BVI Water & Utility Policy: The BVI government says it never agreed to an amnesty for disputed or outstanding water bills as the territory transitions water and sewerage to VIEWCO, rejecting Opposition Leader Marlon Penn’s claim that lawmakers approved relief when payments began through VIEWCO on July 15. BVI Electricity Costs: In the House of Assembly, Opposition Member Ronnie Skelton warned electricity tariff changes for high-usage customers could push up operating costs for small businesses and drive food prices higher, while the government argues the adjustment is needed to cut BVIEC’s subsidy and keep the utility financially viable. Tourism Access Debate: Public outcry is growing over a proposal by the National Parks Trust to reserve The Baths and Devil’s Bay for an international luxury cruise operator on select mornings, limiting public access for a few hours to generate conservation revenue. SEC Sanctions Compliance: The SEC directed capital market regulated entities to sever correspondent banking ties and restrict dealings tied to North Korea and Iran, citing FATF updates—an issue with direct implications for regional financial flows. Regional Business Support: The VI government and CDB are rolling out a MSME capacity-building series for entrepreneurs, focused on business continuity, digital marketing, and financial management. Local Business & Community: Mind & Body by Living Fit opens in Virgin Gorda as a new 24-hour wellness facility, while Dr D. Orlando Smith Hospital in the BVI gets updated signage through a building cleaning and signage project. Power Disruption: A heavy electricity surge caused outages across parts of Tortola, with restoration underway and investigations ongoing.