Guyana’s Gas-to-Energy Pipeline Could Be Operational Soon

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: A pipeline that will allow Guyana to transport natural gas produced by an Exxon Mobil-led consortium to shore has been connected to two of the project’s floating production platforms, according to Exxon’s Guyana head, Alistair Routledge, as reported on Wednesday.

The “Gas-to-Energy” project, spearheaded by the Guyanese government, is designed to supply a 300-megawatt power plant and a natural gas liquids (NGL) facility with gas from two Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels located in Exxon’s Stabroek block.

The 200-kilometer (124.3-mile) pipeline could be operational by the end of this year, Routledge told local reporters, according to Newsroom Guyana. The project, slated for completion next year, is expected to lower electricity costs and reduce emissions, marking the first use of associated gas produced in the country.

Guyana has invested approximately $400 million in the development of this project, which represents a significant step in the country’s efforts to diversify its energy portfolio and enhance sustainability.

The Exxon consortium, which includes China’s CNOOC and U.S.-based Hess, temporarily paused oil and gas output at the platforms during the third quarter to facilitate the pipeline connection. “Risers have now been successfully connected to the pipeline, and we have conducted several tests and de-watering exercises to ensure everything is functioning correctly,” Routledge added.

Once operational, the “Gas-to-Energy” project is anticipated to provide more reliable and affordable energy to Guyana, fueling industrial growth and reducing the country’s dependence on imported energy sources. This strategic move is set to further bolster Guyana’s growing status as a key energy producer in the region.

Here’s What The World Bank Is Urging The Caribbean To Do

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: The World Bank has urged Caribbean nations to capitalize on key opportunities and implement structural reforms to drive sustainable economic growth. In its latest report, “Taxing Wealth for Equity and Growth,” released on Oct. 9th, the World Bank emphasized that the region must focus on fiscal reforms, increase investments, and harness the potential of nearshoring to break out of its low-growth cycle.

William Maloney, the World Bank’s Chief Economist for Latin America and the Caribbean, stressed that the Caribbean must improve its fiscal space, reduce tax burdens on productive sectors, and attract investments by enhancing government efficacy. He also emphasized the importance of wealth taxes as a tool to create fiscal space and promote equity.

“The region has made strides in managing inflation and stabilizing its macroeconomic environment, but more is needed to boost growth. This is a critical moment to attract investments, foster innovation, and create more and better jobs,” said Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Economic Growth for Selected Caribbean Nations – 2024-2026

Country2024 Growth (%)2025 Growth (%)2026 Growth (%)Barbados3.9%2.8%2.3%Belize4.3%1.2%0.5%Dominica4.6%4.2%3.2%Grenada3.2%4.7%4.4%Guyana43%12.3%15.7% (2028)Haiti-4.2%0.5%1.5%Jamaica0.8%2.2%1.6%St. Lucia3.4%2.6%2.3%St. Vincent and Grenadines5%3.5%2.9%Suriname2.9%3%3.1%Trinidad and Tobago2.2%2.3%0.9%

Key Recommendations from the World Bank Report

Wealth Taxes and Fiscal Space: The World Bank suggests that Caribbean nations should reconsider how tax systems can generate revenue while stimulating growth. Wealth taxes could be used to address income inequality and create fiscal space for investments.

Nearshoring Opportunities: Despite having competitive wages, the region has not fully capitalized on nearshoring opportunities due to high capital costs, weak education systems, and inadequate infrastructure.

Foreign Direct Investment: LAC has seen a decline in foreign direct investment levels, and the World Bank report notes that addressing infrastructure and social instability issues could help attract more investment.

With U.S. interest rates expected to decrease, the World Bank sees an opportunity for Caribbean economies to seize momentum and accelerate their development. However, this will require a concerted effort in governance and public investment reforms across the region.

Three Caribbean Islands Remain On EU Tax Haven Blacklist

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 9, 2024: Three Caribbean territories, including one U.S. jurisdiction, remain on the European Union’s latest tax haven blacklist. The islands are Anguilla, Trinidad and Tobago, and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI).

“The Council regrets that these jurisdictions are not yet cooperative on tax matters and invites them to improve their legal framework to resolve the identified issues,” stated the EU Council, which comprises the 27 member states of the European Union.

