Carib Scope

作者： admin

  • Goud en edelmetalen populair ondanks recente koersdaling

    Goud en edelmetalen populair ondanks recente koersdaling

    Investors worldwide are demonstrating unprecedented confidence in gold-related assets, channeling massive capital into precious metal funds during January 2025. According to comprehensive data from LSEG Lipper, exchange-traded funds (ETFs) specializing in gold and other precious metals attracted $4.39 billion in new investments, marking the eighth consecutive month of net inflows.

    The remarkable trend extends to gold mining companies, with mining-focused ETFs receiving $3.62 billion—the highest monthly allocation since records began in 2009. The cumulative effect has resulted in a staggering $91.86 billion flowing into these funds throughout 2025, representing an eightfold increase compared to the entire previous year.

    This surge occurs against a backdrop of significant market volatility. Despite the substantial capital inflows, gold prices experienced a sharp 10% correction over two trading days following recent record highs. The price decline coincided with increased margin requirements implemented by CME Group after Kevin Warsh’s nomination as the new Federal Reserve Chair triggered substantial selling across metal markets.

    Leading the inflow activity, SPDR Gold Shares ETF secured $2.58 billion in new investments, while SPDR Gold MiniShares Trust attracted $1.79 billion and iShares Gold Trust received $696 million. Among mining ETFs, VanEck Gold Miners ETF led with $539 million, followed by iShares S&P/TSX Global Gold Index ETF with $312 million and VanEck Junior Gold Miners ETF with $114 million.

    Market analysts at J.P. Morgan maintain a bullish long-term outlook despite recent fluctuations, noting that gold continues to demonstrate stronger appreciation as a real-value asset compared to financial instruments. This perspective is echoed by UBS Global Wealth Management’s Chief Investment Officer Mark Haefele, who anticipates continued growth in demand from both central banks and institutional investors throughout 2025.

    While acknowledging potential downside risks due to current premium levels, Haefele recommends moderate gold allocations within diversified portfolios and suggests that escalating political or financial uncertainties could drive prices toward $5,400 per ounce.

  • Bendals Primary students return to classes after fire disruption

    Bendals Primary students return to classes after fire disruption

    Bendals Primary School has successfully recommenced academic operations following a disruptive two-week closure triggered by a significant fire incident. The conflagration, which erupted in the institution’s administrative wing, resulted in the complete destruction of critical facilities including the principal’s office, staff accommodations, and sanitary service areas.

    Despite the substantial infrastructure damage, educational authorities have confirmed no physical injuries occurred during the incident. The Board of Education has implemented comprehensive contingency measures through collaborative efforts with community stakeholders to restore educational continuity. These temporary arrangements prioritize maintaining academic schedules while simultaneously facilitating reconstruction efforts on the compromised structure.

    Official statements emphasize that these emergency protocols were designed to ensure full compliance with safety regulations while minimizing pedagogical interruptions. Education officials have reiterated their commitment to preserving institutional normalcy throughout the restoration period, with particular attention to psychological and environmental security for both students and faculty members.

    Concurrent with these educational recovery efforts, forensic investigators from the Fire Department maintain an active presence on campus as they work to determine the precise origin and causation factors of the destructive blaze. The ongoing examination seeks to establish whether the incident resulted from accidental electrical failure, structural issues, or other potential ignition sources.

  • PM Skerrit to attend summit for world governments in Dubai

    PM Skerrit to attend summit for world governments in Dubai

    Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit of Dominica will represent the nation’s interests at the prestigious World Governments Summit in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, from February 3-5. The high-level gathering, themed “Shaping Future Governments,” brings together global leaders to address pressing international challenges through innovative governance solutions.

    During the summit, Prime Minister Skerrit will actively participate in two critical roundtable discussions focusing on global investment trends and the transformation of international tourism. His involvement is strategically positioned to highlight Dominica’s unique perspective as a small island developing state facing disproportionate climate vulnerabilities.

    The Dominican leader’s agenda emphasizes four key developmental pillars: climate-resilient infrastructure, sustainable investment frameworks, renewable energy transition, and inclusive economic growth. This participation underscores Dominica’s commitment to positioning itself at the forefront of global discussions concerning sustainable development and climate justice.

