AGP Executive Report

BVI Water & Utility Policy: The BVI government says it never agreed to an amnesty for disputed or outstanding water bills as the territory transitions water and sewerage to VIEWCO, rejecting Opposition Leader Marlon Penn’s claim that lawmakers approved relief when payments began through VIEWCO on July 15. BVI Electricity Costs: In the House of Assembly, Opposition Member Ronnie Skelton warned electricity tariff changes for high-usage customers could push up operating costs for small businesses and drive food prices higher, while the government argues the adjustment is needed to cut BVIEC’s subsidy and keep the utility financially viable. Tourism Access Debate: Public outcry is growing over a proposal by the National Parks Trust to reserve The Baths and Devil’s Bay for an international luxury cruise operator on select mornings, limiting public access for a few hours to generate conservation revenue. SEC Sanctions Compliance: The SEC directed capital market regulated entities to sever correspondent banking ties and restrict dealings tied to North Korea and Iran, citing FATF updates—an issue with direct implications for regional financial flows. Regional Business Support: The VI government and CDB are rolling out a MSME capacity-building series for entrepreneurs, focused on business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management. Local Business & Community: Mind & Body by Living Fit opens in Virgin Gorda as a new 24-hour wellness facility, while Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital in the BVI gets updated signage through a building cleaning and signage project. Power Disruption: A heavy electricity surge caused outages across parts of Tortola, with restoration underway and investigations ongoing.

BVI Energy & Water: The BVI House approved amendments to the Statutory Rates, Fees and Charges Act to improve BVIEC’s financial survival, while Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley signalled water rates could rise after the transfer to VIEWCO. Cost of living: Opposition leaders warned electricity changes for high-usage customers could push up supermarket and food prices. Power disruption: A heavy surge knocked out electricity to parts of Tortola, with restoration underway and some areas still expected back soon. Healthcare infrastructure: Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital in Tortola received updated signage via a Building Cleaning and Signage Project between RDA and the Health Services Authority. Tourism access fight: Public outcry grew over a proposal to reserve exclusive morning cruise access to The Baths and Devil’s Bay, limiting public beach use. Capital markets compliance: The SEC ordered capital market operators to cut correspondent banking and restrict dealings tied to North Korea and Iran, echoing FATF-driven anti–money laundering steps. MSME support: The VI government and CDB launched a training series for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises covering business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management. Regional child policy: OECS and UNICEF unveiled a 2026–2032 regional child policy and strategic plan aimed at safer, supported children across the Eastern Caribbean.

BVI Power Reliability: A heavy surge knocked out electricity to parts of Tortola, including Long Bush to Mayaba Estate and the Ridge to East End, with restoration already underway for some feeders and remaining areas expected back within about 30 minutes. BVI Energy Costs: Opposition and lawmakers are debating BVIEC electricity tariff changes that remove a fuel subsidy above 1,500 kWh, with warnings the move could raise operating costs for supermarkets and push up food prices. Water Policy Watch: The government denied any amnesty on disputed water bills ahead of the transfer of water and sewerage services to VIEWCO, while the Premier signaled water rates may rise to keep the new utility viable. MSME Support: The VI government and CDB launched a three-part MSME capacity-building series for entrepreneurs, covering business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management. Regional Child Protection: OECS, with UNICEF support, unveiled a 2026–2032 regional child policy and strategic plan aimed at safer, more supported children across the Eastern Caribbean. Capital Markets Compliance: Nigeria’s SEC ordered capital market firms to cut correspondent banking ties and restrict dealings tied to North Korea and Iran, citing FATF risk updates. Crypto/Finance: Kraken and Maple Finance announced an on-chain digital asset warehouse facility, while a BVI-linked Sea Limited insider sale was reported via SEC filings. Business & Community: A 24-hour wellness gym opened in Virgin Gorda, and UTIC named Donald McCormack board chair after Debbie Proffitt’s retirement.

