Monday, November 9, 2026
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Oil prices surge to highest since 2022 at over $119 a barrel on Middle East war

Brent crude futures were up $13.02, or 14%, at $105.71 per barrel at 0917 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $12.16, or 13%, at $103.06

International News via Reuters:

Oil prices surged over $119 a barrel, hitting levels not seen since mid-2022, on Monday as some major producers cut supplies and fears of prolonged shipping disruptions gripped the market due to the expanding U.S.-Israeli war with Iran.

Brent crude futures were up $13.02, or 14%, at $105.71 per barrel at 0917 GMT, while U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were up $12.16, or 13%, at $103.06.  

In a whiplash session, Brent had earlier hit a high of $119.50 a barrel, indicating the biggest-ever absolute price jump in a single day, and WTI reached $119.48 a barrel. Before the surge on Monday, Brent had already climbed 28% and WTI 36% over last week.

The Strait of Hormuz, through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil and liquefied natural gas typically passes, is virtually shut. Also boosting prices is the appointment of Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father Ali Khamenei as Iran’s supreme leader, signalling that hardliners remain firmly in charge in Tehran a week into its conflict with the United States and Israel. 

The war could leave consumers and businesses worldwide facing weeks or months of higher fuel prices even if the conflict, which started on February. 28, ends quickly, as suppliers grapple with damaged facilities, disrupted logistics and elevated risks to shipping.

U.S. gasoline contracts surged to their highest since 2022 at around $3.22 a gallon, at a time when U.S. President Donald Trump has told U.S. consumers the impact on their cost of living would be limited ahead of mid-term elections in November.

Governments can release strategic petroleum reserves to counteract supply disruptions. U.S. Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer called on Trump to make such a move and a French government source said on Monday that the Group of Seven nations would discuss this also.

Iraq oil production from its main southern oilfields has fallen by 70%, sources said, with crude storage having reached maximum capacity.

Kuwait Petroleum Corporation began cutting oil output on Saturday and declared force majeure on shipments, though it did not say how much production it would shut. 

Analysts expect OPEC heavyweights United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia will have to also cut output soon as they run out of oil storage. 

 Saudi Aramco has offered more than 4 million barrels of Saudi crude in rare tenders as its export routes are throttled.

In gas markets, giant liquefied natural gas exporter Qatar had already stopped production after attacks on key infrastructure.

A fire broke out in the UAE’s Fujairah oil industry zone resulting from falling debris, with no injuries reported. Saudi Arabia’s Defence Ministry said on X it intercepted a drone heading to the Shaybah oilfield.  

Refinery disruptions add to fuel supply cuts, with Bahrain’s BAPCO announcing a force majeure following a recent attack on its refinery complex. Saudi Arabia has already shut its biggest oil refinery.

Additional reporting by Yuka Obayashi, Sudarshan Varadhan, Rae Wee, Tim Gardner; Editing by Sam Holmes, Jamie Freed and Muralikumar Anantharaman

Premier highlights Bermuda’s tech vision at NearCon

David Burt discusses AI regulation and digital finance while announcing a pilot AI chatbot partnership to help government staff calculate pension payments

Images and media released supplied by the Government of Bermuda.

During a recent visit to San Francisco, the Premier, the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, attended NearCon, a global technology conference hosted by the NEAR Foundation, where leaders in digital finance and artificial intelligence discussed how these technologies are shaping the future of finance and government services.

While at the conference, the Premier participated in a fireside conversation titled, “The ‘Bermuda Triangle’ Approach to Innovation and AI as the Next Regulatory Frontier.”

The conversation covered Bermuda’s collaborative approach to innovation between government, industry, and the Bermuda Monetary Authority. The Premier explained how this approach helped Bermuda become one of the first countries in the world to regulate digital assets, and how the Island now plans to take a similar lead in artificial intelligence. He also recorded a podcast episode of The Rollup to share Bermuda’s vision with a wider international audience.

A major announcement from the trip was a new partnership between the Government of Bermuda and the NEAR Foundation. Together, they will begin a pilot to build an AI-powered chatbot to help government employees calculate pension payments more efficiently. In simple terms, this tool will help staff get faster and more accurate answers when calculating pension amounts. If the pilot is successful, the project will expand to create an online tax portal and calculator that allows Bermudians to check information and interact with government systems more easily.

