Budget 2027 Caution: As T&T eyes Budget 2027, stakeholders are warning against “boom spending” while the IMF flags a FY2026 central government deficit of 4.6% and rising debt—urging fiscal consolidation and a measured, business-friendly approach. Fraud Watch: Fraud Squad reports fell 32.7% (Jan–July) to 551, but losses jumped 227.2% to $167.37m; charges rose to 141, with forged cheques a standout increase. Corporate Moves: First Citizens named Kevin Haqq as group chief risk officer (effective Aug. 24) amid recent executive reshuffles; NIDCO also reported a steep profit drop in its latest published financials. Renewables Push: IRENA is inviting renewable project proposals across the Caribbean, including Trinidad and Tobago, for potential financing and de-risking support. Back-to-School Support: Massy Foundation launched “Classroom Ready,” a $500,000 voucher pilot for 500 students (T&T), while the Massy Foundation also backed food safety training for UWI interns via CARPHA. Tobago Security: THA announced three new joint police-military security posts (Plymouth, Signal Hill, Goodwood) to improve response times. Local Business & Crime: Police arrested three men in a $41,019 sausage scam after a fake supermarket order; in Belize, a Trinidadian man walked free after 92 days when a hotel bill was settled via mediation.