Carib Scope

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  • Fashion Radar: Michele Coulton for Soho Boutique

    Fashion Radar: Michele Coulton for Soho Boutique

    In an exclusive feature with Tuesday Style Fashion, Soho Boutique principal Michele Coulton reveals the strategic philosophy behind her retail enterprise’s remarkable 35-year longevity in Jamaica’s competitive fashion landscape.

    Coulton’s journey into fashion entrepreneurship emerged from both heritage and necessity. With a mother who sewed professionally and sisters educated at New York’s French Fashion Academy, she leveraged her innate sense of style after diverse career experiences in nursing and aviation. This foundation enabled her to establish two strategically located stores in Kingston and Montego Bay.

    The boutique’s enduring success rests upon three fundamental pillars: meticulously curated merchandise termed ‘gentle luxury,’ exceptional customer service, and genuine passion for client satisfaction. Coulton emphasizes that quality garments with attention to detail and affordability form the core of Soho’s DNA, while her highly trained stylists—including Crystal Porter-Jackson (14-year veteran) and Dionne Sadler (19-year veteran)—provide personalized attention without intrusion.

    In adapting to modern retail challenges, Soho Boutique has implemented strategic digital engagement while maintaining its physical storefront presence. The brand has expanded its global sourcing to include previously untapped markets like Greece and broadened its demographic reach to include younger clients. Coulton notes that relevance stems from making customers feel ‘seen and appreciated’ beyond mere transactions.

    Looking toward 2026, Soho will continue prioritizing timeless, statement-making pieces over trend-driven collections. The boutique’s philosophy champions investment in quality pieces that endure beyond seasonal cycles, with Coulton noting that clients frequently report wearing Soho purchases ‘many moons later.’

    Current style recommendations include bold statement jewelry that transforms basic outfits, versatile white button-down shirts, denim pieces with unusual details, and scarves experiencing a resurgence as multifunctional accessories. Coulton concludes that effective styling ultimately presents ‘the best version of yourself to the world.’

    Soho Boutique operates at Lee Gore Business Centre, Unit 16, 31 Upper Waterloo Road, Kingston 10, with opening hours Monday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

  • Budget Debate: Regulations to be amended to ease process for life insurance companies to invest in corporate debt

    Budget Debate: Regulations to be amended to ease process for life insurance companies to invest in corporate debt

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Jamaican government has announced significant reforms to Regulation 47 of the Insurance Regulation, aiming to liberalize investment options for life insurance companies and stimulate growth in the corporate debt market.

    Finance and Public Service Minister Fayval Williams unveiled the policy shift during her opening address at the 2026/27 Budget Debate in Gordon House on Tuesday. The current regulatory framework imposes restrictive conditions that effectively limit insurers to investing exclusively in publicly-listed, rated, and collateralized securities.

    Minister Williams criticized the existing interpretation as overly prescriptive, noting that it forces insurers to meet multiple conditions simultaneously. This approach has inadvertently excluded numerous creditworthy domestic issuers from accessing insurance capital, thereby constraining investment returns and hindering the development of Jamaica’s corporate debt ecosystem.

    The revised regulation introduces a more flexible dual-criteria framework. Insurers will now be permitted to invest in corporate debt instruments if they meet either of two objective standards: the instruments must be secured by adequate collateral and bear fixed interest, or they must be issued, secured, or guaranteed by a solvent company deemed investment-grade by a recognized rating agency.

    Williams emphasized that these changes maintain essential investor protections while substantially expanding the universe of eligible investments. The reform is expected to create a robust new source of long-term local financing that can support corporate expansion, working capital needs, and project finance initiatives.

    Particularly beneficial for mid-sized companies and infrastructure projects that face limited access to long-term bank credit, the new framework offers an alternative funding channel with potential for longer maturities and more competitive pricing. The minister projected that the policy adjustment would foster a deeper, more dynamic domestic corporate debt market while preserving appropriate safeguards for institutional investors.

