Carib Scope

分类： business

  • Carnival Conquest launches adults-only cruises from Miami to Southern Caribbean

    Carnival Conquest launches adults-only cruises from Miami to Southern Caribbean

    Carnival Cruise Line has launched a new premium tourism product targeting mature travelers with its inaugural adults-only SEA (Sailings Exclusively for Adults) voyage. The Carnival Conquest departed Miami on January 5 with over 2,700 passengers aboard for a specialized twelve-day Southern and Eastern Caribbean itinerary exclusively for guests aged 21 and above.

    The innovative cruise concept represents a strategic shift for Carnival, traditionally known for family-friendly vacations, now targeting the lucrative casino enthusiast market. Accessible only through invitations from the Carnival Players Club loyalty program, these sailings feature expanded gaming facilities including additional blackjack tables and seventy-five slot machines positioned on the Promenade deck.

    The curated itinerary combines high-stakes entertainment with sophisticated port experiences across five Caribbean destinations. Passengers are exploring Saint Lucia’s iconic Pitons mountains, Barbados’ pristine beaches, Martinique’s renowned rum distilleries, St Maarten’s duty-free shopping districts, and St Thomas’ exceptional snorkeling sites.

    Onboard amenities include themed parties, bingo tournaments, and adults-only poolside gatherings designed to create a romantic tourism atmosphere. The extended voyage allows for deeper cultural immersion while providing substantial gambling opportunities unavailable on traditional family cruises.

    A subsequent thirteen-night SEA voyage is scheduled to depart from Miami on January 17, expanding the itinerary to include Bonaire’s marine parks and Aruba’s famous Eagle Beach. This longer journey enables passengers to experience catamaran sailing in Barbados and casino hopping in Aruba alongside the enhanced onboard gaming experience.

    The strategic focus on Southern Caribbean routes diversifies Miami’s cruise departure offerings while providing economic benefits to lesser-visited ports. The program strengthens island partnerships through dual port visits, increasing revenue from shore excursions including catamaran tours, zip-lining adventures in Saint Lucia, and visits to Harrison’s Cave in Barbados.

  • Panka benadrukt gezamenlijke aanpak voor duurzame groei toerisme

    Panka benadrukt gezamenlijke aanpak voor duurzame groei toerisme

    Suriname has reinforced the strategic significance of the Dutch market for its tourism development following its successful participation in the recent Vakantiebeurs Utrecht travel exhibition. Ambassador Ricardo Panka, leading the Surinamese delegation, emphasized the critical importance of sustained public-private collaboration in driving the sector’s sustainable growth.

    During the event, Ambassador Panka articulated that the evolving global tourism landscape necessitates a redefined governmental role focused on facilitation and financial support, while private entities should spearhead innovation, implementation, and market alignment. “This synergistic approach consistently yields tangible outcomes within the tourism industry,” Panka stated, highlighting the successful joint presentation between government representatives and private entrepreneurs at the Surinamese pavilion.

    The ambassador underscored that the Netherlands remains Suriname’s primary source market for tourist arrivals, demanding consistent and targeted presence on international platforms. “With the majority of our visitors originating from the Netherlands, maintaining visibility, nurturing relationships, and continuously refining our tourism products according to market expectations becomes imperative,” he explained.

    Suriname’s exhibition strategy reflected this integrated vision, presenting the nation not merely as a travel destination but as a country committed to collaboration, sustainability, and quality. Tourism is increasingly approached as a comprehensive sector with strong linkages to cultural preservation, environmental conservation, local economic development, and job creation.

    The conclusion of the trade fair marks the beginning of deepened cooperation models, positioning the Vakantiebeurs Utrecht as both a promotional platform and a confirmation of Suriname’s strategic direction. Public-private partnerships now form a fundamental pillar supporting Suriname’s international positioning and the future trajectory of its tourism industry.

