EV & Grid Storage: CATL’s sodium-ion batteries are moving toward mass-market EV use, aiming to loosen lithium dependence with cheaper, salt-based chemistry that could reshape battery choices for different segments. Taiwan Strait Freedom of Navigation: A Dutch parliamentarian backed keeping navigation rights in the Taiwan Strait, framing maritime security as vital for global trade and energy stability. Defense Tech: ZenaTech unveiled prototype work on its IQ Sphere autonomous drone platform for GPS-denied defense missions, targeting ISR and hazardous inspections. US–Taiwan Signal: U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth told President Lai that Congress’ Taiwan support won’t be swayed by any one U.S. president, emphasizing bipartisan commitment. Taiwan Market Rotation: Taiwan’s Taiex slid over 2% as investors rotated out of electronics amid valuation worries and renewed regional risk headlines. Cross-Strait Disinfo Watch: AFP highlighted how translated, unverified claims about China meddling in South Korea elections spread to Taiwanese social media, underscoring the speed of cross-border rumor loops. Regional Security: China’s rare Pacific SLBM test drew condemnation and raised concerns about sea-based nuclear deterrence and escalation risk. Extreme Weather: Two tornadoes hit China’s Hubei, killing at least 11, as Typhoon Bavi looms and extreme events intensify. Local Tech/Industry Link: onsemi’s Fab Right plan includes divesting facilities and extending supply ties with Taiwan’s Greatek, showing ongoing reshuffles in semiconductor manufacturing footprints.