Bahamas Power Crisis: New Providence was hit by an island-wide blackout after an explosion and fire at BPL’s Blue Hills Power Station, blamed on a suspected underground cable fault; Prime Minister Philip Davis toured the site, called the system “archaic and end of life,” and said BPL should explore further financial relief for customers as outages and loadshedding continue. Local Governance & Accountability: Opposition leaders traded blame over BPL’s performance and the energy reform programme, with FNM and PLP figures arguing over whether generation, maintenance, or cancelled deals drove the current grid failures. Economic Outlook: Central Bank Governor John Rolle said growth is still on track to run “just below” last year’s 3.8%, citing tourism, construction and foreign investment—while acknowledging frequent, long-lasting power outages as a key headwind. Financial Crime Controls: A new Bahamas beneficial ownership risk assessment shows compliance improving sharply, with non-compliance falling from 28% during COVID to about 2% last year. Trade & Tariffs: The U.S. keeps expanding Section 301 tariffs and related actions, with Bahamas-linked calls for exemptions and pressure on costs. Maritime & Energy Security: Iran-linked attacks and sanctions activity continue to ripple through LNG and shipping routes, underscoring volatility for regional logistics. Tourism & Travel Safety: The U.S. updated its travel advisory for the Bahamas, warning Americans about violent crime in cruise hubs like Nassau and Freeport. Cruise Industry Incidents: A Carnival passenger was arrested in connection with alleged child abuse onboard a Bahamas cruise. Business & Skills: Colina Holdings Bahamas hosted BYLD students, highlighting careers across insurance, IT, investments and communications, and donated $10,000 to the programme. Ports & Development: Residents voiced concerns over Freeport Harbour expansion plans as local projects face renewed scrutiny.