  • Sumfest body blow

    Sumfest body blow

    MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica — Montego Bay’s commercial sector is preparing for significant economic repercussions following the announcement that the iconic Reggae Sumfest festival will temporarily relocate to St Ann for its 2026 edition. Event producer Downsound Entertainment (DSE) revealed that next year’s festival will be condensed into a single-night event at Plantation Cove on July 18, featuring performances by Vybz Kartel and Movado—a dramatic reduction from the traditional week-long schedule that has consistently driven tourism revenue in Jamaica’s western region.

    The relocation decision stems from hurricane-related damage at the festival’s customary Catherine Hall venue, which remains insufficiently prepared following October’s Hurricane Melissa. DSE officials characterized the move as a ‘powerful evolution’ rather than a cancellation, opting for a temporary venue while maintaining the festival brand.

    Local business leaders expressed deep concern about the economic implications. Kerry Ann Quallo-Casserly, Chair of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association’s Montego Bay Chapter, confirmed that numerous businesses had already incorporated Sumfest-related revenue into their annual projections. ‘The projected jobs and revenue expected in Montego Bay will be significantly affected,’ Quallo-Casserly stated, noting that the city must now develop strategies to mitigate the anticipated financial shortfall within the next three months.

    Despite the temporary relocation, tourism stakeholders remain optimistic about Sumfest’s eventual return. The JHTA chapter is actively engaged in discussions to ensure Montego Bay’s readiness for the festival’s 2027 return, recognizing the event’s status as an ‘economic powerhouse’ for the region.

    Meanwhile, local businesses are adapting to the changed circumstances. Jason Russell, President of the Montego Bay Chamber of Commerce and operator of Pier One waterfront venue, indicated that some subsidiary events might still occur in Montego Bay. Russell expressed understanding of the logistical challenges facing organizers, acknowledging that the relocation decision likely followed thorough deliberation.

    As compensation for the scaled-back Sumfest, Montego Bay will host the Dream Wkndz festival from July 30 to August 3—marking the first time this established Negril-based event will be held in Montego Bay. Organizers have confirmed multiple venue preparations and adequate hotel capacity to accommodate attendees, potentially softening the economic blow from Sumfest’s temporary absence.

  • ‘Brace for higher prices’ at the pump

    ‘Brace for higher prices’ at the pump

    Bahamian consumers face imminent increases in fuel prices as geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East drive global oil markets upward, according to industry leaders. The Bahamas Petroleum Retailers Association indicates that current retailer inventories will soon be replenished with more expensive shipments, passing increased costs directly to consumers.

    Vasco Bastian, Vice President of the BPRA, confirmed that price adjustments are inevitable though the exact timing remains uncertain. “From my perspective as a retailer,” Bastian stated, “we anticipate minor cost modifications once current stocks are depleted and new shipments arrive. The extent of increase—whether five, ten, or twenty-five cents—will be determined by wholesalers.”

    BPRA President Raymond Jones noted that wholesalers lack sufficient inventory to withstand prolonged price volatility, with new shipments expected within weeks. The ongoing conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran has already triggered reduced output from regional producers and attacks on energy infrastructure, creating widespread concerns about global supply disruptions.

    While government officials attempt to reassure citizens about stable electricity costs in the near term, Prime Minister Philip Davis acknowledged The Bahamas’ vulnerability to global oil price fluctuations. Economic Affairs Minister Michael Halkitis indicated a cautious governmental approach, monitoring developments before considering fiscal plan revisions.

    Jones warned of broader economic implications beyond fuel, including potential increases in freight costs, cargo insurance, and airline tickets. “Since everything is fuel-dependent to some degree,” he explained, “these price pressures could create worldwide knock-on effects, potentially reducing travel demand.”

    Despite the concerning outlook, Bastian urged motorists to maintain normal routines, assuring no imminent fuel shortages. He recommended practical cost-saving measures including carpooling, regular vehicle maintenance, and proper tire inflation. Current pump prices remain at $5.34 (Shell), $5.30 (Esso), and $5.31 (Rubis) as market conditions continue evolving.