The Premier also announced that the Government intends to explore adding legal clarity around the use of AI agents in financial services.

A government working group has been formed to begin consultations with local stakeholders and members of the legal community. At the same time, the Bermuda Monetary Authority continues to accept AI-related projects in all forms through its Regulatory Sandboxes and Innovation Hub and has engaged in discussions with Industry on the responsible use of AI following the publication of its discussion paper in July 2025. The Authority’s objective is to support responsible innovation while ensuring that any enhancements to supervisory expectations are practical, risk-based, and avoid unnecessary duplication or unintended regulatory burden to the market.

During the visit, the Premier also met with managing partners from leading venture capital firms to discuss trends in digital assets, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, space, and other emerging technologies. He held additional meetings with digital finance companies to continue advancing Bermuda’s broader “on-chain economy” initiative, an effort to modernize payments and financial services on the Island. The Premier was accompanied by two Digital Finance Advisors from the Ministry of Finance.

The visit to NearCon reinforced Bermuda’s commitment to staying ahead of global technology trends while ensuring that innovation directly benefits Bermudians. By combining practical government pilots with clear regulation, Bermuda continues to position itself as a forward-thinking jurisdiction that responsibly embraces new technology.

London’s FTSE indexes fall as rate-cut bets fade and oil surge renews inflation fears

The blue-chip FTSE 100 slipped 1.1% by 0937 GMT, while the mid-cap FTSE 250 lost 1.6%. Both indexes were coming off their worst weekly performance in nearly a year

International News via Reuters:

UK stocks fell to their lowest levels in nearly two months on Monday as rising oil prices intensified inflation fears and concerns over potential interest rate hikes amid ongoing U.S.-Israeli tensions with Iran.

The blue-chip FTSE 100 slipped 1.1% by 0937 GMT, while the mid-cap FTSE 250 lost 1.6%. Both indexes were coming off their worst weekly performance in nearly a year.

Shares of oil majors rose, with Shell firming 1.3% and BP up 0.3%, tracking crude prices that broke above $100 a barrel on concerns over prolonged shipping and supply disruptions stemming from the widening Middle East conflict. [O/R]

The UK’s energy index gained 1.6%.

Iran named Mojtaba Khamenei to succeed his father Ali Khamenei as supreme leader, signalling that hardliners remain firmly in charge in Tehran.

Soaring energy prices have renewed inflation worries and prompted a sharp pullback in Bank of England rate‑cut bets.

Money markets pricing indicated a more than 40% chance the Bank of England would raise interest rates this year, a sharp reversal from February when two cuts were priced in. [BOEWATCH]

Traders were also weighing the potential costs of government support for energy bills after UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said supporting people with the cost of living would be at the top of his mind.

Adding to the gloom, the latest REC/KPMG report on jobs indicated that starting salaries for permanent staff in Britain continued to decline, albeit at a slower pace, while the downturn in new permanent hires showed signs of easing.

British government bonds tumbled again on Monday, while the pound was on track for its biggest daily fall in over a month. [GBP/]

In corporate news, GSK dipped 0.6% after the drugmaker said it will receive up to $690 million from Italian pharmaceutical company Alfasigma for the worldwide rights to linerixibat, an experimental treatment for severe itching in patients with a rare liver disease.

Reporting by Tharuniyaa Lakshmi in Bengaluru; Editing by Vijay Kishore

Sterling slumps as oil’s surge to $120 on Iran war rocks markets

Sterling was last down 0.81% at $1.331 and on track for its biggest daily fall in over a month

International News via Reuters:

The pound tumbled on Monday as investors rushed to the safety of the U.S. dollar and ditched the currencies of countries most exposed to rising energy costs, as the U.S.-Iran war sent oil prices surging to $120 a barrel.

Sterling was last down 0.81% at $1.331 and on track for its biggest daily fall in over a month.

Meanwhile, British government bonds tumbled for a third day and stocks dropped as investors weighed up the potential impact on the UK economy.

Oil prices jumped more than 25% to their highest levels since mid-2022 on Monday, with the global benchmark Brent crude touching $119.50 per barrel.

Major Gulf producers cut supplies and shipping disruptions rattled the market as the U.S.-Iran war showed few signs of slowing down.

