The MoneyHatch Newsletter, Edition 11

April 9th, 2025

Editor’s Note: Walking Away — A Lesson in Strength and Strategy

The HMBS Flamingo Incident

On May 10, 1980, during the height of the Cold War, The Bahamas found itself in a dangerous situation. A Royal Bahamas Defence Force patrol vessel, HMBS Flamingo, intercepted Cuban fishing boats that were illegally operating in Bahamian waters. In response, Cuban forces sank the vessel, killing four Bahamian marines. 

This attack sent shockwaves through the nation, with public outcry demanding action. However, the geopolitical reality made retaliation nearly impossible. Remember at this point in history Cuba was closely allied with the Soviet Union, one of the world’s two nuclear superpowers at the time, while The Bahamas had no significant military force to match such an adversary.

Diplomacatic Solution

Instead of escalating tensions, The Bahamas chose diplomacy, a move that required patience and strategic thinking. The government applied international pressure on Cuba, leading to an official apology and financial compensation. Decades later, in 2012, both nations signed a maritime boundary agreement, resolving future disputes and reinforcing stable diplomatic relations.

The Overall Lesson

This event highlights an important lesson: strength isn’t always about fighting—it’s about knowing when to engage and when to walk away. The Bahamas understood that picking the right battles can lead to a more favorable outcome in the long run. 

Warm Regards,

The MoneyHatch Team

Bahamian Financial Updates

Economy News

1. US puts 10% tariffs on Bahamian Imports: