Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Source: Reserve Bank of India
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Source: Government of India
Source: Government of India (4)
At least 12 people were killed and nearly 20 others wounded in a brutal overnight attack in the Mexican city of Irapuato, located in the state of Guanajuato, after gunmen opened fire during a festive street celebration honouring St. John the Baptist, local authorities have confirmed.
The tragedy unfolded on Wednesday (local time) as residents gathered to dance and drink in a community housing complex. A video circulating on social media captured moments of joy– a live band playing, people dancing before panic erupted as gunshots rang out, sending the crowd fleeing in terror.
Rodolfo Gomez Cervantes, a local official from Irapuato, addressed a press conference on Wednesday, confirming that the death toll had risen to 12 and that about 20 others were receiving treatment for injuries sustained in the attack.
Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum condemned the violence and called for swift justice. “It is very unfortunate what happened. An investigation is underway,” she said in a statement, as federal and state security forces scrambled to piece together what transpired and identify those responsible.
Guanajuato, a state situated northwest of Mexico City, has become one of Mexico’s most violent regions in recent years. Criminal groups have been waging deadly turf wars for control over drug routes, extortion networks, and other illicit enterprises.
The state recorded 1,435 homicides in the first five months of 2025 — more than double the number seen in any other Mexican state, according to local media reports.
This latest massacre comes just a day after five people were killed in separate violent incidents across Guanajuato, according to the state attorney general’s office. It also follows a similar attack last month, when gunmen stormed a Catholic Church event in the town of San Bartolo de Berrios, killing seven attendees.
Authorities have yet to name suspects or confirm which criminal organisation may be behind the recent violence in Irapuato. Investigations are underway. (IANS)
Source: Government of Sweden
The Government has decided to contribute SEK 25 million to Ukraine to help digitalise the country’s processing of criminal cases. This Swedish support will increase Ukraine’s ability to investigate war crimes committed during Russia’s full-scale invasion. The support will be channelled via the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency (MSB) in cooperation with the European Union Advisory Mission (EUAM) and the Prosecutor General’s Office of Ukraine.
Source: Government of Sweden
The Swedish Government prioritises Ukraine’s path towards EU membership, and Sweden is now strengthening its support to increase Ukraine’s capability to implement its accession negotiations. The Stockholm School of Economics has been granted SEK 3 million via the Swedish Institute to train Ukrainian civil servants and diplomats in negotiation skills.
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
Technology at All Ends
From residents creating an online shopping service in the middle of the ocean to digital solutions for fish farmers, some of the most critical on-the-ground stories of technological progress are easily overlooked and underdeveloped.
What is at stake if this imbalance persists and what is needed to accelerate the scaling of technologies across communities and regions?
Source: United Nations (video statements)
Remarks by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, on the responsibility to protect and the prevention of genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing and crimes against humanity at the 80th plenary meeting of the General Assembly.
Delivering remarks to the General Assembly on the 20th anniversary of the Responsibility to Protect, Secretary-General António Guterres warned that the world is facing “the highest number of armed conflicts since the end of the Second World War.”
Guterres added that these crises are “marked by rising identity-based violence, widespread violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law, and deepening impunity.”
Guterres stressed that the principle of the Responsibility to Protect – commonly referred to as R2P – remains central to the UN’s mission. “On this anniversary, we must recognize that the Responsibility to Protect is more than a principle – it is a moral imperative, rooted in our shared humanity and the UN Charter,” he said.
The Secretary-General presented his seventeenth report on the Responsibility to Protect, which reviews two decades of international efforts and outlines the need for renewed action. “We found that the principle holds strong support among Member States. Communities affected by violence see it as offering a ray of hope. But they also call for effective implementation at all levels,” Guterres said.
The UN chief also reiterated that the world still falls short of delivering on the promise of protecting populations from atrocity crimes. “Twenty years on, the Responsibility to Protect remains an urgent necessity, a moral imperative, and an unfulfilled promise,” Guterres declared. “Let us keep that promise. Let us deepen our commitment. Let us strengthen our cooperation. And let us make the prevention of atrocities and the protection of populations a permanent and universal practice.”
The Responsibility to Protect, endorsed by UN Member States in 2005, affirms that governments have an obligation to shield populations from genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity. It also tasks the international community with taking collective action when states fail to do so.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Education Bureau (EDB) today (June 26) announced the allocation result of the latest round of the Land Grant Scheme. The land site at Man Lai Road, Tai Wai, will be allocated to Saint Francis University (SFU) for the development of a purpose-built campus for the operation of full-time locally accredited self-financing post-secondary programmes.
