Cook Islands Finance & Trade: A Cook Islands Government report says US demand for asset protection is driving record trust growth, with international trust registrations up 42% in a year to 433 and almost 90% higher than two years ago; the sector now contributes over NZ$48m (2024/25) and is 8.5% of real GDP, opening room for New Zealand fintech/regtech and compliance services. Transport & Regulation: Rarotonga’s new app-based ride-hailing service, Smartie Rides, has launched but is highlighting a licensing gap in the 1967 Transport Licensing Act for vehicle-sharing platforms. Tourism & Community: Cook Islands Tourism has opened voting for the 2026 People’s Choice “Kia Orana Champions” awards, with more than 12,000 votes cast in the first 24 hours and a new Innovation Icon category. Governance & Cost of Living: PM Mark Brown says the incoming Cook Islands Party-led government’s first 100 days will focus on cost of living and housing, including fuel security and progressing a National Housing Strategy 2030. Public Services & Support: More than 50 NZDF personnel are in Penrhyn for Exercise Tropic Twilight, delivering construction, health and hydrography work. Regional Economy & Climate: PM Brown is urging the Asian Development Bank to make climate resilience funding easier and be lenient on debt servicing, arguing small economies must borrow for survival. Sports: Cook Islands netball missed out on the 2027 Netball World Cup after losing 50–72 to Samoa in the Oceania qualifier.