  • Trinidad and Tobago Newsday shuts down after 32 years

    Trinidad and Tobago Newsday shuts down after 32 years

    After more than three decades of continuous publication, Trinidad and Tobago’s Newsday newspaper has officially ceased operations, marking the end of an era for the Caribbean nation’s media landscape. The publication’s parent company, Daily News Ltd, has filed a winding-up petition with the High Court under the Companies Act, with a hearing scheduled for January 19, 2026.

    Managing Director Grant Taylor characterized the closure as the result of a ‘perfect storm of challenges’ that have battered the print media industry globally. In a statement published on the newspaper’s final day, Taylor detailed the multifaceted pressures that ultimately forced the publication’s shutdown, emphasizing that Newsday’s status as an independent entity without conglomerate backing left it particularly vulnerable to market forces.

    The newspaper’s demise stems from a decade-long convergence of damaging factors, including soaring production costs—with paper prices experiencing dramatic increases—coupled with sharply declining advertising revenue. Taylor revealed that print advertising has plummeted by 75% over the past ten years, creating an unsustainable financial model. Even a modest price increase from $2 to $3 resulted in 40% of readers abandoning the publication, despite the newspaper employing hundreds of staff working around the clock.

    While the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the decline through advertising collapses during lockdowns, Taylor emphasized that the challenges were systemic rather than pandemic-specific. The managing director also noted changing reader habits, diminished value placed on traditional media, and what he described as ‘political campaigns to discredit media for nefarious reasons’ as contributing factors.

    The announcement reportedly caught staff by surprise, with senior editors learning of the decision only hours before the public announcement. A full staff meeting chaired by Taylor is scheduled for Monday to address the closure’s implications.

    Founded on September 20, 1993, Newsday was the youngest of Trinidad and Tobago’s three daily newspapers. Taylor expressed pride in the publication’s legacy of ‘unwavering independence’ in serving the public and gratitude to dedicated staff and loyal readers who supported the newspaper throughout its 32-year history.

  • D’Bocas pub closes after 37 years

    D’Bocas pub closes after 37 years

    PORT OF SPAIN – After nearly four decades as a cultural landmark in Trinidad’s capital, the renowned D’Bocas pub has announced its permanent closure. The establishment, celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, cold beers, lunch service, and legendary karaoke and live music events, made the emotional disclosure through social media channels on January 12.

    The venue, which operated across multiple locations including Town Centre Mall, Voyager Mall, Queen Street, Chacon Street, and Independence Square throughout its history, described Port of Spain as “more than a location – it has been our home.” In their farewell statement, management reflected on the establishment’s role as a community hub where “memories were made, friendships were formed, and generations of customers supported us through every chapter.”

    Citing significant economic pressures that have adversely impacted the bar industry, D’Bocas revealed that current market conditions have rendered their traditional business model unsustainable. The challenging economic landscape has compelled a strategic reorganization of operations.

    Rather than complete cessation, the company characterized the move as an evolutionary step toward a reimagined business approach. The new direction will focus on a food-centered, franchise-style concept that will position scaled-down operations in prime locations throughout Trinidad. This restructuring aims to ensure long-term sustainability while honoring the establishment’s considerable legacy.

    The management emphasized that this transition represents not an ending but rather a transformation – “a thoughtful step toward sustainability, growth, and honouring the legacy we’ve built.” The statement concluded with gratitude toward the Port of Spain community for 37 years of patronage and support, noting that the establishment’s next chapter awaits.

  • Gold hits record high, dollar falls as US targets Fed

    Gold hits record high, dollar falls as US targets Fed

    LONDON, United Kingdom — Global financial markets exhibited significant volatility on Monday, with the U.S. dollar weakening and gold soaring to unprecedented heights. This turbulence stems from a developing Justice Department investigation into the Federal Reserve, intensifying concerns about the central bank’s autonomy amidst President Trump’s persistent advocacy for reduced interest rates.