On the recommendation of the Committee on Self-financing Post-secondary Education (CSPE), the Secretary for Education has decided that SFU should be earmarked as the prospective operator for the land site to be granted at a nominal premium.
An EDB spokesman said, “It has long been the Government’s policy to support the parallel development of the self-financing and publicly funded post-secondary education sectors. In pursuance of the announcement in the Chief Executive’s 2023 Policy Address, we envisage that the allocation of the site will be conducive to supporting the capacity expansion and quality enhancement of the self-financing sector, thereby enabling the sector to play a more proactive role in Hong Kong’s development into an international post-secondary education hub.”
The Government invited applications from eligible institutions for the Scheme from December 2024 to March 2025 and received three applications. The CSPE is responsible for giving advice to the Secretary for Education on the comparative merits of the applications received under the Scheme, having regard to the applicants’ education development and site development proposals following a fair and competitive process.
Details of the Scheme and previously approved applications are available on the website of the Concourse for Self-financing Post-secondary Education (www.cspe.edu.hk/en/Overview-Measures.html).
US Senate News:
Source: United States Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after the Senate Commerce Committee advanced her bipartisan Restoring Confidence in the World Anti-Doping Agency Act, which would permanently provide the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) the authority to withhold membership dues to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) if the organization fails to ensure athletes are competing in drug-free Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Last week, Senator Blackburn led a hearing to hold WADA accountable for its refusal to investigate Chinese swimmers who tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs before the Tokyo Olympics.
“Since the Chinese doping scandal came to light, WADA has done everything it can to intimidate advocates for fair play and stonewall Congress,” said Senator Blackburn. “With the Commerce Committee passing my bipartisan Restoring Confidence in the World Anti-Doping Agency Act, we have sent a message to WADA that accountability and oversight are coming. We won’t be silenced by WADA or any international organization that tries to strong arm the United States in our mission to promote fair play in sports.”
RESTORING CONFIDENCE IN THE WORLD ANTI-DOPING AGENCY ACT
Last year, reporting revealed that more than two dozen Chinese swimmers tested positive for performance enhancing drugs one month before the 2021 Tokyo Olympics. The Chinese Anti-Doping Agency secretly cleared the swimmers of the doping.
When WADA learned of these positive tests, the agency chose not to intervene or require China to follow WADA rules. Over a dozen of these swimmers competed in the 2021 Olympic Games, winning several medals, including gold.
Last summer, new reporting revealed two additional Chinese swimmers – including one who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics – tested positive in 2022 for a banned drug but were secretly cleared of doping by Chinese authorities.
The Restoring Confidence in the World Anti-Doping Agency Act would:
Allow the ONDCP to withhold up to the full amount of membership dues to WADA. The U.S. is the WADA’s greatest contributor, which makes this a powerful tool.
Authorize ONDCP to use all available tools to ensure that WADA fully implements all governance reforms, including a proper conflict-of-interest policy, and that independent athletes from the United States and other democratic countries, or representatives of such athletes, have a decision-making role on WADA’s Executive Committee and governing bodies.
The Restoring Confidence in the World Anti-Doping Agency Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.). It was introduced in the House by Representatives John Moolenar (R-Mich.) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.).
Click here for bill text.
RELATED
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)
WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement on June 22, 2025
As we wait for more details on this evening’s U.S. actions against Iran’s nuclear sites in Natanz, Isfahan, and most significantly, Fordow, I proudly thank the brave service members who put their lives on the line for our defense and security. America and the world are more secure because of their success. I am grateful all have safely returned, and I pray for the safety of our 40,000 U.S. troops, our many diplomats and the thousands of U.S. citizens living, working and visiting the region.
Since the Iranian revolution in 1979, the regime in Tehran has effectively waged an undeclared war on the United States, Israel, and the broader West. A nuclear armed Iran poses a grave and unacceptable threat to the United States, and is an existential threat to Israel and every Arab state in the Gulf.
Iran must never have a nuclear weapon. Ever.
A diplomatic path to reversing Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and permanently dismantling Iran’s nuclear development programs was preferable to war. Negotiations were recently restarted, but Iran dug in its heels at the recent talks in Italy, in Oman, and again this week in Switzerland. Iran gave every signal that diplomacy in this moment was a dead end.
I still hope that, after tonight’s actions, Iran accepts that it will never have a nuclear weapon and returns in good faith to the negotiating table.