“It’s been the biggest jump since the outbreak of the pandemic, and investors are bracing for an inflation crisis,” said Susannah Streeter, chief investment strategist at Wealth Club.

The Financial Times reported that G7 finance ministers plan to discuss a possible release of petroleum from reserves, helping temper some of the market moves. Brent crude was last up 16% at $107.80 a barrel.

Traders were weighing the potential costs of government support for energy bills after UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said supporting people with the cost of living would be at the top of his mind.

“A market theme for this week is set to be consideration of the implications of potential fiscal interventions to manage the impact of higher energy prices,” said Sam Hill, head of market insights at Lloyds Bank.

Hill and his colleagues said UK support for households related to the Russia-Ukraine spike energy prices in 2022-2023 is estimated to have cost 52 billion pounds ($69 billion).

Sterling was little changed against the euro, which also tumbled against the dollar as investors moved into a currency seen as a safe haven thanks to its dominant role in global finance.

The dollar has also benefited from the United States’ status as a leading oil and gas producer. By contrast, Britain and the euro zone are heavily reliant on oil and gas imports.

The euro was last flat against the pound at 86.63 pence.

British government bonds tumbled again on Monday with yields on 10-year gilts surging more than 15 basis points (bps) to their highest levels since September at 4.776%. Yields rise as prices fall and vice versa.

Traders on Monday were pricing in a more than 50% chance the Bank of England raises interest rates this year, a sharp reversal from February when two cuts were priced in.

The FTSE 100 fell 1.5% in early trading, outperforming broader European shares which were down 2% thanks to the index’s larger weighting of energy companies.

($1 = 0.7499 pounds)

Reporting by Harry Robertson

Bermuda Overseas Footballers Round-Up

Bermuda international Harry Twite has completed a mid-season move to Basford United FC, swapping Lboro Students FC for the Ambers in a deal that runs through the remainder of the current campaign. The versatile central defender, who is equally comfortable operating at right-back, was fast-tracked into the starting eleven by the management duo of Gandi and Saul.

The move paid immediate dividends as Twite helped anchor a resolute defensive unit in a gritty 1-0 victory over Corby Town FC. In a social media release welcoming the Islander, the club expressed their delight at securing the defender’s services as they look to solidify their league standing.

It was a more frustrating afternoon in the AD&P Cup Quarter-Final for Keunna Dill and Trinae Edwards. Despite a spirited individual performance from Dill, FC United of Manchester fell to a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Accrington Stanley Women.

After falling behind early, Dill showcased her predatory instincts in the 31st minute, firing home a clinical equalizer to drag her side level. However, the Mancunians were unable to capitalize on the momentum, conceding twice more as their cup run came to a premature end.

Elsewhere, Bermuda’s attacking contingent continues to thrive in front of goal. Jasmine Spence helped reignite Newport Pagnell Town Women’s campaign with a dominant 6-0 demolition of River City Women at Willen Road. The victory serves as a major statement of intent for Spence’s side as they look to climb the table following a period of inconsistent form.

In West Yorkshire, Aaliyah Nolan maintained her impressive scoring streak to help Bradford City Women secure a comfortable 3-0 win over South Shields Women. Playing at the Horsfall Community Stadium, Nolan was on target once again, providing the clinical edge that has made her a vital component of the Bantams’ offensive arsenal this season.

Woman of the Year champions inclusion

Lisa Lister Reed, Bermuda’s Woman of the Year 2025, hosted Unstoppable: See Me. Hear Me., A Tea Party of Empowerment and Inclusion, a sold-out fundraiser in partnership with the Women’s Resource Centre (WRC) on Sunday, March 1, at the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club.

Following her recognition as Woman of the Year 2025, outside of her professional duties, Lisa has used this platform to continue advocating for disability inclusion in Bermuda.

The event brought together women, community leaders and supporters to celebrate women’s leadership while raising funds for the WRC’s counselling, advocacy and support services.

The sold-out event reflected strong community enthusiasm for both the cause and the opportunity for women to gather in support of one another. The whimsically designed event also included a fashion show by Nannini Fashions.

“It has been one of my greatest honours to use my Woman of the Year platform to uplift women’s voices and champion disability inclusion,” Lisa said.

Chrystal-Lynn El, Executive Coordinator, speaking on behalf of the WRC, shared information about the Centre’s services and the importance of continued community support. She also highlighted the WRC’s Circle of Support monthly giving initiative, which helps strengthen long-term sustainability as the Centre approaches its 40th anniversary in 2027.

