AGP Executive Report

Aviation & Tourism: Porter Airlines has gone from zero Caribbean routes to five in a year, adding Turks and Caicos with Toronto–Providenciales service starting in November (up to five weekly flights) and Ottawa following in December, underscoring how fast airlift is reshaping the islands’ visitor pipeline. Inter-island Connectivity: Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos are temporarily suspended as the government works to secure a long-term solution for the subsidized route, with updates promised as negotiations continue. Airline Expansion: Turks and Caicos-based interCaribbean Airways is rolling out new Embraer ERJ170 jets, including the custom-painted “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” as it modernizes its fleet and expands regional reach. Real Estate Finance: Grace Retail and Residences launched an exclusive financing partnership with CIBC FirstCaribbean and Christie’s Turks and Caicos, aiming to make property ownership more accessible for residents and investors. Banking & Payments: Visa has restructured its Caribbean operations into a single Greater Caribbean Markets unit covering 22 markets, as digital payments adoption accelerates across the region. Cost of Living (Connectivity): A global pricing list flags Turks and Caicos as having fixed broadband costs around $252 per month, among the world’s priciest markets. Community & Youth: Salt Rakers Aquatic Club received approval for a 25-metre, 10-lane competition pool and is fundraising to build it, with CIBC Caribbean also donating to support ongoing swim instruction.

Aviation & Connectivity: interCaribbean Airways unveiled its custom-painted Embraer E170 “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” a 76-seat aircraft meant to strengthen regional links as the airline expands its fleet. Inter-island Travel Disruption: Grand Turk–South Caicos commercial service has been temporarily suspended, with government working to secure a long-term solution for the subsidized route. Air Access for Visitors: BermudAir has listed new nonstop Bermuda–Turks & Caicos flights for sale, with winter service starting December 2026. Finance & Property Development: Grace Retail and Residences launched an exclusive financing partnership with CIBC FirstCaribbean to make ownership more accessible for residents and investors. Digital Payments & Crypto: Visa named Jorge Salum to lead expanded Greater Caribbean operations across 22 markets as the region accelerates electronic payments; KuCoin also pushed QR-based crypto payments in Argentina and Peru and launched a KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund for market-neutral strategies. Local Economy & Community: Salt Rakers Aquatic Club received approval for a new 25-metre, 10-lane pool and is fundraising; Beaches Turks and Caicos backed the Deputy Governor’s 5K with a large team and proceeds for local causes. Cost of Living (Internet): Turks and Caicos ranked among the world’s most expensive fixed broadband markets, highlighting ongoing infrastructure and competition pressures.

Aviation & Connectivity: Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos have been temporarily suspended, with the government saying it’s working to secure a long-term solution for the subsidized route. Airline Expansion: interCaribbean Airways unveiled its custom-painted Embraer E170 “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” a first for the Turks and Caicos-owned carrier as it modernizes and expands regional service. Local Business & Finance: Grace Retail and Residences launched an exclusive financing partnership with CIBC FirstCaribbean and Christie’s Turks and Caicos, aiming to make ownership more accessible in Grace Bay. Digital Payments & Crypto: KuCoin Pay expanded QR payments across Argentina and Peru, while KuCoin also rolled out an upgraded KCS experience and a new KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund. Telecom Costs: A global pricing report ranks Turks and Caicos among the world’s priciest fixed broadband markets, highlighting infrastructure and competition pressures. Community & Sports: Salt Rakers Aquatic Club received planning approval for a 25-metre, 10-lane pool and is funding the build via its summer raffle; CIBC Caribbean also donated $2,500 to support ongoing swim lessons. Tourism & Trade: Beaches Turks and Caicos opened Treasure Beach Village, boosting sales opportunities for local craft vendors with a redesigned market layout. Health & International Recognition: WHO highlighted Turks and Caicos among countries recognized for eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, HBV and syphilis.

