BPL Grid Upgrade: Bahamas Power and Light is bringing in a $1M+ Elsewedy Electric transformer to stabilise New Providence’s grid and improve reliability for about a third of the island, underscoring the scale of the utility’s infrastructure push after recent outages. Work Permits Review: Immigration Minister Fred Mitchell says the government will review labour certificate applications and employment data, with meetings for employers and a focus on balancing investment with access for qualified Bahamians. NIF Accountability Fight: Opposition leader Michael Pintard is pressing questions over the National Investment Fund, after reports show the balance fell from $265.3m (Dec 2025) to about $200k (March), while government says the money went to airport upgrades. Back-to-School VAT Holiday: Retailers are gearing up for the VAT-free school supplies period running Aug 8 to Sept 5, with stores extending sales and adjusting systems for peak demand. Tourism Positioning: A new push argues Europe is under-targeted for The Bahamas, suggesting marketing should sell the archipelago as a journey beyond Nassau. Diaspora Investment Push: Bahamians abroad are being urged to turn global success into local investment through entrepreneurship, expertise and partnerships—not just remittances. Sports Tourism Spotlight: Jamaica’s inaugural Special Olympics Caribbean Beach Games (Nov 18–22) will draw about 2,000 athletes, with The Bahamas among confirmed participants. Cruise Deals & Demand: Cruise lines are leaning into last-minute bargains as they scramble to fill empty cabins, including Caribbean itineraries that stop in Nassau.