Consumer Inflation Watch: Maldives data shows essential goods costs up 6.26% in August (food +5.93%, meat +23.13%, milk/dairy/eggs +12.10%), with gas and fuel still 14.54% higher year over year—another reminder how import-heavy shoppers feel global price swings. Food & Safety: Pennsylvania restaurant inspections flagged issues at multiple sites, including a Chester County venue lacking a certified food manager and another with handwashing hot-water problems—small lapses that can quickly become big consumer risks. Regulated Tech for Retail: Fresha secured France’s NF525 POS certification, aligning its software with anti-fraud rules so beauty and selfcare businesses can keep transactions secure. Beauty & Wellness Commerce: Univar Solutions expanded LANXESS additive distribution in Mexico for lubricant and metalworking customers, aiming to speed delivery and broaden high-performance options. Consumer Fraud & Trust: A GSMA ASEAN report says 45% of scam cases across several countries remain unresolved; messaging apps are the top scam channel (41%), and most people worry about being scammed or hacked. Energy Costs at the Pump: Florida gas prices jumped back above $4 a gallon amid Strait of Hormuz tensions, with AAA urging steadier driving and reduced idling to cut fuel burn. Vaping Crackdown: UK directors behind a £15m vape tax evasion scheme were banned for up to 2035 after shipments of vapes disguised as medical equipment. AI in Consumer Products: Apple’s foldable iPhone Duo officially arrives with a $1,999 price tag, pushing the next wave of premium smartphone competition.