Thursday's Afternoon Update
Florida to become medical tourism destination?
Florida lawmakers are considering a measure to allocate $5 million annually in state funds to add medical tourism to the list of state attractions. Although U.S. residents have for years sought treatment overseas to save money, this is one of the first times a U.S. state has considered marketing itself as a medical tourism destination. More at the AP and NBC Miami.
Law could let Cubans abroad invest on the island
Cuba’s new foreign investment law cuts taxes, opens new sectors to foreigners and allows investments by Cubans living abroad as part of ruler Raúl Castro’s efforts to lure fresh capital to his long-stagnant economy, according to published reports. More at the Miami Herald.
Office Depot execs get bonuses to stay
Office Depot paid six-figure bonuses to retain top executives before and after its merger with OfficeMax, according to newly filed documents. The bonuses — as much as $1.5 million over three years — are only a portion of the executives' total compensation, which includes annual salary, performance bonuses and stock awards. More at the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
Three Florida metro areas among fastest growing in nation
While Miami continues to rule the cash real estate market, two other Florida metro areas continue to be among the fastest growing in the nation. The Villages, home to one of the nation’s largest retirement communities, topped the list of fastest-growing metro areas released by the U.S. Census Bureau on Thursday. More at CBS Miami and the Orlando Sentinel.
Florida Next innovation incubator curates large venue for One Spark
The opportunities One Spark offers small businesses and entrepreneurs help support an innovative Florida economy. As such, One Spark has received the support of one of the state’s innovation incubators. More at the Jacksonville Daily Record.