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Clarien Bank to acquire NCB’s Cayman unit in internal reorganisation

KINGSTON, Jamaica — In a significant strategic consolidation of its offshore financial services, NCB Financial Group Limited (NCBFG) has announced the acquisition of NCB (Cayman) Limited by Clarien Bank Limited, its majority-owned subsidiary. This internal reorganization, pending regulatory approvals, will integrate the group’s Cayman Islands-based wealth management and banking operations under a unified platform.

The transaction involves the structured transfer of select wealth and investment management client relationships from NCB’s Cayman operations to Clarien Bank, in which NCBFG currently maintains a 50.10 percent controlling interest. According to Group Chief Executive Officer Robert Almeida, this realignment represents a deliberate strategy to enhance operational coherence and strengthen focus across the financial group’s regional businesses.

Following completion of the transaction, NCB (Cayman) Limited will undergo rebranding under the Clarien name. NCBFG emphasized that the reorganization is not anticipated to materially affect capital adequacy, liquidity, or ownership structure.

Clarien CEO Ian Truran characterized the acquisition as supporting the bank’s strategic expansion into selective offshore markets, calling it “an exciting new chapter” for the institution. The bank has committed to ensuring a seamless transition for both clients and staff from NCB (Cayman) Limited and NCB Capital Markets (Cayman) Ltd.

This development occurs against the backdrop of NCBFG’s evolving ownership strategy regarding Clarien. Earlier efforts to reduce exposure through a partial divestment expired in May 2025 without extension. Conversely, a separate disclosure from June 2025 indicated NCBFG’s potential acquisition of an additional 17.92 percent stake in Clarien, which would elevate its ownership to 68.02 percent if finalized. The group has stated that neither transaction is expected to significantly impact financial performance.

Throughout the transition, clients will continue to be served by their existing relationship teams with no anticipated disruption to daily operations.

1 2 月, 2026
Cool, windy weather to continue through Tuesday as cold front affects Jamaica

KINGSTON, Jamaica — A persistent cold front stationed west of Jamaica continues to influence the island’s weather patterns, according to the latest advisory from the Meteorological Service of Jamaica. Residents should anticipate sustained cool conditions accompanied by powerful winds through the coming days.

The weather system is projected to maintain its influence islandwide until Tuesday, with particularly intense winds targeting northern and southwestern parishes. Elevated and hilly regions across the island are also expected to experience heightened wind activity, especially during Monday.

Monday’s forecast indicates predominantly cloudy skies with a probability of early morning showers in northern parishes and certain hilly zones. Notably cool temperatures will persist, reinforced by robust wind gusts approaching near-gale force intensities throughout Jamaica. Urban temperature projections show maximums of 22°C in Kingston and 20°C in Montego Bay.

Weather patterns are expected to transition beginning Tuesday, with predictions suggesting predominantly fair yet cool conditions across the island. However, meteorological officials note that strong winds will likely continue affecting northern parishes and elevated terrains.

Midweek brings a change in precipitation patterns. Wednesday may see isolated morning showers in northern regions while other areas experience mostly cloudy conditions. Meteorological models indicate expanding cloud coverage during afternoon hours with widely scattered showers anticipated across central and western parishes.

By Thursday, weather developments point to increased cloud cover during afternoon and evening periods, accompanied by scattered showers and thunderstorm activity across most parishes.

The Meteorological Service maintains active surveillance of the evolving weather system and pledges to provide timely updates as conditions develop.

1 2 月, 2026
Kendrick Lamar becomes most awarded rapper in Grammy history

In a historic moment for the music industry, Kendrick Lamar has officially become the most-awarded rapper in Grammy Awards history, eclipsing the previous record long held by hip-hop mogul Jay-Z. The groundbreaking achievement was confirmed during the 2025 Grammy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, where Lamar’s artistic dominance was prominently displayed throughout the evening.

Entering Sunday’s festivities with 26 Grammy wins already to his name, Lamar immediately surpassed Jay-Z’s benchmark of 25 victories by capturing the Best Rap Album honor for ‘GNX’ during the pre-telecast ceremony. His triumph continued unabated as the night progressed, ultimately concluding with an impressive total of 27 Grammy awards.

Lamar’s extraordinary evening was highlighted by multiple major category victories. Beyond the Best Rap Album recognition, the Compton-native artist secured Record of the Year and Best Melodic Rap Performance for his work ‘Luther’, Best Rap Song for ‘TV Off’, and Best Rap Performance for the critically acclaimed ‘Clipse’s Chains & Whips’. His dominance was further emphasized by leading all nominees with nine nominations this year.