    The situation escalated when Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, in an unusual Sunday video statement, confirmed the issuance of “unprecedented” subpoenas. Powell characterized this legal action as a component of what he described as Trump’s campaign to pressure the bank into implementing more aggressive rate reductions.

    Market analysts immediately recognized the profound implications. Russ Mould, Investment Director at AJ Bell, noted, “This investigation has destabilized market confidence and prompted serious questions regarding the Fed’s future leadership once Powell’s term concludes in May. There is growing apprehension that presidential influence is improperly encroaching on policies designed to be independent.”

    In response, investors rapidly shifted capital toward traditional safe-haven assets. Gold prices approached $4,600 per ounce, while silver neared $85. Concurrently, the U.S. dollar depreciated against other major currencies, and the benchmark 10-year Treasury bond’s price declined, resulting in a modest yield increase.

    Chairman Powell defended the Fed’s position in his address, stating, “Facing potential criminal charges is a direct result of the Federal Reserve establishing interest rates based on our expert assessment of public benefit, rather than adhering to presidential preferences.” The subpoenas, received Friday, reportedly relate to Powell’s June Senate testimony, which partially addressed a significant renovation project of Federal Reserve facilities.

    This political and legal uncertainty emerges alongside mixed economic signals. A soft U.S. jobs report released Friday indicated only 50,000 new positions in December, although the unemployment rate slightly improved to 4.4%. Despite this, the Fed has signaled it will maintain current interest rates at its upcoming policy meeting.

    Globally, equity markets presented a mixed picture. European stocks showed hesitation after a robust performance in Asian markets, which themselves followed Wall Street’s record closing highs from the previous week. Hong Kong and Shanghai led regional gains, while Tokyo’s market remained closed for a holiday.

    Most major indices, including those in Frankfurt, London, Paris, and Seoul, have experienced a strong commencement to 2026, fueled by tech sector optimism and advances in defense shares.

    Adding another layer of complexity, oil prices declined during volatile trading Monday. This movement was driven by escalating geopolitical risks, including widespread protests in Iran and the recent U.S. seizure of Venezuelan crude supplies. President Trump further heightened tensions by stating he was “looking very seriously” at military options against Iran following reports of hundreds of protester fatalities.

  • Flow Foundation launches $5m entrepreneurship programme in St Thomas

    Flow Foundation launches $5m entrepreneurship programme in St Thomas

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — A significant entrepreneurial initiative has been launched in St. Thomas through a collaborative partnership between the Flow Foundation and Young Women and Men of Purpose. The $5 million Jamaican dollar REAP Entrepreneurship Programme represents a substantial investment in local small business development.

    The program was formally inaugurated on January 7th at Golden Shore Resort in Lyssons, Morant Bay, with operations scheduled from December 2025 through May 2026. This six-month intensive initiative will provide comprehensive business training to 30 selected emerging entrepreneurs from the region.

    Curriculum design addresses critical business development needs with modules covering entrepreneurship fundamentals, business owner wellness practices, small business accounting systems, marketing strategies, and investment pitch preparation. The program structure combines classroom instruction with practical mentorship opportunities, including business field trips and conference participation.

    Lanisia Rhoden, Executive Director of Young Women and Men of Purpose, explained the program’s conception: “We developed REAP specifically to overcome the structural challenges facing new entrepreneurs, particularly the need for guided support during business formation stages.”

    Additional technical support will be provided through collaboration with Vision 2030 Jamaica agents operating under the Planning Institute of Jamaica. Participant Kayan Douglas, owner of Kadres Designs, noted the practical applicability of the curriculum, particularly for brand development and customer engagement strategies.

    A competitive element will see the top ten business pitches receive $100,000 JMD each in seed funding to stimulate business expansion and innovation. Rhys Campbell, Executive Director of both Liberty Caribbean Foundation and Flow Foundation, emphasized the program’s broader economic significance: “This reflects our commitment to small businesses that serve as engines for economic activity and community development throughout Jamaica.”