Trinidad and Tobago’s Finance Minister, Colm Imbert, recently urged the Opposition to support legislation aimed at addressing the country’s inclusion on the EU’s blacklist. On September 13, Imbert introduced the Miscellaneous Provisions (Global Forum) Bill 2024 in the House of Representatives. He emphasized the importance of adopting recommendations from the EU Global Facility on Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism, which reviewed T&T’s tax transparency legislation in March.

“We risk not getting off the blacklist if we don’t accept the EU’s recommendations,” Imbert cautioned at the time.

Similarly, USVI Governor Albert Bryan has been advocating for the territory’s removal from the list since 2019, arguing that the blacklisting is unjust. Anguilla was added to the list in 2022 due to concerns that the island facilitates offshore structures without substantial economic activity.

On a positive note, Antigua and Barbuda was removed from the blacklist on October 8, following updates to its legal framework. The Global Forum has granted the country a supplementary review, with further evaluations pending.

The EU’s tax haven blacklist was established in 2017 after scandals like the Panama Papers heightened pressure on the EU to combat tax evasion. The list is updated biannually, with the next revision scheduled for February 2025.

What are the listing criteria?

To be considered cooperative for tax purposes, jurisdictions are screened on a number of criteria, established by the Council.

The criteria have been designed to evolve over time, so that they are aligned with international tax good governance standards, developed notably in forums of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) such as the Global Forum on transparency and exchange of information for tax purposes, the forum on harmful tax practices and the inclusive framework on base erosion and profit shifting.

The listing criteria relate to tax transparency, fair taxation and measures against base erosion and profit shifting (‘anti-BEPS measures’).

10 Caribbean Born NFL Players Making An Impact In 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Caribbean immigrants have long contributed to the fabric of U.S. society, excelling in various fields from business to sports. This impact is evident in the National Football League (NFL), where several Caribbean-born players are making their mark in the 2024 season. Here are 10 standout players from the Caribbean who are making waves on the football field:

1. Rakeem Nuñez-Roches – Belize

Caribbean immigrant and Belize born Rakeem Nunez-Roches #93 of the New York Giants looks on against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on October 06, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Rakeem Nathan Nuñez-Roches, born in Belize, is a formidable defensive end for the New York Giants. He was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2015 and has since become a key player in the NFL. After stints with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where he won Super Bowl LV, Nuñez-Roches joined the Giants in 2023, bringing his impressive skill set to one of the league’s most competitive divisions.

2. Matthew Peart – Jamaica

Jamaican born Matt Peart #79 of the Denver Broncos stands on the sidelines during the national anthem prior to an NFL football game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium on September 22, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Jamaican-born offensive tackle Matthew Peart has steadily built his career in the NFL. Raised in The Bronx, Peart was drafted by the New York Giants in 2020 and, after overcoming several injuries, signed with the Denver Broncos in 2024. His imposing 6’6″ frame and agility have made him a valuable asset in protecting quarterbacks and opening lanes for running backs.

3. Danielle Hunter – Jamaica

Jamaican born Danielle Hunter #55 of the Houston Texans runs out of the tunnel prior to an NFL football game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at NRG Stadium on September 29, 2024 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Danielle Hunter, born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, is an accomplished defensive end currently playing for the Houston Texans. Known for his explosive speed and athleticism, Hunter was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and earned four Pro Bowl selections before signing a lucrative contract with the Texans in 2024. His story is one of perseverance, having moved to the U.S. as a child and worked his way to NFL stardom.

4. Corey Ballentine – Jamaica

Jamaican born Cornerback Corey Ballentine #26 of the Green Bay Packers stands on the field during the coin toss prior to an NFL football game against the Indianapolis Colts, at Lambeau Field on September 15, 2024 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. (Photo by Todd Rosenberg/Getty Images)

Born in Jamaica, Corey Ballentine plays as a cornerback for the Green Bay Packers. After being drafted by the New York Giants in 2019, Ballentine’s journey in the NFL has included stops with the Jets, Lions, Falcons, and Cardinals. His resilience has seen him re-sign with the Packers in 2024, where his speed and defensive instincts continue to be valuable assets.

