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  • JN Financial Group on track to return to profitability

    JN Financial Group on track to return to profitability

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — The JN Financial Group (JNFG), the financial holding entity of the Jamaica National Group, has announced significant strides toward restoring profitability. This follows a series of strategic decisions aimed at bolstering its financial health and refining its operational focus. The group’s audited financial statements for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025, revealed a consolidated loss of $1.87 billion, marking a substantial improvement from the $2.52 billion loss reported the previous year. This financial outcome was heavily influenced by a one-time $4.3 billion charge associated with the divestment of an 80.1% stake in JN Bank United Kingdom (UK).

    Despite the reported loss, JNFG emphasized that these results underscore steady progress toward achieving long-term financial stability. The company attributes this progress to a comprehensive restructuring initiative and a renewed focus on its core business areas. Key strategic moves included the sale of JN Bank UK, which ceased to be a subsidiary in September 2024, resulting in a $4.8 billion reduction in the group’s investment in subsidiaries. Additionally, the sale of JN General Insurance (JNGI) to British Caribbean Insurance Company Limited was finalized on June 6, 2025, while a share sale agreement for JN Fund Managers (JNFM) was signed in August and is pending regulatory approval.

    JNFG reassured stakeholders that the sale of JNFM would not impact client assets or services, as the entity operates strictly as an intermediary. Client funds remain securely invested in Government of Jamaica and corporate bonds, Bank of Jamaica (BOJ) certificates of deposit, and both local and international equities, all registered with the Jamaica Central Securities Depository and the BOJ.

    The group’s strategy for returning to profitability hinges on enhanced performance in banking, remittance, and life insurance operations, supported by significant investments in technology and customer experience. JN Bank, which remains well-capitalized and compliant with BOJ requirements, reported a pre-tax profit of $582 million and an after-tax profit of $439 million for the fiscal year ending March 2025. The bank is focused on strengthening capital resilience, improving operational efficiency, and expanding digital services, including upgrades to its mobile and online platforms.

    JN Money is advancing its digital transformation while expanding its global presence, having recently entered 10 new countries and additional U.S. states, with further growth anticipated before year-end. Meanwhile, JN Life Insurance is working to boost profitability by increasing its market share and diversifying its product portfolio to meet evolving customer needs.

    JNFG highlighted that ongoing efficiency measures, disciplined cost management, and targeted investments in digital platforms—such as the ONE JN Passport, JN Bank LIVE mobile app, JN Pay wallet, and upgraded ATMs and POS solutions—are central to its strategy. The group expressed confidence that these initiatives, combined with enhanced customer service and product innovation, will ensure operational stability and drive sustained improvements in the coming financial year and beyond.

  • Jamaica trail Curacao at half time

    Jamaica trail Curacao at half time

    In a tense World Cup qualification match held at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad, Curacao, the Jamaican national football team, known as the ReggaeBoyz, found themselves trailing 1-0 at halftime against Curacao. The decisive moment came in the 14th minute when Livano Comenencia of Curacao unleashed a powerful shot from outside the penalty area, successfully bypassing Jamaican goalkeeper Andre Blake. This marked the first goal conceded by Jamaica in their third game of the Concacaf final round. Despite several attempts by Renaldo Cephas and Tyreece Campbell to equalize, Jamaica failed to level the score. Head coach Steve McClaren had implemented significant changes to the starting lineup, making six alterations from the team that secured victories against Bermuda and Trinidad and Tobago in the initial matches of the round.

  • Disciplinary actions taken by JRC stewards

    Disciplinary actions taken by JRC stewards

    The Jamaica Racing Commission has issued disciplinary measures following recent inquiries conducted at their offices in Portmore, St Catherine, on October 7, 2025. The actions stem from incidents during races held on October 4, 2025. Jockey Jemar Jackson, who rode Dimetry P in the first race, received a one-race suspension for excessive use of the whip. This penalty will be enforced starting October 18, 2025. Meanwhile, Jockey Shane Richardson, who rode Midnight Runner in the ninth race, had his explanation accepted regarding intimidation and interference caused to Prince Roy near the 400-metre mark. The Commission’s decision underscores its commitment to maintaining fair play and integrity in horse racing.

  • Dawes calls for urgent investment in mental health services

    Dawes calls for urgent investment in mental health services

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Dr. Alfred Dawes, the Opposition Spokesperson on Health and Wellness, has issued a compelling call to action for Jamaicans and policymakers to confront the nation’s escalating mental health crisis. Speaking on World Mental Health Day, Dr. Dawes emphasized that mental health is a cornerstone of individual dignity, societal well-being, and national progress. He highlighted the alarming reality that countless Jamaicans are silently enduring mental health struggles due to systemic neglect and pervasive stigma.

