Caribbean Nations Cultivate Budding Cannabis Industry Amidst Global Economic Shifts

Several Caribbean nations, including Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda, have entered the burgeoning cannabis industry by legalizing it for medical and recreational use. This move coincides with record-high gold prices driven by geopolitical tensions, trade policy concerns, inflation, and central bank activity, which are collectively pushing investors towards safe-haven assets.

Capitalizing on favorable growing conditions and cultural acceptance, these nations are focusing on developing unique cannabis strains with diverse flavor profiles and medicinal benefits, according to multiple news sources. Antigua and Barbuda, for example, is seeing a rise in registered farms and dispensaries catering to both locals and tourists with medical authorization. At Pineapple Road, a farm in Antigua, master cultivator Michaelus Tracey identifies different cannabis varieties by their smell and the shape of their leaves. "Rub the leaf and inhale the fragrance," Tracey said, distinguishing between musky and citrusy aromas.

The legalization aims to establish these Caribbean nations as leaders in the burgeoning cannabis industry, with an eye toward both domestic sales and exports.

Meanwhile, gold prices have reached record highs due to a confluence of global factors. Geopolitical instability, trade policy uncertainties, and inflationary pressures are driving investors to seek refuge in safe-haven assets like gold and silver.

In other business news, Ryanair announced that fares are expected to rise by more than previously forecast due to "strong demand." The budget airline predicts prices will climb by up to 9%, compared to the 7% rise predicted in November, as it estimates traveler numbers to grow to almost 208 million this year. The company's average fares rose 4% to 44 (38) over the three-month period ending in December. However, Ryanair also reported a steep drop in quarterly profits after being fined 256 million (222 million) by Italy's competition watchdog for "abusing its dominant position" by blocking travel agencies from accessing its services.

In the music world, Sly Dunbar, the drumming half of the legendary reggae rhythm section Sly and Robbie, died at the age of 73, according to the Guardian and a statement from his daughter to TMZ. Dunbar's wife, Thelma, confirmed his passing.