Inter-island Air Connectivity: The Grand Turk–South Caicos commercial air route has been temporarily suspended, with the government saying talks are underway to secure a long-term fix for the subsidized service. Aviation & Fleet Growth: interCaribbean Airways unveiled its custom-painted Embraer E170 “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” marking the first of eight new jets expected by fall as the carrier modernizes and expands. Real Estate Finance: Grace Retail and Residences launched an exclusive financing partnership with CIBC FirstCaribbean and Christie’s Turks and Caicos, aiming to make ownership more accessible for residents and investors. Digital Payments & Crypto: KuCoin Pay expanded QR payment support in Argentina and Peru, linking crypto/stablecoins to local QR networks used by everyday shoppers and merchants. Regional Payments Leadership: Visa named Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for Greater Caribbean Markets, overseeing 22 markets as the region accelerates digital commerce. Broadband Cost Pressure: A global pricing study ranks Turks & Caicos among the world’s most expensive fixed broadband markets, highlighting infrastructure and competition challenges. Public Service Accountability: Premier Misick warned that absenteeism and weak leadership are hurting government productivity and service delivery. Local Business Boost: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening drew strong crowds, delivering a windfall for local craft vendors.

Aviation & Connectivity: interCaribbean Airways marked a major fleet milestone with the arrival and dedication of its first Embraer ERJ170, “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” as it ramps up a broader regional expansion. Local Business & Finance: Grace Retail and Residences teamed with Christie’s Turks and Caicos International Real Estate and CIBC FirstCaribbean to launch an exclusive financing partnership aimed at making ownership more accessible. Payments & Digital Economy: Visa named Jorge Salum to lead expanded Greater Caribbean operations across 22 markets, reflecting the push toward digital commerce and financial inclusion. Telecom Costs: a new global pricing roundup puts Turks and Caicos among the world’s most expensive fixed broadband markets, highlighting how infrastructure and competition pressures can hit household budgets. Crypto Payments: KuCoin Pay expanded QR-based crypto and stablecoin payment access in Argentina and Peru, linking digital assets to familiar local QR networks. Inter-Island Service Disruption: Grand Turk–South Caicos commercial flights were temporarily suspended while government seeks a long-term solution for the subsidized route. Tourism & Real Estate Pipeline: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos is now taking reservations for a June 2027 debut, adding 59 rooms and 73 residences to the island’s residential-resort boom. Consumer & Community Impact: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening drew strong early demand for local craft vendors, while CIBC Caribbean donated $2,500 to keep Salt Rakers Aquatic Club swim lessons running through 2026.

Inter-island Air Connectivity: The Grand Turk–South Caicos commercial route has been temporarily suspended, with government saying talks are underway to secure a long-term solution for the subsidized service. Digital Payments Leadership: Visa is restructuring its Caribbean operations, naming Jorge Salum to lead expanded Greater Caribbean Markets across 22 markets as the region accelerates shift from cash to digital commerce. Telecom Pricing Pressure: A new global pricing roundup flags Turks and Caicos as among the world’s priciest fixed broadband markets, pointing to infrastructure and competition challenges in island territories. Tourism & Aviation Branding: interCaribbean unveiled its custom “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands” aircraft, a fleet milestone tied to regional connectivity and local pride. Quality Policy Implementation: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is advancing the National Quality Policy with stakeholder consultations aimed at improving standards, consumer protection, and trade competitiveness. Public Service Performance: Premier Misick warned that absenteeism and weak accountability are undermining government service delivery, calling for stronger leadership and continuity. Local Business Boost: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening drew strong early demand for local craft vendors, with a redesigned marketplace built to lift visibility and sales. Community Finance: CIBC Caribbean donated $2,500 to the Salt Rakers Aquatic Club to keep youth swim lessons running through 2026. Crypto Ecosystem Moves: KuCoin promoted an upgraded KCS experience and launched its first KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund product, signaling continued push into structured digital-asset allocation.