    While Prime Minister Skerrit attends the Dubai summit, domestic governance responsibilities will be temporarily assumed by Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, Minister for Finance, Economic Development, Climate Resilience, and Social Security, ensuring continuous governmental operations during the Prime Minister’s diplomatic mission.

  • PM Friday says official residence a fire hazard

    PM Friday says official residence a fire hazard

    Prime Minister Godwin Friday has disclosed alarming safety hazards at the official prime ministerial residence, describing the property as fundamentally uninhabitable due to critical structural failures. During parliamentary debates on the national budget, Friday defended the allocation of EC$1.5 million for urgent repairs, revealing that the roof structure has severely corroded, electrical systems present fire hazards, and guardrails have deteriorated to dangerous conditions.

    The revelation sparked immediate criticism from former Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who vacated the property following his party’s electoral defeat last November. Gonsalves contested the assessment, asserting the residence remained “liveable” during his tenure and questioning the substantial funding allocation, suggesting costs would inevitably “balloon” beyond projections.

    Financial records reveal significant historical allocations for residence maintenance, with EC$540,000 budgeted between 2022-2025 for “enhancement” projects, though only EC$241,747 had been expended by November 2024. The previous administration approved EC$75,000 annually in 2021-2022 for improvements, followed by EC$250,000 in 2023 for furniture and minor works.

    Friday detailed his unexpected discovery of the property’s condition post-election, initially anticipating minor cosmetic updates but finding comprehensive structural deficiencies requiring complete electrical system replacement and roof reconstruction. The national infrastructure agency BRAGSA conducted assessments confirming the severity of deterioration.

    Additionally, Friday highlighted deplorable living conditions for security personnel stationed at the residence, describing overcrowded quarters with four officers sharing bunk-style accommodations in single rooms. National Security Minister St. Clair Leacock corroborated these concerns following nationwide inspections of police facilities.

    The Prime Minister emphasized the residence represents national heritage requiring preservation, proposing institutional management through BRAGSA or specialized units to prevent future deterioration. He expressed confidence in securing private sponsorship for heritage conservation, aiming to alleviate taxpayer burden for maintaining historically significant government properties.

  • Chantel Alert Issued for Missing Johnson’s Point Sisters

    Chantel Alert Issued for Missing Johnson’s Point Sisters

    Law enforcement authorities have activated a Chantel Alert following the mysterious disappearance of two adolescent sisters from the Johnson’s Point locality. The missing individuals have been identified as Kelisha Osborne, aged 13, and her sister Amire Osborne, aged 15. Their last confirmed sighting occurred during the morning hours of Sunday, February 1, between approximately 9:00 and 10:00 AM.

    Despite ongoing investigative efforts, critical details regarding the circumstances of their disappearance remain unknown, including the specific attire they were wearing at the time they went missing. The lack of clothing description has further complicated search operations conducted by local law enforcement agencies.

    Police officials have issued an urgent public appeal for assistance, emphasizing that any information—no matter how seemingly insignificant—could prove vital in tracing the sisters’ whereabouts. Community members who may have witnessed any relevant activity or possess potential leads are strongly encouraged to immediately contact local law enforcement or communicate directly with the family. The collaborative effort between authorities and civilians represents the most promising approach to ensuring the safe recovery of the Osborne sisters, whose unexplained absence has generated considerable concern throughout the community.

  • Antigua And Barbuda Triumphs At 2026 Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travel Awards

    Antigua And Barbuda Triumphs At 2026 Caribbean Journal Caribbean Travel Awards

    The twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda has achieved an extraordinary triumph at the prestigious 2026 Caribbean Travel Awards, securing top honors in three major categories and cementing its status as the Caribbean’s premier luxury destination. Caribbean Journal, the region’s leading travel authority, recognized the destination’s exceptional offerings across multiple dimensions of tourism excellence.

    In a remarkable sweep, Antigua and Barbuda claimed the coveted title of Caribbean Tourist Board of the Year, acknowledging the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority’s innovative global marketing strategies and leadership in destination promotion. The islands simultaneously captured Honeymoon Destination of the Year, celebrated for their romantic ambiance featuring 365 pristine beaches, intimate luxury resorts, and enchanting experiences from sunset sails to candlelit dining. Completing the triple crown, the destination earned Luxury Destination of the Year for its world-class accommodations, bespoke experiences, and unparalleled service catering to discerning travelers.

