Entrepreneurship & Skills: 26 VI entrepreneurs and business owners completed the Department of Trade’s Entrepreneurial Education Programme with H. Lavity Stoutt Community College, covering business planning, marketing, finance and operations; Junior Minister Lorna Smith urged graduates to keep learning and “embrace AI.” Financial Services: Smith told compliance leaders that BVI’s growth depends on strong compliance plus innovation and investing in local talent, while also pointing to ongoing work to meet international standards. Security & Governance: Premier Natalio Wheatley pushed for transferring security responsibilities from the UK to the VI government, arguing for democratic accountability in how security is delivered. Trade Commission Fight: Wheatley defended scaling back the proposed Trade Commission’s powers, saying constitutional responsibilities can’t be handed to outside bodies. Infrastructure: West End Ferry Terminal redevelopment hit a setback after bids came in far above budget, forcing redesigns under a CDB-funded project. Tourism & Airlift: United will launch the only nonstop New York–St. Croix service this fall, adding more direct Caribbean access as regional visitor demand stays strong. Regional Spotlight: Caribbean Week in New York opens today under “One Caribbean: Infinite Experiences,” with CTO leaders and regional tourism ministers including VI representation. Local Business Incident: Police reported a machete was allegedly brandished during a customer brawl at RiteWay Food Market in Pasea, with no injuries reported. Aviation Oversight: ICAO’s regional civil aviation directors meet in Antigua to focus on safety, security, sustainability and cooperation. Tech & Deals: SOLAI announced it will buy a 51% stake in Singapore AI firm NEURALAND, signaling a shift toward an AI-first platform.