While Iran’s nuclear ambitions demand a strategic, serious and coordinated response, it remains the sole Constitutional authority of Congress—not the President—to take our nation into war. That prerogative exists not only as a matter of law, but as a safeguard. The Administration must immediately engage with Congress and urgently provide a bipartisan, classified briefing so we can assess the intelligence, legal justifications, objectives, and consequences of this action.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)
WASHINGTON – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Abraham Accords Caucus, with Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), sent a bipartisan letter to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and High Representative Kaja Kallas expressing deep concern over proposals to suspend or downgrade the European Union’s Association Agreement with Israel.
In the letter, the Members warned that such a move would “fracture our collective response to October 7th — the most brutal assault on the Jewish people since the Holocaust — and risk emboldening the very actors who threaten the democratic world.”
Following the receipt of the letter, the European Commission delayed a scheduled discussion about a possible downgrade.
“Now is the time for unity among democratic allies, not retreat,” said Congressman Schneider. “Downgrading ties with Israel while Hamas continues to hold hostages and Iran advances its nuclear program sends the wrong message to our adversaries. We must stand together to defend our shared values and regional stability.”
“The European Commission’s potential decision to distance itself from Israel sends the wrong message at a time when unity among democratic allies is more critical than ever. Walking away from one of the region’s strongest democratic partners undermines our shared values and emboldens those who oppose peace and stability,” noted Congressman Bilirakis.
The Members emphasized that the EU-Israel relationship delivers critical benefits to both parties, including collaboration on science, technology, and security. “This relationship has saved lives on both sides of the Mediterranean,” the letter reads. “It should be strengthened, not discarded.”
The letter follows Israel’s recent defensive strike against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, taken after the IAEA censured Iran for systematic violations of its non-proliferation commitments, and the U.S.’s pre-emptive strike on three Iranian nuclear sites. The Members urged EU leaders to remain engaged with Israel and reject efforts to politicize the agreement, stating: “The only path to meaningful Palestinian self-determination runs through continued diplomacy, regional cooperation, and principled pressure on Hamas and its backers—not isolation of Israel.”
Full text of the letter is available here.
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)
WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and co-founder and co-chair of the Congressional Abraham Accords Caucus, returned on Thursday from a five-day bipartisan congressional delegation to Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. Rep. Schneider was joined on the trip by Reps. Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Zach Nunn (IA-03), and Don Bacon (NE-02). The trip was organized and sponsored by the N7 Initiative, a partnership between the Atlantic Council and the Jeffrey M. Talpins Foundation which is focused on advancing US interests by strengthening cooperation between the United States, Israel, and Arab and Muslim countries.
Representative Schneider leads delegation in meeting in Bahrain with his Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa
“This visit, held during a moment of regional crisis and uncertainty, underscored our commitment to security, prosperity and peace,” said Rep. Schneider. “The Abraham Accords are not just a historic diplomatic achievement—they are the best framework for a more integrated and secure Middle East. In the face of nefarious Iranian activity across the region, efforts to deepen and expand the Abraham Accord partnerships are more important than ever.”
The delegation visited Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and UAE. The delegation was originally scheduled to visit Israel. After the closure of the airport in Israel, the Members planned to travel to Jordan and then drive to Jerusalem to meet with Israeli leaders. Unfortunately they were not able to proceed with the Israel portion of the trip.
“While the start of Israel’s strikes on Iran’s nuclear program and military infrastructure – and Iran’s retaliatory ballistic missile attacks on Israel – began mere hours before our delegation was scheduled to land in Saudi Arabia, we never considered canceling this trip,” continued Rep. Schneider. “Especially at this moment, it is critical the US shows support for our allies and commitment to bringing sustained peace, prosperity, and stability to the Middle East.”
Despite the rapidly shifting security environment, the delegation successfully engaged with senior government officials and private sector leaders, including a conference call with Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, to discuss how to strengthen and expand the normalization efforts, building on the Abraham Accords and looking beyond the shadows of ongoing regional conflicts. Discussions focused on practical ways to expand normalization, including people-to-people ties, technology cooperation, regional infrastructure, and defense collaboration.
Representatives Nunn, Schneider, Bacon and Panetta at the al Diriyah excavation in Riyadh
In Bahrain, Representative Schneider meets with Foreign Minister Dr. Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani
Representative Schneider and his wife Julie visit the synagogue
at the Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi, UAE
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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)
At approximately 3:00 a.m. local time, 7:00 p.m. in Illinois, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion, a preemptive military strike targeting Iran’s nuclear program and key personnel. Israel has struck more than 300 targets, including nuclear sites, air defenses, and IRGC headquarters This may mark the beginning of a wider conflict in the Middle East. Though we do not yet know the full implications for the United States, our partners, or the global economy, one thing must be clear: America stands with Israel.