During the program, co-hosts Aderonke Bademosi Wilson and Dr. Jana Pitcher recognized past Women of the Year honorees and shared reflections on the award as recognition of the resilience and leadership of Bermuda’s women.

In her remarks, Lisa shared her lived experience having been born with spinal muscular atrophy and called for more intentional and structural inclusion across Bermuda’s workplaces, policies and public spaces.

“Anything less than inclusion is exclusion. Full access is a human right,” she said.
Lisa encouraged individuals to reflect on their role in creating change. “The question we must ask is simple: who is missing, and why? When we design with inclusion in mind from the start, everyone benefits.”

Closing the program, Lisa invited the audience to carry the message forward. “Inclusion is not my fight alone. It is Bermuda’s responsibility. And together, we are unstoppable.”


The event reflected strong community support for the Women’s Resource Centre and the growing momentum around disability inclusion and women’s leadership in Bermuda.

Event sponsors included:
Sail Bermuda, Enzuri Beauty, Treehouse Bermuda, Cambridge Beaches Resort & Spa, Port Royal Golf Course, Gosling Brothers Limited, Salon Pink, Stowe & Stowe, Orange Bay Company Ltd., Bermuda Touché and Calypso.

Professional service donors included:
TiffViolin, DJ CMDTY, Nannini Fashions, Jayde Gibbons, Ambiance Bermuda Photography, Road Less Traveled Videos and ID Associates.
For more information about the Women’s Resource Centre or to donate to the Circle of Support fundraising initiative, visit www.wrcbermuda.bm.

New date for screening of ‘Black Godfather of Scuba’

The Bermuda Underwater Exploration Institute (BUEI) is excited to announce a special screening of the documentary, Black Godfather of Scuba on Thursday, March 12th at 6:30pm. The evening will feature a live virtual Q&A with the film’s Emmy-nominated director, Matt Kay, offering audiences an exclusive opportunity to dive deeper into the remarkable life and legacy of Dr. Albert “Doc” Jones.

Part of PBS’s REEL SOUTH series, Black Godfather of Scuba documents the groundbreaking work of Dr. Albert “Doc” Jones, founder of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers. Jones dedicated his life to uncovering submerged histories of the African diaspora. His work led to the discovery of the Henrietta Marie, the first recovered slave ship, sparking a mission to honour and preserve the stories of those lost during the Middle Passage.

This moving documentary celebrates a trailblazer who reshaped both scuba diving and historical storytelling.

Matt Kay is an Emmy-nominated filmmaker based in London whose acclaimed documentaries spotlight powerful, character‑driven stories. His work spans global platforms including Netflix, A&E, National Geographic, and Disney+. Kay’s films have screened at over 50 major festivals, earned international awards, and reached millions of viewers.

Tickets are $15 for General Admission and $25 for BUEI’s Big Screen Package, which includes a complimentary glass of wine, beer or non-alcoholic beverage and a snack pack. Thanks to Discovery Wines & Spirits for their generous sponsorship of Films at BUEI. As a bonus, ticket holders can enjoy 15% off dinner at the Harbourfront Restaurant when you dine before the film! Reservations are required and can be made by calling 295-4207.

Tickets are selling fast and can be purchased online at BUEI.org/events and PTIX.bm. You can also buy tickets in person at BUEI’s Oceans Gift Shop or by phoning 294-0204.

Bermuda- based insurer continues to spread its wings

Hamilton, Bermuda, March 5, 2026—Mosaic Insurance is building out its financial institutions and professional liability teams with key hires to drive expansion of finpro lines across North America.

The growth follows Mosaic’s hiring of Sachin Warty and Ann Nozica in Chicago last December, as Global Head of Financial Institutions & Professional Liability (FinPro), and Head of Americas, Financial Institutions, respectively. Both product classes serve rising demand from banks, asset managers, insurers, private funds, fintech and professional services firms.

“By investing in senior leadership and selectively adding depth across these lines, we’re building a scalable platform to meet volatile market conditions,” said Mosaic CEO, Americas, Toby Smith. “This approach reflects our broader strategy in the Americas: deliberate expansion, top-tier talent, and solutions aligned with the evolving risk environment our clients are navigating.”

