Aviation & Tourism: Punta Cana’s new Aircraft Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Center at the airport has started operations, with JetBlue’s first A320 entering the facility—aiming to turn the DR into a regional aircraft maintenance hub and create skilled jobs. Inflation Watch: The Central Bank reported July CPI rose just 0.19% month-to-month, with year-on-year inflation easing to 5.47%, signaling a slower pace of price growth. FX Rates: The BCRD set Friday’s dollar reference at RD$56.87 (buy) and RD$59.57 (sell), with peso appreciation of 0.12% versus the prior day. US Immigration Policy: The U.S. State Department selected the Dominican Republic for a pilot that may require some immigrant visa applicants to post a bond up to $250,000 if they’re deemed at risk of becoming a “public charge.” Air Connectivity: DR aviation authorities say tourist growth should hold up despite airline route suspensions, including JetBlue’s Newark cut, with other carriers expected to absorb demand. Remittances: IDB data shows Dominican Republic remittances rose 4.2% in Q1, though overall Caribbean growth is cooling amid uncertainty. Education & Scholarships: President Abinader awarded 1,500 international scholarships and launched the “Excellence Without Barriers” program for 5,000 more undergrad scholarships. Business & Culture: Banreservas inaugurated Santiago’s First Congress of Artisans, spotlighting craftsmanship as both cultural heritage and an economic driver.