review, is set to hit newsstands on Thursday.

With a fresh new design, the 84-page colour magazine takes an in-depth look at Bermuda business, both local and international, how it has been affected by the recession and how the Island will emerge from the worst economic downturn since the Great Depression.

The magazine -- which will be available free at most locations throughout the Island from Thursday -- covers a wide variety of topics, starting with the economy. It shows how the recession has affected every business sector, from Bermuda's main revenue earners, tourism and international business, right down to the Island's smallest companies.

It features an extensive interview by senior writer Mrs. Robin Zuill with Finance Minister the Hon. David Saul on how he perceives Bermuda's economic position, what changes have been made to keep Bermuda competitive on the international business scene, and how local industry, including construction, retail and real estate, have fared over the past two years of heavy decline.

The Bottom Line also assesses the impact that newly-elected United States President Bill Clinton will have on Bermuda. Mr. David Marchant, of The Royal Gazette's business section, looks at the possible changes under the Clinton administration that could seriously affect the Island and its ability to earn foreign currency: downsizing at the US Naval Air Station, and restrictions on American companies operating here.

The Royal Gazette's assistant editor Bill Zuill and news editor Mr. Don Grearson take a close look at tourism, and how those in the industry are scrambling to rebuild the Island's reputation as a premiere vacation destination. Bermuda has not only suffered from increased competition and deep recession in its traditional marketplace, but its critics have also said the Island has become boring and over-priced.

Other topics in this issue include employment, and the hardships faced by the Island's Portuguese workers, new opportunities for small businesses, lessons learned in the insurance industry, the changing face of Bermuda's shipping industry, and the real estate business.

Printed by The Bermuda Press Ltd., The Bottom Line is the debut publication of The Royal Gazette's new magazine division, Crown Communications.

Crown's managing editor, Mr. Chris Gibbons, said: "It's a very positive first step for Crown Communications. I think the quality of writing, design, photography and reproduction throughout gives a firm indication to advertisers and readers that we are committed to producing first-class publications in the future.'' Crown Communications' next publication will be the premiere issue of RG Magazine, a full-colour lifestyle and general interest monthly that will be distributed with The Royal Gazette . The first issue will be published with the January 14 edition of the newspaper.