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Afreximbank Barbados Country Brief spotlights market’s economic resilience and reform-driven path for growth

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Growth is forecast at 1.9% in 2026 and 2.3% in 2027, supported by resilient tourism inflows, a strong pipeline of investment projects and targeted government support for households and businesses

CAIRO, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) has released its latest Barbados Country brief, offering a comprehensive and timely analysis of the island nation’s macroeconomic outlook. The brief explores key regional and international trade dynamics, financial sector developments and debt sustainability trends.

The brief highlights that Barbados has exhibited resilient growth following the Covid-19 pandemic, with GDP growth averaging 5.6% between 2021 and 2026, driven by a robust resurgence in tourism. Growth is forecast at 1.9% in 2026 and 2.3% in 2027, supported by resilient tourism inflows, a strong pipeline of investment projects and targeted government support for households and businesses.

Central to this transformation is Barbados’ IMF-backed Barbados Economic Recovery and Transformation (BERT) programme. The brief notes that the original BERT programme concluded successfully in 2025, with the IMF Executive Board approving a new 36-month precautionary Stand-By Arrangement of USD257 million in June 2026 to support the next phase of structural reform. This reflects the international community’s confidence in Barbados’ policy track record and the market’s commitment to building a resilient and diversified economy.

This brief edition also explores the high-income island nation’s impressive fiscal consolidation. Public debt has declined from 104.1% of GDP at end-FY2023/24 to 96% of GDP at end-March 2026, backed by a primary fiscal surplus of 4.2% of GDP in FY2025/26. The government’s medium-term framework targets sustained primary surpluses of 3.5% of GDP, placing public debt on a firm trajectory towards the 60% of GDP anchor by FY2035/36. The IMF assesses the overall risk of sovereign stress as moderate, reflecting Barbados’ strong and consistent policy track record.

On trade, the brief points to a steadily strengthening external position. Total goods and services trade grew from USD4.1 billion in 2018 to USD5.5 billion in 2024, with further expansion to USD6.3 billion projected in 2026. Barbados’ services balance remains a key pillar of strength, underpinned by tourism inflows that grew 3.7% in the first quarter of 2026, bolstered by a 30% year-on-year jump in cruise ship arrivals.

The brief further highlights developments within Barbados’ deep and diversified financial sector. In June 2026, the Central Bank of Barbados launched BiMPay, a national instant payment system enabling round-the-clock settlements and broadening financial inclusion. This represents the latest in a series of measures to strengthen the efficiency and resilience of the country’s financial infrastructure.

Commenting on the brief, Dr Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist and Managing Director, Research and Trade Intelligence, noted: “The findings highlight Barbados as a dynamic, reform-driven economy whose resilient fundamentals, stable governance and deepening regional ties position it as an increasingly compelling partner for trade finance and development cooperation across the Caribbean.”

Read more about the Afreximbank Country Brief on Barbados https://apo-opa.co/47NXZPE

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank. 

Media Contact: 
Vincent Musumba
Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
Email: press@afreximbank.com

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About Afreximbank:
African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2025, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$48.5 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$8.4 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), GCR (A), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-), Moody’s (Baa2) and S&P Global Ratings (BBB+). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

Dissemination of a CORPORATE NEWS, transmitted by EQS Group.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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CBS ArcSafe® Adds Wireless Operation and Milwaukee Power to Chicken Switch® RSK-DS10 for DS-Style Circuit Breakers

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DENTON, Texas, Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CBS ArcSafe®, a leading manufacturer of remote racking and switching solutions for low- and medium-voltage switchgear, has updated the Chicken Switch® RSK-DS10, a remote switch kit (RSK) that allows technicians to trip and close DS-style circuit breakers from outside the arc flash boundary. The updated kit is powered by a Milwaukee® M18™ REDLITHIUM ion battery pack for wireless operations.

DS-style low-voltage breakers from Westinghouse, Cutler-Hammer, Square D, and Eaton remain in service in facilities across the country. For teams that maintain this gear, the RSK-DS10 offers a cost-effective way to reduce operator exposure to arc flash hazards. The device eliminates hazardous manual contact with the gear during switching operations and can reduce the need for arc flash suits.