5. Javon Kinlaw – Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago born Javon Kinlaw #54 of the New York Jets celebrates during an NFL football game against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium on September 19, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Trinidadian-born defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw was selected by the San Francisco 49ers in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft. Now playing for the New York Jets, Kinlaw’s journey from childhood hardship in Washington, D.C., to becoming a dominant force on the field is inspiring. Known for his size and strength, Kinlaw has been a key contributor on the defensive line.

6. Bayron Matos – Dominican Republic

DR born Bayron Matos #79 of the Miami Dolphins stands on the sidelines prior to an NFL preseason football game against the Washington Commanders at Hard Rock Stadium on August 17, 2024 in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images)

Bayron Matos, originally a basketball standout from the Dominican Republic, transitioned to football through the NFL’s International Player Pathway Program. Signed by the Miami Dolphins, Matos’ 6’7″ frame and athleticism have quickly turned heads, making him one of the most exciting new talents to watch in 2024.

7. N’Keal Harry – St. Vincent and the Grenadines

SVG N’Keal Harry #13 of the Minnesota Vikings in action against the Philadelphia Eagles during the preseason game at Lincoln Financial Field on August 24, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The Vikings defeated the Eagles 26-3. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

Vincentian-born wide receiver-turned-tight end N’Keal Harry currently plays for the Minnesota Vikings. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 2019, Harry’s size and skill have made him a versatile player. He transitioned to tight end in 2024, hoping to capitalize on his blocking ability and improve his impact in the NFL.

8. Mike Sainristil – Haiti

Haitian immigrant Mike Sainristil #0 of the Washington Commanders defends in coverage during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on September 23, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Mike Sainristil, a cornerback for the Washington Commanders, has been one of the standout rookies of 2024. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, Sainristil immigrated to the U.S. as a child and went on to have a stellar college career at the University of Michigan, where he helped lead his team to a national championship in 2023. Drafted in the second round, he’s already making waves in the NFL with his defensive prowess.

9. Junior Colson – Haiti

COSTA MESA, CALIFORNIA – JUNE 13: Junior Colson #25 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during an NFL football practice at Hoag Performance Center on June 13, 2024 in Costa Mesa, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

Junior Colson, a linebacker for the Los Angeles Chargers, was born in Mirebalais, Haiti, before being adopted and raised in Tennessee. Known for his tenacity and leadership on the field, Colson was drafted in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft after a stellar career at Michigan, where he was a key figure in their national championship team.

10. Lewis Cine – Haiti

MIAMI GARDENS, FL – SEPTEMBER 12: Lewis Cine #36 of the Buffalo Bills is tackled during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on September 12, 2024 in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

Lewis Cine, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, is another Haitian-born player making his mark in the NFL. After being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2022, Cine’s career was disrupted by a severe leg injury. However, his determination has seen him bounce back, signing with the Bills in 2024 and working his way back onto the field with the goal of becoming a top safety in the league.

These Caribbean-born athletes embody the resilience and determination that characterize the region’s rich cultural history. Their stories are a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and hard work—proving that no matter where you come from, you can achieve greatness.

Canada Issues Travel Warnings For Five Caribbean Countries

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: The Canadian government has updated its travel advisories, urging nationals to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting several Caribbean nations due largely to rising concerns about crime and safety. The advisory, updated on Monday, applies to Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic as well as Cuba.

Jamaica

As one of the region’s top tourist destinations, Jamaica faces a particular spotlight in the advisory. Canada warns that “violent crime, including armed robbery and murder, is a problem in large cities and tourist areas, including parts of Kingston and Montego Bay, despite the presence of police to counter criminal activity.” The advisory emphasizes that crimes tend to concentrate in what local authorities call “traditional hot spots” but can occur anywhere and at any time. Tourists are particularly vulnerable to theft and robbery, and there is an ongoing risk of becoming caught in gang-related crossfire, especially in urban areas.

Trinidad and Tobago

For Trinidad and Tobago, Canada is advising its citizens to avoid non-essential travel to certain areas due to the high levels of violence and gang activity. These areas include Beetham Estate Gardens, Cocorite, Downtown Port of Spain, Laventille, and Sea Lots. The advisory notes that gang violence and armed confrontations are common in these regions, posing a significant threat to both locals and visitors.

