Banking Access: Maldives Islamic Bank (MIB) rolled out 24-hour ATMs in three Baa Atoll islands—Kendhoo, Goidhoo and Thulhaadhoo—and also opened a full branch in Eydhafushi, replacing its sales centre and expanding services including account opening and financing. Foreign Exchange Crackdown: Banks and Customs signed an agreement to verify counterfeit TT transfers, with the MMA coordinating information exchange via the FIU; meanwhile President Muizzu defended the government’s dollar reforms as research-led, and Parliament passed measures including a ban on black-market dollar rates and a requirement for resorts to deposit 40% of USD earnings in local banks. Tourism Trade & Policy: Travel Trade Maldives (TTM) opened in Malé with 130+ resorts and 250+ travel operators/agents, while MATATO warned that proposed GST on offshore booking platforms and foreign tour operators could disrupt the international booking chain and hurt local agents; TEAM also criticised the 40% USD rule for squeezing workers’ incomes. Youth Enterprise Funding: Bank of Maldives and SME Digital disbursed over USD 19.5m to 3,000+ young entrepreneurs under a collateral-free youth financing scheme, with mentorship and training support. Fuel for Fisheries: Hawks began selling diesel to fishing vessels at MVR 17 per litre, available only to registered fisheries vessels at designated stations nationwide. Women’s Opportunities: First Lady Sajidha urged broader women’s participation in national development, highlighting entrepreneurship through the “Viluntheri Kanbalun” programme. Regional Links: Maldives and India discussed cooperation in satellite data and space technology, and China reiterated readiness to support Maldives priorities under the free trade framework. Tourism Leadership Change: Visit Maldives Corporation appointed Abdulla Yaasir as MD after Ibrahim Shiuree resigned, as destination marketing continues.