• In New York, John Soular has joined the company as SVP, Miscellaneous Professional Liability.Withmore than 20 years of specialized experience in professional lines and cyber underwriting, he’ll focus on managing complex risks and developing partner relationships. Soular previously worked at Liberty Mutual/Ironshore, overseeing its professional liability group.

• In Chicago, Michael Rossiter has been hired as AVP, Financial Institutions, focused on building Mosaic’s FI portfolio across the US and growing its broker network. Previously, he worked on the FI underwriting team at Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance (BHSI), covering US central and west regions. Rossiter also held a regulatory role at FINRA.

• In Los Angeles, Katy Heatherton has joined as AVP, Financial Institutions, overseeing the US western region. Heatherton held prior underwriting roles at CNA and Nationwide, where she served as a key contact across financial institutions portfolios.

They join Mosaic’s current global team of 14 professional liability specialists in London and Toronto, and a dozen financial institutions underwriters in London, Toronto, and Bermuda.

“Across the finpro landscape, we’re seeing increased regulatory scrutiny, higher litigation frequency, and more complex balance-sheet and governance pressures,” noted Warty. “Bringing in seasoned underwriters like John, Mike, and Katy significantly strengthens our Americas platform as part of our global capability and gives us the depth and technical strength to address complexity with confidence.”

Mosaic marked its fifth anniversary last month, having successfully built a reputation for underwriting across product lines defined by high technical barriers to entry and relevance to current and projected geopolitical and economic conditions. As well as financial institutions and professional liability, the company’s eight specialty lines include transactional liability, cyber, political risk, political violence, casualty, and environmental liability.

Forum aims to open career paths into insurance sector

Future Leaders Forum will be return to Bermuda Risk Summit on March 11

Hamilton, Bermuda, 5 March 2026 — The Bermuda Business Development Agency (BDA) is bringing back its Future Leaders Forum, a dedicated programme within the Bermuda Risk Summit agenda designed to connect students, graduates, and career shifters with the people, pathways, and practical insights needed to build long-term careers in Bermuda’s risk and insurance sector.

Taking place on 11 March 2026 at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, the Forum is built around a simple idea: a world-class market stays world-class only if the next generation can see a clear way in and can access the knowledge, mentorship, and early opportunities that turn interest into a profession.

Insurance and reinsurance markets are contending with more complex risk dynamics, and talent remains a critical strategic asset. The Future Leaders Forum is designed to strengthen Bermuda’s local pipeline by bringing new talent into direct conversation with industry professionals and educators who understand what the market needs, from underwriting and analytics to engineering, claims, finance, compliance, and catastrophe modelling.

“This Forum is about making the industry feel accessible because it is,” said Korrin Lightbourne, Business Development Manager at the BDA and organiser of the Future Leaders Forum. “Bermuda’s risk sector is full of high-calibre careers, but too often the entry points can feel unclear. We’re building a practical bridge with real guidance and clearer visibility into where opportunities exist, and what it takes to pursue them.”

“Talent development isn’t optional. It’s fundamental to the long-term strength of the market,” said Victoria Cunningham, Executive Director of the Bermuda Foundation for Insurance Studies (BFIS). “I spent over 20 years of my career in reinsurance, and I’ve seen first-hand how a single mentor, internship, or scholarship can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. The Future Leaders Forum brings industry and opportunity into one room and helps emerging professionals see themselves as part of Bermuda’s future leadership.

“BFIS is proud to support the BDA on this important initiative. Their leadership in connecting industry growth with talent development demonstrates a clear commitment to ensuring Bermuda’s market remains competitive for generations to come.”

The Forum is intended to broaden participation across Bermuda’s full education landscape, recognising that ambition is evenly distributed, but early exposure and opportunity are not.

“Berkeley has always been a place where Bermuda’s future takes shape,” said Ms. Keisha L. Douglas, Principal, The Berkeley Institute. “What students need is proximity to possibility, to hear directly from professionals, understand the options, and see a path that feels real. This Forum helps make that connection, and it reinforces that Bermuda’s most important industries should be open to talent from every corner of the island.”

The Future Leaders Forum will also include engagement with Bermuda College, recognising its role as a gateway to higher education and career readiness for many Bermudians, including those pursuing local study before transferring abroad, entering the workforce directly, or building technical and professional qualifications on island.