The RSK-DS10 is compatible with DS, DSII, DSL, and DSLII breakers, except models equipped with two vertical handles. Magnets hold the actuator securely against the breaker face, so technicians can quickly install and remove the device without any modifications to existing electrical equipment.

The addition of M18 battery power puts the RSK-DS10 on the same platform as much of CBS ArcSafe’s remote switching lineup, while the handheld controller runs on standard alkaline batteries. Facilities can choose the configuration that best fits their layout and safety procedures: corded versions with 30- or 50-foot operating lengths or the new wireless version with a range up to 150 feet with line of sight.

All CBS ArcSafe products are manufactured in the United States at our facility in Denton, Texas. For more information, visit CBSArcSafe.com or call 877-4-SAFETY.

About CBS ArcSafe
CBS ArcSafe offers the electrical industry’s largest inventory of remote racking and switching solutions for low- and medium-voltage switchgear. The systems operate without modification to existing electrical equipment and allow technicians to operate equipment from a safe distance of up to 300 feet away. All CBS ArcSafe equipment is manufactured in the United States at our Denton, Texas, facility. CBS ArcSafe offers 24/7/365 emergency support and develops custom remote racking and switching solutions for all OEM equipment. Learn more at CBSArcSafe.com or call us toll-free at 877-4-SAFETY.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/cbs-arcsafe-adds-wireless-operation-and-milwaukee-power-to-chicken-switch-rsk-ds10-for-ds-style-circuit-breakers-302906153.html

SOURCE CBS ArcSafe®

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In HelloNation, Montessori Education Expert Madelynn Van Den Heuvel Explains How Independence Develops in Children

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The article highlights how Montessori environments support confidence, responsibility, and self-directed learning through everyday activities and guided choice.

SANTA CRUZ, Calif., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What does true independence look like in early childhood, and how can schools nurture it without pressure? That question is explored in a HelloNation article featuring Montessori Education Expert Madelynn Van Den Heuvel of Santa Cruz, California. In the article, Van Den Heuvel shares how Montessori education promotes independent development in children by starting with the environment and approach, not just the curriculum.

The HelloNation piece emphasizes that Montessori education treats independence not as a milestone to reach, but as a natural part of daily learning. In a Montessori classroom, children are surrounded by tools, furniture, and materials specifically designed for their size and abilities. This intentional design encourages students to complete tasks independently, helping them build trust in their capabilities from an early age.

Van Den Heuvel explains that independent development in children begins with simple but meaningful tasks. In Montessori education, these include everyday actions such as pouring water, sweeping floors, and preparing snacks. These may appear minor to adults, but for children, completing them builds a real sense of accomplishment and responsibility. The result is increased confidence in children as they begin to understand they can contribute meaningfully to their environment.

The HelloNation article also discusses how freedom of choice supports Montessori independence. Rather than following a strict schedule, students select their own activities within a guided framework. This choice strengthens their ability to focus, manage time, and problem-solve. Van Den Heuvel explains how these opportunities foster self-discipline and internal motivation, two key outcomes of children’s independence development.

Montessori teachers play a unique role in this process. Instead of giving direct instruction throughout the day, they observe and guide. This approach helps children learn at their own pace and gives them space to make and learn from mistakes. As highlighted in the article, the goal is not to push children into independence, but to create a Montessori classroom where it can emerge naturally. Over time, this builds lasting confidence in children and reduces their dependence on adult validation.

Social growth is another focus of Montessori independence. The HelloNation piece describes how mixed-age classrooms allow younger children to learn by observing older peers, and older children to take leadership roles. This model fosters cooperation and patience, helping children understand the importance of both self-reliance and community. These benefits of Montessori go beyond academics and influence how children interact at home and in the world.

Many parents, according to Van Den Heuvel, notice that their children become more responsible, more persistent, and more emotionally balanced as they grow in a Montessori environment. These qualities are signs of deep-rooted independence, supported by thoughtful guidance rather than rewards or pressure. The HelloNation article stresses that the benefits of Montessori are not limited to the classroom but shape long-term attitudes toward learning and growth.

