Digital Payments Boom: India’s UPI hit a record 24.51 billion transactions in August, worth about ₹29.82 lakh crore, with festive demand (notably Raksha Bandhan) pushing both volume and value higher. Sri Lanka Market Pulse: Sri Lankan shares slipped as technology stocks dragged the CSE All-Share index down 0.95% to 21,318.31, while foreign investors were net sellers. Trade Policy Watch: Sri Lanka’s Free Trade Agreement review is moving into a decisive phase, with a Cabinet committee set to recommend restructuring of existing deals—while exporters still face non-tariff barriers. Energy & Minerals: Sri Lanka is preparing to unlock more value from mineral wealth under a National Mineral Policy 2026, focusing on investment, value addition, and overseas markets. Offshore Oil Push: Sri Lanka’s Mannar Basin licensing round 2026 is reopening international exploration after a long gap, but commercial production remains the big test. Maritime Links: Sri Lanka’s Navy Commander made an India visit aimed at deepening maritime security cooperation, joint training, and capacity building. Cybersecurity Research: A Sri Lankan network security researcher highlights how future communication networks need security built in from the start, not added later. Women in Tech: Sysco LABS was named among Sri Lanka’s Most Outstanding Women-Friendly Workplaces for 2026, reflecting progress in women’s career growth in STEM. Retail Tech Agenda: The Sri Lanka Retail Forum 2026 will spotlight growth with digital commerce, AI, data, automation and tech-led transformation.