AGP Executive Report

UKOT Caucus Watch: Turks & Caicos Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson and Anguilla Premier Cora Richardson-Hodge visited Bermuda’s House of Assembly as Caribbean Overseas Territories leaders met ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council, with discussions set to cover economic resilience, climate preparedness, regional cooperation and UK–OT relations. Tourism & Investment: FOCOL Holdings reported a 50.1% jump in 2025 net profit to B$44.4m alongside B$89.3m in capital additions, focusing on turning investment into stronger operations across energy, wholesale, retail and utilities in The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos. Tourism Product Upgrade: Windsong Resort on Grace Bay unveiled a new Pelago rooftop restaurant and expanded villa offerings, leaning into direct-to-reef snorkeling plus upgraded on-site dining and accommodation. Energy & Connectivity: The Telecommunications Commission says Starlink’s August 27 launch should help drive down broadband costs in Turks & Caicos by supplementing existing networks. Skills for Niche Tourism: The Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association opened the territory’s first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to pair conservation with better industry training and youth opportunity. Business Payments: WapiPay is entering Jamaica via a JN Money partnership, expanding remittance options for diaspora customers through cash collection or direct bank deposits. Local Governance Milestone: Immigration Minister Jamell Robinson defended a $1m government budget for 50th anniversary ministerial government celebrations, saying it supports nation-building reflection and commemorative activities.

Tourism & Hospitality: Windsong Resort on Grace Bay is rolling out a new Pelago rooftop restaurant plus a rebranded Rooftop Villa Collection, adding more dining and residential-style stays to one of Providenciales’ best-known snorkeling frontages. Tourism Policy & Environment: An opinion piece argues Turks and Caicos is “consuming its own tourism product,” warning that record arrivals and hotel growth are coming with visible strain on reefs, wetlands and coastal areas. Government Spending & Governance: Immigration Minister Jamell Robinson defended a $1 million supplementary budget for 50th anniversary ministerial government activities, saying the funds are meant for nation-building and reflection. UK Oversight & Business Transparency: The UK is pressing the territory to improve beneficial-ownership access for companies, including concerns around application fees and expectations for more public registers. Telecom & Cost of Living: Starlink has officially launched in Turks and Caicos, with the telecom regulator saying it should help drive down broadband costs while complementing existing networks. Skills & Jobs: Turks and Caicos opened its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to standardize training and support youth opportunity. Finance & Payments: WapiPay is entering Jamaica via a JN Money partnership, expanding remittance options for diaspora customers. Regional Diplomacy: OT leaders are meeting in Bermuda for a Caribbean caucus ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council, with Turks and Caicos represented by Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson.

Tourism & Hospitality: Windsong Resort on Grace Bay is rolling out a new rooftop restaurant, Pelago, plus a rebranded Rooftop Villa Collection, adding more “residential-style” stays to one of Providenciales’ best-known snorkeling spots. Legal & Risk: A Club Med Turkoise guest has filed a federal lawsuit claiming a shark attack caused “permanent nerve damage” and “massive scarring,” blaming a sailing instructor at the resort. Energy & Infrastructure: FOCOL Holdings reported 50.1% profit growth for 2025, with B$89.3 million in capital additions, as it focuses on turning investment into stronger operations across energy services in The Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos. Telecoms & Cost of Living: Starlink has officially launched in Turks and Caicos, with the telecom regulator saying it should help drive down broadband costs and improve access. Governance & UK Relations: The UK is pressing Turks and Caicos to improve beneficial-ownership access for companies, while TCI leaders are also in Bermuda for the Caribbean Overseas Territories caucus ahead of the UK joint ministerial council. Sports & Skills: Turks and Caicos has opened its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to professionalize the sector while tying conservation to prosperity.

