240th Monthly EDITION 2026
THE FIRM - January 2026 Newsletter
Welcoming the New Year with Purpose, Progress & Opportunity
A Message from the Chairman
As we step into 2026, I want to personally thank you for being part of The FIRM community. A new year always brings renewed focus, fresh opportunity, and the chance to build on strong foundations—and this year is no exception.
Over the past three decades, The FIRM has grown through disciplined strategy, long-term thinking, and most importantly, the trust of our investors, partners, and supporters. As we welcome the New Year, we do so with confidence, clarity, and a clear vision for what lies ahead.
Reflecting on 2025 - A Year of Momentum
The past year marked another important chapter for The FIRM, with progress across multiple fronts:
Continued strength and resilience in our property and investment portfolios
Ongoing expansion and strategic positioning of The FIRM International Cruise Lines
Strong engagement from our investor community, now exceeding 18,500 members
Advancement of major long-term projects, including port, tourism, and international development initiatives
A renewed focus on education, legacy, and values-driven ventures aligned with our broader mission
These outcomes are not accidental—they are the result of careful planning, experience, and alignment with people who share our long-term outlook.
Looking Ahead - Our Focus for 2026
2026 will be a year of execution, consolidation, and opportunity. Key priorities include:
Advancing flagship cruise and tourism projects to their next commercial milestones
Strengthening investor communications and transparency
Identifying select, high-quality opportunities in property, hospitality, and infrastructure
Continuing to protect capital while positioning for sustainable growth
Expanding strategic partnerships both locally and internationally
As always, we remain committed to prudence first, growth second, and decisions grounded in real assets and real value.
A Commitment That Remains Unchanged
Markets evolve. Cycles turn. Headlines come and go.
What does not change is The FIRM’s commitment to:
Long-term thinking
Asset-backed strategies
Clear communication
Integrity in leadership
Stewardship of investor capital
This philosophy has carried us through multiple economic cycles—and it continues to guide every decision we make.
Thank You
To our investors, partners, advisors, and extended FIRM family—thank you for your continued trust and support. We do not take it lightly.
We look forward to sharing further updates as the year unfolds and to welcoming new opportunities together in 2026.
On behalf of all of us at The FIRM,
we wish you and your families a healthy, prosperous, and rewarding New Year.
Warm regards,
John Ibbitson
Founder & Chairman
The FIRM - Financial Independence & Retirement Management
