The pan-European benchmark STOXX 600 was up 0.5% to 605.59 points by 0810 GMT
International News via Reuters:
European shares extended their rebound on Wednesday as retreating crude prices boosted sentiment, while investors also awaited an interest rate decision from the U.S. Federal Reserve.
The pan-European benchmark STOXX 600 was up 0.5% to 605.59 points by 0810 GMT. The index gained for a third straight session, its longest such streak in a month.
Global markets rallied as oil prices paused gains, even as hostilities intensified between Israel and Iran following the killing of Tehran’s security chief.
Energy sector edged 0.3% lower, on track to snap an eight-day winning streak on crude’s pullback, while financial stocks provided the biggest boost to the benchmark.
Among individual movers, Diploma jumped 14.5% after the technical products and services distributor raised its fiscal year 2026 guidance.
Bollore jumped 15.7% after the company proposed an exceptional dividend of 1.5 euros per share.
On the macro front, the euro zone’s final reading for February consumer prices was due later in the day.
Investors will now closely parse the Fed’s outlook for new policy decisions post the outbreak of the Middle East conflict.
Reporting by Avinash P in Bengaluru; Editing by Janane Venkatraman
Bermuda seeks regulatory alignment and innovation partnerships with US counterparts
The Premier and Minister of Finance, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, will represent Bermuda at the DC Blockchain Summit on March 17 – 18, 2026, in Washington, DC.
The Summit brings together federal lawmakers, regulators, and senior industry leaders to shape the future of blockchain and digital asset regulation in the United States.
Bermuda’s participation reflects the Government’s continued commitment to responsible innovation through practical policy and public-private collaboration, and to deepening partnerships with key international stakeholders at a pivotal moment for global digital asset regulation.
The Summit provides a structured forum for high-level dialogue on regulatory clarity, market integrity, consumer protection, and US competitiveness in financial innovation as the country progresses their market structure bill: The CLARITY Act.
It also presents a strategic opportunity to formalise cross-jurisdiction collaboration between Bermuda and U.S. stakeholders, with Bermuda positioned as a leading regulated hub for digital assets and financial innovation.
Premier Burt will engage US regulatory and policy counterparts on priority areas, including stablecoin frameworks, payments interoperability, tokenised markets, digital asset insurance, and financial market integrity, building on Bermuda’s established regulatory leadership under the Digital Asset Business Act (DABA) and the oversight of the Bermuda Monetary Authority (BMA).
Premier Burt will participate in a fireside discussion with an executive from the Stellar Development Foundation, which is a key partner in Bermuda’s wider digital finance strategy. With Bermuda having publicly committed to transitioning to an on-chain economy, the Summit offers a timely opportunity to align domestic initiatives with the international standards being shaped by Bermuda’s largest trading partners, particularly on stablecoins, payments interoperability, AML compliance, and market integrity.
These engagements will advance the Government’s broader strategy to position Bermuda as a trusted, innovation-friendly jurisdiction for regulated digital asset activity, including through bilateral meetings with US federal agencies, policymakers, global asset managers, financial institutions, and technology partners.
The Government’s participation underscores Bermuda’s commitment to building the international partnerships and regulatory alignment needed to lead responsibly in the global digital economy.
Premier Burt said, “Bermuda’s leadership in digital finance has always been built on practical policy, strong partnerships and collaboration. This Summit is an opportunity to continue that work and share best practices with our U.S. counterparts at an important moment for the industry.
“As the United States advances its own regulatory framework, there is a clear opportunity to align our approaches on digital payments, financial innovation, and market standards. Bermuda has committed to transitioning to an on-chain economy, and the partnerships we build at forums like this are essential to ensuring that transition is responsible, aligned with international standards, and beneficial for both jurisdictions.”
Minister tells BPSU delegates to engage, empower and evolve, at triennial conference
The Minister of Economy and Labour, the Hon. Jason Hayward, JP, MP, underscored the need for a modern, responsive labour movement as he addressed the Bermuda Public Service Union’s (BPSU) 9th Triennial Delegates Conference held on March 11.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Hayward urged delegates to actively shape the future of the union and Bermuda’s workforce, highlighting the importance of engagement, inclusivity, and adaptability in a rapidly changing world of work.
The conference, held under the theme “Engage, Empower, Evolve,” brought together union leadership, delegates, and members to reflect on progress and set priorities for the years ahead.
In his remarks, Minister Hayward pointed to the BPSU’s enduring role as a cornerstone of Bermuda’s labour movement and its continued advocacy for workers’ rights and protections.
“The story of Bermuda’s labour movement cannot be told without the BPSU,” the Minister said. “This organisation has played a central role in advancing the rights and well-being of workers across our country.”
Drawing on his personal experience, Minister Hayward described the union as instrumental in his own development, crediting it with shaping his leadership and commitment to public service.