Aviation & Tourism Demand: Frontier Airlines is adding its first South America service from Orlando, launching weekly flights to Cartagena from Dec. 19, plus new daily routes to Medellín (from Dec. 10) and Bogotá (from Dec. 14), with fares starting at $129 one-way—another signal of rising Caribbean travel capacity and competition. Energy & Investment Performance: FOCOL Holdings reported a 50.1% jump in 2025 net profit to B$44.4m alongside B$89.3m in capital additions, saying it will now focus on turning investment into reliable operations across its wholesale, retail and utility businesses in The Bahamas and Turks & Caicos. Governance & UK Relations: Turks and Caicos Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson is in Bermuda for the Caribbean Overseas Territories caucus, where OT leaders will coordinate positions ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council, including economic resilience, climate preparedness and financial services/trade. Business Transparency: The UK is pressing Turks & Caicos to improve beneficial-ownership access for companies, with discussions also touching application fees and expectations for fully public registers. Telecom Costs: Starlink has officially launched in Turks & Caicos, with the Telecommunications Commission saying it should help drive down broadband costs and expand access beyond reliance on local fibre and towers. Sports & Skills: Turks and Caicos opened its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to formalize training while supporting conservation and youth opportunity. Remittances: JN Money Services partnered with WapiPay to expand Jamaica payout options, strengthening cross-border payment links through JN Money locations and bank deposits. Environment & Risk: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Inagua and nearby waters, with conditions expected to bring strong winds, lightning, heavy rain and possible hail.

UK-TCI Beneficial Ownership Pressure: The UK is pressing Turks and Caicos to improve access to information on who ultimately owns or controls companies, with concerns raised over the territory’s beneficial-ownership system and application fees. Regional Diplomacy: Bermuda is hosting the Caribbean Overseas Territories Caucus, bringing OT leaders together to align positions ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council, with Turks and Caicos represented by Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson. 50 Years of Ministerial Government: Immigration Minister Jamell Robinson defended a $1 million budget for 50th anniversary activities, while public responses highlight pride in self-governance and expectations for the next 50 years. Tourism & Environment Debate: An opinion piece argues Turks and Caicos is “consuming its own tourism product,” warning that tourism growth milestones may be eroding the natural environment that drives arrivals. Telecom Costs: The Telecommunications Commission says Starlink’s launch should help drive down broadband costs, positioning satellite service as an “enabler” alongside existing networks. Finance & Payments: WapiPay is entering Jamaica via a JN Money partnership, expanding remittance options for recipients through cash collection or direct bank deposits. Skills for Niche Tourism: Turks and Caicos launched its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to professionalize training and support conservation-linked prosperity. Weather Watch: A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Inagua and nearby waters, with conditions also monitored across the Bahamas and Turks and Caicos.

Tourism & Travel: A new comparison piece weighs Aruba vs Turks & Caicos for family cruises, arguing Aruba’s lower storm risk and more coastal, kid-friendly activities can make it a smoother pick depending on kids’ ages and the booking season. Local Tourism Policy (Opinion): Another commentary warns Turks & Caicos is “consuming its own tourism product,” pointing to record arrivals and new resorts alongside visible environmental strain. Government Spending: Immigration Minister Jamell Robinson defended a $1 million supplementary budget for 50th anniversary ministerial government celebrations, saying it supports nation-building priorities. Regional Politics: Turks & Caicos Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson and Premier Reuben Meade are in Bermuda for the Caribbean Overseas Territories caucus ahead of UK talks on shared economic, financial services, climate, and health issues. Beneficial Ownership Pressure: The UK is pressing Turks & Caicos to improve access to beneficial ownership information, with no clear timetable for reforms. Connectivity & Cost: Telecommunications Commission DG Kenva Williams says Starlink’s launch should help drive down broadband costs in the territory. Fishing Skills & Standards: Turks and Caicos opens its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to formalize training and support conservation-linked prosperity. Remittances: WapiPay enters Jamaica via a JN Money partnership, expanding cross-border payment options for diaspora customers. Weather Alert: A severe thunderstorm warning was issued for Inagua and nearby waters, with continued watch conditions for Turks & Caicos.

Luxury Tourism & Real Estate: South Bank by Grace Bay Resorts is taking reservations for Piero Lissoni’s Arc at South Bank, a 17-villa Sky Villas project opening in Providenciales on Dec. 15, with rates from about $715 a night. Tourism Policy Debate: An opinion piece argues Turks and Caicos is “consuming its own tourism product,” warning that tourism growth is outpacing environmental protection. Public Spending: Immigration and Border Services Minister Jamell Robinson defended a $1m supplementary budget for 50th anniversary celebrations of ministerial government. UK Oversight & Business Transparency: The UK is pressing the TCI to improve beneficial-ownership access for company control, including concerns around application fees and the push toward public registers. Telecoms & Cost of Living: Starlink has launched and received a 15-year telecom licence, with fees set out by the Telecommunications Commission; the regulator says it can help drive down broadband costs. Remittances: JN Money and WapiPay expanded Jamaica remittance options, adding payout and bank-deposit routes via JN Money locations. Skills for a Niche Economy: The Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association opened the first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides. Regional Governance: TCI leaders are in Bermuda for the Caribbean Overseas Territories caucus ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council.

