RBF & Payments: Bank South Pacific has launched BSP eDollar, Fiji’s first bank-backed electronic wallet, built on the national QR standard to enable interoperable transfers and QR payments across participating banks and mobile wallets. Financial Inclusion: The Reserve Bank of Fiji says women’s use of formal accounts is rising, with women making up 73.7% of active registered mobile money users, but credit access still lags. Anti–Financial Crime: Police told Parliament that gaps in how Fiji Financial Intelligence Unit reports are routed and tracked are slowing investigations, affecting cases linked to money laundering, drugs, fraud, cybercrime, trafficking and corruption; FIU also says terrorist financing is low risk but illicit funds from drugs and organised crime remain a high threat. Education Payments: The Education Ministry has fast-tracked salary arrears for 318 staff after administrative and compliance delays. Climate Talks: Pacific climate leaders say progress at UN climate talks in Azerbaijan is too slow, with key finance items pushed back. El Niño & Water: Fiji warns of possible “drastic measures” as El Niño threatens below-normal rainfall, while Port Moresby prepares for water disruptions. Transport Costs: FCCC confirmed interim taxi fare increases end September 30, with fares reverting from October 1. Sports & Talent: Flying Fijians halfback Sam Wye has signed with Swire Shipping Fijian Drua for 2027, while Fiji’s school rugby semi-finals will run alongside the Fijiana XV Test at Churchill Park. Regional Security: China’s missile test in the Pacific has deepened divisions, with Pacific foreign ministers failing to agree on a joint statement condemning the launch.