CBB Economic Outlook: Barbados’ economy is estimated to have grown 1.4% in the first half of 2026, with the Central Bank pointing to domestic services and trade as key drivers, while tourism, construction and transportation lagged amid higher freight and energy costs and weaker U.S. demand. Tourism Data Push: Hotel and tourism stakeholders say Barbados needs better, more timely visitor data—especially travellers’ true point of origin—to sharpen marketing and strengthen local business links. Regional Finance: The Caribbean Development Bank and CAF are contributing US$1 million to Venezuela’s earthquake recovery and reconstruction fund, underscoring multilateral support for rebuilding. Capital Markets Plan: CDB approved a US$100,000 feasibility study into a single regional stock exchange to boost cross-border investment and help businesses access capital across CARICOM. Business Recognition: Haymans Market won a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award for 2026, its second straight year, highlighting continued tourism-linked enterprise momentum. Community & Youth: CPL SchoolYard rolls out back-to-school activities in St Lucia and Jamaica (17 August) and a “take a player to school” visit in Guyana and Barbados (10 September), with a digital literacy focus. Local Business Disruption: A fire at an Eagle Hall eatery affected three businesses, with the Barbados Fire Service responding and parts of the road closed. Sports Funding: The Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association is raising at least $50,000 for its Adopt-A-School futsal tournament, targeting school upgrades and youth development ahead of the new term.