AI & Infrastructure: Canada-based Sato Technologies has signed a letter of intent to build a 100MW AI data centre in Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City, starting with 5MW and potentially scaling to 500MW, powered by Bhutan’s hydropower and aimed at serving AI demand across nearby South Asian markets. Renewable Energy Finance: The Asian Development Bank approved a USD 160 million loan to expand Bhutan’s solar capacity by at least 310MW, including grid upgrades and Bhutan’s first private-majority public-private partnership in the energy sector. Education Loan Funding: Bhutan’s ESP Education Loan Scheme faces a funding shortfall after demand surged—1,188 applications worth over Nu 1.1bn—prompting the government to seek additional funds so all eligible applicants can be supported. Urban Services & Elections: With Thromde election poll day approaching in Phuentshogling and Thimphu, candidates are campaigning on practical issues like 24/7 drinking water, faster Local Area Plan implementation, and safer pedestrian walkways. Gold Market Demand: Long queues at Bhutan Duty Free Limited in Thimphu reflect falling gold prices and growing use of TER digital gold, which lets customers buy and later redeem small quantities of 999.9 fine gold. Cross-Border Payments: India and Indonesia agreed to link UPI with Indonesia’s payment system, aiming to make cross-border payments easier for travellers and businesses—UPI is already operational in Bhutan.