Iran’s long record of malign behavior—its threats to wipe Israel off the map, its support for Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis—makes clear why Israel assessed that it could not wait. A nuclear-armed Iran would pose an unacceptable threat not only to Israel but to the entire world.
Israel destroyed Iraq’s nuclear reactor in 1981, and Syria’s in 2007. Later events proved the wisdom of Israel’s actions and benefited the region and the world. I am confident, with Iran on the brink of weaponization, the world will again be grateful that Israel acted to prevent catastrophe.
Just last month, the International Atomic Energy Agency released a comprehensive report documenting Iran’s extensive violations of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Rather than correct course, Iran doubled down, announcing it would accelerate enrichment and stonewall international inspectors. On Wednesday, the IAEA formally censured Iran. Tehran responded with more threats.
In moments like this, American leadership matters. The US stood with Israel in 2023 when it was attacked by Hamas and Hezbollah, and then again in 2024 when Iran launched hundreds of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles. We must do so again today—with resolve, with clarity, and with the unity that defines our most serious moments.
I believe in the strength of the U.S. – Israel alliance. I am grateful for the sacrifice and bravery of the men and women of the United States armed forces and pray for their success and safety. I am immensely proud that every enlisted sailor in our Navy begins their service at Naval Station Great Lakes in my district, where they learn what to do on days like this. I know they are fully prepared precisely for this moment.
Covering period of Thursday 26th – Sunday 29th June – Severe weather will affect much of the country in the coming days.
Today (Thursday) severe weather affects northern parts of the South Island.
MetService Meteorologist Michael Pawley says, “The Nelson and Tasman Region has had significant rain recently, and we’re expecting a lot more to fall by Friday evening.” Before the end of Friday, northern parts of the South Island will likely see more than a month’s worth of rain. Expect the rivers to be running high and surface flooding present.
On Friday the heavy rain will affect most of the North Island. Before dawn, squally thunderstorms are expected to arrive in Northland. These bring the risk of heavy downpours and strong wind gusts. As the front moves across the island, the risk of thunderstorms spreads to other regions of the North Island and top of the South.
Overnight into Saturday the winds will shift southerly, directing heavy rain at Dunedin and Otago with the possibility of heavy snow above 600 meters inland. This could affect alpine roads.
Michael adds “Sunday looks like the better day to travel if you’re going away for the school holidays because the severe weather is expected to ease. If you’re going skiing, I’d recommend staying cozy and dry while the fresh snow falls.”
Portfolio Update – The value of the NZ Super Fund has mirrored the performance of global risk assets over the past couple of months, dropping to $74 billion following US President Donald Trump’s “Liberation Day” tariff announcements on 2 April and subsequently recovering to pass $83 billion.
Periods of volatility are part and parcel of running a growth-focused portfolio, which we continue to believe is the investment strategy best suited to our mandate and to our purpose, Sustainable Investment Delivering Strong Returns to All New Zealanders.
As a long-term investor, we are able to ride out, and even take advantage of, short-term market volatility. For example, one of our most successful active strategies over the past few years is Strategic Tilting. This strategy is based on our belief that investments tend to return to fair value over time and that, given our long-term investment horizon, we can improve our risk-adjusted returns by reducing our exposure to assets we believe are over-priced assets in favour of holding assets we believe offer value.
As we have seen during the GFC and at the outset of the Covid pandemic, this strategy can generate losses over the short to medium term: our operational independence and our clearly defined governance model are essential to the success of this strategy.
Market Conditions
Financial markets remain closely attuned to developments in U.S. trade policy and ongoing tariff negotiations under the Trump Administration. These policy uncertainties, combined with concerns over the recently released federal budget – which is projected to significantly widen the U.S. fiscal deficit – have heightened investor caution.
As a result, long-term U.S. Treasury yields have risen, driven in part by increased investor demand for alternative sovereign debt instruments. Notably, Japanese Government Bonds (JGBs) have seen a pickup in yields, offering a relatively attractive option for investors seeking safety and yield diversification. This shift in sentiment has also contributed to a modest depreciation of the U.S. dollar against major currencies.
Global economic activity expanded at a moderate pace in Q1, but recent indicators suggest a softening in momentum across several economies. Inflation remains broadly in line with central bank targets, helped by subdued energy prices. In response to the cooling outlook, central banks in New Zealand, Australia, and the Eurozone have eased monetary policy, while the U.S. Federal Reserve held interest rates steady.
Adding to global uncertainty, escalating geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have driven a sharp increase in commodity prices, particularly in oil markets. These developments are likely to be a key source of market volatility in the near term.
