Banking Panic: Russians pulled about $3.4bn (286.4bn rubles) from banks in the first two weeks of August, on top of $7.3bn in July, as drone attacks and fears of deposit seizures to fund the war drive a run for cash. Central Banking & Prices: The Central Bank says companies’ price expectations rose to 21 points in August, while the euro was set at 98.7312 rubles for Aug. 19; non-primary non-energy exports grew 6.7% in H1. Markets Watch: Moscow’s index slid as investors priced higher geopolitical and fuel-crisis risks; trading in liquid stocks hit 114bn rubles. War Economy & Finance: Russia’s VEB fired chief economist Andrey Klepach after a negative assessment of the war economy, underscoring pressure on dissenting economic views. Trade Routes: India is reportedly testing Northern Sea Route transits to Europe in 2027, with volumes up sharply on Chennai–Vladivostok. Energy & Logistics: Diesel and refined products face a squeeze as Strait of Hormuz disruptions collide with sustained Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian refineries and export infrastructure. Diplomacy: Pakistan’s Dar welcomed “positive momentum” in Islamabad-Moscow ties, stressing continued high-level dialogue.