
3. From Small Shops to National Networks, QRIS Continues Changing the Rhythm of Everyday Payments Across Indonesia
Indonesia’s digital payments continued strong growth in 2026, with QRIS transactions rising sharply as users and merchants increased.

Indonesia’s digital payments continued strong growth in 2026, with QRIS transactions rising sharply as users and merchants increased.

Bank Indonesia is expanding QRIS connectivity, with new agreements involving Timor-Leste and Hong Kong as cross-border payments continue growing.

Experts warn Indonesia's nickel reserves could decline rapidly as smelter capacity expands, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the industry.

Danantara will retain dividends from state-owned enterprises for investment rather than transferring them directly into Indonesia's state budget.

Oil executives warn accessible inventories are dwindling after massive releases, leaving markets more vulnerable to supply shocks and price spikes.

South Korea unveiled a 1,000 trillion-won green transformation strategy, aiming to drive carbon neutrality, sustainable growth, and industrial competitiveness.

The Weston family is in advanced talks to buy Boots from Sycamore Partners, potentially ending plans for a London stock-market listing.

Iran’s dollar rate reaches 268,700 tomans as rebuilding targets war-damaged facilities and intensifies economic pressure across domestic markets today.

World Bank raises India’s FY27 growth forecast to 7.1%, citing resilient domestic demand, strong exports, and industrial momentum despite risks.

Traders ship 30,000 tons of refined fuel from South Korea to Russia as energy attacks increase Moscow’s need for imports

Cargo operations halted across Rotterdam on October 5, 2026 after a gantry crane collapsed onto a container vessel, injuring three dockworkers.

Papua New Guinea’s national science conference showcased innovations in health, renewable energy, agriculture, digital technology, and sustainable development.

Research in Amsterdam nightlife shows increased drug use and gambling among young adults, prompting renewed attention to changing risk patterns.

Indonesia recorded a $3.55 billion trade surplus in August, exceeding expectations as exports remained stronger than imports.

Germany raised its economic growth forecasts to 1.3% for 2026 and 1.1% for 2027, up from earlier projections.

Germany’s manufacturing sector continued expanding in September, with production rising for a ninth month and new orders increasing again.

KNDS says an IPO remains possible in 2026 as the defense company continues monitoring market conditions and investor sentiment.

Iran’s foreign minister says there is no military solution to the war with the U.S. as the rial hits a record low under a naval blockade that has halted oil exports and driven inflation near 90%.

Two construction workers were injured on October 5, 2026, when bamboo scaffolding collapsed during building exterior renovation work in Causeway Bay.

Egypt’s Instant Payment Network recorded 1.47 billion transactions worth about EGP 4.33 trillion by the end of Q2 2026.

Egypt’s outsourcing and offshoring services exports reached about $5.2 billion in 2025 as technology companies expanded operations and digital services.

Egypt’s AI expansion is increasing demand for computing capacity, data centers, digital infrastructure, and specialized talent needed to support a growing digital economy.

Morocco entered October with higher fuel prices, as gasoil rose MAD 0.80 per liter and gasoline increased MAD 0.39.

Holmarcom Group’s Mohamed Hassan Bensalah has reached an agreement to acquire Maroc Soir Group, subject to applicable regulatory procedures