Guyana

Canadian nationals are being warned to exercise increased caution while visiting Guyana due to prevalent violent crime. The advisory highlights that criminal activity, often linked to illegal drug trafficking, includes homicides, assaults, armed robberies, and carjackings. Tourists are particularly vulnerable, with cases of foreigners being robbed at gunpoint, especially after withdrawing money from banks or shopping areas. To minimize risk, travelers are advised to avoid carrying large amounts of cash and refrain from walking alone after dark, especially in certain Georgetown neighborhoods like Agricola, Buxton, and Stabroek Market.

Dominican Republic

Punta Cana from the air, Dominican Republic.

While the Dominican Republic remains a popular destination, Canadian authorities caution travelers about rising crime levels, particularly in major cities. The advisory indicates that most incidents affecting tourists are opportunistic crimes such as theft and robbery, though violent crime is also a concern. Visitors are urged to be vigilant and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

Cuba

Canada’s advisory for Cuba differs slightly, focusing on shortages of basic necessities such as food, medicine, and fuel. While crime is not highlighted as a major concern, the advisory emphasizes the challenges travelers may face due to limited access to essential supplies.

Haiti

Canada continues to strongly advise against all travel to Haiti, where severe political instability and widespread gang violence have made the situation increasingly dangerous for foreign visitors.

The Canadian government urges all travelers to stay informed, remain vigilant, and take necessary precautions when visiting these Caribbean nations.

US Organization Condemns Dominican Republic’s Plan To Expel 10,000 Haitian Migrants Per Week

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News Americas, New York, NY, Tues. October 8, 2024: The US-based Haitian Bridge Alliance, (HBA), has strongly condemned the Dominican Republic’s decision to expel up to 10,000 Haitian nationals per week. The organization warns that this policy “threatens to worsen the ongoing humanitarian crisis faced by Haitians both in their homeland and abroad.”

A man holds a Dominican Republic flag during an anti-Haitian migration protest in Santo Domingo on October 5, 2024. (Photo by FRANCESCO SPOTORNO/AFP via Getty Images)

HBA, a grassroots non-profit that advocates for humane immigration policies and provides vital services to migrants, including the Haitian community, women, girls, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and survivors of human rights abuses, called the plan a “flagrant violation of basic human rights” that undermines efforts to manage migration with dignity.

“With Haiti already suffering from political instability, humanitarian crises, gang violence, and natural disasters, forcing thousands to return to an unsafe environment is unconscionable,” the organization stated. HBA highlighted that over 700,000 women and children have been displaced in Haiti, with 80% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, controlled by gangs. The group warned that the deportations would “further destabilize the region,” exacerbating the dire conditions Haitians are fleeing.

HBA also voiced concerns about systemic xenophobia and racial profiling, noting that the mass expulsions appear to target Haitians based on their ethnicity, nationality, or immigration status, fostering division and fear. The organization urged the international community to hold the Dominican Republic accountable for upholding the human rights of migrants.

HBA Executive Director Guerline Jozef condemned the policy as “inhumane” and called on the Dominican government to halt the deportations, urging collaboration with regional partners like CARICOM and the Organization of American States (OAS) to create sustainable migration solutions. “We need solidarity, not division, to protect human rights across borders,” Jozef added.

The government of Haiti has also called on the Dominican Republic to respect the rights of Haitian migrants. Haitian Foreign Minister Dominique Dupuy described the deportation plan as “regrettable” and emphasized the need to uphold the rights of all individuals, especially vulnerable groups such as women and children of Haitian descent.

Anti-Immigrant Protests

A man holds a banner that reads in spanish ‘Two nations don’t fit here’ during an anti-Haitian migration protest in Santo Domingo on October 5, 2024. (Photo by FRANCESCO SPOTORNO/AFP via Getty Images)

Meanwhile, anti-Haitian sentiment has been on the rise in the Dominican Republic. Last Friday, demonstrators from the Antigua Nueva Orden Dominicana protested near the National Palace, calling for stricter measures to curb Haitian migration. Their demonstration coincided with President Luis Abinader’s speech at the UN General Assembly, where he called for increased international efforts to stabilize Haiti, citing it as a “strategic necessity” for regional security.

Despite repeated calls from the United Nations to stop forced returns to Haiti amid surging gang violence, the Dominican government announced that the mass deportations would begin “immediately.” According to Dominican presidential spokesperson Homero Figueroa, the plan aims to reduce the “excessive migrant populations” in Dominican communities.