The NZ Super Fund in the Budget
The amount of money the government is required to contribute to the Super Fund is determined by a formula set out in Section 43 of our Act (the New Zealand Superannuation and Retirement Income Act 2001).
It is a complicated-looking calculation, but the most important inputs are the expected nominal GDP and net cost of superannuation over the following 40 years and the size of the Super Fund.
If nominal GDP or the size of the Super Fund is higher than expected (or if the net cost of superannuation is lower), the Government is required to contribute a lower amount.
These forecasts are updated by Treasury every six months at the Budget Economic and Fiscal Update (BEFU) and the Half-Year Economic and Fiscal Update (HYEFU).
At the last HYEFU, Treasury forecast that the government would be able to make its first withdrawal from the Super Fund in 2031 ($96 million).
Last month’s updated numbers, published alongside Finance Minister Nicola Willis’s 2025 Budget, forecast that the first withdrawal would come in 2028 ($32 million). 2036 remains the year where withdrawals are forecast to pass $1 billion for the first time.
Reductions in forecast government contribution have been a trend for the past few years, driven by higher-than-expected returns from the Super Fund and lower-than-previously-expected future net superannuation costs.
The Elevate Fund
The Budget also contained the news that the Government would divert this year’s capital contribution of $61 million to the Elevate Fund, along with a further $39 million from the government’s capital allowance.
This $100 million commitment provides some welcome certainty for NZGCP, whom the Guardians appointed to manage Elevate in line with the legislation that established the fund in 2019 (the Venture Capital Fund Act), and matches the approach taken by the previous government when it first set up Elevate.
We look forward to continuing to work with NZGCP to maintain Elevate’s contribution to increasing the venture capital available to New Zealand entities and developing New Zealand’s venture capital markets to function more effectively.
Minister of Finance’s Letter of Expectations
We have now published our response to the Letter of Expectations 2025/26 that we received earlier this year from Finance Minister Nicola Willis.
Click here to read the Minister’s letter, and here to read our response.
Guardians staffer elected to ILPA board
Del Hart, our Head of External Investments and Partnerships, was recently elected to the Board of the Institutional Limited Partners Association. With 618 institutional members drawn from 50 countries, the ILPA is an important industry advocate and thought leader.
Private markets are growing and changing rapidly. Del’s perspective will be of great value as we continue to refine our thinking about investing in this asset class.
Industry recognises Leadership Team member’s career and contribution
Paula Steed, recently appointed as Guardians GM Technology (and previously GM Strategy and Shared Services), has been inducted as a Fellow of the Chartered Accountants Association of Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ). Fellowships are given for outstanding career achievements or contributions to the profession, as decided by CAANZ members.
NZ Super Fund Scholarship winner
Avondale College alumna Chana Malungahu is the latest recipient of the NZ Super Fund AUT Business Scholarship – Pacific. Chana, who enrolled at AUT in the second semester last year, is currently studying business strategy, international business management, and entrepreneurship and innovation, and working towards a Bachelor of Business degree.
AUT Business School announced the award of this scholarship via their LinkedIn page.
Annual Report voted best in Australasia
For the fourth time in five years the Guardians’ annual report has been named Report of the Year at this year’s ARA awards. Judges described the report as “designed to engage readers and effectively communicate the organisation’s messages … customer centric and easy to understand.”
Read our Annual Report for FY24 here.
The Judges’ comments and a full list of award winners can be found on the ARA website.
In the news
Guardians Board member (and former Senior Investment Strategist at the NZ Super Fund) Sue Brake and CalPERS Chief Investment Officer (and former Chief Investment Officer at the NZ Super Fund) Stephen Gilmore talk about the Total Portfolio Approach to investing with Thinking Ahead Institute Associate Director Isabella Martin – the latest in Isabella’s Investing for the Future series of podcasts.
The Guardians is gearing up to combine a multitude of investment data models across the organisation into a central model-of-models, which should lead to better investment decisions and cost savings. Maaike van Tol, our Director of Portfolio Design, recently sat down with the Investment Innovation Institute’s Director of Content, Wouter Klijn, to talk about how a comprehensive data analytics function can lead to more meaningful conversations, better investment decisions, and lower costs. Read Wouter’s report here.
Sustainable Investment Analyst Laumanu Mafi recently featured on RadioNZ’s Pacific Waves programme, where she and host Susana Suisuiki discussed some of the difficulties Pacific women face in accessing the retirement benefits they need. An economist by training, Laumanu spent three years on the investment team at Tonga’s Retirement Fund Board before joining the Guardians two years ago. Go to RNZ Pacific to listen to their conversation.