    In his statement, Dr. Dawes underscored the dire state of mental health services in Jamaica, which remain critically underfunded and understaffed. He lamented the societal tendency to dismiss or penalize individuals grappling with mental health issues rather than offering support. ‘Behind every statistic is a face, a family, and a future that can be transformed or tragically cut short depending on how we respond,’ he remarked.

    Dr. Dawes pointed to the compounded mental health challenges exacerbated by violent crime, economic instability, and natural disasters, which have left deep psychological scars across the nation. He stressed that the theme of this year’s World Mental Health Day, ‘Access to Services: Mental Health in Catastrophes and Emergencies,’ is particularly relevant for Jamaica.

    To address the crisis, Dr. Dawes advocated for a paradigm shift in the country’s approach to mental health. He called for the integration of mental health services into primary care, increased funding in the national health budget, and the prioritization of mental health in policy discussions. Additionally, he urged citizens to foster a culture of openness and mutual support, emphasizing that seeking help should be seen as an act of courage.

    ‘On this World Mental Health Day, I call on every Jamaican to look out for one another, to speak openly about mental health, and to demand better from those entrusted with our well-being. For without mental health, there is no true health,’ Dr. Dawes concluded.

  • JFJ congratulates Claudette Thompson on DPP appointment, calls for annual reports

    JFJ congratulates Claudette Thompson on DPP appointment, calls for annual reports

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Jamaicans for Justice (JFJ), a prominent advocacy group, has extended its congratulations to Claudette Thompson on her recent appointment as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP). In a statement released on Friday, JFJ emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability within the justice system, urging Thompson’s office to publish comprehensive annual reports. These reports, JFJ suggested, should include detailed metrics such as the number of cases prosecuted, types of offenses, conviction rates, case processing times, and case dispositions. Additionally, the group recommended the inclusion of anonymized demographic data of defendants and victims, high-profile case prosecutions, resource allocation, victim and witness support data, appeals outcomes, alternative dispute resolution usage, and public engagement activities. JFJ believes that such measures would significantly enhance public trust in the justice system. The organization also praised Thompson’s early commitment to fostering open dialogue and collaboration with stakeholders while maintaining the independence of her office during her tenure as acting DPP. JFJ encouraged her to continue and expand public education initiatives and strategic media engagement to ensure ongoing transparency. While acknowledging an increase in prosecutions related to security force matters in recent years, JFJ stressed the need for further progress, particularly in cases involving state actors, to demonstrate a steadfast commitment to the rule of law. The group concluded by wishing Thompson success in her new role.

  • Psychiatrist says men do not have to suffer in silence

    Psychiatrist says men do not have to suffer in silence

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Societal stigma surrounding mental health issues often deters men from seeking timely help, leading to critical situations and, in some cases, tragic outcomes. Dr. Bridget Opiavbe, a consultant psychiatrist at Bellevue Hospital, is urging men to break the silence and prioritize their mental well-being. ‘Men typically exhibit poorer health-seeking behaviors, associating strength with self-reliance and emotional control. Admitting to mental health struggles is often perceived as a sign of weakness, causing them to delay seeking help until a crisis occurs,’ Dr. Opiavbe explained in an interview with JIS News on Thursday. She emphasized that seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of wisdom. Dr. Opiavbe highlighted the role of societal labels in perpetuating this issue. Men expressing vulnerability are often labeled as ‘soft’ or ‘unstable,’ leading to feelings of shame and reluctance to seek support. However, she noted a positive shift in recent years, with more men acknowledging their mental health challenges and exploring ways to address them. Social media has played a pivotal role in this change, with prominent figures openly discussing their mental health struggles, helping to normalize the conversation. Dr. Opiavbe pointed out that men often mask their distress through behaviors traditionally associated with masculinity, such as anger, irritability, overworking, or substance abuse. These behaviors, she explained, often conceal deep emotional pain. She urged loved ones to recognize these signs and gently encourage men to seek help. ‘Early intervention is crucial. Waiting until a crisis occurs can have devastating consequences,’ she stressed. Globally, men die by suicide up to four times more frequently than women, with Jamaica reflecting a similar trend. Dr. Opiavbe called for increased mental health education and open conversations to destigmatize seeking help. ‘We are all vulnerable, and help is available. We don’t have to suffer in silence,’ she concluded. Jamaica is observing Mental Health Awareness Week from October 5 to 12, with World Mental Health Day being marked today.