Starlink Licensing: The Turks and Caicos Telecommunications Commission has granted Starlink a 15-year telecoms licence, with an initial fee of about $112,600 plus revenue- and spectrum-linked annual payments; Starlink is set to operate independently of Flow and Digicel for standard satellite service, while Direct-to-Cellular partnerships will involve local providers. Energy & Power Policy: The PDM says Pelican Energy has applied for a 50-year electricity licence, warning it could lock in decisions for two generations and calling for full disclosure, independent assessment, public consultation, and enforceable cost and renewable-energy obligations. UK Beneficial Ownership Pressure: The UK is pressing the TCI to improve access to beneficial-ownership information, including concerns around application fees and expectations for fully public registers. Remittances Deal: JN Money Services partnered with WapiPay to expand ways to send money to Jamaica, using JN Money as the exclusive local payout conduit. Conservation Warning: A new study says Caribbean queen conch marine protected areas may lose the climate conditions the species needs abruptly by mid-century, raising alarms for fisheries and conservation planning. Tourism Skills & Guides: TCI launched its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to professionalize training and support conservation-linked prosperity. Weather Alert: A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for parts of the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos, with risks including lightning, heavy rain, hail, and possible waterspouts.

Marine Conservation & Climate Risk: A peer-reviewed study warns Caribbean queen conch MPAs may lose the ocean conditions the species needs abruptly by mid-century, shifting the conservation fight from “fishing pressure” to whether protected areas will still work. Luxury Tourism & Development: South Bank’s new waterfront luxury villa concept in Turks and Caicos is framed as a true private-residence experience, with resort services layered in. Water & Infrastructure: Miranda Water Technologies’ SmartCell wastewater systems are being deployed for Curve Lake First Nation, replacing septic beds with modular biological treatment to protect groundwater and improve water security. Public Safety: A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for Inagua and nearby waters, with risks including strong gusts, lightning, heavy rain, hail, and possible waterspouts. Regional Governance: TCI deputy premier Jamell Robinson joins Caribbean Overseas Territories leaders in Bermuda for a caucus ahead of the UK Joint Ministerial Council, focusing on economic, environmental, and social priorities. Telecom & Cost of Living: Starlink has been granted a 15-year TCI licence, with fees set and the regulator saying it should help bring broadband costs down while complementing existing networks. Finance & Payments: JN Money and WapiPay are expanding remittance options to Jamaica, adding cash collection and direct-to-bank deposits via JN Money’s network. Skills & Money: A local financial professional shares the “Before Sunrise Financial Principles” framework aimed at building long-term financial freedom with intention. Sports & Skills: Turks and Caicos launches its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, linking conservation and local opportunity. Energy Policy: Pelican Energy’s reported 50-year electricity licence application sparks calls for full disclosure, independent review, and stronger consumer protections. Remittance/Tech Finance (Global): KuCoin launches KCUSD, an earn product for stablecoin holders, as crypto platforms push more yield-focused offerings.

Remittances Boost: JN Money has partnered with fintech WapiPay to expand how Jamaicans send and receive money, with WapiPay customers able to collect cash at JN Money locations or get deposits into local bank accounts, after WapiPay’s Jamaica approval earlier this year. Telecoms & Cost of Living: Turks and Caicos’ Telecommunications Commission says Starlink’s 15-year licence is now in place, with an initial fee of about $112,600 and ongoing revenue-linked payments; Starlink will run independently of Flow and Digicel for standard satellite service, while Direct-to-Cellular will require partnerships. UK Oversight on Ownership Data: The UK is pressing the Turks and Caicos to improve access to beneficial-ownership information, including concerns around application fees and expectations for fully public registers. Energy Policy Watch: The PDM says Pelican Energy has applied to the Governor for a 50-year electricity licence, urging full disclosure, independent review, public consultation, and stronger consumer protections before any long-term commitment. Tourism Skills & Jobs: Turks and Caicos launched its first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to standardize training and support conservation-linked prosperity. Weather Alert: A severe thunderstorm warning remains in effect for Inagua and nearby waters, with risks including strong gusts, lightning, heavy rain, hail, and possible waterspouts.