This announcement comes shortly after the UN reported that over 3,600 people were killed in Haiti in the first half of 2024, as violence continues to escalate. Haiti’s ongoing struggles with gang control have displaced hundreds of thousands and left nearly half of the population facing acute hunger.

US Official Visit

Meanwhile, US Assistant Secretary for International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs Todd D. Robinson is scheduled to visit the Dominican Republic this week to discuss security cooperation and combat transnational crime, following recent high-level meetings between U.S. and Dominican officials on regional security.

Haitian Born NFL Players Making Waves In 2024

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Despite much negative talk, Haitians, like many Caribbean immigrants continue to make remarkable strides in various fields, and the National Football League (NFL) is no exception. From remarkable college careers to becoming professional stars, Haitian-born and Haitian American players are showcasing their skills on the gridiron. Here are three Haitian-born NFL players currently making waves:

Haitian immigrant Mike Sainristil #0 of the Washington Commanders defends in coverage during an NFL football game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on September 23, 2024 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)

Mike Sainristil – Washington Commanders

Mike Sainristil, a talented cornerback for the Washington Commanders, has made a name for himself both in college and now in the NFL. Born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on October 3, 2000, Sainristil’s family immigrated to Everett, Massachusetts, when he was just seven months old after political unrest in Haiti.

Sainristil excelled at Everett High School, where he was named Massachusetts’ 2018 Gatorade Player of the Year. After committing to the University of Michigan, he quickly became a standout player, contributing both as a wide receiver and later as a cornerback. His defensive prowess earned him first-team All-American honors in 2023, and he was instrumental in leading Michigan to a national championship that same year.

In the 2024 NFL Draft, Sainristil was selected in the second round by the Commanders. So far in his rookie season, he’s made an immediate impact, recording 22 tackles and two pass breakups in just five games.

Haitian born Junior Colson #25 of the Los Angeles Chargers walks off the field during an NFL football practice at Hoag Performance Center on June 13, 2024 in Costa Mesa, California. (Photo by Ric Tapia/Getty Images)

Junior Colson – Los Angeles Chargers

Born in Mirebalais, Haiti, Junior Colson’s journey to the NFL is a testament to resilience. After losing his father at the age of seven, he lived in an orphanage in Port-au-Prince before being adopted by Steve and Melanie Colson, who brought him to Tennessee. Colson adapted to life in the U.S. while embracing his love for football, becoming one of the top recruits in the nation as a linebacker.

Colson went on to play college football for the University of Michigan, where he earned accolades such as the Lott IMPACT Trophy and a two-time All-Big Ten selection. His consistent performance helped Michigan win three consecutive Big Ten titles and a national championship in 2023.

Drafted by the Los Angeles Chargers in the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft, Colson has already proven to be a strong defensive presence, with high expectations for his professional career.

Haitian born Lewis Cine #36 of the Buffalo Bills is tackled during an NFL football game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on September 12, 2024 in Miami Gardens, FL. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

Lewis Cine – Buffalo Bills

Lewis Cine, a safety for the Buffalo Bills, was born in Haiti on October 5, 1999, before moving to the United States as a young child. Cine’s family initially settled in Florida before relocating to Massachusetts, where he attended Everett High School and earned recognition as Massachusetts’ Defensive Player of the Year.

After completing his senior year at Trinity Christian School in Texas, Cine committed to play college football at the University of Georgia. He quickly became a standout player, helping Georgia win the national championship in 2021. Known for his speed and defensive acumen, Cine was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

However, a serious leg injury in his rookie season sidelined him. After being released by the Vikings in 2024, Cine signed with the Buffalo Bills practice squad, where he’s working towards making a strong comeback.

These three players represent the determination and resilience of Haitians in the NFL. Their stories not only inspire Haitian and immigrant communities but also show how far talent and perseverance can take you, no matter where your journey begins.

Victims of Robert Allen Stanford’s Ponzi Scheme Begin Recovering Losses

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News Americas, New York, NY, October 8, 2024: Remember the infamous Robert Allen Stanford scheme that put Antigua & Barbuda in the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons? As Stanford serves a 110-year sentence in Florida’s Coleman II federal prison, victims of his company, Stanford Financial, are finally on the verge of recouping some of their losses.

