Consumer Protection Backlog: Philippines Sen. Raffy Tulfo blasted the DTI over a “No Return, No Exchange” process that can take up to seven months, with mediation up to a month and adjudication up to six. Energy Bills Clarity: The Philippines ERC approved a new electricity bill format to separate VAT-exempt system loss charges, aiming to make charges easier for consumers to understand. Digital Payments for Everyone: Swift plans to connect domestic payment identifiers (phone numbers, emails, virtual addresses) to make cross-border transfers feel as simple as local ones. Retail Under Pressure: UK clothing retailer Crew Clothing warned consumer confidence could cool as inflation fears bite; profit was flat while online sales grew. Fast-Casual Rebrand: Tropical Smoothie Café rolled out a major brand refresh as it pushes toward 1,800 locations, loyalty at 13M members, and further expansion. Fraud Watch: Equifax Canada reported credit card application fraud rose 8% in Q2 2026, driven by third-party identity theft. Energy Cost Caps: Argentina? (No—EU/energy): Argentina not covered; instead, EU braces for winter as governments consider caps on regulated gas and butane prices to protect households. AI Shopping Trust: Insurance leaders warn AI recommendations could lose consumer trust if users think payouts—not suitability—drive results. Live Resale Goes Mainstream: ThredUp expands into live shopping on Whatnot from its distribution centers in Atlanta and Dallas.