分类: business

  • Campari unveils new bottle design

    Campari unveils new bottle design

    Campari has unveiled a striking new bottle design, marking its first significant packaging overhaul in years. The revamped bottle features a sleek, modern silhouette with intricate engravings inspired by Milan’s iconic Duomo cathedral, blending the brand’s contemporary vision with its deep Italian heritage. Dominique Bell, communications manager at JWray & Nephew Limited, emphasized that this redesign is more than just a cosmetic update. ‘This new Campari bottle represents a lifestyle moment,’ Bell stated. ‘It’s bold, fresh, and transforms any space it enters. Campari has always dared to stand out in the entertainment scene, and this design amplifies that spirit. We believe it will spark confidence, inspire new connections, and reshape the way people experience Campari. This is a fresh drop for those who dare to be bold, different, and unapologetically themselves.’ The company confirmed that the product inside remains unchanged, and the redesign comes at no additional cost to consumers. Key features include a champagne-gold cap, an embossed Campari logo, and the founder’s signature. Bell explained that the redesign was driven by the need to modernize while staying true to the brand’s roots. ‘The iconic Milanese landmark, Il Duomo, inspired the bottle’s engraved detailing, a nod to the city that birthed Campari,’ she said. The updated packaging will be rolled out globally, with localized marketing campaigns in regions like Jamaica and the wider Caribbean. ‘This is a global initiative with local adaptations,’ Bell added. ‘Each element was chosen to root the brand in Milanese heritage while elevating its tactile, visual, and cultural appeal, solidifying Campari as a modern, sensual icon.’

  • Ghana raises cocoa prices following Ivory Coast hike

    Ghana raises cocoa prices following Ivory Coast hike

    In a significant move to support its agricultural sector, Ghana has announced a 12.3% increase in the price paid to cocoa farmers, raising the rate from 3,228.75 to 3,625 cedis ($257 to $289) per 64-kilogram bag, or 58,000 cedis per tonne. This adjustment, effective immediately, positions Ghana’s cocoa price at $4.5 per kilogram, closely trailing its neighbor and top global producer, Ivory Coast, which recently set a record price of 2,800 CFA ($5) per kilogram. The decision underscores the Ghanaian government’s commitment to ensuring farmers receive equitable compensation for their labor, according to Finance Minister Cassiel Ato Forson. This price hike follows a previous announcement in August 2025, which had already marked a 60% increase in dollar terms, though the cedi’s depreciation since then has somewhat diluted its impact. Price controls in Ghana, the world’s second-largest cocoa producer, aim to stabilize farmers’ incomes, particularly during market downturns. However, critics argue that these controls have failed to keep pace with global price surges, prompting some farmers to abandon cocoa farming for more lucrative ventures like gold mining, which has led to environmental degradation and further strained cocoa production. The Ghanaian government, under President John Mahama, has pledged to increase cocoa farmers’ share of export earnings to at least 70% of the Free-On-Board (FOB) value. Additionally, Forson announced ongoing support initiatives for farmers, including free fertilizers, pesticides, and spraying machines, as well as a new scholarship program for cocoa farmers’ children, set to begin in the 2026/27 academic year.

  • Slight increase in Caribbean tourism arrivals amidst softening demand from North America

    Slight increase in Caribbean tourism arrivals amidst softening demand from North America

    The Caribbean tourism sector has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the first half of 2025, with tourist arrivals increasing by nearly 2% despite a decline in demand from North America. According to Paul Garnes, the Caribbean Tourism Organization’s (CTO) database administrator, the region welcomed 18.5 million visitors during this period, marking a 1.9% year-on-year increase and a 6.1% rise compared to pre-pandemic levels in 2019. These figures were shared at the 2025 State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) in Barbados.

