US-Iran Shock to Trade & Finance: After Trump declared the Iran ceasefire “over,” U.S. strikes hit 80+ targets and Iran retaliated, triggering a sharp drop in Strait of Hormuz crossings and a legal revocation of the waiver covering Iranian oil sales. Border Security Upgrade: DHS and CARICOM’s IMPACS signed a biometric data-sharing partnership to automate screening and vetting across participating Caribbean states, with a focus on security and citizenship-by-investment risks. Sanctions Spotlight on St. Kitts & Nevis: The U.S. Treasury/OFAC sanctioned Ali Ansari and linked “Smart Global Limited,” a Charlestown, Nevis-registered holding company, raising urgent questions for citizenship screening and corporate oversight. ECCB Monetary Moves: ECCU leaders discussed financial inclusion and faster payments (CAPSS and a Fast Payment System), while St. Kitts and Nevis retained its World Bank high-income status. Regional CBI Diplomacy: Eastern Caribbean governments agreed to send a high-level delegation to Brussels to address EU pressure to phase out CBI programmes by 2028. Local Business & Economy: C&W Business rebranded to Liberty Business in St. Kitts and Nevis, positioning the firm as a digital adviser and technology partner. Tourism Watch: The tourism minister flagged sector bottlenecks like aircraft delivery delays and cruise itinerary shifts, even as arrivals remain above pre-pandemic levels. Currency & Identity: The ECCB unveiled the redesigned EC$50 banknote featuring Sir Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw, as the region moves away from Queen Elizabeth II portraits.