  • Olieprijs schiet boven US$ 119 door oorlog in het Midden-Oosten

    Olieprijs schiet boven US$ 119 door oorlog in het Midden-Oosten

    Global oil markets experienced unprecedented volatility on Monday as Brent crude prices surged to $119.50 per barrel, marking the highest level since 2022 and recording the largest single-day price increase in history. The dramatic price movement stems from escalating military conflicts involving the United States, Israel, and Iran that have severely disrupted oil production and transportation infrastructure across the Middle East.

    The crisis has been particularly amplified by effective closures of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint that normally facilitates approximately one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas exports. Simultaneously, production declines across major oil-producing nations have compounded supply concerns. Iraq has reported approximately 70% production decreases from key oil fields as storage facilities reached maximum capacity, while Kuwait has announced temporary production reductions and delivery suspensions.

    Market analysts anticipate that major producers including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates may implement additional production cuts as storage capacities face increasing strain. The geopolitical landscape further intensified following the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei as Iran’s new supreme leader after the death of his father, signaling continued hardline control in Tehran during ongoing regional conflicts.

    Global economic repercussions are already materializing, with U.S. gasoline prices reaching approximately $3.22 per gallon—the highest level in years. Economic experts warn that consumers and businesses face potentially prolonged periods of elevated fuel costs due to damaged infrastructure, disrupted logistics networks, and increased transportation risks, even if military conflicts see relatively swift resolution.

    International coordination efforts are underway to address mounting energy price pressures. Political leaders from G7 nations, including the United States and European members, are discussing potential releases from strategic petroleum reserves to stabilize markets. These developments underscore the continued vulnerability of global energy markets to Middle Eastern tensions, where substantial portions of worldwide oil production remain concentrated. Economists caution that prolonged conflict could trigger heightened inflationary pressures and additional strain on the global economic recovery.

  • CBvS verwerkt activiteiten buitenlandse oliemaatschappijen in economische statistieken

    CBvS verwerkt activiteiten buitenlandse oliemaatschappijen in economische statistieken

    The Central Bank of Suriname (CBvS) has implemented a major statistical revision by incorporating foreign oil companies’ operations into the country’s external sector statistics. This strategic move aims to provide a more accurate representation of Suriname’s economic landscape as the offshore oil sector gains increasing importance for the nation’s development.

    The revision, applied retroactively from Q1 2021 through Q4 2025, was published on the central bank’s website in late February. CBvS officials emphasized the necessity of this adjustment given the substantial expansion of offshore oil activities in recent years, particularly following the investment decision for Block 58 in October 2024, which triggered significant foreign investments in production preparations.

    This statistical overhaul reveals profound impacts on key macroeconomic indicators. The current account deficit dramatically increased from $192 million to approximately $2.5 billion for 2025, primarily driven by oil companies’ intensive investment phase requiring substantial imports of technical, engineering, and construction services.

    Crucially, the expanded current account deficit is nearly entirely offset by foreign direct investments from parent companies into their Surinamese subsidiaries, reaching approximately $2 billion in 2025. According to the CBvS, this equilibrium means the higher deficits do not exert pressure on the country’s international reserves.

    The revised data also shows Suriname’s international investment position shifting from -$2.8 billion to -$6.6 billion as of December 2025, mainly due to increased direct investment liabilities. Additionally, the nation’s external debt position expanded by approximately 70% to $9.5 billion, incorporating $3.9 billion in foreign oil company debts.

    While international reserves remain unchanged, the import coverage ratio statistically declined from 7.1 months to 3.5 months due to increased service imports. The central bank clarified this represents a statistical effect rather than an actual reserve deterioration and will provide alternative calculations for policy analysis excluding oil company imports.

    The CBvS reports approximately 90% of active foreign oil companies now regularly submit data, enabling statistics that better align with international standards and creating a stronger foundation for economic analysis and policy formulation, particularly regarding the offshore oil sector’s continued development.

  • Antiguan and Barbudan HR Professionals Set to Participate in Regional LOUD26 Conference in St. Kitts & Nevis

    Antiguan and Barbudan HR Professionals Set to Participate in Regional LOUD26 Conference in St. Kitts & Nevis

    Human resource professionals from Antigua and Barbuda are set to participate in LOUD26 – The Caribbean Human Resource Conference, a premier gathering scheduled for May 28-30, 2026, at the St. Kitts Marriott Beach Resort. This landmark event, organized by the Caribbean Society for Human Resource Professionals (CSHRP), will adopt a hybrid format to accommodate both physical and virtual attendance, ensuring widespread participation across the region.