    Adding to this impressive haul, Pineapple Beach Club received the distinctive honor of Pickleball Resort of the Year, highlighting the destination’s growing emphasis on wellness and active travel experiences beyond traditional beach tourism.

    The Caribbean Travel Awards represent the highest recognition of excellence within the regional tourism industry, honoring those who demonstrate consistent innovation and outstanding visitor experiences. These accolades underscore Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic commitment to creating meaningful, memorable journeys for diverse travelers, whether couples seeking romance, families desiring connection, or luxury enthusiasts pursuing inspiration.

    Beyond its award-winning attributes, the destination boasts rich cultural heritage including Nelson’s Dockyard, the world’s only continuously operational Georgian-era dockyard and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The islands’ vibrant events calendar features the Antigua Sailing Week, Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta, Culinary Month, and the renowned Antigua Carnival—hailed as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival.

    Barbuda, Antigua’s secluded sister island located 27 miles northeast, serves as an exclusive celebrity retreat accessible via a 15-minute flight. This pristine sanctuary features an spectacular 11-mile pink sand beach and hosts the Western Hemisphere’s largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary, offering unique ecological experiences alongside luxurious seclusion.

  • Joseph Says Ghanaian Nurses Strengthen Health System Beyond Staffing Needs

    Joseph Says Ghanaian Nurses Strengthen Health System Beyond Staffing Needs

    In a landmark move that transcends conventional healthcare recruitment, Antigua and Barbuda has welcomed approximately 120 Ghanaian nurses as part of a strategic bilateral partnership. Health Minister Sir Molwyn Joseph characterized the initiative as a historically significant policy that simultaneously addresses clinical staffing needs while reestablishing ancestral connections between Africa and the Caribbean diaspora.

    Speaking at an official reception ceremony, Minister Joseph emphasized that this recruitment drive represents a deliberate long-term collaboration rather than a stopgap solution to workforce shortages. The program is specifically designed to enhance healthcare capacity, ensure continuity of medical services, and reinforce the foundational role nursing professionals play in healthcare delivery systems.

    The Minister directly addressed public skepticism regarding the nurses’ qualifications, asserting that African medical professionals maintain globally recognized standards of excellence. He referenced previous Ghanaian physicians who served with distinction in Antigua and Barbuda, noting their lasting legacy of clinical professionalism within the national health system.

    Joseph framed the partnership within broader historical context, highlighting centuries-old connections between West Africa and the Caribbean. He described the initiative as the most direct policy pathway yet established to foster structured professional cooperation between the two nations, with healthcare serving as merely the inaugural sector for collaboration.

    The Health Minister revealed that bilateral discussions are already advancing to expand the partnership into education, potentially bringing Ghanaian teachers to address shortages in mathematics, science, and technical subjects. He suggested this framework could eventually facilitate comprehensive trade and development cooperation.

    Acknowledging the personal sacrifices made by the relocated nurses, Joseph assured them of government support during their integration process. He emphasized that their transition demonstrates remarkable courage and adaptability, qualities that will be valued within Antigua and Barbuda’s healthcare family.

    The Minister concluded by urging both healthcare workers and the general public to welcome the Ghanaian nurses with respect and openness, recognizing them not as outsiders but as qualified professionals answering a call to service. He characterized the partnership as transcending institutional cooperation to encompass ancestral, cultural, and human connections that strengthen both healthcare delivery and shared purpose.

  • Bad Bunny makes Grammy history as stars protest against ICE

    Bad Bunny makes Grammy history as stars protest against ICE

    In a historic moment for both the Grammy Awards and Latin music, Puerto Rican superstar Bad Bunny shattered a 68-year barrier by becoming the first Latin artist to claim the prestigious Album of the Year award. His winning work, ‘Debí Tirar Mas Fotos,’ a profound exploration of Puerto Rico’s rich musical heritage, triumphed over formidable contenders including Lady Gaga and Kendrick Lamar.

    The victory served as a catalyst for a ceremony dominated by political discourse, with numerous artists vocally opposing the Trump administration’s immigration policies. Upon accepting his award, the 31-year-old artist, set to headline the upcoming Super Bowl halftime show, dedicated the honor to immigrants worldwide who courageously “leave their home, land, their country, to follow their dreams.”