Power Reliability: BVIEC says a heavy electricity surge knocked out power across parts of Tortola, including Long Bush to Mayaba Estate, the Ridge to East End, and areas fed by the Airport Feeder; restoration began to three East End feeders by 10:43 a.m., while Trellis Bay to Scrub Island was still out with an expected fix within 30 minutes. Electricity Costs & Food Prices: In the BVI House of Assembly, Opposition Leader Marlon Penn warned that removing the fuel subsidy for high-usage electricity will hit supermarkets and food importers and push up prices, while Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley signalled broader utility-rate pressure ahead. Water Rates & Bills: The government denied any amnesty/forgiveness of disputed water arrears tied to the transfer to VIEWCO, even as the Premier indicated water rates may rise to keep the new utility financially viable. MSME Support: The VI government and CDB launched a bi-weekly MSME capacity-building series for entrepreneurs, focusing on business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management. Education Leadership: Mrs Zubida K. H. O’Neal-George is tipped to become principal of Ebenezer Thomas Primary School (ETPS) starting Sept. 1, 2026. Regional Child Policy: OECS, with UNICEF support, unveiled a Regional Child Policy and Strategic Plan for 2026–2032, built on a whole-of-the-child approach. Travel & Trade Links: Southwest announced new Caribbean-targeted route launches from Nashville, including St. Thomas (STT) and Aruba (AUA), as regional connectivity continues to expand.

BVI Electricity & Cost of Living: Opposition Leader Marlon Penn warned that BVIEC tariff changes removing the fuel subsidy above 1,500 kWh will hit supermarkets and food importers, pushing up prices across the Virgin Islands. BVI Water Rates Watch: Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley signalled higher water rates may follow the transfer of water and sewerage to VIEWCO, saying the utility must charge cost-reflective rates to stay viable. Gov’t Water Bills Dispute: The government denied promising an amnesty or forgiveness of disputed water arrears tied to the VIEWCO transfer, after calls for relief for residents and businesses. MSME Support (BVI): The Government of the Virgin Islands and CDB launched a three-part MSME capacity-building series for entrepreneurs, covering business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management via bi-weekly virtual/hybrid sessions. Undersea Innovation Leadership (BVI): UTIC elected Donald McCormack as board chair after Debbie Proffitt’s retirement, as the consortium continues backing prototype projects and scholarships. Regional Child Policy (OECS): OECS unveiled a 2026–2032 regional child policy and strategic plan with UNICEF support, aiming to improve protection and outcomes through a whole-of-the-child approach. Food Safety Alert (USVI): A Class I recall was issued for about 29,628 pounds of raw frozen boneless beef imported from Argentina after it entered U.S. commerce without mandatory reinspection—prompting Caribbean distributors to audit freezer stock. Maritime Economy: MARAD awarded $35.18 million to 45 small shipyards across 24 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands to boost equipment, infrastructure, and workforce training. Marine Careers (BVI): A marine industry veteran said BVI youth are missing out on marine jobs because charter companies need practical skills and experience—urging earlier, school-based training.

Electricity & cost of living: BVI Opposition Leader Marlon Penn warned that new BVIEC tariff changes removing a fuel subsidy for high-usage customers will hit major supermarkets and food importers, pushing up operating costs and likely raising food prices. Water rates & governance: Premier Natalio Wheatley signalled higher water rates may follow the transfer of water and sewerage services to VIEWCO, saying the utility must charge rates that reflect supply costs and stay viable. No amnesty on disputed bills: Government denied promising an amnesty to forgive disputed water arrears, after calls for relief tied to the transfer timeline. BVI electricity rate bill passes: The House of Assembly approved amendments to the Statutory Rates, Fees and Charges Act to reduce the government’s BVIEC subsidy by half, aiming to restore solvency and avoid future public bailouts. Undersea innovation leadership: UTIC named Donald McCormack board chair as founding chair Debbie Proffitt retired, keeping momentum on undersea prototype collaboration. Marine & skills pipeline: BVI voices say young people are being sidelined in skilled work, with calls for stronger TVET and earlier, practical training for marine careers. Security & policing: RVIPF arrested a suspect in a murder investigation during gun-crime search operations, recovering a stolen vehicle and seized items. Business & travel: Allegiant expanded its Caribbean network and added complimentary nonalcoholic drinks, while preparing a new premium cabin product for 2027. Finance & offshore services: Osiris Group entered the Guernsey fiduciary market, adding trustee and private wealth services alongside its BVI operations.

