ADB-backed Growth for Local Business: Cook Islands fashion label Manini Wear wins a USD 130,000 ADB Frontier Seed growth capital investment, aiming to cut ocean-freight emissions and expand retail into Aitutaki. Tourism Cost Pressure: Even with a strong tourism season, Muri Beach Hotel GM Liana Scott says families and businesses are still squeezed by power, water and imported goods costs, with government subsidies helping but not solving the long-term issue. Fuel and Food Relief Outlook: Fuel prices are expected to ease in weeks, but food relief is likely to take at least six months. Loss & Damage Funding Delays: The UN loss and damage fund is pushing first project approvals to December after demand far outstrips available resources. Fisheries Enforcement: Regional tuna surveillance continues with operations targeting illegal fishing and catch misreporting, including Cook Islands participation in vessel inspections. Banking Leadership: ANZ announces a Samoa country head change, with expanded regional responsibilities that also include oversight of ANZ Cook Islands. US Seabed Minerals Priority: A new US ambassador flags Cook Islands seabed critical minerals as a top Pacific priority, while warning about China’s growing influence. Youth and Democracy: The Cook Islands National Youth Council launches a youth-led candidate dialogue series ahead of the General Election. Sports Sponsorship: BSP signs on as a major sponsor of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with Cook Islands among participating teams.