MCB director warns of pressure on tourism and importance of stable governance

KRALENDIJK – Bonaire is still growing, but the island faces clear economic challenges according to Leonard Domacassé, General Managing Director of Maduro & Curiel’s Bank (MCB). In his view, the decline in tourism, high housing prices, and the importance of stable governance all deserve attention.

Domacassé spoke on Thursday evening during a special MCB gathering for members of the press. The bank organized the evening as a token of appreciation for the media, while also marking the start of a year full of activities leading up to MCB Bonaire’s 65th anniversary in September 2027.

“Bonaire has grown considerably over the last ten, fifteen years. The population, the economy. And you see that in a bank too,” said Domacassé. MCB is growing along with it and now employs 109 people on Bonaire.

Concerns about tourism

According to Domacassé, that growth does not mean there are no concerns. He points in particular to developments in the tourism sector.

“We are currently in a difficult situation in terms of tourism,” he says. According to Domacassé, a decline is visible in the number of visitors from the United States, among others. He attributes this to both flight connections and the marketing of the island.

MCB has not yet felt this development directly, but some of its customers have, according to him. “At some point you will notice it in the economy.”

The bank director also points to the housing market. “You can’t find affordable homes. Very expensive. So that is a problem.”

‘Stable government needed’

Domacassé also stresses the importance of political stability. “You need a stable government and we need to invest.”

With next year’s island council elections in mind, he calls stability an important theme. “Next year’s election is very important. That we then truly get a stable government. You need that stability for the island.”

MCB turns 65 next year

Thursday’s gathering also marked the launch of MCB Bonaire’s anniversary year. In September 2027, the bank will have been operating on the island for 65 years.

MCB plans to organize various activities over the coming year. The programme kicks off on September 13 with a mass in Rincon. Additional activities will focus on youth, the elderly, culture, and sport. Domacassé also announced a major new sports activity, though he was not yet willing to share any details.

The bank is already heavily involved in community activities on Bonaire. Domacassé mentions Copa Lito, the football programme in which nearly 1,300 children and young people participate.

Appreciation for the press

MCB organizes an annual gathering for the local press. Domacassé says he does so deliberately, given the role journalists play on the island.

“You make sure the community is well informed. You are critical,” he says. Negative coverage of the bank is also part of that, according to him. “That is your job. Things that go well, but also things that don’t go well.”

According to Domacassé, that criticism should above all remain constructive. “For me it is always important: constructive.”