Maritime & Jobs: The U.S. Maritime Administration awarded $35.18 million to 45 small shipyards across 24 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands under the 2026 Small Shipyard Grant Program, backing equipment, infrastructure, and workforce training. BVI Youth Skills Gap: BVI opposition legislator and industry voices are flagging how young people are being sidelined in the skilled labour market and missing marine career pathways because TVET and on-the-job training don’t match employer needs. VI Policing & Safety: The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force arrested one person on suspicion of murder during searches tied to recent gun crimes, recovering a stolen vehicle and seizing items of evidential value. Sports & Eligibility: BVIAA President Steve Augustine clarified that Adaejah T. Hodge can’t accept cash awards under the territory’s NCAA-linked prize rules, despite her Commonwealth Games 200m gold. Food Supply Alert: A Class I recall was issued for about 29,628 pounds of raw frozen boneless beef imported from Argentina after it entered commerce without mandatory reinspection—urging Caribbean distributors to audit freezer stock. Energy & Finance (BVI): Orca Energy Group declared a quarterly dividend of $0.10 (Cdn) per share and filed its Q2 2026 interim financials.

Private Security & Standards: WRAP Technologies and XINSURANCE announced the WRAP Safe Response Program, aiming to standardize training and readiness for unarmed private security across U.S. sectors including government, ports, schools, and healthcare. Public Safety & Crime: RVIPF arrested a suspect on suspicion of murder during gun-crime search operations, recovering a stolen vehicle and seized items; police say there have been two homicides in 2026, both in July. Workforce & Skills Gap (BVI): BVI opposition legislator Dr Arlene Smith Thompson says young Virgin Islanders are being sidelined as employers lean on expatriate technical talent, blaming long-running TVET disconnects; marine veteran Compton Wintz adds that students often leave school without charter-ready marine skills, urging practical training to start while still in school. Healthcare Infrastructure (VI): A $562,100 contract was signed to repair and modernize the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre roof on Virgin Gorda, after service disruptions tied to ongoing facility issues. Cruise Momentum (VI): New data highlights the VI as one of the Caribbean’s fastest-growing cruise destinations, with strong early-2026 passenger growth. Corporate Finance (BVI): Orca Energy Group declared a quarterly dividend of $0.10 (Cdn) per share and filed its Q2 2026 interim financials. Food Safety: Nearly 30,000 pounds of imported beef were recalled after missed inspection requirements.

Cruise Momentum: The Virgin Islands is ranking among the Caribbean’s fastest-growing cruise destinations, landing third for growth with 493,397 passenger arrivals in Jan–Mar 2026—up 29.3% year over year—boosted by activity around the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park. Energy & Finance: Orca Energy Group (BVI-based) declared a quarterly dividend of C$0.10 per share and filed its Q2 2026 interim results, citing revenue down 2% in Q2 but up 5% over the first half. Local Business & Infrastructure: A $562,100 contract was signed to repair the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre roof on Virgin Gorda, aiming to restore safer, uninterrupted services. Shipping/Travel Disruption: Aquatic Rentals says it will suspend ferry service between the VI and USVI indefinitely starting Aug. 31, 2026. Trade/Import Costs: A new Section 201 safeguard tariff-rate quota on quartz surface products starts Aug. 15, with over-quota duties potentially reaching 50% after quarterly allocations. Powerball Buzz: The jackpot is back at $1 billion for tonight’s drawing, with U.S. and U.K. players sharing the same prize pool. Corporate Moves: Alpha Compute (BVI-incorporated) signed a binding term sheet for a $55M Pennsylvania data-center campus option tied to 200 MW power, with potential expansion to 1 GW.

Cruise Tourism Boost: The Virgin Islands is now the third-fastest-growing cruise destination in the Caribbean, with 493,397 passenger arrivals in Jan–Mar 2026—up 29.3% year over year—helped by activity around the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park. Healthcare Infrastructure: A $562,100 contract was signed to repair and modernize the Nurse Iris O’Neal Medical Centre roof in Virgin Gorda, aiming to restore safe, reliable services after lingering roof problems disrupted operations. Local Business & Travel: Aquatic Rentals says it will suspend ferry service between the VI and USVI indefinitely starting Aug. 31, with no reason given. Energy + Tech Investment: Alpha Compute signed a binding term sheet to secure Pennsylvania land and Marcellus gas rights for a planned 200 MW data center campus (potential expansion to 1 GW), tying power supply to AI infrastructure growth. Housing Affordability Debate: A BVI housing project failure is being cited as proof of a wider affordability crisis, with high build costs pricing out first-time buyers. Lottery Watch: Powerball has climbed to $1B ahead of Wednesday’s drawing, with VI and USVI players still in the mix.