  • Trevor Johnson’s triumphant return to the saddle

    Trevor Johnson’s triumphant return to the saddle

    On Sunday, October 5, 2025, the Jamaican horse racing community witnessed a heartwarming comeback as veteran jockey Trevor Johnson returned to the track after a five-year absence. Johnson, who had been sidelined due to a debilitating health condition, made a triumphant return by steering Yorkist to a commanding victory in the fourth race of a 10-race card. Yorkist, owned by Mark Perry and trained by Colin Ferguson, clinched the maiden condition race for native-bred four-year-olds and upward, covering 5 furlongs (1,000m) in an impressive 1:03.2, winning by a staggering 8 ¼ lengths. Johnson’s victory was not just a testament to his skill but also a celebration of his resilience and determination. Reflecting on his journey, Johnson expressed profound gratitude to Perry and Ferguson for their unwavering support during his health struggles. He revealed that Perry had even financed his medical expenses, including an X-ray, which played a crucial role in his recovery. Johnson’s win underscored the deep bonds of trust and loyalty within Jamaica’s racing fraternity, marking a significant milestone in his career and inspiring many in the sport.

  • Israel ceases fire and Gazans start to trek home

    Israel ceases fire and Gazans start to trek home

    In a significant development, Israel announced a ceasefire in Gaza on Friday, initiating the withdrawal of its troops after two years of intense conflict. The truce, brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, aims to facilitate the release of remaining Israeli hostages held in the Palestinian territory. The Israeli military confirmed the cessation of hostilities at noon (0900 GMT), marking the first step toward implementing the ceasefire agreement. Shortly after, the U.S. Pentagon announced that Israel had completed the initial phase of its troop pullback, as outlined in Trump’s peace plan. Despite the withdrawal, Israeli forces still control approximately 53% of Gaza. The ceasefire sets a 72-hour deadline for Hamas to release the hostages, while Israel has published a list of 250 Palestinian prisoners it plans to free, alongside 1,700 Gazans detained since the conflict escalated in October 2023. As the truce took effect, thousands of displaced Palestinians began returning to their devastated homes, many of which lie in ruins after years of bombardment. The EU mission at the Rafah border crossing announced plans to reopen a pedestrian route on October 14, further easing the humanitarian crisis. Under the agreement, Hamas is expected to hand over 47 hostages—both living and deceased—from the 251 abducted two years ago, along with the remains of another hostage held since 2014. While celebrations erupted in Israel and Gaza, unresolved issues, including Hamas’s disarmament and the proposed transitional authority for Gaza, remain contentious. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan rejected the transitional authority, emphasizing the group’s resistance to external governance. Meanwhile, Trump indicated that Hamas’s disarmament would be addressed in the second phase of the peace plan. As Israeli troops withdrew from key areas like Tel al-Hawa and Al-Shati camps in Gaza City, residents expressed a mix of joy and grief. Areej Abu Saadaeh, a mother who lost two children in the conflict, reflected the bittersweet sentiment: ‘I’m happy about the truce and peace, even though I grieve deeply for my children. Yet, returning to our homes brings joy.’

  • Spain hailed as strategic partner in Jamaica’s economic development

    Spain hailed as strategic partner in Jamaica’s economic development

    KINGSTON, Jamaica — Senator Kamina Johnson Smith, Jamaica’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, has highlighted Spain’s significant role in supporting Jamaica’s economic development. Speaking at Spain’s National Day reception held at the Spanish Ambassador’s residence in St Andrew, Senator Johnson Smith underscored Jamaica’s emergence as a model of sound economic management over the past decade, fostering a business-friendly environment. She emphasized the importance of recognizing bilateral partners like Spain and Spanish companies for their contributions to Jamaica’s economic and national development goals. Investments in the tourism sector were cited as a prime example of this fruitful partnership. In January, both nations formalized a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for International Cooperation on Tourism, aimed at enhancing collaboration in gastronomy, human capital development, and resilience, reflecting their shared commitment to sustainable growth. Senator Johnson Smith expressed gratitude for Spain’s continued partnership, noting that Spanish investment in Jamaica’s tourism sector has exceeded US$2.5 billion. Spanish companies are among Jamaica’s largest investors, with major projects underway, including the Grand Palladium Hotel in Hanover, which will add 950 new rooms and dedicated housing for 550 staff members. The minister highlighted the project’s green planning and design, which will boost energy efficiency and sustainability while creating thousands of jobs. Spain’s Ambassador to Jamaica, José María Fernández López de Turiso, reiterated Spain’s commitment to trade and investment, noting that Spain is the fastest-growing economy in the Eurozone and a leading investor in Jamaica’s tourism industry. He also emphasized Spain’s diversified investments in renewable energy, construction, healthcare, and logistics, showcasing confidence in Jamaica’s economic strength.

  • Jamaica suffer shock defeat to Curacao in WCQ

    Jamaica suffer shock defeat to Curacao in WCQ

    Jamaica’s aspirations to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup suffered a significant setback after a 2-0 defeat to Curacao in their Concacaf Group B encounter at the Ergilio Hato Stadium in Willemstad on Friday. The match, coinciding with Curacao Day, a national holiday, saw the hosts capitalize on their limited opportunities to secure a crucial victory.