The Trinidad and Tobago Stock Exchange (TTSE) is set to transition to a one-day trade settlement cycle (T+1) by 2026, as part of its broader efforts to modernize operations and align with global standards. CEO Eva Mitchell made the announcement during her opening remarks at the TTSE’s 2025 Capital Markets and Investor Conference held at the Hyatt Regency in Port of Spain on October 24. Mitchell highlighted that the exchange had already reduced its settlement cycle from T+3 to T+2 in 2024, and the move to T+1 will further enhance market efficiency. The T+1 system, already adopted by major exchanges like the New York Stock Exchange, will reduce settlement time to a single day, improving liquidity and minimizing counterparty risk. Mitchell emphasized that this transition aligns the TTSE with global best practices for advanced exchanges. Alongside the settlement cycle change, the TTSE is rolling out a series of technology upgrades, including an updated depository portal set to launch in November. The new portal promises faster processing, smarter systems, and enhanced scalability, while also enabling the collection of valuable data to better understand market trends and opportunities. Additionally, the exchange introduced TOBI, a user-friendly digital assistant designed to help investors access information and ask questions about the market and its services. Mitchell also revealed that the TTSE has completed infrastructure for a new Spot Market to support derivatives trading, marking a first for the Caribbean. The exchange is also exploring the introduction of a ‘market maker’ framework to improve liquidity and price stability. In line with its commitment to sustainability, the TTSE has partnered with IDB Invest to develop a Green Bond Guide and joined the United Nations Sustainable Stock Exchanges (UNSSE) Initiative. Mitchell acknowledged the subdued local market but urged stakeholders to focus on long-term growth, emphasizing the importance of modernizing the market, embracing innovation, and fostering transparency and trust.
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Penny: Consultation on CJ was rushed
Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has voiced concerns over the lack of adequate consultation in the appointment of the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. Speaking to the media outside the Red House in Port of Spain on October 24, Beckles emphasized that her objections were not about Boodoosingh’s qualifications but rather the rushed timeline of the process. She highlighted that a letter with errors was presented at 6:30 PM while she was in Parliament, corrections were sought by 8:30 AM the next morning, and the appointment was finalized by 2 PM the same day. Beckles described this as insufficient consultation, though she acknowledged Boodoosingh’s competence, noting his background as an ethics teacher at the University of the West Indies (UWI). Boodoosingh was sworn in by acting president Wade Mark on October 22. The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago also raised concerns about the expedited and abbreviated process leading to his appointment.
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Tenth US strike off Venezuela claims six lives
In a decisive move against narco-terrorism, the United States military executed a targeted strike on a vessel allegedly operated by the Tren de Aragua (TdA), a designated terrorist organization, in the southern Caribbean on October 24. The operation, conducted in international waters off the coast of Venezuela, resulted in the deaths of six alleged narco-terrorists. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth confirmed the strike in a post on X, stating it was carried out overnight under the directive of President Trump. He emphasized that the vessel was identified by intelligence as part of a narcotics smuggling network and was traversing a known trafficking route. This marks the first nighttime strike in the ongoing campaign against narco-terrorism. Hegseth issued a stern warning to drug smugglers, vowing to treat them with the same severity as Al-Qaeda. Since September, the US military has reportedly killed 13 individuals in similar operations, including two Trinidad and Tobago nationals in a strike on October 14.