    The conference, operating under the thematic banner ‘Harvest of Inspiration,’ will assemble HR practitioners, corporate leaders, and policy makers from multiple Caribbean territories including Barbados, Belize, Guyana, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, and the host nation St. Kitts and Nevis. The three-day program is strategically designed to address critical workforce development challenges through four core sub-themes: leveraging neurodiversity in workplaces, orchestrating antifragile workforce development with multigenerational teams, implementing next-generation compensation structures, and driving superior employee engagement frameworks.

    Rochelle James, CSHRP Founder, emphasized the event’s significance: ‘LOUD26 transcends conventional conference boundaries to become a regional movement. We’re creating collaborative spaces for Caribbean HR leaders to exchange expertise and strengthen people management practices that directly contribute to economic growth and organizational excellence across our islands.’

    The participation of Antiguan and Barbudan professionals through the Human Resource Professionals of Antigua and Barbuda (HRPAB) demonstrates the country’s ongoing commitment to regional HR development. Dr. Miguelle Christopher, HRPAB President, noted: ‘Our involvement ensures Antigua and Barbuda remains integrated with regional best practices and emerging workforce strategies. The conference provides practical tools, valuable networks, and renewed inspiration to elevate local workplace standards while fostering broader Caribbean collaboration.’

    Beyond formal sessions, LOUD26 will feature curated networking events and cultural experiences designed to reinforce regional partnerships. Registration is currently open, with organizers encouraging early enrollment to secure participation in this comprehensive professional development opportunity.

  • Mother-daughter duo shines with natural hair products

    Mother-daughter duo shines with natural hair products

    THREE HILLS, ST MARY — A resilient entrepreneurial team comprising 44-year-old Simone Davis and her daughter Kezia Barnes is achieving remarkable success with their homegrown enterprise, NKB Collections, specializing in natural hair care solutions. Originating from the eastern parish of St. Mary, their business narrative exemplifies innovation and tenacity.

    The venture commenced in 2021 when Davis, a professionally certified tour guide, initially operated as a sales representative for another company’s products. Her personal experimentation with natural herbal formulations sparked the inspiration to develop a proprietary product line. She subsequently entrusted her daughter with comprehensive research and development responsibilities to create their unique offerings.

    Their entrepreneurial path encountered significant obstacles, including the economic disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic and the devastating impact of Hurricane Melissa. Demonstrating exceptional adaptability, the母女搭档 pivoted their business strategy by expanding into complementary products including hair bonnets and natural juices to maintain operational continuity. They strategically leveraged every opportunity to promote NKB Collections through medical outreach programs, local fairs, and regional expos, establishing direct customer relationships and enhancing brand visibility.

    “Our unwavering faith has ultimately yielded dividends,” Davis affirmed regarding their perseverance.

    The enterprise has successfully cultivated both domestic and international clientele through strategic social media engagement on their Instagram platform. Davis expressed profound appreciation for her daughter’s multifaceted contributions to their business success, acknowledging her roles as research specialist, strategic planner, organizational manager, and emotional pillar during challenging periods when operational stagnation and financial pressures seemed overwhelming.

    With demonstrated resilience against pandemic and natural disaster challenges, the entrepreneurs maintain confident optimism about their future prospects. “We possess absolute certainty in our capacity to overcome any forthcoming obstacles,” the younger Barnes asserted. Davis added with conviction: “Our product line ensures a radiant future, and I am confident in our continuous progression from achievement to greater accomplishment.”

  • Regency Petroleum launches revolutionary road repair technology in Jamaica

    Regency Petroleum launches revolutionary road repair technology in Jamaica

    KINGSTON, Jamaica – Jamaica’s infrastructure landscape is poised for transformation following Regency Petroleum Limited’s (RPL) groundbreaking introduction of Quality Pavement Repair (QPR), an innovative cold-mix asphalt technology designed to revolutionize road maintenance practices nationwide.

