Disaster Readiness: CDEMA warned the 2026 Atlantic season may be below average, but flash-flood risk across Caribbean territories remains high as warm waters and El Niño effects can still trigger intense rainfall. Tourism & Air Connectivity: Henry Harteveldt will keynote the Caribbean Marketing Conference during Caribbean Week in New York, focusing on airline trends and how destinations can secure stronger routes. BVI Governance & Representation: Premier Natalio Wheatley said separate HoA representation for Anegada and Jost van Dyke would be “quite irregular,” pointing to constitutional districting and the role of a Boundaries Commission. Local Business & Jobs: Mark Vanterpool pushed back on claims businesses prefer expat hires, arguing employers often want locals but face a shortage of people willing to take available roles. BVIAA Leadership: Former BVIAA managing director Kurt Menal clarified he resigned with three months’ notice and said the board paid in lieu—framing his exit as tied to personal and professional well-being. Finance & Banking Deal: Carey Olsen advised Butterfield on its US$1.8bn acquisition of CIBC’s 91.7% stake in CIBC Caribbean, creating a larger banking and wealth platform across Caribbean markets. Digital Assets Regulation: BIT said BVI FSC approval granted Matrixport Technologies a SIBA Category 2 licence and VASP registration. Trade Skills Funding: The V.I. Board of Career and Technical Education voted to create a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to fund trade students’ classroom needs and competition travel. Health & Community: Baker & Partners, International Motors and Riteway will launch a monthly blood donation programme to support Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital’s blood bank. Climate Policy (USVI): The USVI Senate advanced a green waste disposal measure with amendments prioritizing shredding, mulching, composting and reuse before controlled incineration.