Climate Finance Bottleneck: The UN’s Loss and Damage fund will not approve its first project package until December, after nearly 180 proposals flooded in for about US$2.8b against only US$250m available (with an extra US$100m released), leaving communities frustrated and delaying direct grant access. Tourism Cost Pressure: Even with a strong season, Cook Islands hotel operator Liana Scott says families and businesses are still squeezed by power, water and imported goods costs; she points to government water and energy support but argues for longer-term relief via lower power prices and import duties. ADB Backs Local Business: The Asian Development Bank’s Frontier Seed is investing US$130,000 in Manini Wear, its first Cook Islands and first non-sovereign deal, to cut supply-chain emissions and expand retail to Aitutaki. Sport & Sponsorship: Bank South Pacific has been confirmed as a major sponsor of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with Cook Islands among the participating South Pacific teams. US Seabed Minerals Push: A new US ambassador says Cook Islands seabed critical minerals are now a top priority, aiming to reduce China-linked supply risks and encouraging US investment where permitted. Regional Security Shock: China’s nuclear-capable missile test over the South Pacific Nuclear-Free Zone has triggered renewed Treaty of Rarotonga debate and condemnation from regional leaders, including New Zealand officials. Youth in Politics: The Cook Islands National Youth Council launches a youth-led candidate dialogue series ahead of the General Election to boost young people’s participation and civic education.