  • Proman pauses melamine production in Pt Lisas

    Proman pauses melamine production in Pt Lisas

    In a significant development for Trinidad’s industrial sector, Proman Trinidad has announced a two-year suspension of operations at its melamine production facility in Point Lisas. The decision comes as a direct response to persistently unfavorable market conditions exacerbated by recent international trade measures.

    The company revealed that this strategic pause follows an extensive evaluation of global market dynamics, with the primary objective of safeguarding long-term operational sustainability. The move was largely precipitated by the United States International Trade Commission’s imposition of substantial anti-dumping and countervailing duties reaching 154.28% on melamine imports from Trinidad and Tobago and several other nations in January 2025.

    Executive Director Anand Ragbir emphasized the gravity of this decision, noting Proman’s 35-year legacy as a cornerstone of Trinidad’s energy sector. ‘We do not take these decisions lightly,’ Ragbir stated. ‘We remain committed to investing in our operations, our personnel, and local communities despite this challenging period.’

    The production halt specifically affects the melamine unit, which produces chemical compounds essential for manufacturing heat-resistant plastics and dinnerware products. Company officials confirmed that other Proman facilities in Trinidad will continue normal operations without interruption.

    Regarding workforce implications, Proman has developed a comprehensive transition plan for the 89 employees potentially affected. The majority will be reassigned to other plants, projects, and roles within the company’s operations, with access to appropriate training and resources. For those unable to be redeployed, the company promises full outplacement support, Employee Assistance Programme benefits, and statutory severance packages.

    The corporation maintains a vigilant stance toward market evolution, indicating willingness to reconsider production resumption should economic conditions improve. Current priorities include fortifying core operations and enhancing long-term competitive positioning in the global market.

  • ExxonMobil noemt Venezuela ‘niet investeerbaar’

    ExxonMobil noemt Venezuela ‘niet investeerbaar’

    In a high-stakes meeting at the White House, ExxonMobil CEO Darren Woods delivered a stark assessment of Venezuela’s investment climate during discussions with President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Despite recent geopolitical shifts that saw the removal of Nicolás Maduro’s administration, Woods unequivocally stated that Venezuela remains ‘uninvestable’ without comprehensive legal and institutional reforms.

    Woods emphasized the necessity of robust investment protections, citing ExxonMobil’s two previous experiences with nationalization in the country. ‘We’ve lost our assets there twice through nationalization,’ Woods noted. ‘Returning for a third time requires significant changes from what we’ve observed historically and currently.’ The energy giant insists on fundamental modifications to Venezuela’s oil and gas legislation before considering reentry, contingent on deploying technical teams to evaluate industry infrastructure under adequate security conditions.

    The meeting revealed divergent perspectives among major energy corporations. Chevron, currently the only U.S. oil major operating in Venezuela, expressed optimism about rapidly scaling production. Vice Chairman Mark Nelson projected an immediate doubling of output through joint ventures with state-owned PDVSA, with further growth anticipated within 18-24 months, though acknowledging dependence on political and economic stability.

    Meanwhile, ConocoPhillips continues seeking billions in compensation from Venezuela for past nationalizations. CEO Ryan Lance emphasized the need for PDVSA reorganization and the crucial role of financial institutions in facilitating infrastructure investments.

    President Trump conveyed confidence in recovering investments and forging a new beginning, while industry leaders maintained that Venezuela’s substantial oil reserves remain inaccessible without fundamental reforms that guarantee investor protection and sustainable operational frameworks.

  • Clico Investment Bank claim against Clico thrown out

    Clico Investment Bank claim against Clico thrown out

    In a significant ruling with implications for corporate insolvency proceedings, Trinidad and Tobago’s High Court has definitively rejected CLICO Investment Bank Ltd’s attempt to reclaim over US$43 million from its parent company, CL Financial Ltd. Justice Kevin Ramcharan delivered the decisive judgment, affirming the joint liquidators’ earlier determination that the substantial financial claim was legally time-barred and evidentially unsupported.