Congratulations to former Guardians Board member Mark Tume, winner of the Invest New Zealand – Te Tohu Kahukura Māori Leadership in Finance Award at the recent INFINZ awards. A full list of award winners can be found here.
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
CAMP CASEY, South Korea – U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, uncased their colors, and the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, cased theirs during a Korea Rotational Force transfer of authority ceremony held June 18, on Camp Casey.
Source: United States INDO PACIFIC COMMAND
CAMP CASEY, South Korea – U.S. Army Soldiers assigned to 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, uncased their colors, and the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division, cased theirs during a Korea Rotational Force transfer of authority ceremony held June 18, on Camp Casey.
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)
AUSTIN, Texas, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Viva Payday Loans has introduced a new range of short term loans for 2025, giving everyday Americans more flexibility when covering unexpected expenses or bridging income gaps. With a focus on transparency, speed, and wider eligibility even for those with poor credit, Viva Payday Loans is becoming a go-to source for short term loans online.
Check Your Eligibility for a Short Term Loan Online >>
The updated product line includes options for short term loans for bad credit, short term business loans, and some of the best short term loans available through licensed U.S. lenders. Borrowers can now apply in minutes and receive same-day decisions, with most funds arriving within hours.
“We’ve simplified short term borrowing. Whether it’s for personal needs or business cash flow, applicants don’t need perfect credit to qualify,” said Maria Delgado, Chief Product Officer at Viva Payday Loans. “The goal is to provide quick access to funds without surprises.”
What Makes Viva Payday Short Term Loans Different?
Unlike traditional lenders that often rely heavily on credit scores and long forms, Viva Payday Loans offers a fully online application focused on income and recent banking history. Applicants are matched with lenders in real-time based on eligibility and location.
Get Started with Viva Payday Loans – No Credit Score Needed >>
Key features:
Short Term Loans for Bad Credit
Many Americans are turned away by banks due to low credit scores. Viva’s platform includes short term loans for bad credit, giving those with limited credit history a fair chance. These loans typically range from $100 to $1,000 and are ideal for covering urgent needs like rent, car repairs, or utility bills.
The company ensures that each offer comes with full fee breakdowns and no hidden charges. Borrowers can even convert short term loans into longer installment plans if needed.
Check Your Eligibility for a Short Term Loan Online >>
Short Term Business Loans Made Simple
Freelancers, gig workers, and small business owners can now apply for short term business loans through Viva’s network of lenders. These loans are suitable for covering overheads, restocking supplies, or dealing with invoice delays. There’s no need to visit a branch or prepare lengthy financial statements.
Why Borrowers Choose Short Term Loans in 2025
Types of Short Term Loans Available in 2025
1. Short Term Loans for Bad Credit: Many traditional lenders reject applicants with credit scores under 600. Viva partners with licensed lenders who look at income and recent deposits instead of penalizing applicants for past credit issues. Borrowers can qualify even after past defaults or missed payments.
2. No Credit Check Short Term Loan: Some lenders on Viva Payday Loans offer short term loans online with no credit check. These are helpful for individuals who want to avoid a hard inquiry on their report or who haven’t yet built credit history.
3. Short Term Business Loan: Small business owners can apply for quick loans to cover payroll, restock supplies, or manage slow payments. These loans don’t require lengthy paperwork and are ideal for freelancers and self-employed workers too.
4. Installment-Based Short Term Loans: If repaying in one lump sum isn’t realistic, borrowers can opt for installment repayment. This breaks up the amount over several weeks, reducing the pressure of a single due date.
About Viva Payday Loans
Viva Payday Loans is an online platform that connects borrowers with reputable lenders across the U.S. The company offers access to short term loans, personal loans, and installment loan options tailored to individual needs. Viva is committed to clear terms, fast approvals, and making borrowing accessible to more people, especially those underserved by traditional banks.
Media Contact
Mukesh Bhardwaj
Email: mukesh@paydayventures.com
Disclaimer
Viva Payday Loans is not a lender and does not make credit decisions. Loan approval, rates, and terms are determined by third-party lenders based on applicant eligibility. Borrowers should read all loan terms carefully and only borrow what they can repay. Same-day funding is subject to bank processing timelines and may vary by applicant.
Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)
China’s Economy: Analysed
Despite persistent challenges, such as low domestic demand and household consumption, China’s economy has been buoyed by strong exports and private sector activity, hitting its 5% growth rate target in 2024 and aiming for similar levels of growth this year.