The ‘Luther’ victory carried additional historical significance, making Lamar the first rapper ever to claim the Record of the Year honor twice. Furthermore, he became both the first male artist and first rapper to win this prestigious category in consecutive years, solidifying his unprecedented creative streak.

This Grammy milestone caps a remarkable period for Lamar, who began 2025 by headlining the Super Bowl LVIII halftime show—making history as the first rapper to perform solo on the NFL’s grandest stage. The artist continues to build upon his previous Grammy success, having performed his diss track ‘Not Like Us’ at last year’s ceremony, which ultimately earned five awards including both Record and Song of the Year.

1 2 月, 2026
US Embassy invites Jamaicans to apply for visas ahead of World Cup 2026

KINGSTON, Jamaica — The United States Embassy located in Jamaica has initiated a campaign encouraging local residents to submit visa applications for attendance at the highly anticipated 2026 FIFA World Cup. Utilizing the social media platform X, the diplomatic mission announced that the United States stands ready to host international visitors for what it describes as potentially the greatest World Cup in history. The embassy’s statement emphasized, “Be a part of history and apply for your US visa today!” while also underscoring the necessity for all applicants to fulfill eligibility criteria as mandated by U.S. immigration laws.

The 2026 tournament is set to be an unprecedented cross-continental event, jointly hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Official reports indicate that the event has already spurred record-breaking ticket demand, highlighting immense global anticipation.

However, this promotional effort unfolds against a backdrop of significant apprehension among potential attendees. On various social media channels, users have voiced hesitancy about traveling to the U.S., specifically referencing the nation’s current stringent immigration policies and heightened enforcement measures. Adding a layer of complexity to the situation, prominent football figures, including ex-FIFA president Sepp Blatter, have endorsed discussions surrounding a potential fan boycott of matches held in the United States.

Further intensifying the diplomatic atmosphere are recurrent remarks from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the potential annexation of Greenland, which have contributed to international tensions. Conversely, Trump has separately and publicly voiced strong confidence that the 2026 World Cup will set a new benchmark for excellence in the tournament’s history.

1 2 月, 2026
Fiery protest over deplorable Manchester road

MANCHESTER, Jamaica — A wave of civic unrest swept through northwest Manchester on Monday as exasperated taxi operators and local residents mobilized to blockade the crucial Somerset main road. The demonstrators expressed profound frustration with the persistently hazardous condition of this vital transportation artery, which has suffered severe deterioration over an extended period.

The protestors attribute the road’s degradation to consistently overloaded commercial vehicles, particularly cement trucks, which routinely spill their contents and compromise the structural integrity of the pavement. This transportation corridor serves as an essential link connecting multiple communities throughout northwest Manchester to the central hub of Mandeville, making its functionality critical for regional mobility.

The spontaneous demonstration created significant disruption for morning commuters, with numerous travelers compelled to traverse miles on foot to access alternative transportation options. Local law enforcement and fire service personnel were deployed to the scene by mid-morning, actively working to clear the obstructed roadway and restore traffic flow.

Community representatives have issued urgent appeals to their elected officials, demanding immediate intervention to address the dangerous road conditions. Additionally, protesters are calling for enhanced accountability measures for operators of heavy-duty vehicles whose practices they believe have contributed significantly to the infrastructure’s decline. The incident highlights growing tensions between citizens and governing bodies regarding infrastructure maintenance and regulatory enforcement in the region.

1 2 月, 2026
Arctic blast leaves Nassau’s most vulnerable shivering

An Arctic cold front originating from a deep Atlantic low-pressure system has plunged The Bahamas into a humanitarian emergency, with wind chills reaching near-record lows in the mid-30s (°F) across the islands. The severe conditions have brutally exposed the plight of the nation’s most vulnerable populations, leaving homeless individuals and low-income families in a desperate struggle for warmth.

Bishop Walter Hanchell of Great Commission Ministries led a critical relief operation over the weekend, coordinating volunteers to deliver emergency supplies across New Providence. The teams distributed blankets, warm clothing, and hot meals to people found sleeping on streets, huddled under building awnings, or residing in poorly sealed homes where cold air infiltrated through broken windows and door gaps.

