Regional Banking & Payments: BAC says it has shifted Central America from country-by-country banking to a single regional model, boosting payment processing to 55% of the region’s GDP and transaction volume to US$227bn. Anti-Corruption Court Case: Costa Rica’s trial of former Banco Nacional treasurer Ricardo Olivas Valle moves to final arguments, with prosecutors seeking up to 396 years for alleged ¢3.293bn embezzlement. Politics & Institutions: President Laura Fernández doubles down on claims of an “institutional coup d’état,” after the Plantón por la Democracia protest, while critics warn of uncertainty for business and investment. Cybersecurity & Business: Costa Rica will host Cybersec Summit 2026 at the Costa Rica Convention Center, aiming to draw regional C-suite leaders and policymakers. Cross-Border Travel Costs: A reminder for travelers: Costa Rica’s land exit fee is a flat $8, tied to phytosanitary and animal health inspections. Food & Retail Expansion: Korean fried chicken chain BBQ opens its first Mexico City location, expanding its Latin America footprint that already includes Costa Rica. Agribusiness & Exports: Dole reports 2.9% Q2 revenue growth, with EBITDA pressured by higher fruit sourcing and shipping costs, including currency effects tied to the Costa Rican colón. Trade & Compliance for SMEs: AL-INVEST Verde projects in Brazil and Costa Rica help SMEs adapt to EU sustainability and traceability rules like deforestation-free supply chains. Local Business Growth (Health Products): Peptides Costa Rica expands with a new San José service hub to improve access, inventory confirmation, and direct customer support.