS George Washington carrier strike group arrived in Da Nang for a port visit, with US officials stressing it as another sign of strengthened US–Vietnam defence cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Corporate Bonds Rules: Vietnam issued Decree 200/2026/ND-CP to tighten the private corporate bond market’s legal framework, aiming to make fundraising easier while boosting transparency and investor protection. Insurance Competition: Vietnam’s non-life insurance market is drawing more players, with digital and embedded insurance growing fast and EV insurance expected to rise as regulations evolve. Sustainable Tourism Push: Booking.com’s Travel & Sustainability Report says 76% of Vietnamese respondents see tourism as a growth driver, while 85% prioritise sustainable travel and many avoid peak crowds. Hanoi Agriculture Admin Reform: Resolution 36 rolls out nationwide simplification of growing-area and packing-facility codes to cut paperwork and improve traceability for agricultural exports. Market Watch: Vietnam’s VN-Index ended mixed as profit-taking rose near key resistance, though foreign buying continued in large caps. Viral Service-Industry Moment: A Vietnam cab fare dispute went viral after a tourist walked away saying “no money, just thank you,” sparking debate on ethical travel.