To what extent can a shift to a technology-led model yield new growth as global volatility threatens exports?
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
KUNMING, June 25 (Xinhua) — The 9th China-South Asia Expo concluded on Tuesday in Kunming, capital of southwest China’s Yunnan Province, attracting over 500,000 visitors to the six-day expo.
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) — China Southern Airlines flight CZ3083 with 145 passengers on board took off from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in south China’s Guangdong Province on Wednesday for Almaty, Kazakhstan, marking the official opening of a direct air route between the two cities by the Chinese carrier.
The new route will be operated by Boeing 737-8 aircraft in both directions on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, the Chinese news agency Zhongxinshe reports.
With the addition of this route to the schedule, China Southern Airlines’ fleet now operates a total of 26 direct round-trip flights per week, connecting Almaty with airports in Guangzhou, Urumqi (the capital of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in Northwest China), Xi’an (the capital of Shaanxi Province in Northwest China) and Beijing Daxing Airport.
Let us recall that 2024 was the Year of Kazakhstan Tourism in China, and 2025 has been declared the Year of China Tourism in Kazakhstan. The opening of the new airline will facilitate business and tourism exchanges between China and Kazakhstan, the report notes.
In addition, as previously reported, China Southern Airlines will also launch a Guangzhou-Tashkent flight on June 30. The carrier’s network of flights on air routes between China and Central Asia continues to expand. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, June 26 (Xinhua) — Xinhua News Agency Director-General Fu Hua met with a delegation of Azerbaijani media in Beijing on Wednesday.
Fu Hua said that Xinhua and the Azerbaijan State News Agency signed a cooperation agreement in April. Xinhua is ready to work with Azerbaijani media to tell stories about the friendship and cooperation between the two countries in various fields.
Fu Hua expressed hope that the media of the two countries will strengthen cooperation in news coverage, technology and personnel exchange.
Executive Director of the Azerbaijan Media Development Agency Akhmed Ismayilov stated that the Azerbaijani side is ready to implement important agreements reached by the heads of the two countries together with Xinhua and achieve new successes in media cooperation. -0-
Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BAGHDAD, June 26 (Xinhua) — Two militants of the Islamic State (IS) group were killed on Wednesday during a military operation in northern Iraq, the Iraqi counter-terrorism service said in a statement.
Acting on intelligence, counter-terrorism forces ambushed militants in a remote area of Kirkuk province.
The counter-terrorism service will continue to fight terrorism in all corners of Iraq, the statement said.
While Iraq declared victory over ISIS in 2017, remnants of the group continue to carry out attacks on security forces and civilians in cities, deserts and remote areas. –0–
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)
Headline: Moolenaar Statement on American Strikes on Iran
Congressman John Moolenaar released the following statement on the American strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities:
“President Trump has been consistent. A nuclear Iran poses a threat to our nation, our military personnel, and our allies in the region. His decision to strike Iran is necessary to keep our nation and our allies safe, and ensure the number one sponsor of terrorism does not develop nuclear weapons.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)
Headline: Moolenaar, Walberg, Bergman Introduce Legislation to Protect Line 5
Today, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced legislation to ensure Line 5 remains open to provide low-cost energy for Michigan residents. The Line 5 Act would prevent future administrations from shutting down the international pipeline. Moolenaar’s legislation is cosponsored by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Jack Bergman (R-MI).
“Line 5 is a vital source of energy for Michigan families. Unfortunately, the previous administration did not recognize its value to our state and fought to shut down the pipeline with bureaucratic red tape. Thankfully, the Trump administration has worked to ensure Line 5 remains open to serve Michigan residents. The Line 5 Act is a commonsense, two-page bill, which will stop future administrations from reversing the progress made by President Trump’s administration on Line 5, so Michigan families can count on it to affordably heat their homes,” said Congressman Moolenaar.
“Michiganders rely on Line 5 for a safe, secure, and reliable supply of energy to heat their homes and power our local economy,” said Rep. Walberg. “While the Trump administration has shown its steadfast dedication to securing American energy reliability, it is vital that we prevent future presidents from shutting down this safe and essential pipeline. Energy security is national security, and we must protect our critical energy infrastructure.”
“Line 5 is critical to Michigan families and our way of life. No president, regardless of their party – should have the power to shut it down with the stroke of a pen. Line 5 keeps energy affordable, supports thousands of Michigan jobs, and helps fuel our economy. This bill is about putting common sense and stability ahead of political agendas,” said General Bergman.
Approximately 320,000 households in Michigan rely on propane to heat their homes. Line 5 provides 55% of the state’s propane supply.
