Oil Market Shock: The IEA cut its 2026 global oil supply forecast to reflect the Strait of Hormuz closure and attacks in the Bab Al Mandeb, warning the disruption is the biggest ever and tying the outlook to whether shipping routes reopen. Demand Outlook: OPEC also trimmed 2026 oil demand growth to 600,000 bpd, while revising 2027 higher. Geopolitics at the Center: Iran’s stance keeps Hormuz closed until US conditions are met, and oil prices hover near $90 as investors weigh supply fears against any progress in talks. Policy Pressure in Nigeria: Nigeria’s Senate Public Accounts Committee gave Seplat and three other oil firms 48 hours to answer NEITI audit queries for 2021–2023, threatening sanctions. Gas Supply Moves: Bangladesh approved direct procurement of eight LNG cargoes to cover urgent demand amid Middle East uncertainty. Energy Transition Wins: Malaysia’s National Energy Awards 2026 recognized projects delivering RM48.82m in annual savings and 270.54 GWh of energy output, alongside big emissions cuts. Renewables on the Ground: Rajasthan requires renewable developers to reserve 10% of project land for tree plantation, adjusting land norms for solar, wind and hybrid projects. Grid/Storage Buildout: Waaree Transpower won a ₹160 crore order for BESS medium-voltage skids, signaling continued momentum in global battery storage supply chains. Environmental Risk: An Omani tanker oil spill off Dhofar expanded, with an oil slick reported over 400 sq km as monsoon winds delay salvage. Household Impact: US inflation eased in July, but energy prices remain a key driver, with gas costs still stressing consumers and small businesses. Local Energy Governance: South Africa’s electricity and energy committee began public hearings on the Gas Bill, seeking regulatory certainty and oversight improvements.