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LATT on PM’s ‘filth’ remark: Public discourse should be respectful
The Law Association of Trinidad and Tobago (LATT) has issued a stern call for mutual respect and dignified discourse in public discussions on legal and constitutional matters, particularly among high-ranking officials. This appeal follows recent comments made by Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar in response to LATT’s critique of the appointment process for the new Chief Justice, Ronnie Boodoosingh. On October 23, LATT raised concerns about the consultation process, describing it as ‘hastened and truncated.’ In a sharp retort, Persad-Bissessar dismissed LATT’s concerns with derogatory remarks, stating, ‘I have no regard for anything the eat-ah-food filth of the hierarchy of the Law Association says.’ LATT, in its October 24 statement, reaffirmed its statutory duty to comment on matters affecting the administration of justice and the rule of law. The association emphasized its commitment to acting independently, without bias, and in alignment with the highest professional standards. It stressed the importance of constructive engagement among all branches of government to uphold democratic institutions. LATT also vowed to continue its mandate of providing principled guidance on legal matters, undeterred by external criticism. Boodoosingh was sworn in on October 22 by acting President Wade Mark, following the retirement of former Chief Justice Ivor Archie. Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles has criticized the appointment process, claiming she was not consulted as required by the Constitution. Mark is currently acting in place of President Christine Kangaloo, who is abroad.
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Three Jamaicans to be conferred with UTech honorary degrees
KINGSTON, Jamaica — The University of Technology (UTech) has announced plans to award honorary degrees to three distinguished individuals during its 2025 graduation ceremonies. American actress Sheryl Lee Ralph, National Works Agency CEO Everton Hunter, and gospel artiste Dr. Carlene Davis-Cowan will be recognized for their exceptional contributions to culture, infrastructure, and humanitarian efforts.
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Empress Idama performs in Jamaica for first time in 20 years, promotes new songs
In a triumphant return to her homeland, Empress Idama, the New York-based roots singer, performed in Jamaica for the first time in over two decades. Her September appearances in St Elizabeth and Kingston marked a significant moment in her career, as she reconnected with her cultural roots and shared her latest musical offerings. The artiste is currently promoting her newest tracks, ‘Spirit’ and ‘Captive,’ produced by Ricardo Simpson and Sidney Mills, respectively. These songs reflect the social consciousness she cultivated during her childhood in Kingston, a legacy inspired by her grandfather, a devoted follower of Marcus Garvey, Jamaica’s first National Hero and a Pan-African icon. Empress Idama performed at renowned events such as the Kingston Night Market and Rub A Dub Tuesdayz, captivating audiences with her powerful messages. Her last performance in Jamaica was in 2005 at a show headlined by Everton Blender and Sizzla at the University of the West Indies. With a career spanning 20 years, Empress Idama has remained a consistent figure in New York City’s live music scene, often opening for legendary acts like Sugar Minott, Junior Reid, Eek A Mouse, and Everton Blender. Through her music, she aims to raise awareness, inspire others, and advocate for the voiceless, using her art as a force for positive change.
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Abaco hurricane shelter finally opens
After years of setbacks, Abaco’s highly anticipated multipurpose hurricane shelter has officially opened its doors, marking a significant step forward in the region’s disaster preparedness efforts. The facility, located in Central Pines, Marsh Harbour, was formally handed over to the public during a ceremony held yesterday. Designed to withstand Category Five hurricanes, the shelter spans over 12,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 600 people. Strategically situated on one of the highest points in Marsh Harbour, it minimizes flood risks and features essential amenities such as wheelchair ramps, bathrooms, and a medical room. Minister of State for Disaster Risk Preparedness Leon Lundy emphasized that the shelter was built in response to the vulnerabilities exposed by Hurricane Dorian in 2019, which left many families stranded on rooftops. He described the facility as both a tribute to those lost during the disaster and a beacon of resilience for the community. The project, initially estimated at $1.8 million, faced numerous delays and cost overruns, with the final price tag reaching $4.5 million. Funding was partially provided by international partners, including a $1 million donation from the Indian government. The shelter is the first of several planned facilities aimed at addressing shelter shortages in Abaco. During the ceremony, officials highlighted its dual purpose: serving as a safe haven during storms and a community hub for training, meetings, and youth programs in normal times. The government also approved a $17 million transfer to the Disaster Emergency Fund, signaling a renewed commitment to improving national disaster response. Attendees, including representatives from India, the United Nations, and China, praised The Bahamas for its dedication to climate resilience and disaster preparedness.