“The BPSU is the institution that helped shape who I am today,” he said. “It instilled in me the values of leadership, good governance, and advocacy on behalf of workers.”
The Minister emphasised that the conference provides a critical opportunity for reflection and forward planning, enabling members to assess challenges and align on a shared vision.
“This conference is an important moment to evaluate where we are and where we need to go,” he said. “It is through honest dialogue and collective effort that we strengthen the organisation.”
Highlighting the conference theme, Minister Hayward encouraged delegates to ensure all voices are heard and valued, noting that empowering members is essential to building a strong and sustainable union.
“Every member has a role to play,” he said. “We must create spaces where individuals feel confident to contribute and are encouraged to participate fully in shaping the organisation.”
He also stressed the importance of evolution within the labour movement, particularly in response to technological change, shifting workforce dynamics, and global uncertainty.
“The world of work is changing, and our institutions must evolve with it,” the Minister said. “We must remain grounded in our principles while adapting to meet new challenges.”
Referencing past union-led initiatives, including efforts to address workplace bullying and harassment, the Minister highlighted the broader national impact of the BPSU’s work.
“These efforts demonstrate how the union’s work extends beyond its membership and contributes to improving standards across the entire country,” he said.
Minister Hayward concluded by reaffirming the importance of strong unions in supporting national development and encouraged delegates to approach the conference with purpose.
“A strong labour movement is essential to a strong community,” he said. “Together, we can continue to advance the rights of workers and build a fairer future for all.”
He also thanked outgoing executive members for their service and welcomed incoming leadership, wishing all participants a productive and successful conference.
‘The Story of Us’ campaign ‘invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean’
‘The Story of Us’ campaign video features Bermudians talking about our connection with the Caribbean
Government is looking to get Bermuda on board with its CARICOM plans with a new public awareness campaign.
Following up on the release of the Green Paper on full CARICOM membership, the campaign is entitled ‘The Story of Us’.
A press release states that it “invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean, while engaging directly with the Green Paper, which outlines the case, the questions, and the protections associated with full CARICOM membership”.
A video message accompanies the launch of the campaign, featuring Former Premier Dr Ewart Brown, Former Deputy Premier Walter Roban, Former MP Walter Lister,Reverend Nicholas Tweed, Home Affairs Minister Alexa Lightbourne and others.
“If you look at the history of Bermuda, you don’t have to go too far to find that there’s always been a very strong connection,” says Dr Brown.
Walter Roban adds: “When you look at all the facts, t shows that we are inextricably connected to the Caribbean’s economic development, its historical development.”
Alexa Lightbourne concludes: “Bermuda’s story is a Caribbean story. Remember who you are and who we are.”
The Home Affairs Minister encouraged Bermudians to read the Green Paper, reflect on the information, and share their perspectives.
So far, the survey indicates that out of 22 Bermudians who have responded, the majority consider stronger food security as the most important potential benefit of full CARICOM membership.
Government of Bermuda Press Release:
The Ministry of Home Affairs today launched The Story of US, a public engagement campaign designed to support informed national dialogue on Bermuda’s application for full membership in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The campaign invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean, while engaging directly with the Green Paper, which outlines the case, the questions, and the protections associated with full CARICOM membership. The campaign engagement can be seen here:Remember – The Story of Us.
Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, said, “This campaign is about grounding the conversation in who we are as a people. Bermuda’s connections to the Caribbean are reflected in our culture, our families, and our shared history.
“Deeper engagement with CARICOM is about building on those connections and bringing Bermuda into the centre of regional decision-making, ensuring our diverse community has a stronger voice on the issues that shape daily life, from food security and climate resilience to economic opportunity and skills development, while maintaining the protections and constitutional framework that define Bermuda.”
Since the release of the Green Paper on March 9th, there has been strong public interest across the community.
Minister Lightbourne added, “I have had meaningful engagement with Bermudians across the island. Some perspectives are supportive. Others raise important questions. That is exactly what consultation is about; thoughtful discussion grounded in accurate information.”
The Green Paper sets out key facts about what full membership would and would not change for Bermuda.
What does not change:
Bermuda retains full control over its immigration policy. There is no automatic free movement of labour. The United Kingdom remains responsible for defence and external security. Bermuda’s laws, identity, and institutions remain distinctly Bermudian.
What could change:
Bermuda could gain a voice and vote in regional decision-making. Access could expand to regional programmes, partnerships, and opportunities. Bermudians could help shape decisions on issues that already affect them and the island.
Any future steps would be measured and deliberate, consistent with Bermuda’s national interests and constitutional framework. The Ministry encourages all residents to participate in the consultation process by reading the Green Paper and sharing their views.