BVI-USVI Travel & Transport: Aquatic Rentals says it will suspend ferry service between the British Virgin Islands and the U.S. Virgin Islands indefinitely, effective Aug. 31, with no reason given—an immediate hit to cross-territory mobility. AI & Energy-Driven Development: Alpha Compute signed a binding term sheet to secure Pennsylvania mineral and natural gas rights for a $55M deal tied to a planned 200 MW natural gas-powered data center campus, with potential expansion to 1 GW—highlighting how power supply is becoming central to tech investment. Housing Affordability: A BVI housing project at Joe’s Hill Manor is being cited as a case study in the territory’s affordability squeeze, with high build costs and loan qualification barriers leaving units unsold for first-time buyers. Local Health Outreach: The Virgin Islands State Nurses Association is seeking support to expand its free, nurse-led public health education initiative across the territory. Lottery Watch (VI): A St. Thomas Powerball player missed the $375M jackpot by one number but won $100,000 after using the $1 Power Play multiplier. Corporate Dealmaking: MarineMax agreed to be acquired in an all-cash $1.5B deal by Blackstone-backed Safe Harbor Marinas, a reminder of continued consolidation in the marine retail sector.

AI & Energy Deals: BVI-incorporated Alpha Compute says it has a binding plan to buy Pennsylvania land and Marcellus gas rights for $55M to power a 200-megawatt data center campus, with operations targeted for Q3 2027. Health & Community Support: The Virgin Islands State Nurses Association is asking residents, businesses, and groups to back its free, nurse-led public health education push across the Territory. USVI Consumer Costs: A multi-state $400M-in-principle settlement with Sandoz over alleged generic drug price-fixing would pay about $469M to state enforcers if approved. Local Public Safety: St. Croix police arrested a woman after repeated Strand Street disturbances at a beachfront eatery, with court filings citing trespassing and harassment. Water Utility Results: Consolidated Water reported Q2 2026 results, with total revenue down 2% to $32.9M and net income from continuing operations at $4.0M. Lottery Watch: Powerball climbed again after no jackpot winner, reaching $975M ahead of Wednesday’s draw. Climate & Risk: NOAA cut its 2026 Atlantic storm count forecast to 7–13 named storms but says the peak risk period is starting now. Business & Finance Tech: Syntetika opened deposits for hBTC, a vault token for Hilbert Group’s BTC Basis+ strategy, launching on Base. Crypto Compliance Scrutiny: Reports link World Liberty’s $100M WLFI token buyer to an active UK money laundering investigation tied to Guren “Bobby” Zhou.

Legal & Consumer Protection: Attorney General Ford announced a $400 million settlement in principle with Sandoz Inc., alleging a long-running conspiracy to inflate prices and limit competition, with about $469 million total payments expected to state enforcers if approved. Public Safety & Community: In St. Croix, repeated disturbances at the Frederiksted waterfront led to the arrest of a local woman after complaints of trespassing, harassment, and public nuisance. Utilities & Business Performance: Consolidated Water reported second-quarter 2026 results, with revenue down 2% to $32.9 million and net income from continuing operations at $4.0 million. Health Policy Watch (USVI): The USVI Office of Cannabis Regulation says licensed cultivation could start within weeks, with at least two dispensaries potentially opening before year-end, but commercial sales depend on a product-testing lab. Weather & Risk: The USVI faced a heat advisory with extreme heat indices and Saharan dust impacts, while NOAA’s updated Atlantic outlook cut expected storm counts but warned the peak risk period is starting. Finance & Markets: Powerball climbed to an estimated $905 million for Monday’s draw, while MarineMax agreed to a $1.5 billion all-cash acquisition by Safe Harbor Marinas.

