Consumer Research Tech: Conjointly launched “Self-serve sample C,” letting researchers buy ID-verified expert and niche respondent panels with self-set pricing and video-response vetting, aiming to speed up pricing and product research. Agency Reshuffle: Omnicom plans to retire analytics brands Kinesso and Annalect, folding them into its broader data, tech and analytics unit after its Interpublic deal. Agribusiness Growth: China’s Rainbow is ramping Australian agrichemical registrations and local product development, with plans for more new launches as it targets off-patent opportunities. Insurance M&A: KKR joined the consortium to buy Steadfast Group for $5.3b, with the $6/share offer and management changes tied to deal completion. Energy & Homes: New research highlights a major rooftop solar gap for apartment dwellers (about 39% in houses vs 6% in units), with body corporate and shared-roof hurdles blamed. Property Consumer Watch: Victoria’s proposed auction pre-contract delay rules could force buyers and sellers to wait 14 days after the Section 32 statement is available, stirring concern for the auction market. Food Safety: US recall expanded for OLA-OLA POUNDED YAM due to undeclared milk allergen (sodium caseinate). Travel Safety: Australia raised Laos travel advice over methanol poisoning risks and concerns about justice transparency after charges against a distillery owner. Trade Shock for Beef: China’s 55% tariff has halted Australian beef exports, with exporters looking to redirect volumes as China draws on inventory and reserves. Solar/EV Supply Chain: China’s auto export surge is offsetting weak domestic demand, with EV and plug-in hybrids taking a bigger share of exports.