Flashback – Convicted financier R. Allen Stanford, left, exits the Bob Casey Federal Courthouse in Houston, Texas, U.S., on Tuesday, March 6, 2012. Stanford was convicted of fraud in what prosecutors said was a $7 billion scheme involving bogus certificates of deposit sold by his Antigua-based bank. Photographer: Aaron M. Sprecher/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Stanford, a Texas financier, was convicted for orchestrating a $7 billion Ponzi scheme through Stanford International Bank Ltd., his offshore bank on the Caribbean island of Antigua. Now, 14 years later, progress is being made for the victims.

Ralph S. Janvey, the securities lawyer appointed as receiver in the case, is distributing significant payments following a settlement reached last year. So far, Janvey has returned approximately $609 million to former Stanford customers, with an additional $157 million ready for disbursement, adding to the $1.2 billion already set aside. While this is far short of the $4.9 billion in total claims owed to over 20,000 customers worldwide, it is more than many victims ever expected to recover.

Hedge funds and other investors in distressed assets have bought about $700 million in claims, according to Baker Botts, the law firm assisting Janvey. Victims like Annalisa Mendez, who lost $400,000, noted that many desperate people sold their claims to these funds for a fraction of their value. Others, like Jean Anne Mayhall, who held on to her $500,000 claim, expressed frustration at the long wait. Many victims, including Mayhall’s mother, sold their claims after years of delays, while some died before receiving any compensation.

Although there is no public list of hedge funds that bought the claims, firms such as Contrarian Capital, Whitebox Advisors, and Farallon Capital Management are believed to be among the largest purchasers. Hedge funds typically bought these claims at 14 to 17 cents on the dollar, with prices jumping to around 35 cents after the bank settlement announcement in early 2023.

Despite frustrations over the lengthy process, the market for claims remains active. Victims of other financial scandals, including the collapse of the cryptocurrency exchange FTX and Bernie Madoff’s infamous Ponzi scheme, have similarly sold their claims. Recovery rates vary; in Madoff’s case, nearly 90% of investor losses were recovered thanks to aggressive federal prosecution and settlements with big banks.

In the Stanford case, Janvey and his legal team faced criticism from victims over the time it took and the high fees paid to lawyers, which have totaled $463 million over 15 years, with another $38 million expected soon. Victim advocate Angela Shaw Alexander described the fees as excessive, given the slow pace of restitution.

Janvey defended the process, noting that the Stanford fraud was vast and complex, requiring years of costly litigation. While federal authorities initially expected to recover at least $2 billion from Stanford’s bank in Antigua, only $63 million in cash and some assets like real estate and private equity investments were ultimately seized.

For Robert Allen Stanford, now 74 and prisoner number 35017-183, the earliest possible release date is March 13, 2103.

Akon Drops New Single

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 7, 2024: Senegalese-American international Grammy-winning superstar, Akon, is riding high on fan demand and critical acclaim after the release of a 30-second teaser for his highly anticipated new single, “Akon’s Beautiful Day.” The clip, shared on Instagram on October 4, 2024, via Konvict Kulture Records, went viral with over 100 million views and generated more than 100,000 fan-created videos, even before the song’s official release. Known for his uplifting music and global initiatives, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” is a testament to resilience and hope, encouraging listeners to find light amid life’s challenges.

Akon releases new single. (PHOTO CREDIT: ZEKARIA AL-BOSTANI

Complex perfectly captured the essence of the song, commenting, “Akon returns with ‘Akon’s Beautiful Day,’ a song the five-time Grammy nominee is hoping will serve as ‘the anthem the world needs right now.’”

Upon its release, the track instantly reached 27 Spotify New Music Friday playlists, spanning territories from Germany to the Philippines, France, Italy, and more, reaching a total of 3.9 million listeners on day one. Additionally, the single landed on Apple Music’s New Music Daily playlists in several countries and DEEZER’s top playlists in the UK and France. U.S. radio stations, including 102.7 KIIS-FM (Los Angeles) and WiLD 94.9 (San Francisco), have also quickly added the track to their rotations.