  • Musk becomes first person to surpass US$500 billion net worth

    Musk becomes first person to surpass US$500 billion net worth

    Elon Musk, the world’s wealthiest individual, has etched his name in history by becoming the first person to amass a net worth exceeding $500 billion, as reported by Forbes’ real-time billionaires index. This unprecedented achievement underscores Musk’s dominance in the global tech and business arenas, leaving his competitors far behind. On Wednesday afternoon in New York, Musk’s fortune momentarily peaked at $500.1 billion before settling slightly above $499 billion later in the day. The bulk of Musk’s wealth is attributed to his 12% stake in Tesla, the electric vehicle giant whose stock has experienced a meteoric rise this year. Musk, who also spearheads SpaceX, Neuralink, and other groundbreaking ventures, has consistently led global wealth rankings. However, this milestone marks the first instance of any individual surpassing the half-trillion-dollar mark. Forbes further speculates that Musk could potentially become the world’s first trillionaire by 2033.

  • Jamaica’s Q2 economic growth faster than initially thought, outlook strengthens

    Jamaica’s Q2 economic growth faster than initially thought, outlook strengthens

    Jamaica’s economy has demonstrated robust growth in the second quarter of 2024, surpassing initial estimates and setting the stage for an even stronger performance in the third quarter. The Statistical Institute of Jamaica reported a 1.6% year-on-year expansion for the April-June period, an upward revision from the earlier 1.4% estimate released by the Planning Institute of Jamaica in August. This marks the second consecutive quarter of economic growth, signaling a steady recovery trajectory. The Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) projects a further acceleration, with third-quarter growth anticipated to reach between 3% and 4%. The central bank attributes this momentum to a tight labor market and rising wage growth, which are broadening economic activity. The agricultural sector emerged as a standout performer, surging by 9.2% due to favorable weather conditions that boosted harvests of yams, vegetables, and fruits. This contributed to a 3.6% overall increase in the goods-producing sector. Tourism, a critical driver of the economy, also saw a 4.1% rise in accommodation and food services, fueled by higher foreign arrivals. However, the mining sector faced challenges, contracting by 4.8% due to operational issues at alumina refineries. Despite this setback, the BOJ remains optimistic, forecasting sustained economic expansion over the next two years, positioning Jamaica on its most stable recovery path in years.

  • Forex: $161.34 to one US dollar

    Forex: $161.34 to one US dollar

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The US dollar demonstrated a slight upward trend in its exchange rate against the Jamaican dollar on Thursday, October 2, closing at $161.34, a modest increase of 4 cents, as reported by the Bank of Jamaica’s daily trading summary. This incremental rise reflects ongoing fluctuations in the foreign exchange market. Concurrently, the Canadian dollar also experienced a notable uptick, ending the day at $117.23 compared to its previous close of $116.03. Similarly, the British pound edged higher, concluding the trading session at $217.17, up from $216.87. These movements underscore the dynamic nature of global currency markets and their impact on regional economies.

  • Angus Young promoted to executive VP of NCB corporate banking and investment

    Angus Young promoted to executive VP of NCB corporate banking and investment

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a strategic move to bolster its leadership team, the National Commercial Bank Jamaica Limited (NCBJ) has announced the promotion of Angus Young to the position of executive vice president, corporate and investment banking. Young, who will retain his role as CEO of NCB Capital Markets Limited, will now also oversee the bank’s corporate banking division. This consolidation aims to enhance client experiences and amplify the bank’s capacity to deliver scalable solutions.

  • Over 500 people interested in Grenada’s EC$5 million retail bond

    Over 500 people interested in Grenada’s EC$5 million retail bond

    Grenada has introduced a groundbreaking Retail Bond Programme designed to raise EC$5 million while making investment opportunities more accessible to its citizens. With a minimum investment threshold of EC$500—significantly lower than the traditional $5,000 requirement—the initiative aims to democratize wealth-building for first-time and small-scale investors. The government announced the programme on September 23, 2025, and within just eight days, over 500 individuals expressed interest in purchasing the bonds. Juletta Edinborough, a Fiscal Debt Specialist at the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB), highlighted the remarkable response during the launch of Financial Information Month 2025, themed ‘Financial Investing: From Savers to Investors.’ Finance Minister Dennis Cornwall emphasized that the Retail Bond is tailored for everyday Grenadians, offering a safe, tax-free investment backed by the government. Key features of the bond include a two-year investment term, tax-free returns, and a focus on enhancing financial literacy. Interested individuals must pre-register through the Ministry of Finance’s website, with brokers engaging potential investors ahead of the auction scheduled for October 31. This initiative underscores Grenada’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and fostering a culture of financial responsibility.

