Uzbek Fintech Spotlight: Uzum has entered CNBC-Statista’s 2026 ranking of the world’s top fintech companies for the first time, landing in the neobanking category as its digital ecosystem expands across payments, shopping, and cards for millions of users. Climate & Health Risk: A One Health expert warns that Central Asia’s extreme heat is hitting people, livestock, and ecosystems together—meaning heat response needs coordinated monitoring, early warnings, and data sharing across meteorology, health, veterinary, agriculture, and environment agencies. Energy Court Update: In Tashkent, the trial of former Uzbekneftegaz chairman Bahodir Siddiqov and eight others is underway over alleged large-scale embezzlement and related financial crimes, as scrutiny of state energy contracting deepens. Water Cooperation: Uzbekistan and Japan have agreed to deepen collaboration on water management, including irrigation modernization and digital monitoring. Agritech Irrigation Tech: A smart drip irrigation system has been launched in Navoi, pointing to more efficient water use in farming. Regional Investment Pulse: UNCTAD data shows Uzbekistan’s FDI stock rose sharply in 2025, with the country recording the strongest annual increase in Central Asia. SAF Export Logistics: Allied Biofuels outlined planned sustainable aviation fuel export routes from Uzbekistan to Europe and the UAE via rail and sea corridors, supported by Pro Logistic Services. AI Policy Signal: Central Asian officials, including Uzbekistan, are aligning with China’s AI push as WAICO is set up in Shanghai, with Astana offered to host WAICO’s first annual meeting.