Media Economics: Vietnamese newsrooms are grappling with how to stay financially afloat as social media and global platforms siphon ad money and print sales keep sliding, widening the gap between costs and revenue. Climate & Food Security: A “super El Niño” is forming in the Pacific, with sea temperatures about 2.5°C above normal, raising fresh fears of wider Asian crop shocks and supply disruptions. South China Sea Tensions: China’s Antelope Reef island-building project has reportedly expanded to about 1,490 acres, prompting Vietnam protests and regional concern over strategic reach. Cuba Reforms: Cuba approved 176 sweeping free-market measures, aiming to decentralize its economy and open space for private business and banking, though economists warn implementation may lag. Hanoi Tech & Culture: Vietnam launched the second season of “AI Battle” in Hanoi to spot and train AI talent, with teams building solutions for education, culture and social development. Local Safety: A forest fire in Ha Tinh killed a married couple during firefighting, with authorities investigating the cause. Fraud Alert: Hanoi’s Criminal Investigation Bureau warned of stolen SIM-card scams near Noi Bai Airport used for telecom fraud.