    The complex litigation centered on CIB’s effort to challenge liquidators Hugh Dickson and David Holukoff’s rejection of its proof of debt submission. This claim originated from eight commercial papers issued between November 2006 and December 2008, totaling US$33,067,718.95 in principal with additional interest claims of US$10,282,990.84. The Deposit Insurance Corporation, serving as CIB’s appointed liquidator since October 2011, had endorsed the application against CL Financial.

    Justice Ramcharan’s thorough examination revealed critical flaws in CIB’s legal position. The court determined that the contractual claim had expired long before CL Financial entered liquidation proceedings, rendering it statute-barred under applicable limitation laws. The unsigned loan schedules presented as evidence were deemed insufficient to revive the limitation period, as they failed to demonstrate clear purpose or constitute unequivocal acknowledgment of outstanding debt.

    The judiciary further dismantled CIB’s alternative legal arguments seeking to circumvent the limitation issue. Claims alleging fiduciary duty breaches, constructive trust arrangements, and unjust enrichment were systematically rejected. The court found no evidence that CL Financial exercised the necessary control over CIB to qualify as a shadow or de facto director, noting that former financial director Michael Carballo’s statements failed to establish the requisite level of oversight for such fiduciary obligations.

    Regarding unjust enrichment allegations, Justice Ramcharan agreed with the liquidators’ characterization that the dispute remained fundamentally contractual in nature. The court warned against allowing creative legal reframing to bypass statutory limitation periods, emphasizing that such approaches would undermine the foundational principles of debt limitation law.

    With both entities undergoing compulsory liquidation, the court ordered each party to bear its own costs, bringing finality to this protracted intra-group financial dispute that has spanned over a decade.

  • BTL Eyes Major Telecom Buyout, Transparency Questioned

    BTL Eyes Major Telecom Buyout, Transparency Questioned

    In a landmark development for Belize’s telecommunications sector, state-owned Belize Telemedia Limited (BTL) has formally announced its intention to acquire multiple private operators including Speednet, Central Television and Internet, and Southern Cable Network. The proposed consolidation, valued at approximately $170 million, represents one of the most significant financial maneuvers in the nation’s telecom history.

    Chairman Markhelm Lizarraga broke months of speculation during a pre-board meeting press briefing, characterizing the move as an ‘industry rationalization and unification’ initiative that has been under consideration since 2018. Lizarraga emphasized the economic rationale behind the consolidation, citing extensive duplication in billing systems, software licensing, and infrastructure that ultimately burdens consumers with higher costs.

    The acquisition strategy faces immediate scrutiny regarding governance and transparency. Journalists highlighted potential conflicts of interest, noting that Lizarraga’s brother holds ownership stakes in Central Television and Internet, while Prime Minister John Briceno—who appointed Lizarraga—has family interests in Speednet. These connections raise fundamental questions about whether a publicly-owned entity is acting in the national interest.

    BTL management contends that the consolidation will generate substantial operational efficiencies through combined revenues and eliminated redundancies in power consumption, marketing, HR, IT, and tower infrastructure. The company projects the investment will achieve full payback within four years through enhanced annual cash flow. Consumer services are expected to remain unchanged regarding phone numbers and service offerings, with potential future price reductions subject to Public Utilities Commission benchmarking against competitive markets.

    The absence of public consultation has drawn sharp criticism from civil society and labor organizations. The National Trade Union Congress of Belize has demanded immediate suspension of acquisition proceedings, full disclosure of beneficial ownership structures, and transparent national consultations. BTL maintains that as a private company, its decisions require public disclosure rather than consultation, though the government’s majority ownership implies significant public stakeholding.

    As the proposal advances under increasing public scrutiny, the fundamental tension between corporate efficiency and public accountability remains unresolved. With hundreds of millions in public assets at stake, the outcome will likely reshape Belize’s telecommunications landscape for generations.