Banking & FX: Bank of Maldives (BML) launched a new US-dollar investment option via its mobile and internet banking, offering returns of up to 25% with profits paid in Maldivian rufiyaa (MVR); the USD value is credited to customers’ MVR accounts immediately and returns are paid the next day, with multiple daily investment pools. Trade & Integration: India and Maldives kicked off week-long free trade agreement talks (IMFTA) from June 29 to July 7, aiming to cut tariffs, simplify trade rules, and boost cross-border services and investment, alongside broader financial integration including RuPay and local-currency trade. Real Estate & Infrastructure: President Muizzu said Rasmalé land reclamation is about 60% complete, with the full project expected to finish within 2026; he cited a temporary slowdown linked to Middle East conflict and rising fuel costs, with operations now restarting. Tourism & Brand Building: Visit Maldives Corporation launched “This is My Maldives,” a global photography competition under Creatoll, inviting creators to submit original Maldives photos across themes like places, people, culture, nature and experiences, with a MVR 50,000 cash prize for winners. Energy & Resilience: A Maldives microgrid initiative is set to reduce diesel dependence on islands by deploying solar-diesel hybrid systems and flow battery storage, with Quino Energy’s organic flow battery technology highlighted for commercial deployment. Tobacco Policy: Parliament’s Whole House Committee approved amendments to reduce import duties on cigarettes and other tobacco products, cutting the per-stick duty and ad valorem tax, while exempting smoking-cessation products like nicotine gum and patches. Hospitality Awards: Hilton Maldives Amingiri’s Krakengiri Kids’ Club won “Support Team of the Year” at the Hotelier Maldives Awards 2026, spotlighting the operational role of children’s club teams in safety, trust and family experience.