Digital Payments Leadership: Visa is reshaping its Caribbean structure, naming Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for “Greater Caribbean Markets” in a new role covering 22 markets, as the region pushes further from cash to digital commerce. Inter-Island Connectivity: Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos have been temporarily suspended, with government saying talks are underway to restore reliable service on the subsidized route. Tourism & Investment Pipeline: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos is now taking reservations for a June 1, 2027 debut, with 59 hotel rooms plus 73 residences and multiple dining and wellness concepts. Aviation & Local Pride: interCaribbean unveiled its custom “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands” Embraer E170, with government and tourism leaders attending the dedication. Quality & Trade Policy: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is moving ahead with the National Quality Policy, bringing consultants to assess gaps and build a national quality infrastructure. Local Business Boost: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opened with a market-style event that delivered a windfall for local craft vendors. Crypto Finance (Global, Local Interest): KuCoin launched a KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund and rolled out an upgraded KCS experience, positioning KCS as a broader value participation layer across its ecosystem.

Digital Payments Leadership: Visa is reshaping its Caribbean structure, naming Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for Greater Caribbean Markets in a new role covering 22 markets as the region pushes further from cash to digital commerce. Air Connectivity Disruption: The Grand Turk–South Caicos subsidized route has been temporarily suspended, with government saying talks are underway to restore reliable service and protect essential travel links. Inter-island Airline Branding: interCaribbean Airways dedicated its custom-painted Embraer E170 “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” underscoring local roots and continued network connectivity. Tourism & Real Estate Pipeline: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos is now taking reservations for a June 2027 debut, with 59 rooms and 73 residences planned for Grace Bay. Quality Policy Implementation: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is moving ahead with the National Quality Policy, bringing consultants to meet public and private stakeholders and map gaps in quality infrastructure. Public Service Performance: Premier Misick warned that absenteeism and tolerance for underperformance are hurting government productivity and service delivery. Local Business Boost: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening drew strong crowds, giving craft vendors a marketing and sales lift. Crypto Product Launch: KuCoin rolled out an upgraded KCS experience and launched its first KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund product, signaling growing demand for more structured digital asset allocation.

Payments & Finance: Visa is reshaping its Caribbean leadership, naming Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for newly combined Greater Caribbean Markets covering 22 territories, as the region accelerates away from cash toward digital commerce. Aviation & Tourism: interCaribbean unveiled its custom “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands” aircraft, while Grand Turk–South Caicos air service was temporarily suspended as government works to secure a long-term fix for the subsidized route. Air Access Expansion: BermudAir is set to expand winter travel with new/expanded routes into Providenciales from Toronto and other North American cities, boosting connectivity for the 2026–27 season. Trade & Quality: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is advancing the National Quality Policy with stakeholder consultations to strengthen quality infrastructure, consumer protection, and competitiveness. Land & Housing: Government extended the Crown Land Amnesty Programme to Dec. 31, 2026 to regularize tenure, and the House of Assembly approved the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to widen access to mortgage financing and homeownership. Local Business Boost: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening delivered a windfall for craft vendors, with a redesigned market layout drawing strong early sales interest.

Payments Leadership: Visa is reshaping its Caribbean structure, naming Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for Greater Caribbean Markets in a new role covering 22 markets as the region pushes further from cash to digital commerce. Aviation & Connectivity: interCaribbean unveiled its “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands” aircraft, while the Grand Turk–South Caicos air route was temporarily grounded as government works to secure a long-term fix for the subsidized service. Tourism & Development: The Andaz Turks and Caicos is set to open for guests in June 2027, adding 59 rooms and 73 residences, and Wymara Resort + Villas won Condé Nast Traveler’s inaugural Triple Crown. Air Access Boost: BermudAir announced major 2026–27 winter expansion with new routes into Providenciales from multiple U.S. cities. Local Business & Community: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening drew crowds and boosted craft vendors, and CIBC Caribbean donated $2,500 to keep Salt Rakers Aquatic Club swim lessons running. Land & Housing Policy: Government extended the Crown Land Amnesty Programme to Dec. 31, 2026, and the House approved the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to widen access to mortgage financing. Finance Outlook: A new commentary flags how stablecoins and correspondent banking shifts are changing the strategic landscape for Caribbean banks.