Akon’s career is filled with groundbreaking achievements, including being the first artist to hold both the number one and number two spots on the Billboard Hot 100 twice and amassing over 1 billion views on YouTube. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” builds on this legacy with its powerful message, featuring an interpolation of the viral hook written by Jamaican artist Jermaine Edwards and popularized by 10-year-old Rushawn Ewears, whose moving performance of the song touched hearts globally. Akon’s soulful vocals, backed by a choir of children’s voices, turn this melody into an uplifting anthem for the world.

Produced in collaboration with JKash, J.R. Rotem, and Phil Phever, “Akon’s Beautiful Day” combines acoustic guitar arrangements with an infectious beat, delivering a feel-good chorus that invites global singalongs. The release coincides with the 20th anniversary of Akon’s debut album Trouble, which launched his career with hits like “Locked Up.” Alongside his upcoming “Akon SuperFan Tour” across Asia, Akon is also expanding into film with a documentary, Headliners Only, produced by Kevin Hart’s Hartbeat Productions.

In a world facing numerous challenges, Akon’s positive message of unity and optimism is resonating more than ever. “Akon’s Beautiful Day” aligns with his broader mission to inspire through his music and humanitarian efforts, including the ongoing “Akon Lighting Africa” project, which aims to provide sustainable energy to millions across the continent. With this new release, Akon, 51, reclaims his place as a pop icon, delivering a song of hope and light that the world needs right now. Stream HERE

History Making CPL For St. Lucia Kings

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News Americas, New York, NY, Mon. Oct. 7, 2024: The St. Lucia Kings made history Sunday night by claiming their first-ever Caribbean Premier League (CPL) title, defeating the defending champions, Guyana Amazon Warriors, on their home ground at Providence Stadium, Guyana.

Faf du Plessis, captain of St.Lucia Kings lifts the CPL T20 trophy after the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

In a thrilling final, the Kings posted 139 for 4 after bowling out the Amazon Warriors for 138 for 8, securing a remarkable six-wicket victory. The win silenced the packed Guyanese crowd, marking a momentous achievement for St. Lucia cricket.

Daren Sammy (C), head coach of St.Lucia Kings celebrates with teammates after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 6, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

The turning point came when the Kings were struggling at 51 for 4 in pursuit of 139 on a slow, tricky pitch. The Amazon Warriors’ spin attack dominated the middle overs, while Roston Chase battled illness, and Aaron Jones seemed out of form. At one point, captain Daren Sammy even considered retiring Jones. But Jones soon turned the game around, smashing 38 off his next 12 balls, and alongside Chase, forged an unbroken 88-run partnership that snatched victory from the Amazon Warriors.

Daren Sammy, head coach of St.Lucia Kings celebrates after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 6, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Chase, playing his fifth season for the Kings, was instrumental in both bowling and batting. He finished the week on a high, having also earned a Cricket West Indies (CWI) central contract.

Roston Chase, and Khary Pierre of St.Lucia Kings pose for a photo with the CPL T20 trophy after winning the Men’s 2024 Republic Bank Caribbean Premier League Final match between Saint Lucia Kings and Guyana Amazon Warriors at Providence Stadium on October 06, 2024 in Georgetown, Guyana. (Photo by Ashley Allen – CPL T20/CPL T20 via Getty Images)

Earlier, the Amazon Warriors struggled on a sluggish surface, managing just 27 runs in the powerplay. Despite valiant efforts from Shai Hope (22 off 24 balls) and the late big-hitting from Romario Shepherd and Dwaine Pretorius, who added 36 runs in the final two overs, their total of 138 was not enough to defend. Noor Ahmad’s stellar performance, taking 3 wickets for 19 runs, was a highlight, but it was not enough to stop the Kings’ march to victory.

Jones’ explosive performance in the 16th and 17th overs, combined with Chase’s steady support, sealed the win. The dramatic 27-run over off Moeen Ali and the subsequent 20 runs from Pretorius’ over put the game out of reach for the Amazon Warriors.

Jones, who has had a remarkable 2024 season, made his CPL return through his Barbadian passport and delivered when it mattered most. His six-hitting display echoed his standout performance in the 2024 T20 World Cup and capped a memorable night for both him and the Kings.

St. Lucia Kings coach Daren Sammy, known for his leadership and inspirational style, wrapped Jones in a celebratory embrace after the victory – an iconic moment that will be remembered as the Kings lifted their maiden CPL trophy.