Members of the public can visit TogetherForCaricom to access the Green Paper, complete the public consultation survey, and learn more about upcoming engagement opportunities, including town halls and community discussions.
Minister Lightbourne concluded, “This is a moment for Bermudians to engage, to ask questions, and to consider what lies ahead. Read the Green Paper, reflect on the information, and share your perspective.”
The wide gulf in regional standings was laid bare in San Rafael today as the United States opened the Concacaf Under-17 Women’s Final Round with a clinical 18–0 victory over a resilient but overwhelmed Bermuda.
The American onslaught began almost immediately. University of North Carolina standout Deus Stanislaus found the net in the third minute to spark a first-half flurry. Amari Manning quickly added a double, while Stanislaus and Taylor Morrell ensured the United States went into the interval with a commanding six-goal lead.
Bermuda’s afternoon was further complicated when star striker Milan Gibbons-Thomas was forced off in the 35th minute following a heavy collision with US goalkeeper Alexis Fischer, leaving Daisy Langley to lead the line for the remainder of the contest.
Despite trailing at the break, the statistics told the story of a Bermudian side under constant pressure. The US commanded nearly 80% of possession and fired 11 shots on target in the opening 45 minutes.
The second half saw no reprieve as the United States found another gear. Mia Corona and Maddie DiMaria struck within minutes of the restart, before Stanislaus completed her hat-trick in the 53rd minute. The goals continued to flow with relentless precision as Morrell and Loradana Paletta added to the tally, while substitute Mak Whitham netted a late brace.
In the final ten minutes, Giselle Aguilar, Jordyn Heathcock, and Gianna Hanf closed out the scoring to seal a record-breaking result. While the final statistics showed 43 shots from the US, Bermuda’s young squad showed flashes of determination, slightly improving their possession numbers in the second period.
Gary Adams’ side must now regroup quickly as they turn their attention to a pivotal clash with Puerto Rico, where they will look to reignite their campaign for a historic World Cup berth.
Diplomats and political analysts had expected an easy victory for Sassou, 82, who was running against six little-known challengers
International News via Reuters:
Congo Republic President Denis Sassou Nguesso has been re-elected with 94.82% of the vote, state television said on Tuesday, extending his nearly 42 years leading the Central African oil producer.
Diplomats and political analysts had expected an easy victory for Sassou, 82, who was running against six little-known challengers, in an election whose run-up was tightly controlled by the ruling Congolese Labour Party.
The main opposition parties opted not to field candidates, citing a lack of transparency, and two of the best-known opposition figures, General Jean-Marie Michel Mokoko and Andre Okombi Salissa, have been in jail for nearly a decade.
Human rights activists were arrested, several opposition parties were suspended and public gatherings were closely monitored in the run-up to the election, said Joe Washington Ebina, a Congolese human rights activist.
Voting on Sunday was marred by late openings at some polling stations and a nationwide internet blackout.
State television on Tuesday reported turnout of 84.65%, though many polling stations in Brazzaville on Sunday had short lines or no lines at all.
Defeated candidates have five days to file a challenge, and the Constitutional Court has 15 days to examine any challenges before publishing final results.
Reporting by Congo Republic Newsroom; Writing by Clement Bonnerot; Editing by Bate Felix and Robbie Corey-Boulet
Bermudian pageant queen Ms. Gina Swainson was honoured today with the unveiling of a new road in St. George’s in her name
‘Gina Swainson Way’ was revealed today named after historic Bermudian pageant queen, Gina Ann Swainson.
The ceremony was held Tuesday morning near the Government Hill Road in St. George’s parish were several government MPs, the Mayor of St. George’s Quinell Francis, community leaders and members of the public gathered to watch the unveiling.
Born June 6th 1958, Ms. Swainson was the first Bermudian to be crowned Ms. World in 1979 in London at the age of 21. She later went on to become first runner-up in the Miss Universe pageant held in Australia.
The expanding U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has shaken global supply chains, with airspace closures and the halt of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz
International News via Reuters:
Medical supplies to clinics dealing with the humanitarian crisis in Sudan could run out within two weeks unless shipments are rapidly rerouted after disruptions due to the conflict in the Middle East, the charity Save the Children said.
The expanding U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has shaken global supply chains, with airspace closures and the halt of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Some $600,000 worth of essential medicines are stuck in ports in Dubai, the charity said.
About 90 Sudanese government-run clinics serving roughly 400,000 patients rely on the charity’s supply of medicines, vaccines and nutritional treatment, with no in-country alternative, Save the Children’s global director of supply chain, Willem Zuidema, told Reuters.
Sudan’s three-year conflict has displaced millions of people and triggered one of the world’s largest humanitarian crises.
“We have a couple of weeks to do this rerouting before the country’s stocks run out. The clock is ticking,” Zuidema said, adding that once buffer stocks are exhausted patients would not be able to access basic healthcare support.
