Eastern Caribbean Currency Update: The ECCB unveiled redesigned EC banknotes and coins, replacing Queen Elizabeth II’s image with national heroes and regional icons; Vincentian Robert Milton Cato is featured on the EC$5 note, with circulation expected to start in late 2027. Youth & Jobs Focus: PM Godwin Friday told SVGCC graduates the government’s priority is creating opportunities at home—job creation, entrepreneurship support, and a “new economy” built around creativity, innovation and sports to reduce pressure to migrate. Regional Trade & Logistics: CARICOM leaders are pushing a regional cargo ferry pilot, with Trinidad and Tobago offering a temporary ferry while Barbados, SVG and others work on regulations and a longer-term private-sector network. ECCB Monetary Council: Dominica will take the ECCB Monetary Council chairmanship on July 9, alongside the banknote/coin unveiling and discussions on the ECCB “Big Push” agenda, including digital payments and financial inclusion. Humanitarian Relief to Venezuela: SVG committed US$100,000 as part of CARICOM’s response to Venezuela’s earthquakes, while a separate 88-container relief shipment departed the region. Local Business & Skills: ECTEL opened round two applications for the Pearl Allison Lake scholarship fund (Window 2 deadline July 24 for UBEC-linked MSME matching grants also extended), supporting education and Blue Economy value-chain growth. Energy & Fiscal Pressure: Opposition figures warned of a looming fiscal crisis tied to fuel debts and borrowing, and raised concerns about Vinlec’s infrastructure vulnerability.