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Penal man acquitted of attempted murder, malicious damage
In a significant legal outcome, a 22-year-old man was acquitted of all charges, including attempted murder, causing grievous bodily harm with intent, and malicious damage, following a retrial at the O’Meara Judicial Centre on October 6. The verdict was delivered by a nine-member jury after a thorough examination of the case, which originated from an alleged incident on July 9, 2023, near Zumba’s Bar on San Francique Road, Penal. The accused, whose identity remains undisclosed to protect the privacy of those involved, was arrested on February 17, 2024, at his workplace. The retrial, presided over by Justice Sherene Murray-Bailey, began on September 10. The prosecution claimed that the accused physically assaulted a woman after a night out, resulting in multiple injuries, and damaged her cellphone. However, the defence argued that the accused had responded to a distress call from the woman and was subsequently attacked by two men accompanying her. Throughout the trial, inconsistencies in the victim’s testimony were highlighted, and the defence questioned the lack of corroborative evidence, such as CCTV footage or independent witness statements. The jury ultimately found the accused not guilty of all charges. The case was represented by Counsel Collin Elbourne and Janeil Chuck of the Public Defenders’ Department, while prosecutors Chenelle Moe and Roger Hinds appeared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. This case also highlighted the effectiveness of the Administration of Justice (Indictable Proceedings) Act (AJIPA), as the proceedings concluded within 20 months of the accused’s arrest.
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Dylan Carter into men’s 50m backstroke final in Toronto
Trinidad and Tobago’s swimming sensation, Dylan Carter, has secured his spot in the men’s 50-meter backstroke final at the 2025 World Aquatics Swimming World Cup. The third leg of the competition, held in Toronto, Canada, saw Carter deliver a strong performance during the morning session on October 24. Swimming in heat five, Carter clocked an impressive 23.15 seconds, earning him second place. Hungary’s Hubert Kos claimed the top spot in the heat with a time of 22.90 seconds, while American swimmer Jack Alexy finished third in 23.38 seconds. All three athletes will now compete in the final, scheduled for 6:33 PM on the same day, with Carter positioned in lane six. Kos enters the final as the fastest qualifier from the preliminary rounds, followed by Kacper Stokowski, who won heat four with a time of 23.02 seconds. Carter, whose time ranked fourth in the prelims, aims to improve his performance and secure his third medal of the competition. Earlier in the tournament, Carter clinched bronze in the 50m backstroke during the first leg in Indiana, where Kos took gold with a time of 22.65 seconds. Kos also dominated the second leg in Illinois, winning gold in 22.91 seconds, while Carter finished joint-fifth in 23.17 seconds. Beyond his backstroke success, Carter also earned a bronze medal in the 50m freestyle final during the second leg of this year’s Swimming World Cup.
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#EyeOnMelissa: Gov’t doubles constituency disaster preparedness allocation to $400m
KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a decisive move to bolster national readiness, the Jamaican Government has doubled its allocation for constituency-level disaster preparedness from $200 million to $400 million. This significant increase comes as the nation braces for the potential impact of Tropical Storm Melissa, which is forecasted to intensify into a hurricane by the weekend. The decision, announced by Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development, Robert Morgan, follows a directive from Prime Minister Andrew Holness to enhance flood mitigation and preparedness efforts. According to the Meteorological Service of Jamaica, the storm, currently stationary to the southeast of the island, is expected to bring heavy rainfall of 200–350 millimetres (eight–14 inches), particularly in eastern parishes, raising concerns of widespread flooding and landslides. Morgan emphasized that the additional funding will enable constituencies to scale up readiness activities, safeguarding lives, property, and infrastructure. The funds are being distributed through the National Works Agency (NWA) to constituencies across the island, empowering Members of Parliament and local teams to undertake urgent pre-impact works in vulnerable areas. These activities include drain cleaning, de-bushing, and clearing blocked roadways. Morgan urged citizens to remain vigilant, avoid flooded areas, and adhere to official guidance, stating, ‘Preparedness saves lives. We are acting decisively to ensure Jamaica is ready.’