Tourism Revenue Watch: Maldives diving schools are the fastest-growing tourism segment, with revenue up 47.7% to USD 32.03m in Dec 2025–Feb 2026, as total tourism output tax rose 20.5% to USD 447m and tourist arrivals climbed 11.6%. Banking & Payments: Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef says the next five years will push “invisible” payments, aiming to make transactions seamless across providers, with biometric digital identities and AI-backed working capital support for SMEs. Business Finance: BML has expanded its Advance Merchant Settlement facility, cutting processing to five working days and raising financing up to MVR 2m for eligible merchants based on card settlement history. Government Revenue from Tourism Assets: Maldives collected about USD 120m last year via resort lease extensions, land sales and conversion fees, with new lump-sum extension options encouraging early payments. Regional Trade Relief: India exempted Maldives from two fuel export duties, expected to lower fuel import costs under its Neighborhood First policy. Governance & Integrity: Maldives used nationwide Friday sermons to condemn corruption and bribery, reinforcing anti-corruption messaging amid ongoing public integrity concerns. Hospitality Recognition: Crown & Champa Resorts’ properties won Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026, including Jawakara Islands Maldives earning “Best of the Best.” International Partnership: President Muizzu reaffirmed US ties in a letter marking the 250th anniversary of US Independence, highlighting cooperation in security, trade and economic development.