Telecom & Cost of Living: Starlink has been granted a 15-year telecommunications licence in the Turks and Caicos, with an initial fee of about $112,600 and annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use; the regulator says Starlink is independent of Flow and Digicel for regular satellite service, while Direct to Cellular will require partnerships with local providers. Energy & Governance: Pelican Energy has submitted an application to the Governor seeking a 50-year electricity licence (starting with Grand Turk), prompting the PDM to demand full disclosure, independent assessments, public consultation, and clear consumer protections before any long-term commitment. Business Regulation: The UK is pressing the TCI to improve access to beneficial-ownership information for companies, including concerns around application fees and expectations for fully public registers. Tourism Skills & Jobs: The Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association launched the territory’s first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to standardize training and support youth opportunities. Regional Finance & Cooperation: TCI Deputy Premier Jamell Robinson is attending the Caribbean Overseas Territories caucus in Bermuda, with talks spanning economic and financial services resilience, climate preparedness, and regional partnerships. Connectivity Upgrade: Digicel Bermuda says it is on track to replace its remaining copper network with fibre by end-December, while addressing customer complaints about its AI support bot. Crypto Payments: KuCoin launched KCUSD, an earn product for stablecoin holders, as the platform expands yield-bearing options. Remittances: JN Money and WapiPay expanded ways to send money to Jamaica via JN Money’s local payout infrastructure.

Telecom & Cost of Living: Starlink has officially launched in the Turks and Caicos, with the Telecommunications Commission’s Kenva Williams saying it should help bring down “very high” broadband costs and improve access across the islands. Regulation Update: Starlink has also been granted a 15-year telecom licence, with an initial fee of about $112,600 plus annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use, and a note that Direct-to-Cellular services will partner with Flow and Digicel. Energy & Governance: Pelican Energy TCI has submitted an application to the Governor seeking a 50-year electricity licence, prompting the PDM to demand full public disclosure, independent assessments, consultation, and clear consumer protections. Skills & Tourism Jobs: The Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association opened the territory’s first national certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aimed at standardising training and supporting youth opportunity. Local Business & Trade: Government is moving ahead with the Grand Turk Trade Expo (Nov. 14) as part of the Made in TCI push, designed to spotlight local entrepreneurs and products. Remittances: JN Money and WapiPay have expanded ways to send money to Jamaica, strengthening cross-border payment links for the region.

Telecom Upgrade: Starlink has been granted a 15-year telecommunications licence in the Turks and Caicos, with an initial fee of about $112,600 plus annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use; the Telecommunications Commission says Starlink will operate independently of Flow and Digicel for regular satellite internet, though Direct to Cellular will require partnerships. Energy & Regulation: Pelican Energy’s reported 50-year electricity licence application is drawing pushback from the People’s Democratic Movement, which is calling for full disclosure, independent assessments, public consultation, and clear consumer protections before any long-term deal. Fishing Skills & Jobs: The Turks and Caicos Fly Fishing Association opened the territory’s first nationally recognised certification programme for saltwater flats fishing guides, aiming to standardise training and create opportunity for local youth. Local Business & Trade: Government is launching the Grand Turk Trade Expo (Nov. 14) alongside the Made in TCI 2026 push, inviting residents to “discover” local products and creators. Remittances: JN Money and WapiPay expanded ways to send money to Jamaica via JN Money’s local payout network. Roads & Congestion: A Providenciales entrepreneur warns no new road routes were added over the summer ahead of school reopening, raising concerns about worsening traffic near schools, roundabouts and the airport. Crypto Finance: KuCoin rolled out KCUSD, an Earn product that turns idle stablecoin balances into daily-yielding capital, alongside further wallet and institutional lending upgrades.

