Giant Clams & Jobs: Palau is trying to turn its giant clam comeback into a real local industry, with a new community hatchery producing 25,000 seedlings a year, training for 90 farmers across six states, and a market framework taking shape—though CITES legislation and long-term funding are still the big hurdles. Housing Fraud: A former Palau Housing Authority loan officer is accused of scamming more than a dozen elderly and low-income applicants out of cash for loan and bidding payments, but victims say nearly a year after referral to the Attorney General, no charges have been filed and they’re still waiting for answers. Climate & Water Security: Palau is bracing for a dry stretch after Super Typhoon Sinlaku, with residents urged to monitor water supplies closely while El Niño conditions develop later this year. Energy Transition Push: At a Berlin Climate Mobility Forum, President Surangel Whipps Jr backed practical climate mobility solutions, while regional finance leaders urged Pacific governments to strengthen resilience amid worsening global instability and energy pressures. Trade & Culture: The Taiwan–Palau Trade and Cultural Show returns July 10–12 at Surangel Super Center with free food, games, and cultural exhibits, including a Taiwan Night Market and chef-led tastings. Cybersecurity Deal: Forward Edge-AI says it completed a post-quantum encryption proof of concept in Palau, positioning the country as an early mover on “quantum-safe” security. Regional Security & Finance: Pacific Islands Forum Secretary General Baron Waqa told finance ministers in Majuro that Middle East conflict and other shocks are deepening economic strain on small island states. Maritime Risk: The US strike that killed Palau-flagged tanker crew members has sparked fresh calls for accountability and compensation from families and seafarers’ groups.