Bishop Hanchell reported encountering approximately 150 people in dire need. He described finding individuals with only thin sheets for protection, and in some cases, absolutely nothing to combat the bitter cold. The crisis highlighted a significant gap in social services; while temporary shelters exist, there are no dedicated facilities for those actively living on the streets. The organization’s male shelter, Hope House, is already operating at full capacity.

The Bishop attributed homelessness primarily to two factors: severe financial hardship and untreated mental health challenges. He issued a stark critique on social media, accusing many civic and religious leaders of indifference towards the homeless population, while simultaneously praising the compassion of supportive pastors, businesspersons, and government officials.

In response to the systemic failure, Bishop Hanchell announced plans to establish a new safe house. This facility aims to provide comprehensive support, including shelter, sustenance, and access to both medical and psychological assistance for those living on the streets.

Meteorologically, the event was characterized by the Bahamas Department of Meteorology as a period of strong gusty winds, scattered showers, and dangerously rough seas. Gale-force winds were projected to subside first in the Northwest and Central Bahamas as temperatures began a gradual rebound.

1 2 月, 2026
Watson out as PLP ratify final candidates

The Progressive Liberal Party (PLP) concluded its protracted candidate selection process last night, finalizing its full slate for the upcoming general election amid heightened internal tensions. The most contentious nomination battle, for the Southern Shores constituency, was resolved in favor of Obie Roberts, the party’s deputy chairman, over ZNS General Manager Clint Watson.

The ratification event at PLP headquarters was marked by contrasting emotions. Supporters cheered and horns blared in the chilly air as incumbents and newcomers were confirmed. However, the atmosphere reflected weeks of internal strain, particularly surrounding the Southern Shores nomination. Last month, a PLP meeting on this matter nearly escalated into physical confrontations between supporters of Watson and Roberts, with some backers threatening electoral boycotts if their preferred candidate was rejected.

Prime Minister Philip ‘Brave’ Davis addressed reporters following a meeting with the party’s Candidates Committee, confirming they had recommended Mr. Roberts and that the National General Council accepted this recommendation. While acknowledging Mr. Watson’s capabilities, Davis stated, ‘There are many roles in governance,’ describing Watson as someone who would remain ‘a prominent player’ moving forward.

Mr. Roberts acknowledged the heated nature of nomination battles but expressed confidence in party loyalty, recalling his own past unsuccessful nomination bid and subsequent continued commitment to the PLP.

The prolonged ratification process has drawn criticism from observers who believe delays exacerbated internal tensions. Prime Minister Davis defended the timeline as deliberate, noting perspectives on its length may vary. When pressed on election timing, Davis offered the cryptic response that reporters should ‘read the tea leaves.’ He also indicated openness to fixed election dates in the future, suggesting it would be considered if his administration returns to office.

The ratified slate includes eight newcomers: Robyn Lynes (Killarney), Obie Roberts (Southern Shores), Reneika Knowles (Long Island), Paco Deal (Central Grand Bahama), Monique Pratt (East Grand Bahama), Eddie Whann (Marco City), and Keno Wong (St Anne’s). Senator Randy Rolle was nominated for the newly created constituency of Bimini and the Berry Islands.

Key incumbents ratified include Kingsley Smith (West Grand Bahama), Ginger Moxey (Pineridge), Glenys Hanna Martin (Englerston), Chester Cooper (Exuma and Ragged Island), and Prime Minister Davis himself (Cat Island, Rum Cay and San Salvador).

1 2 月, 2026
INSIGHT: The other (secret) drug war

A dangerous pharmaceutical grey market is flourishing throughout the Bahamas, where prescription medications are routinely dispensed without prescriptions, proper medical oversight, or regard for patient safety. Through extensive investigative operations spanning from August 2025 to January 2026, evidence reveals that powerful antibiotics, pain relievers, abortion pills, and even unregulated cosmetic products enter the country through official ports of entry despite customs enforcement efforts.

The distribution network operates with alarming openness, with undercover operatives obtaining prescription drugs from numerous pharmacies without presenting prescriptions or medical documentation. In multiple instances, pharmacy personnel not only provided requested medications but recommended stronger alternatives and even accommodated customer price negotiations. This unregulated exchange occurs primarily through incremental smuggling via travelers who conceal pharmaceuticals within benign packaging such as spice containers.

