Macau Gaming & Economy: Moody’s says Macau is set to outperform regional gaming peers over the next 12–18 months, helped by a mainland China visitor base that favors short-haul travel amid fuel-price uncertainty, while Southeast Asia faces tougher conditions; it also flags Macau June gaming takings down 12.1% to MOP 18.5b as the World Cup weighs on spend. Local Public Life & Cross-border Policy: Macau’s Chief Executive reiterated plans to advance “One country, two systems” in line with Xi’s July 1 speech, while the government completed public consultation on LRT proposals with most respondents in favor. Public Safety: Macau police arrested a Malaysian man at Macau International Airport over an alleged heroin smuggling attempt involving nearly 3kg hidden in cans labelled as tuna spread. Regional Politics & Security: Taiwan strongly condemned China’s new patrol orders east of the island, saying they undermine the status quo and violate international law. International Diplomacy: Philippine President Marcos called China’s sanctions on Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro “very unhelpful,” arguing they raise tensions without advancing West Philippine Sea talks. Macau Events & Industry: IAG named sponsors for Macau After Dark at SJM’s GLP on 7 July, and the Garden House at Grand Lisboa Palace will host the event with Michelin-star chefs. Party-State Messaging: Hong Kong and Macau officials said they were inspired by Xi’s CPC 105th anniversary speech, pledging further efforts toward national rejuvenation.