Offshore Finance Overhaul: Prime Minister Gaston Browne says Antigua and Barbuda will consider U.S. DFC financing but will resist deals that put national assets under foreign control or let profits flow overseas, while also warning the current offshore banking model may need major restructuring. Offshore Banking Rules: Browne also announced plans to “clean up” the sector by raising minimum capital to about US$20m, removing preferential tax treatment, and requiring offshore banks to pay the same 25% corporate tax as local firms. Local Business Boost From CHOGM: CHOGM in November is expected to drive demand for hotels, guest houses and Airbnb stays, plus food, transport and entertainment—supporting small businesses beyond the conference. Tourism & Transport: Antigua Cruise Port welcomed Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas, bringing thousands of visitors and a busy day for vendors, taxi drivers and tour operators. Security at YIDA Zone: YIDA Special Economic Zone owner Yida Zhang was shot twice at the Crabbs Peninsula compound; police are pursuing a suspected intruder, with theft rumors unconfirmed. Road Works Accountability: C.O. Williams Construction has been ordered to redo defective sections of resurfaced roads at its own expense after public complaints about rutting and deterioration. Taxi Industry Leadership: Gregory “Driftwood” Athill was re-elected president of the Antigua National Taxi Association, pledging more training and stronger partnerships with tourism stakeholders. Hurricane Outlook: 268Weather revised the 2026 Atlantic forecast downward to 12 named storms, four hurricanes and two major hurricanes, citing a strengthening El Niño. STEM Talent: Two Antiguans, Ajenai Charles and Kha-Lique Harris, were selected for the Caribbean STEM programme SPISE. Sports & Media: Republic Bank CPL broadcast partners were confirmed, with Antigua & Barbuda Falcons set to face the Saint Lucia Kings as the season kicks off. Community Support: The Halo Foundation donated $10,000 in scholarship funds to Amejah Nibbs for studies at GBSB Global Business School. Carnival Culture Debate: Browne and Tian Winter traded barbs over Soca Monarch song rules and AI-assisted music, with Browne pushing for bans on previously released songs. Industry Pulse: A new luxury transatlantic charter on the Maltese Falcon includes Antigua as a stop, highlighting continued high-end travel interest in the island.