The medicines, which include antibiotics, antimalarials, pain and fever medication, and paediatric injectable drugs, normally enter via Port Sudan and travel by road to areas including Darfur.
UN aid chief Tom Fletcher said last week the Middle East conflict is straining humanitarian supply chains, with sub-Saharan Africa and Gaza under particular pressure.
RISING COSTS, DONOR CUTS COMPOUND CRISIS
The World Health Organization also warned of growing medical supply shortages in Sudan. “There’s a huge crunch in Sudan, of course, and there’s also a bigger crunch in medical commodities going into certain provinces,” WHO regional director Hanan Balkhy said.
Rising transport costs are impacting aid budgets heavily constrained by major donor cuts, Save the Children said, with container freight rates rising about 25–30% as some shipping firms reroute vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding weeks to delivery times.
The level of disruption to freight and subsequent cost impact may be worse than in the initial stages of the Ukraine war and COVID pandemic, because there is little buffer in the system after the aid cuts, Zuidema said.
“Demand will go up, but the means for us to respond – especially with the increasing fuel prices driving up cost – will go down. That’s extremely worrying.”
Save the Children’s country budget for Sudan this year has been slashed by $4 million to $98 million.
Reporting by Olivia Le Poidevin, editing by Andrei Khalip
Speaking in an online event organised by the American think tank the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Gargash said that the UAE does not currently have active talks with Iran
International News via Reuters:
A diplomatic adviser to the UAE president, Anwar Gargash, said on Tuesday that his country could join an international effort led by the U.S. to ensure the safety and security of the Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking in an online event organised by the American think tank the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), Gargash said that the UAE does not currently have active talks with Iran.
His comments come amid growing concerns over the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.
Today, Allshores published an online statement advising that, following discussions with the Health Council and Government, changes to coverage will now be effective from June 1st.
The insurer, an amalgamation of Argus and BF&M, also provided detail on how the pharmacy partnership will work…
From June 1st, if a member fills a prescription for one of the 46 medications at Phoenix, they will “benefit from lower — and in many cases zero — copays due to negotiated pricing which is now in effect.”
Allshores stresses that members can still get these medications at non-Phoenix pharmacies if they choose, but they will be considered ‘out-of-network’, and coverage will be 50% or per the member’s Schedule of Benefits.
Allshores states that by partnering with Phoenix, it has secured lower prices on certain medications, which will help members pay less and keep insurance premiums more affordable over time.
Allshores members will be able to continue filling all other prescriptions at any pharmacy in Bermuda with the same coverage they have today, and members should refer to their schedule of benefits for details of coverage.
Current Argus & BF&M benefit schedules on their websites run until May 31st, therefore it can be expected that the new schedules under Allshores should be published soon, ahead of the Allshores-Phoenix partnership coming into effect on June 1st.
The benchmark FTSE 100 closed up 0.83%, marking its biggest one-day jump in a week
International News via Reuters:
London’s FTSE 100 closed higher on Tuesday on the back of gains in energy and heavyweight financials even as the conflict in the Middle East raged on, while investors awaited the Bank of England’s interest rate decision this week.
The benchmark FTSE 100 closed up 0.83%, marking its biggest one-day jump in a week. The mid‑cap FTSE 250 added 0.72%, snapping a four-session declining streak.
Israel said it had killed Iran’s security chief, while a senior Iranian official said the new supreme leader had rejected de-escalation offers conveyed by intermediary countries. The war entered its third week with no resolution to the conflict or the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz in sight, sending oil prices higher. [O/R]
The energy sector rose 1.82%, trading at a record high. Majors BP and Shell advanced nearly 2% each. Heavyweight banks were the biggest boosts to the FTSE 100, up 1.3%.
Most FTSE 350 sectors rose, but retailers slipped 0.28%.
British borrowing costs dipped for a second day but remained well above levels seen before the Iran war, with markets now pricing roughly 50% odds of a Bank of England hike in November.
Investors’ focus this week will be on interest-rate decisions in the UK, the U.S., and Europe and comments from policymakers on how they intend to navigate potential energy-driven inflationary pressures.
Most economists polled by Reuters abandoned their rate cut calls for March, now expecting a 25-basis-point cut in April or June. J.P. Morgan, however, expects the BoE to keep rates unchanged through 2026, with the next cut only in the first quarter of 2027.
Among individual stocks, Close Brothers fell 3.5% to the bottom of the mid-cap index after the lender said it will cut 600 roles by fiscal 2027.
Trustpilot jumped 32% to the top of the mid-cap index after the global online review platform said it had quadrupled its annual profit.
Reporting by Tharuniyaa Lakshmi in Bengaluru; Editing by Leroy Leo, Rod Nickel
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