  • Royal Caribbean Unveils Colorful Ferry Fleet Ahead of Paradise Island Beach Club Launch

    Royal Caribbean Unveils Colorful Ferry Fleet Ahead of Paradise Island Beach Club Launch

    NASSAU, BAHAMAS — Royal Caribbean is set to make a splash with the introduction of a dynamic fleet of water ferries, designed to transport visitors to the eagerly awaited Royal Beach Club Paradise Island, slated for a December 2025 opening. The five bespoke ferries, managed by Bahamas Transport Logistics (BTL), a Bahamian-owned company, will serve as the initial touchpoint for cruise passengers heading to the new beach club. These vessels are engineered to blend efficiency with local culture, featuring lightweight aluminum hulls for seamless travel and vibrant, tropical-inspired designs. Philip Simon, President of Royal Caribbean Group Bahamas, emphasized the company’s commitment to delivering an exceptional, sustainable, and authentically Bahamian experience. The ferries, each named and colored after Bahamian wildlife — Flirty Flamingo (pink), Sassy Starfish (blue), Coral Calypso (orange), Twisted Turtle (green), and Lucky Lizard (turquoise) — are equipped with advanced navigation and propulsion systems, ensuring quick turnarounds while embodying the islands’ relaxed, fun-loving spirit. BTL’s involvement highlights Royal Caribbean’s dedication to centering Bahamians in the project, with the company overseeing daily operations and maintaining international safety and service standards. The ferry fleet is part of a broader initiative to infuse Bahamian culture into every facet of the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island experience, from food and entertainment to decor and staffing. This 2025 launch will mark Royal Caribbean’s first private beach club, combining the island’s natural allure with the cruise line’s renowned hospitality. As development progresses on Paradise Island, the ferry fleet’s debut is poised to herald a uniquely Bahamian welcome for the thousands of visitors anticipated upon the project’s official opening.

  • Hubbard’s Motor launches GAC vehicle brand in Grenada

    Hubbard’s Motor launches GAC vehicle brand in Grenada

    Hubbard’s Motor, a key player in the Auto Division of Goddard Enterprises Limited (GEL), has officially announced the launch of the globally acclaimed GAC vehicle brand in Grenada. This strategic partnership brings together GAC’s award-winning designs, cutting-edge technology, and Hubbard’s Motor’s longstanding reputation for reliability and service excellence. GAC, ranked #181 on the 2024 Fortune Global 500 and recognized by J.D. Power as the #1 Quality Chinese Brand for eight consecutive years, sold over 2 million vehicles worldwide in 2024. With international collaborations including Honda, Toyota, and Mitsubishi, GAC is now poised to transform Grenada’s automotive landscape. The initial lineup features the Emkoo, a futuristic SUV; the GS3 Emzoom, awarded Highest Quality Compact SUV in China; and the AION EV Series, honored as China’s Highest Quality Electric Vehicles in 2024. Each vehicle undergoes rigorous durability testing, and customers in Grenada will benefit from extensive warranties, including 7 years/250,000 km coverage for the Emkoo and Emzoom, and 8 years/160,000 km for the AION EV Series. Osmond Henry, General Manager of Hubbard’s Motor, emphasized that GAC’s exceptional design, performance, and safety standards, combined with Hubbard’s trusted after-sales service, will redefine the driving experience in Grenada. Christopher Dowden, Manager of Hubbard’s Motor, highlighted that this launch is not just about introducing new vehicles but shaping the future of mobility on the island. This collaboration ensures Grenadian drivers have access to world-class automotive solutions that blend innovation, reliability, and local expertise.