Digital Payments Leadership: Visa is reshaping its Caribbean structure, naming Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for Greater Caribbean Markets in a new role covering 22 markets—aimed at accelerating the shift from cash to digital commerce across the region. Inter-Island Air Connectivity: Commercial flights between Grand Turk and South Caicos have been temporarily suspended, with the government urging residents to expect updates as it works to secure a long-term solution for the subsidized route. Aviation & Tourism Growth: interCaribbean unveiled its custom-painted Embraer E170 “Spirit of Turks and Caicos Islands,” while new winter service plans from BermudAir and Porter add more direct links from North America to Providenciales, boosting visitor access during peak season. Local Business & Trade: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Treasure Beach Village opening delivered a windfall for local craft vendors, with a redesigned market layout drawing strong early sales interest. Quality & Government Performance: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is advancing the National Quality Policy through stakeholder consultations, and Premier Charles Washington Misick is pushing for tighter accountability in public service amid absenteeism and underperformance concerns. Crypto & Wealth Products: KuCoin launched an upgraded KCS experience and introduced its first KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund product, signaling deeper digital-asset allocation options for high-net-worth users.

Air Connectivity: BermudAir is expanding winter service into Providenciales with new links from Newark, Boston, Baltimore-Washington, Raleigh-Durham and Fort Lauderdale, running Oct 2026–May 2027, aiming to lift visitor arrivals and ease access for key markets. Air Connectivity: Porter Airlines also adds nonstop flights to Turks and Caicos—Toronto to Providenciales starting Nov. 6 (five weekly) and Ottawa starting Dec. 17 (twice weekly)—plus more Florida service from Hamilton. Tourism & Real Estate: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos is now taking reservations for a June 1, 2027 debut, with 59 rooms and 73 residences, plus dining and a wellness center. Business & Trade Policy: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is advancing the National Quality Policy, bringing in consultants to assess gaps and build a national quality infrastructure with stakeholders across government and industry. Public Sector Performance: Premier Charles Washington Misick warned that absenteeism and weak accountability are hurting government productivity and service delivery. Land & Housing: The Crown Land Amnesty Programme is extended to Dec. 31, 2026, offering eligible applicants concessions to regularize tenure and secure title. Housing Finance: The House of Assembly approved the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to expand access to mortgage financing and support homeownership. Payments & Finance: Visa appoints Jorge Salum to lead expanded Greater Caribbean operations across 22 markets as digital payments adoption grows. Digital Assets: KuCoin launched its first KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund product, the Neutral Enhanced Fund, targeting high-net-worth investors.

Air Connectivity Boom: BermudAir is expanding winter service into Providenciales with new nonstop routes from Newark, Boston, Baltimore-Washington and more, starting Dec. 19, 2026, as Turks & Caicos leans harder into North American demand. New Directs from Canada: Porter Airlines adds nonstop flights to Providenciales from Toronto (Nov. 6) and Ottawa (Dec. 17), with “elevated economy” perks like no middle seats and free WiFi. Hotel Pipeline: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks & Caicos (Grace Bay) is now taking reservations for a June 1, 2027 debut, with 59 rooms plus 73 residences and a full wellness and dining lineup. Quality & Standards: The Department of Trade, Industry and Fair Competition is advancing the National Quality Policy with stakeholder consultations tied to building a national quality infrastructure. Public Service Pressure: Premier Misick warns absenteeism and weak accountability are dragging government performance. Land & Housing: TCIG extends the Crown Land Amnesty Programme to Dec. 31, 2026, while the House of Assembly approved a Mortgage Corporation Bill aimed at widening access to home financing. Payments & Finance: Visa appoints Jorge Salum to lead expanded Greater Caribbean digital-payments operations across 22 markets. Crypto Finance: KuCoin launches the KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund, adding a market-neutral product for high-net-worth users. Marine Conservation: The UK’s Blue Belt Programme work continues in Turks & Caicos via “Beyond the Reef” sample processing and DNA metabarcoding.

