Business
794 articles
WhatsApp Set to Allow Users to Connect via Usernames, Dropping Phone Number Requirement
WhatsApp is developing a feature that will allow users to connect via unique usernames instead of phone numbers, marking one of the platform's most significant privacy updates to date. According to Antigua.news, the feature is still under development with no official release date announced.
ECCB: Eastern Caribbean Banks Stay Resilient Amid Global Economic Turbulence
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank reports that commercial banks across the Currency Union remained well capitalised and resilient during the 2025-2026 financial year, with regional economic growth estimated at 2.5% despite significant global uncertainty. The findings are detailed in the ECCB's latest Annual Report, which also outlines key financial reforms and inclusion initiatives planned for the period ahead.
EIA Approves Pearns Point Luxury Villa With Strict Coastal Safeguards
An Environmental Impact Assessment has approved a proposed multi-million-dollar luxury villa at Pearns Point, finding the development environmentally feasible provided strict coastal engineering safeguards, drainage controls and erosion management measures are fully implemented. The 538-page report, prepared by EcoUrban Planning Ltd. on behalf of Ariadine Ltd., identifies storm surge, cliff-edge geology and stormwater management as the project's key challenges.
World Bank Names Achim Fock as New Caribbean Division Director
The World Bank has appointed Achim Fock as Division Director for the Caribbean, where he will oversee the institution's lending, advisory work, and development programs across the region. Fock brings over 25 years of World Bank experience to the role.
LIAT Air Apologises for Flight Delays and Cancellations Caused by Technical Issues
LIAT Air has apologised after technical issues forced aircraft out of service over two days, causing widespread flight delays and cancellations across its regional network. The airline says recovery measures are underway and affected passengers are being rebooked on available services.
ECCB Posts EC$121.6 Million Profit as Foreign Reserves Hit EC$6 Billion
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank recorded a net profit of EC$121.6 million for the financial year ended March 31, 2026, as foreign reserve assets reached EC$6 billion and total assets climbed to EC$6.68 billion. The Bank also unveiled a new five-year strategic plan aimed at doubling the size of the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union economy within a decade.
Caribbean Corporate Games to Boost Sports Tourism and Economy, Says Minister Freeland
Minister of State in the Ministry of Tourism Michael Freeland has hailed the Caribbean Corporate Games as a major opportunity to drive sports tourism and economic growth for Antigua and Barbuda. The inaugural event is set to take place from June 18 to 20, 2027, with organizers targeting over 100 organisations and an estimated 1,500 visitors.
Caribbean Corporate Games Launched, Targeting 1,500 Visitors for 2027 Antigua Debut
The Caribbean Corporate Games were officially launched Tuesday at Little Jumby Island, with founder Lisa Weston targeting more than 1,500 competitors from over 100 organisations worldwide for the inaugural event, set for June 2027 in Antigua.
SLBMC Launches First Leadership Development Programme to Strengthen Healthcare Management
Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre has launched its first Leadership Development Programme, a six-month initiative designed to strengthen management capability across clinical and administrative departments. The programme includes workshops, coaching, and workplace projects, and will factor into future leadership appointments at the hospital.
ABWU Deputy General Secretary Chester Hughes Earns Law Degree from UK University
Chester Hughes, Deputy General Secretary of the Antigua and Barbuda Workers' Union, has graduated with an LLB (Hons) from Arden University in the United Kingdom. Hughes is set to pursue the Bar Training Course later this summer.
Antigua Slipway Begins Phase Two of Marine Railway Overhaul at English Harbour
Antigua Slipway Ltd has launched the second phase of its Marine Railway Redevelopment Project at English Harbour, signing a construction deal with Meridian Construction ahead of a late July construction start. The upgraded facility is set to become the largest single-vessel shipyard in the Eastern Caribbean upon completion.
Four Elite Island Resorts Chefs Earn Top American Culinary Federation Certification
Four Elite Island Resorts chefs have earned the prestigious Certified Executive Chef designation from the American Culinary Federation, marking a significant milestone for Antigua and Barbuda's hospitality industry. The Antigua & Barbuda Hotels and Tourism Association is recognising the achievement as a reflection of the exceptional culinary talent within the destination.
ECCB Launches Bold 10-Year Plan to Double Eastern Caribbean Economy
The Eastern Caribbean Central Bank has launched a sweeping 10-year strategy, "The Big Push," aimed at doubling the size of the ECCU economy and the personal wealth of its citizens by 2036. The plan, the centrepiece of the Bank's 2026-2031 Strategic Plan, calls for unprecedented collaboration across governments, businesses and citizens to drive diversification, innovation and inclusive growth.
APUA Lays 400 Feet of New Water Pipe in First Night of HDD Works
APUA has completed the first night of its HDD water main replacement project, successfully installing approximately 400 feet of new pipe along St. Mary's Street. Overnight works continue nightly between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. along St. Mary's Street and High Street.
Jumby Bay Orders Contractor to Remove Seaweed Dumped Near Parham
Jumby Bay has ordered a contractor to remove seaweed dumped near Parham after residents raised environmental concerns. The resort discussed the matter with a government minister and pledged additional monitoring measures to ensure compliance.
Jumby Bay Orders Seaweed Removal After Parham Disposal Concerns
Jumby Bay has ordered its contractor to remove seaweed dumped near the Parham community after the matter was raised with Minister Rawdon Turner. The resort says it is also strengthening environmental oversight measures to prevent future violations.
Rotary Club of Antigua Donates EC$10,000 to UWI Five Islands Scholarship Fund
The Rotary Club of Antigua has donated EC$10,000 to the UWI Five Islands Campus to fund scholarships for students facing financial barriers to higher education. The contribution was presented at a ceremony at Rotary House as part of the Club's annual Scholarship Programme.
PM Browne Wants Antiguans to Own Stakes in Upcoming Solar Energy Projects
Prime Minister Gaston Browne has announced plans to develop a 15 to 20 megawatt solar energy project within two years, with the government seeking broad public investment participation rather than limiting ownership to a handful of large corporations.
LIAT Air Apologises for Two-Day Flight Disruptions, Outlines Recovery Plan
LIAT Air has apologised for two days of flight disruptions caused by unforeseen aircraft technical issues, confirming that safety inspections have been completed and recovery measures are now underway. The airline says operational teams are working around the clock to rebook affected passengers.
WhatsApp to Replace Phone Numbers with Usernames in Major Privacy Overhaul
WhatsApp has announced that users will soon be able to communicate via unique usernames instead of phone numbers, a move the Meta-owned platform describes as a core privacy feature rolling out later this year. As reported by Antigua News Room, username reservations have already begun, with protections in place to prevent impersonation of public figures.