Participants will engage in interactive sessions designed to be practical and highly engaged, including:

  • Panel Discussion: Future Leaders in Risk — Building Skills for the Next Generation
  • Educational Pathways in Risk & Insurance: degree options, certifications and training routes
  • Table Talks with Industry Professionals: small-group mentoring and candid career conversations

The Future Leaders Forum complements BFIS’s ongoing work to support Bermuda’s talent pipeline through scholarships, mentoring and industry exposure, strengthening local capability alongside global leadership.

Registration for the 2026 Bermuda Risk Summit is open at a rate of $695. Additional sponsorship and speaking opportunities are available. For more information, visit bda.bm or email bermudarisk@bda.bm

Bermuda Risk Summit 2026: Building What’s Next is presented by the BDA in partnership with leading industry sponsors:
Headline: EY
Platinum: BILTIR
Gold: AM Best, Aladdin by Blackrock
Silver: Association of Bermuda Insurers & Reinsurers (ABIR), A&G Travel, Ariel Re, AXA XL, A&G Travel, HSBC Asset Management, KPMG, Walkers (Bermuda) Ltd, Web Connectivity Limited (WCL), A Zywave Company
Supporting: ACORD Solutions Group, AON, Clarendon Wallace, Fidelis Insurance Group, Gnosis, KBRA, Rein4ce, SiriusPoint Ltd., Smith Technologies Ltd., Sompo, SS&C Technologies Inc, Teneo, Valani Global, Wilson Elser
Official Airline: BermudAir
Spirits Sponsor: Gosling’s Limited
Media Partners: Bermuda RE+ILS, Insurance Business America, Insurance Insider, The Insurer from Reuter

Bermudians Abroad: Mixed Fortunes on a High-Stakes Weekend

It was a weekend of dramatic shifts and individual brilliance for Bermuda’s overseas contingent, as high-profile promotion battles and clinical finishing took center stage across the English football pyramid.

The most significant move of the day occurred in the Championship, where Nathan Trott and his Cardiff City teammates relinquished their lead at the summit. In a high-stakes encounter at the Cardiff City Stadium, the Bluebirds fell to a 2-0 defeat against Lincoln City. The clinical performance from the visitors sees Lincoln leapfrog Cardiff to take the top spot, leaving Trott’s side in second as the promotion race intensifies.

At Luton Town, manager Jack Wilshere opted for heavy rotation following their midweek success. With a trip to Wembley secured, Wilshere made seven changes to the side that beat Northampton, but the gamble failed to pay off against Reading. Despite Nahki Wells‘ presence, the Robins suffered a 3-2 home defeat, struggling to find the rhythm that has defined their recent cup run.

Further down the pyramid, the veterans and youngsters alike found their scoring touch. Reggie Lambe proved the difference-maker for Needham Market as they welcomed Southern League Premier Central leaders Spalding United. In the 26th minute, Lambe demonstrated his trademark awareness, looping a finish home from a partially cleared free-kick. The goal stood as the winner in a vital 2-0 victory.

In the National League South, Kane Crichlow was part of a rampant Chelmsford City side that dismantled Bath City 7-1 at the Dunmow Group Community Stadium. Meanwhile, Ajani Burchall made an immediate impact for Wimborne Town on the road. Just five minutes in, Burchall reacted quickest to a bouncing long throw, hooking a left-footed shot into the net to give his side the lead in an eventual 1-1 draw with Yate Town.

It was a more frustrated afternoon for other Bermudians in the central and lower divisions:

  • Willie Clemons and Leiston FC played out a 1-1 draw with Stratford Town in Southern League Premier Division Central action.
  • Ayleal Dill saw his Southwell City side share the points in a 1-1 draw with Dunkirk.
  • Milan Butterfield suffered a difficult day at The Grove as Halesowen Town were beaten 3-0 by local rivals Stourbridge.
  • Aunde Todd and Badshot Lea narrowly missed out on points, falling 2-1 to Fleet Town in a competitive Combined Counties Premier Division South clash.

‘When women and girls thrive, everyone rises’

Monetary Authority lends its support to International Women’s Day

HAMILTON, BERMUDA – The women of the Bermuda Monetary Authority (Authority or BMA) today proudly join the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day (IWD) under the 2026 theme, ‘Give To Gain’. This year’s campaign highlights the power of reciprocity and the impact of giving through mentoring and collective action to build a more inclusive, supportive and interconnected world.

