Iraq faces severe internal divisions and sovereignty challenges, caught between the US and Iran after Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's killing. Iran-backed Shia militias attack Iraqi oil infrastructure, impacting the economy and challenging the new PM's disarmament efforts.
Kazakhstan Temir Zholy's former CEO announced plans for a triple listing in Hong Kong, London, and Kazakhstan by year-end. Hong Kong's exchange anticipates more international issuers in late 2026/2027, with companies seeking favorable market sentiment.
The European Commission is drafting a regulation to allow public authorities to exclude foreign companies deemed risky due to potential interference or data leaks, amid geopolitical tensions with China and the US. The proposal also includes a potential European preference in procurement.
Russia's Foreign Ministry has vowed to take "effective and harsh retaliatory measures" against new EU sanctions imposed on June 15, targeting Russian individuals and companies, as well as some foreign entities. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated the sanctions are self-defeating and harm the EU and global security.
China has approved licenses for 166 foreign companies to pilot value-added telecommunications services, including internet data centers and information services, in select zones. Analysts believe this move offers opportunities for multinationals but will likely have a limited impact on the domestic market due to existing competition and pilot zone restrictions.
Indian companies are increasingly acquiring foreign firms due to a slowdown in domestic growth, weak private investment, and better diversification opportunities abroad. This trend, marked by significant deals like Sun Pharma's acquisition of Organon & Co., reflects a strategic shift from past global sprees.
US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Friday expanding sanctions on Cuba to target foreign companies and financial institutions doing business with the island. The measure extends US enforcement power beyond its borders using a 'secondary sanctions' model, allowing authorities to block assets of foreign individuals or entities operating in key sectors including energy, financial services, mining, and defense. The provisions could affect companies in China and Europe and echo sanctions approaches used against Iran.
The Income Tax Rules, 2026 introduce new compliance requirements for Indian individuals acting as authorised signatories for foreign companies. Under the updated Form No. 96 (replacing Form 49AA), foreign entities must now disclose details of their Indian representative including PAN, contact information, and proof of identity/address. These individuals face potential personal liability for the foreign company's tax defaults, even after resigning, prompting concerns about reluctance to accept such roles.