Chief Pharmacist Dr. Gina Archer of the Ministry of Health and Wellness identifies outdated legislation as the root cause, noting that the Bahamas lacks a national drug registration system. This regulatory vacuum prevents effective oversight of medicines imported from unauthorized sources, particularly those originating from unverified manufacturers in India, Pakistan, Mexico, and China.

The situation is compounded by alleged conflicts of interest within the regulatory framework. The Bahamas Pharmacy Council, comprised predominantly of practicing pharmacists, functions as a self-policing body with insufficient resources for proper enforcement. Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr. Michael Darville acknowledges the decades-old problem requires urgent legislative reform, particularly citing concerns about antimicrobial resistance from improper antibiotic distribution.

The impending Medical Products Bill promises to modernize the pharmaceutical regulatory system by establishing clear authority over medicine importation, distribution, and violation penalties. However, Bahamas Pharmaceutical Association President Dr. Marvin Smith emphasizes that any effective legislation must include generic medications and provide adequate enforcement resources, including independent inspectors rather than the current part-time pharmacists who inspect their competitors.

Customs Comptroller Ralph Munroe notes that while customs officials intercept non-English labeled medications in quantities exceeding personal use, the profitability of this $100 billion global counterfeit drug market continues to outweigh public health concerns, creating a quiet drug war fought in medicine cabinets rather than alleyways across the archipelago.

1 2 月, 2026
EU agency proposes toxin dose limits in powdered milk

ROME — In a landmark move to safeguard child health, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has announced the first scientific benchmark for a dangerous toxin found in powdered milk products. The Italy-based agency established an acute reference dose (ARfD) of 0.014 micrograms of cereulide per kilogram of body weight for infants.

This decision comes amid a massive global recall initiative affecting over 60 countries, including France, where major manufacturers like Nestle, Danone, and Lactalis have pulled products from shelves since December. The newly proposed safety thresholds specify that concentrations exceeding 0.054 micrograms per liter in infant formula or 0.1 micrograms per liter in follow-on formula could surpass safe consumption levels.

EFSA clarified that its scientific opinion provides EU risk managers with critical guidance to determine when products should be withdrawn from the market as a precautionary public health measure. The toxin cereulide, produced by certain bacteria, is known to cause severe digestive problems including vomiting and diarrhea according to health authorities.

The regulatory action follows tragic developments in France where two infant deaths prompted criminal investigations after consumption of formula recalled by Nestle due to possible bacterial contamination. However, the French health ministry emphasized that no definitive causal link has been established between the deaths and the contaminated products.

The European Commission specifically tasked EFSA with creating this safety standard following the escalating international incident, marking a significant step toward unified food safety protocols across member states.

1 2 月, 2026
Rome develops Trevi Fountain fee

ROME, Italy — In a significant move to address chronic overcrowding and generate preservation funds, Rome’s iconic Trevi Fountain inaugurated a new ticketing system on Monday. The Baroque landmark now requires a €2 (approximately $1.68) fee for close-access viewing adjacent to the basin, creating a more manageable visitor experience while establishing a new revenue stream.

The initiative transforms the visitor dynamic at one of Italy’s most celebrated monuments, famed as the backdrop for Anita Ekberg’s immortal scene in Federico Fellini’s ‘La Dolce Vita.’ Previously, the public square faced such intense crowding that visitors struggled to properly appreciate the architectural masterpiece. Now, ticketed guests enjoy largely unobstructed views and photo opportunities within a regulated zone.

Tourist reactions have been predominantly supportive. Agata Harezlak, a 41-year-old visitor from Poland, exclaimed to AFP, ‘Tell me it’s not worth two euros! It’s worth thousands if not millions, it’s beautiful!’ British tourist Phillip Willis expressed satisfaction with obtaining quality photographs without competing with massive crowds, while also appreciating that his contribution would aid the fountain’s preservation for future generations.

According to Rome’s council member for tourism, Alessandro Onorato, the city anticipates approximately €6 million in annual revenue from the access fees. These funds will partially cover the costs of 25 stewards staffing the facility and will additionally support free museum access for Rome’s residents across the capital. A portion of earnings will continue the tradition of donating thousands of euros collected weekly from the fountain’s coin-tossing ritual to the Caritas charity.

The system isn’t without its critics. Some international visitors questioned the equity of charging Italians, while others argued the site should remain free for all. Nonetheless, city officials remain confident in the approach, with Onorato remarking that comparable global attractions would likely impose substantially higher fees.

1 2 月, 2026