Tourism & Real Estate: Tourism Minister David Collado says Punta Bergantín in Puerto Plata sold nearly US$30M in units in a single weekend, with Meliá and Hyatt among the first hotel investors and a push toward high-end, sustainability-focused development. Border Security: The Dominican Republic has started building a 14.5-kilometer perimeter fence along the Haiti border in Independencia (Hoya de Enriquillo), with 13-foot height, six watchtowers, 35 culverts and patrol lanes to curb smuggling and tighten territorial control. Inflation & Money Matters: August inflation eased to 5.13% year-on-year, while the Central Bank also reiterated how damaged banknotes can be exchanged through commercial banks under clear rules. Business Tech Adoption: A new survey finds 35% of formal Dominican companies with internet access already use AI, led by larger firms and with mining/quarrying, construction and manufacturing among the most active sectors. Social Impact & Child Safety: UNICEF reports 20 million children aged 12–17 across 21 countries have faced technology-facilitated sexual exploitation and abuse, with the Dominican Republic included in the study’s expanded round. Tourism Strategy: Asonahores highlights Dominican tourism shifting toward more diversified, higher-value offerings—luxury brands, new destinations, and growth in nautical, sports, gastronomic and business travel. Culture & Spotlight: Joheirry Mola Dominguez was crowned Miss World 2026 in Vietnam, with her “Beauty With a Purpose” centered on expanding English education for vulnerable communities.