    This sentiment was echoed across the event. British newcomer Olivia Dean, crowned Best New Artist, paid tribute to her immigrant grandmother from the Windrush generation, stating, “I’m a product of bravery and I think those people deserve to be celebrated.” Prominent figures including Kehlani, Gloria Estefan, and Billie Eilish delivered speeches in support of immigrants, while many attendees sported ‘ICE out’ badges on the red carpet.

    Bad Bunny, born Benito Ocasio, appeared visibly moved by his win. Earlier in the evening, while accepting the award for Best Música Urbana Album, he delivered a more direct message: “We’re not savages, we’re not animals, we’re not aliens, we are humans and we are Americans,” he declared, referencing recent tensions in Minneapolis.

    The political commentary extended beyond immigration. Song of the Year winner Billie Eilish, honored for ‘Wildflower,’ addressed the nation’s broader turmoil, urging continued activism: “Our voices really do matter, and the people matter.”

    The ceremony also witnessed host Trevor Noah provoking former President Donald Trump with jokes linking him to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, prompting an angry threat of legal action from Trump on social media.

    In other major wins, Kendrick Lamar made history himself by surpassing Jay-Z to become the most awarded rapper in Grammy history, securing his 26th and 27th trophies for Best Rap Album (‘GNX’) and Record of the Year (‘Luther,’ a duet with SZA).

  • 42 militairen bevorderd; uitvoering defensiebeleid

    42 militairen bevorderd; uitvoering defensiebeleid

    In a significant move to strengthen national security infrastructure, Suriname’s Defense Ministry has elevated 42 military personnel to higher ranks during a formal ceremony presided over by Defense Minister Uraiqit Ramsaran. The February 2nd promotions represent a concrete implementation of the country’s 2026 defense policy focused on organizational reinforcement from within.

    Minister Ramsaran emphasized that these advancements serve dual purposes: recognizing individual dedication and discipline while demonstrating tangible execution of announced policy initiatives. The minister specifically highlighted the improvement of military legal status as a cornerstone of the ongoing modernization efforts, with additional promotions scheduled throughout the coming months.

    Army Commander Werner Kioe A Sen reinforced the gravity of these advancements, stating that rank elevation signifies increased responsibility rather than mere privilege. Many promoted personnel have served under challenging operational conditions, including deployments in remote interior regions and along national borders.

    Military leadership articulated that motivated and valued personnel form the foundation of a professional, reliable, and resilient defense force—essential components for maintaining Suriname’s national security and stability. The promotions align with broader strategic goals to enhance operational capacity through investment in human capital and institutional strengthening.

  • St. Lucia Bars Medical Studies in Cuba, PM Cites U.S. Pressure

    St. Lucia Bars Medical Studies in Cuba, PM Cites U.S. Pressure

    In a significant policy reversal driven by geopolitical pressures, Saint Lucia’s Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre has announced the termination of the nation’s medical student program in Cuba. The decision, revealed during the Second World Congress on Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities, marks the end of a decades-long educational partnership that has trained numerous Caribbean physicians.

    Pierre characterized the move as “unprecedented but unavoidable” given current international relations, directly attributing the change to mounting diplomatic pressure from the United States. This development disrupts a longstanding regional arrangement that provided medical education opportunities for St. Lucian students through Cuban scholarship programs.

    The sudden policy shift has created substantial uncertainty for aspiring medical professionals and raised alarms about potential shortages in the future physician workforce. Prime Minister Pierre acknowledged the gravity of the decision while emphasizing the government’s constrained options in balancing educational needs against broader diplomatic and economic considerations.

    In response to the emerging crisis, Pierre issued an appeal to the St. Lucian diaspora—especially those in medical fields—to contribute through mentorship, financial investment, and professional support. Simultaneously, government officials are exploring alternative pathways including international medical school partnerships, enhanced regional cooperation, and strengthened domestic training capabilities.

    Healthcare administrators are urgently evaluating the potential consequences for hospital staffing and long-term service capacity, cautioning that delayed policy adaptations could exacerbate existing systemic strains. Government representatives have promised to unveil details regarding replacement programs and transitional measures for affected students within coming weeks.