Women continue to contribute significantly to the BMA’s labour force, with increasing representation in senior leadership positions and on the Board of Directors. To achieve long-term success in this area, the Authority continues to provide ongoing professional development and training opportunities that equip women to lead and help shape the future of Bermuda’s financial services sector. The Authority also remains committed to supporting community-focused initiatives and programmes that enable staff members to contribute to building a thriving, sustainable future for all. To celebrate this year’s IWD, the Authority will host a special luncheon and panel discussion featuring several female guests who will share their inspiring journeys of giving back through their work and community service.

Shanna Lepere, Deputy CEO, said, “International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder that when women and girls thrive, everyone rises. When women are supported, especially through mentoring and sponsorship, opportunities expand, confidence grows, and the impact ripples far beyond individuals – strengthening teams, organisations and the wider community.”

Celebrated worldwide on March 8th, IWD is a day dedicated to recognising the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Since its inception in 1911, the day has cultivated a strong sense of purpose and solidarity among women across all cultures and generations. Each year, the initiative drives a global call to action to advance gender equality and reinforce the idea that women’s progress benefits everyone.

The 2026 campaign calls on individuals and organisations to move beyond words to tangible actions, such as mentoring, funding women-owned businesses and enhancing the visibility of women’s successes and achievements worldwide. The goal is simple yet powerful: by providing support, women and girls are better equipped to pursue their goals, free of bias and barriers. To learn more about giving to gain, visit the IWD campaign webpage.

City earns ‘Investors in People’ endorsement

The Corporation of Hamilton is proud to announce that it has achieved the prestigious Investors in People “We Invest in People” Standard Accreditation for the period 13 February 2026 to 30 September 2028.

Investors in People is a globally recognised framework that supports organisations in improving performance through strong leadership, employee engagement, wellbeing, and continuous development. The framework covers key areas such as investing in leadership, investing in staff wellbeing, and investing in apprentices and development pathways.

The City was first awarded the accreditation in 2015 and has maintained its Investors in People status since then, successfully completing formal reassessments every three years and providing regular progress updates to IIP assessors to ensure the standard continues to be met.

This internationally recognised accreditation confirms that the organisation meets global best-practice standards in how it leads, supports, develops and engages its people. The award follows a comprehensive assessment conducted by an overseas assessor, who visited Bermuda to undertake a full organisational review. The process included interviews with staff across all levels, in-depth discussions with Human Resources, and anonymous employee surveys.

During the assessment, staff consistently expressed pride in their work and in serving the community. The review highlighted that employees find their roles engaging and meaningful, even after decades of service, noting the variety of daily interactions and the shared commitment to keeping the City safe, clean, and vibrant.

Leadership was recognised as visible, compassionate, and accessible. Employees spoke positively of the CEO’s leadership style during periods of change.

The assessment also noted the important role played by unions and staff committees in empowering employee voice and fostering collaboration. The Engagement Committee, which hosts a series of social and wellness events for staff throughout the year, was described as “a great way to build camaraderie and teamwork.” The Health and Safety Committee was recognised for maintaining high standards of compliance and prioritising employee wellbeing.

The IIP Report noted that Innovation (one of the City’s core values) was evident across multiple departments and that significant advancements in digital transformation were recognised, including:

· Migration of City Works and HR systems to secure cloud-based platforms

· Introduction of electronic time and payroll systems integrated with local banks and tax authorities

· Enhanced data privacy governance in line with Bermuda’s PIPA and PATI legislation

· Implementation of License Plate Recognition (LPR) technology to improve parking flow and reduce misuse

· Ongoing cybersecurity strengthening to mitigate phishing and data risks

Operational innovation was also highlighted as part of the IIP review. Across the organization, staff feel they have been actively involved in research and procurement decisions

City CEO Dwayne Caines said: “This accreditation is not the finish line. It is a marker in the sand. Over the coming months, we will implement initiatives to address identified gaps and build on our strengths. I want to thank every staff member who participated in interviews, discussions, and feedback sessions.

“The Corporation of Hamilton remains committed to continuous improvement, ensuring that by investing in its people, it continues to deliver exceptional service to the public and uphold its vision of a safe, clean, and vibrant City.”