Montessori education fosters a quiet confidence in children through hands-on experiences, respectful guidance, and real-world tasks. Van Den Heuvel’s contribution to the HelloNation article offers parents and educators a clear look at how a Montessori classroom encourages students to become capable, self-assured learners ready to take initiative in their lives.

How Montessori Education Expert Madelynn Van Den Heuvel of Santa Cruz, CA, Explains Independence Development in Children for HelloNation features insights from Madelynn Van Den Heuvel, Montessori Education Expert of Santa Cruz, CA, in HelloNation.

About HelloNation

HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content and storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/in-hellonation-montessori-education-expert-madelynn-van-den-heuvel-explains-how-independence-develops-in-children-302745861.html

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Rosnet Trades “The Cave” for a New Kansas City Headquarters Built for Its Next Chapter of Growth

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With more than 90 employees across 13 states, backing from M33 Growth, and a growing roster of multi-unit brands, the restaurant technology company celebrates its new home with a Grand Opening on Thursday, October 15, 2026

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Oct. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Rosnet, the restaurant data and operations platform trusted by 84 franchise brands across more than 6,000 locations, is officially out of the cave. For years, the company worked out of an underground business park carved into the limestone bluffs of Parkville, Missouri. Now it has moved into a modern, purpose-built headquarters at 11500 N Ambassador Drive, Suite 400, in Kansas City’s Northland.

The move isn’t just a change of address. It’s what growth looks like when you can see it. Over the past year Rosnet has added clients, expanded its team, strengthened its leadership bench, and secured new investment. The cave served the company well for years, but this next phase of growth called for a workplace built for in-person collaboration.

A bigger team. Rosnet now employs more than 90 people across 13 states, with Kansas City as the hub. The company has also strengthened its leadership team in 2026, led by CEO Derek Slayton, to guide its next phase of expansion.

More operators are on the platform. Rosnet’s reporting, food management, and labor management tools now support 84 franchise brands and more than 6,000 restaurant locations.

Serious investment behind it. Rosnet is backed by M33 Growth, which completed a majority investment in the company earlier this year. We believe that partnership gives Rosnet the fuel to scale faster than at any other point in its history.

Built for being together. The new fourth-floor space was designed around in-person collaboration, supporting Rosnet’s return-to-office program that launched in September. It features a training and conference room that seats up to 87 with full AV, huddle rooms outfitted for hybrid meetings, whiteboards in every room, two full kitchens, and an on-site micro market stocked with fresh food and snacks. There is also a game room for friendly competition and a well-earned break between meetings. Coffee is on the house.

Every room has a KC story. Conference rooms are named for Kansas City landmarks and neighborhoods: Boulevard, Union Station, Parkville, Northland, Legends, and Crossroads. The Parkville room is a nod to the company’s longtime home, and the rest are a love letter to the city Rosnet has called home for more than 25 years. Meetings in the Boulevard room may or may not end with a toast.

“We loved the cave, but you can only fit so much growth underground,” said Derek Slayton, CEO of Rosnet. “This space is a reflection of where Rosnet is headed. We’re adding clients, adding talent, and investing in the kind of culture you can only build when people are in the same room solving problems together. Our clients run restaurants where teamwork happens face to face every shift, and we want our team to work the same way. Kansas City has been home for more than 25 years, and this headquarters is our commitment to growing here for a long time to come.”

Come see it for yourself. Rosnet will celebrate a Grand Opening event on Thursday, October 15th at 11500 N Ambassador Drive, Suite 400, Kansas City, MO 64153. Members of the media are invited to tour the space, meet the team, and grab a seat in the Union Station room. To RSVP, contact Erin Neuburger at eneuburger@rosnet.com.

About Rosnet: Founded in 1998, Rosnet has grown into a respected leader in the restaurant data and operations marketplace. Thousands of locations, including large multi-unit concepts like Applebee’s, Wendy’s, Corner Bakery, STK, and IHOP, utilize the company’s reporting, food management, and labor management systems. Rosnet couples easy-to-use tools with world-class support to help restaurant companies maximize profits without the need to invest in multiple systems. Learn more at www.rosnet.com.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/rosnet-trades-the-cave-for-a-new-kansas-city-headquarters-built-for-its-next-chapter-of-growth-302906195.html

SOURCE Rosnet

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