Air Travel Disruption: A JetBlue flight bound for Turks and Caicos diverted after a rodent was spotted in the first-class cabin, prompting an apology and refund from the airline. Payments & Finance: Visa has named Jorge Salum vice-president and country manager for expanded Greater Caribbean Markets, covering 22 markets as digital payments adoption and financial inclusion efforts accelerate. Luxury Hospitality Pipeline: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos (Grace Bay) is now taking reservations for a June 1, 2027 debut, with 59 rooms and 73 residences plus dining, a wellness center and resort amenities. Tourism & Connectivity Boost: BermudAir is expanding winter service into Providenciales with new routes from multiple North American cities, while Porter adds nonstop flights from Toronto and Ottawa to Turks and Caicos. Housing Finance Reform: The House of Assembly approved the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to expand mortgage access and support homeownership for Turks and Caicos Islanders. Land Tenure Update: The Crown Land Amnesty Programme has been extended to Dec. 31, 2026, offering final concessions for eligible applicants to regularize Crown land. Governance & Standards: Government is moving ahead with implementation of its National Quality Policy to strengthen consumer protection and raise business standards. Tourism Politics: Opposition Leader Edwin Astwood questioned whether tourism spending is delivering a true luxury product, during debate on the Tourism Authority Bill 2026.

Luxury Hospitality & Real Estate: Hyatt’s Andaz Turks and Caicos (Grace Bay) is now taking reservations for a June 1, 2027 debut, with 59 hotel rooms plus 73 residences and amenities including multiple dining concepts and a wellness center. Air Access & Tourism Demand: BermudAir is rolling out major 2026/27 winter expansion from six North American gateways, while Porter adds nonstop Toronto and Ottawa flights to Providenciales—both moves aimed at keeping visitor growth strong. Visitor Numbers: Turks and Caicos posted its highest Q1 stayover arrivals on record (203,587, up 5%), signaling continued momentum for hotels, villas, and services. Housing Finance: The House of Assembly passed the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to expand mortgage access and boost homeownership options for Turks and Caicos Islanders. Land Administration: The Crown Land Amnesty Programme has been extended to Dec. 31, 2026, offering final concessions for eligible applicants to regularize tenure. Business & Consumer Standards: Government is advancing implementation of a National Quality Policy to improve product quality, consumer protection, and competitiveness for local firms. Digital Finance & Crypto: KuCoin launched its first KuCoin Wealth Quant Fund, bringing a market-neutral digital asset strategy to high-net-worth users. Marine Conservation: Montserrat joined the UK Blue Belt marine conservation programme, adding to regional momentum for protecting marine ecosystems.

Air Connectivity Boost: BermudAir and Porter are both expanding winter routes into Providenciales, with BermudAir adding new links from Toronto, Newark, Boston, Baltimore-Washington, Raleigh-Durham and Fort Lauderdale (starting Dec. 19, 2026 through spring 2027) and Porter launching nonstop Toronto service Nov. 6 plus Ottawa flights Dec. 17—good news for visitor arrivals and local tourism spend. Tourism Demand & Product: Turks and Caicos is posting record momentum, including 203,587 stayover visitors in Q1 (+5%), while the Andaz Turks and Caicos Grace Bay (59 rooms, 74 residences) begins bookings June 1, 2027—another signal of capacity and brand growth. Housing Finance: The House of Assembly approved the Mortgage Corporation Bill 2026 to expand mortgage access and homeownership, aiming to close financing gaps for first-time buyers, young professionals, public servants and family-island residents. Land Tenure Deadline: The Crown Land Amnesty Programme is extended to Dec. 31, 2026, offering eligible applicants concessions (including up to 50% discounts and possible waivers/arrears relief) to regularize Crown land ownership. Business Standards: Government is moving ahead with implementation of the National Quality Policy to strengthen consumer protection and raise business standards. Governance & Debate: Opposition Leader Edwin Astwood challenged the “high-end” tourism label during debate on the Tourism Authority Bill, questioning whether product improvements match marketing spend.