    The strategic launch event at Jamaica Pegasus Hotel gathered key stakeholders including government officials, construction contractors, developers, and hardware industry leaders. RPL CEO Andrew Williams addressed the audience, emphasizing how QPR addresses a perennial national frustration: “Every Jamaican knows the frustration of a road repaired this year and riddled with potholes the next.”

    In a significant development, Minister Robert Nesta Morgan of the Ministry of Economic Growth and Infrastructure Development immediately directed the National Works Agency to evaluate QPR technology for integration into Jamaica’s official road maintenance programs. Minister Morgan specifically highlighted the product’s all-weather application capability as critically important for Jamaica’s climate, noting that conventional hot-mix asphalt becomes impractical during frequent rainfall.

    According to technical specifications provided by RPL, QPR represents a paradigm shift in pavement repair. Developed by D&O Technologies LLC and already available across all 1,762 Lowe’s stores in North America, this ready-to-use compound requires no heating, functions in wet or dry conditions across extreme temperatures, and permits immediate traffic use after compaction. The product carries a lifetime guarantee and promises approximately 40% cost reduction compared to traditional methods.

    Maximiliano Dacharry, Chairman of D&O Technologies LLC, personally attended the launch and emphasized the technology’s operational efficiency: “It requires limited equipment and limited manpower, and most importantly, roads can be opened to traffic almost immediately after installation.”

    The technology’s potential extends beyond public infrastructure to commercial property owners and homeowners. Consul General of Jamaica for the Southern United States Oliver Mair, in a video message, characterized the initiative as “a bold and visionary act of nation-building,” noting that QPR’s established North American track record ensures proven reliability.

    The formal presentation concluded with a live demonstration in the hotel parking lot, where attendees witnessed QPR’s application under realistic conditions, showcasing its immediate effectiveness and practical utility.

  • A Moment to Lead: The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) Marks International Women’s Day with Call to Advance Caribbean Women Across the Region

    A Moment to Lead: The Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) Marks International Women’s Day with Call to Advance Caribbean Women Across the Region

    In a powerful commemoration of International Women’s Day 2026, the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association (CHTA) has issued a compelling industry-wide mandate to transform recognition into concrete action for women’s advancement. The Fort Lauderdale-based organization used the occasion to celebrate the indispensable contributions of Caribbean women while launching a strategic framework to accelerate gender equity across the region’s vital tourism sector.

    The initiative aligns with this year’s global campaign theme ‘Give To Gain,’ emphasizing the direct correlation between supporting women’s leadership and enhancing the Caribbean’s overall economic competitiveness. CHTA leadership emphasized that women constitute the backbone of the industry, serving as general managers, executives, entrepreneurs, tourism board leaders, and frontline professionals who define the guest experience throughout the region.

    CHTA’s comprehensive action plan focuses on three critical dimensions: establishing structured mentorship and leadership development programs through their Young Leaders Forum; implementing evidence-based workplace practices that address gender bias and promote inclusion; and increasing visibility of female professionals through platforms like Women in Tourism Caribbean. The association highlighted that inclusive workplaces not only represent ethical imperatives but also drive superior business performance and innovation.

    The call to action carries significant weight given CHTA’s own demonstrated commitment to gender leadership. The association revealed that three of its past five presidents have been women, with female leaders currently heading numerous National Hotel and Tourism Associations across the Caribbean.

    CHTA President Sanovnik Destang, who serves as Executive Director of the woman-owned Bay Gardens Resorts in Saint Lucia, stated: ‘The women of Caribbean hospitality are not only contributing to this industry; they are shaping its future. Recognition alone is insufficient—we demand tangible steps to mentor, create pathways, and ensure the next generation of female leaders has every opportunity to rise.’

    CEO Vanessa Ledesma reinforced this message, noting: ‘Caribbean tourism has always been built by the hands and vision of extraordinary women. We must now intentionally build leadership pipelines, create inclusive workplaces, and ensure women’s contributions are visible and celebrated.’

    Throughout March 2026, CHTA will spotlight each action area through its communication channels, engaging members and industry partners in sustained efforts to transform commitments into measurable progress for gender equity in Caribbean tourism.