TCI Telecoms: Starlink has been granted a 15-year telecommunications licence in the Turks and Caicos, with an initial licensing fee of about $112,600 plus annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use; it will operate independently of Flow and Digicel for regular satellite internet, while Direct-to-Cellular partnerships will involve local providers. Power & Regulation: The PDM says Pelican Energy has applied for a 50-year electricity licence starting in Grand Turk and is urging full disclosure, independent assessments, public consultation, and clear consumer protections before any long-term commitment is made. Aviation Costs: Family Islands carriers warn airport fee increases are “getting out of hand,” with new levies (including up to $66 on international passengers) set to take effect from Jan. 1, 2027—potentially pushing up travel prices and hurting tourism demand. Local Business & Trade: Government announced the inaugural Grand Turk Trade Expo (Nov. 14) and the 2026 “Made in TCI” theme “Calling All Agents,” aiming to spotlight entrepreneurs and connect them with consumers. Remittances: JN Money Services and WapiPay expanded ways to send money to Jamaica, using JN Money’s payout infrastructure. Transport & Growth: BermudAir marked its third anniversary with a 30% fare discount and is adding new nonstop service to South Caicos from Newark, improving access for visitors. Infrastructure & Safety: The TCI Regiment is being argued as a potential tool for youth rehabilitation and reintegration, beyond traditional security and disaster-response roles.

Telecom Expansion: Starlink has been granted a 15-year telecommunications licence in the Turks & Caicos, with an initial fee of about $112,600 plus annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use; it will operate independently of Flow and Digicel for regular satellite internet, while Direct-to-Cellular services will partner with local providers. Energy Policy Watch: The People’s Democratic Movement says Pelican Energy has applied for a 50-year electricity licence starting in Grand Turk, warning the territory could be locked in for two generations and calling for full disclosure, independent assessments, public consultation, and clear consumer protections. Airport Costs Pressure: Aviation operators in the region warn airport fee increases are “getting out of hand,” with proposed higher levies for Family Islands airports that could push up travel costs for both tourists and residents. Local Business & Trade: Government is launching the Grand Turk Trade Expo (Nov. 14) alongside the next Made in TCI theme, aiming to spotlight local entrepreneurs and connect them directly with consumers. Remittances Link-Up: JN Money and WapiPay have expanded ways to send money to Jamaica, using JN Money’s payout infrastructure to strengthen cross-border remittance corridors. Connectivity & Growth: BermudAir marks its third anniversary with a 30% fare discount and is adding new nonstop service options in the Caribbean, including South Caicos from Newark starting Dec. 20. Community & Poverty Focus: Miss International TCI held a workshop highlighting poverty in the territory, citing about 22% of residents living in poverty and pushing for better awareness of available support. Infrastructure & Daily Life: A Providenciales businessman says no new road routes were added over the summer ahead of school reopening, warning of worsening congestion around schools, roundabouts, and the airport.

Telecom Upgrade: Starlink has been granted a 15-year telecommunications licence in the Turks & Caicos, with an initial fee of about $112,600 plus annual payments tied to gross revenues and spectrum use; Starlink is independent of Flow and Digicel for regular satellite service, while Direct to Cellular will require partnerships with local providers. Energy Policy Watch: The PDM says Pelican Energy has applied for a 50-year electricity generation and distribution licence and is urging full public disclosure, independent assessments, consultation, and clear consumer protections before any decision that could lock in terms for two generations. Remittance Links: JN Money Services and WapiPay expanded cross-border payments to Jamaica, using JN Money’s local payout infrastructure—another sign of regional fintech competition for remittance corridors. Airport Cost Pressure: Aviation operators in the region warn that new airport fee increases are “getting out of hand,” with higher passenger charges likely to flow through to ticket prices and hit tourism demand. Local Trade Push: Government announced the inaugural Grand Turk Trade Expo (Nov. 14) and a new Made in TCI theme, aiming to spotlight Grand Turk entrepreneurs and grow local consumer connections. Business & Infrastructure: CIBC Caribbean will shift GBP clearing services to Lloyds Bank from Sept. 14 for clients in St. Kitts, St. Lucia and Turks & Caicos. Humanitarian Spillover: Rights advocates say nearly 200,000 Haitians were forcibly returned to Haiti in the first eight months of 2026, with the Bahamas, Turks & Caicos and Jamaica accounting for additional returns—raising reintegration concerns.