The text Line 5 Act can be found here.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)
Headline: Moolenaar, Dingell Legislation to Stop Deadly TB Outbreaks Passed by House
Today, Congressman John Moolenaar and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell’s bipartisan legislation, the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act, was unanimously passed by the House of Representatives. The legislation requires the Department of Health and Human Services to make reforms regarding the screening of tissue donation materials, conduct education campaigns, and impose penalties on tissue providers who fail to prevent tuberculosis outbreaks.
The lawmakers introduced the bill in honor of Shandra Eisenga, of Marion, who passed away on August 10, 2023 due to a tuberculosis infection. Eisenga was one of 36 patients in seven states to contract TB after receiving a bone graft containing infected tissue donor material.
“I am grateful for the overwhelming bipartisan support for our legislation honoring Shandra’s legacy. This bill will help prevent TB infections from bone grafts and save families from experiencing the pain and sadness that Shandra’s family has tragically endured. Our legislation accomplishes this by ensuring the FDA requires screening for TB and holds tissue suppliers responsible for infections they spread. I will continue my work in Congress to ensure this commonsense legislation is signed into law,” said Moolenaar.
“Shandra Eisenga’s death was a preventable tragedy, and we owe it to Shandra, her family, and every other patient who has been affected by contaminated bone grafts to ensure we’re doing everything possible to prevent future cases like this,” said Dingell. “As someone who had multiple bone grafts after osteomyelitis, I was never warned about the dangers. We must do more to educate patients, make sure they are aware of the risks of human cell and tissue product transplants, and implement additional safeguards to protect patients from the dangers of these infections. I’m thankful to Congressman Moolenaar for his partnership, to the University of Michigan doctors who brought this issue to our attention, and most importantly, to Shandra’s family for their tireless advocacy. I am optimistic this legislation will pass the senate and be signed into law.”
Moolenaar with Shandra Eisenga’s family, in December 2024.
The text of the Shandra Eisenga Human Cell and Tissue Product Safety Act can be found here. Moolenaar spoke during the debate of the legislation on the House floor about Shandra’s tragic story and the need for reform. Moolenaar’s remarks can be viewed here.
A new IHC report reveals that New Zealanders with an intellectual disability are twice as likely to live in hardship or severe hardship compared to the rest of the population.
IHC Advocate Shara Turner says the report, The Cost of Exclusion: Hardship and People with Intellectual Disability in New Zealand, shows this is a deep, systemic issue.
“The cost of disability is real and it’s falling entirely on individuals and families who are often excluded from work, transport and even food.
“It is not acceptable that people with intellectual disabilities can’t afford a healthy diet.
“It’s also unacceptable that this is not part of national conversations on poverty.
“We need to include intellectual disability in all poverty tracking and public reporting. We need to adjust income support to reflect the true cost of disability and to build joined-up systems that recognise the long-term, cross-sector disadvantage disabled people experience.”
The report shows that people with intellectual disability face significantly higher rates of hardship at every stage of life:
Hardship is twice as likely for people with an intellectual disability under 40 and almost three times as likely for those aged 40-64 compared to others
Severe hardship rates triple in middle age, even as they decline for the rest of the population
Nearly 50% of people with intellectual disability cannot pay an unavoidable bill within a month without borrowing (vs. 18% of others)
They are over four times more likely to go without a meal with meat (or vegetarian protein equivalent) every second day
They are almost three times more likely to cut back on fresh fruit and vegetables due to cost
Nearly 30% of children with intellectual disability can’t have fri
Source: New South Wales Community and Justice
Man charged with sexual abuse of children
Thursday, 26 June 2025 – 12:46 pm.
Tasmania Police has charged a man from southern Tasmania with child sexual abuse offences, including five counts of rape, as part of an ongoing investigation.The man, aged in his 50s, was previously charged in December 2023 with multiple historical sexual offences against three children under the age of 12.Following further inquiries and interviews by the Southern Sex Crimes Investigation Unit, the man was recently arrested and faces charges of sexual abuse against two more children.The man was bailed with strict conditions and will reappear in the Hobart Magistrates Court in late September.If you suspect child abuse, report it on 131444 or if the child is in immediate danger, call 000.You can also report anonymously to Crime Stoppers Tasmania on 1800 333 000 or crimestopperstas.com.auThe Tasmanian Government’s Keeping Children Safe website is available at https://keepingchildresafe.tas.gov.au/Support for victim survivors, if required, is available through Arch https://arch.tas.gov.au/ or via https://keepingchildrensafe.tas.gov.au/get-support/