Crypto & Compliance: World Liberty’s $100M WLFI token buyer, Guren “Bobby” Zhou (linked to Aqua 1), is tied to an active UK money-laundering investigation after a 2021 arrest—renewing questions about source-of-funds and due diligence in token deals. Public Safety & Courts: A St. Croix double homicide outside Castle Coakley Bar has sparked outrage after residents point to a recent court dismissal that left them feeling the system failed. USVI Cannabis Rollout: In the USVI, licensed cannabis cultivation could start within weeks, with at least two dispensaries potentially opening before end-2026; commercial sales hinge on a product-testing lab expected “by October.” Weather & Risk: The USVI is under a heat advisory with Saharan dust and extreme heat driving fire danger and reduced visibility. Local Business Support: J. Benton Construction will donate parts and labor to fix a long-delayed Claude O. Markoe Elementary School kitchen gas line and install an ice machine ahead of school opening. Regional Trade/Investment: Australia tightened rules on Northern Minerals shareholders over national security concerns, highlighting ongoing rare-earths investment scrutiny. Finance: Powerball climbs again to an estimated $905M for Monday’s draw, with cash option cited at $391.9M.

Daylight Saving Time Fight: The Senate’s recess has cast doubt on whether the Sunshine Protection Act can pass before the Nov. 1 “fall back,” keeping millions stuck in the clock-change debate. BVI Real Estate & Tourism Economy: A major $18.5 million home listing in Virgin Gorda’s billionaire enclave underscores how high-end property and yacht-linked tourism remain central to the BVI business story. Crypto Compliance Scrutiny: World Liberty’s reported $100M token buyer is linked to an active UK money-laundering probe, renewing questions about due diligence and transparency in global crypto deals. USVI School Readiness: In St. Croix, J. Benton Construction is donating parts and labor to fix a long-troubled gas line and install an ice machine at Claude O. Markoe Elementary ahead of the Aug. 10 school opening. USVI Cannabis Rollout: The Office of Cannabis Regulation says licensed cultivation could start within weeks, with at least two dispensaries possibly opening before year-end—though commercial sales hinge on a product-testing lab being operational. Consumer Protection Scam Alert (DLCA): DLCA warns businesses not to pay “representatives” collecting licensing fees in the field; legitimate payments must go through authorized channels. Local Business & Community: Omar’s VG Restaurant in Virgin Gorda says a neighboring building—not its operations—sparked the fire that destroyed the business. Powerball Buzz: Powerball climbs to an estimated $905M for Monday after no grand-prize winner Saturday, with several smaller prizes still claimed.

USVI Cannabis Rollout: The Office of Cannabis Regulation says licensed cultivation in the Virgin Islands could start within weeks, with at least two dispensaries potentially opening before year-end 2026—though commercial sales hinge on a product-testing lab expected to be ready “by October.” USVI Food Safety & Supply Chains: A major Cyclospora surge tied to recalled produce is raising alarms for the USVI, where most groceries arrive via mainland logistics, making local retailers and distributors key in intercepting recalls. USVI Jobs Pressure: New reporting points to national headwinds and USVI employment volatility, highlighting how small shifts in a compact island workforce can quickly change business conditions. BVI Competition Debate: In the British Virgin Islands, radio host Claude Skelton Cline accuses RiteWay’s parent of “cannibalising” the local economy, arguing weak antitrust rules let large firms squeeze smaller retailers. DLCA Scam Warning: The Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs warns businesses not to pay anyone claiming to collect DLCA fees in the field—legitimate payments must go through authorized channels. St. Croix Public Safety: VIPD and court coverage continues to fuel debate on bail and repeat offenders as residents question how pre-trial release works. Local Business Continuity: J. Benton Construction is donating parts and labor to fix a long-running gas line and install an ice machine at Claude O. Markoe Elementary School ahead of the Aug. 10 school opening. Culture & Commerce: Road Town entertainer Raul R. Sprauve (“Jougo”) wins the 2026 Road March crown with “Street Parade,” adding another win to his VIBE brand. Hospitality Update: Preferred Hotels & Resorts adds The Botany (Saint Thomas) to its portfolio, signaling continued investment in VI tourism product.