September 18, 2026 No comments
Amid global trade uncertainty and an expected decline in foreign exchange reserves CBCS adjusts monetary policy measures
SINT MAARTEN/CURACAO - On September 17, 2026, the Centrale Bank van Curaçao en Sint Maarten (CBCS) decided to increase the pledging rate (The pledging rate is the interest rate commercial banks pay when borrowing from the central bank.) to 4.50%, while maintaining the reserve requirement unchanged at 18.50%. The decision was taken against the backdrop of an expected decline in the monetary union’s foreign exchange reserves in 2026, continued uncertainty surrounding international trade policies, and ongoing geopolitical tensions. It also follows the U.S. Federal Reserve’s decision in September to raise its policy rate by 25 basis points. The CBCS also adjusted its Certificates of Deposit (CD) program. The changes are aimed at reducing the costs of absorbing excess liquidity in the banking...
Read more
September 18, 2026 No comments
WYCCF Marks Alzheimer’s Awareness Month with Week of Community Activities
SINT MAARTEN (ST. JOHN’S ESTATE) - The White & Yellow Cross Care Foundation (WYCCF) will mark Alzheimer’s Awareness Month with a week of activities focused on dementia awareness, education, and support for people living with dementia, their families, and caregivers. As part of the week, WYCCF healthcare professionals will participate in specialized training on person-centered communication and dementia care. Informal caregivers from the community are also invited to attend one free workshop, which is offered twice: on Monday, September 21, and Wednesday, September 23, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at WYCCF. This workshop will provide practical tools to communicate with confidence, understand challenging behaviors, and respond calmly and compassionately to someone living with dementia. Registration is free through the QR code...
Read more
September 17, 2026 No comments
CPS Takes Proactive Measures to Safeguard Schools and the Business Community Against Respiratory Illnesses
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labour (VSA), through Collective Prevention Services (CPS), wishes to reassure parents, educators, employers, employees, and the wider community that proactive measures are being taken to promote healthy environments and minimize the spread of respiratory illnesses. Following recent reports of respiratory illnesses at Charlotte Brookson Academy for the Performance Arts, including a confirmed COVID-19 case and flu-like symptoms among students and teachers, the Ministry acknowledges the concerns expressed by parents and school personnel. The school's temporary closure to facilitate cleaning and sanitization reflects its precautionary approach. CPS remains actively engaged in promoting preventive measures and public health awareness to protect the community. The Ministry encourages schools, businesses, and other institutions to...
Read more
September 17, 2026 No comments
A Lifetime of Literacy and Legacy: Shirley Richardson Celebrates 45 Stellar Years of Service
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - For 45 remarkable years, Shirley Richardson dedicated her time, talent, and passion to serving the community and advancing literacy. Retiring just two months shy of her 46th anniversary, Shirley leaves behind a lasting legacy of warmth, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to literacy and the people she served. Congratulations, Shirley Richardson, and thank you for 45 remarkable years of dedicated service! Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Throughout nearly five decades at the Philipsburg Jubilee Library (now the Sint Maarten Library), Shirley was more than a dedicated team member; she was the heart of the library’s mission. Her career spans generations, leaving an indelible mark on thousands of young minds. From guiding toddlers to...
Read more
September 17, 2026 No comments
NV GEBE Advances Renewable Energy Plans with Solar and Battery Storage Site Inspections
SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - As NV GEBE marked its 66th anniversary on September 16, 2026, the company also taking steps toward the future of energy on St. Maarten with site inspections related to its planned solar energy and Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. The initiative forms part of NV GEBE’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the resilience of the electricity grid, expand the use of alternative energy, and ultimately help reduce the island’s dependence on fuel for electricity generation. NV GEBE is progressing plans for a 6-megawatt solar energy project, proposed to be developed in two phases: an initial 2-megawatt phase followed by an additional 4-megawatt phase. The company is also advancing plans for battery energy storage of 28 Megawatts, with...
Read more
