NewzIntel.com

Blog

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender for re-opening of 10-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds to be held on August 7

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:
     
    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), as representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (HKSAR Government), announced today (August 1) that a tender of 10-year RMB institutional Government Bonds (Bonds) through the re-opening of existing 10-year Government Bond issue 10GB3505001 under the Infrastructure Bond Programme will be held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, for settlement on Monday, August 11, 2025.
     
    An additional amount of RMB1.5 billion of the outstanding 10-year Bonds (issue no. 10GB3505001) will be on offer. The Bonds will mature on May 15, 2035 and will carry interest at the rate of 2.29 per cent per annum payable semi-annually in arrear. The Indicative Pricings of the Bonds on August 1, 2025 are 104.23 with a semi-annualised yield of 1.816 per cent.
     
    Tender is open only to Primary Dealers appointed under the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Anyone wishing to apply for the Bonds on offer can do so through any of the Primary Dealers on the latest published list, which can be obtained from the Hong Kong Government Bonds website at www.hkgb.gov.hk. Each tender must be for an amount of RMB50,000 or integral multiples thereof.
     
    Tender results will be published on the HKMA’s website, the Hong Kong Government Bonds website, Bloomberg (GBHK ) and Refinitiv (IBPGSBPINDEX). The publication time is expected to be no later than 3pm on the tender day.

    HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds Tender Information

    Tender information of 10-year RMB HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds:
     

    Issue Number : 10GB3505001
    Stock Code : 85024 (HKGB2.29 3505-R)
    Tender Date and Time : Thursday, August 7, 2025
    9.30am to 10.30am
    Issue and Settlement Date : Monday, August 11, 2025
    Amount on Offer : RMB1.5 billion
    Maturity : 10 years
    Remaining maturity : Approximately 9.76 years
    Maturity Date : Tuesday, May 15, 2035
    Interest Rate : 2.29 per cent p.a. payable semi-annually in arrear
    Interest Payment Dates : May 15 and November 15 in each year, commencing on the Issue Date up to and including the Maturity Date, subject to adjustment in accordance with the terms of the Institutional Issuances Information Memorandum of the Infrastructure Bond Programme and Government Sustainable Bond Programme (Information Memorandum) published on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website.
    Method of Tender : Competitive tender
    Tender Amount : Each competitive tender must be for an amount of RMB50,000 or integral multiples thereof. Any tender applications for the Bonds must be submitted through a Primary Dealer on the latest published list.

    The accrued interest to be paid by successful bidders on the issue date (August 11, 2025) for the tender amount is RMB276.05 per minimum denomination of RMB50,000.

    (The accrued interest to be paid for tender amount exceeding RMB50,000 may not be exactly equal to the figures calculated from the accrued interest per minimum denomination of RMB50,000 due to rounding).
    Other Details : Please see the Information Memorandum available on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website or approach Primary Dealers.
    Expected commencement date of dealing on
    the Stock Exchange
    of Hong Kong Limited    		 : The tender amount is fully fungible with the existing 10GB3505001 (Stock code: 85024) listed on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong.
    Use of Proceeds : The Bonds will be issued under the institutional part of the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Proceeds will be invested in infrastructure projects in accordance with the Infrastructure Bond Framework published on the Hong Kong Government Bonds website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan assumes charge as Vice Chief of Naval Staff

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan on Thursday assumed charge as the 47th Vice Chief of the Naval Staff (VCNS). Soon after taking over, he paid homage to fallen heroes by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.

    An alumnus of the 71st course of the National Defence Academy, Pune, Vice Admiral Vatsayan was commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 1, 1988. A specialist in Gunnery and Missile Systems, he brings over three decades of operational, command, and staff experience to his new role.

    He has served on several frontline warships, including as commissioning crew of INS Mysore and INS Nishank, and as Executive Officer of INS Mysore. His commands at sea include Coast Guard ship C-05, missile vessels INS Vibhuti and INS Nashak, missile corvette INS Kuthar, and guided missile frigate INS Sahyadri, which he commanded from commissioning.

    In February 2020, he assumed command of the Eastern Fleet during a critical period marked by increased maritime operations following the Galwan incident. He also held key staff appointments at Naval Headquarters, including as Director Naval Plans and Principal Director Naval Plans.

    Promoted to Flag Rank in 2018, Vice Admiral Vatsayan served as Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Policy & Plans) and later commanded the Eastern Fleet. He was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2021 for his exceptional leadership and distinguished service.

    He has held key positions in tri-services coordination, serving as Deputy Commandant at the National Defence Academy and later as Deputy Chief of the Integrated Defence Staff (DCIDS), where he was instrumental in enhancing jointness, operational coordination, and policy formulation promoting indigenisation.

    Vice Admiral Vatsayan is a graduate of Defence Services Staff College, Wellington; Naval War College, Goa; and National Defence College, New Delhi.

  • MIL-OSI China: Xi, Nepalese president exchange congratulations on 70th anniversary of ties

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Xi, Nepalese president exchange congratulations on 70th anniversary of ties

    Updated: August 1, 2025 17:52 Xinhua

    BEIJING, Aug. 1 — Chinese President Xi Jinping and Nepalese President Ram Chandra Poudel on Friday exchanged congratulations on the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • India’s export loss due to higher US tariffs limited to 0.3 to 0.4 pc of GDP: Report

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The direct export loss from the higher US tariffs announced on Indian exports could be limited to around 0.3-0.4 per cent of its GDP as the country’s largely domestic-driven economy and its relatively low share of goods exports to the US should provide some cushion, according to a CareEdge Ratings report released on Friday.

    “Not only is India’s overall export dependence relatively low, but its merchandise export exposure to the US is also low at around 2 per cent of GDP, offering additional resilience,” the report contends.

    Moreover, India’s services exports remain outside the scope of these tariffs and should continue to support the external sector, the report states.

    The report also projects the current account deficit (CAD) to remain manageable at 0.9 per cent of GDP in FY26.

    Any diversification in India’s oil imports away from Russia is expected to have a minimal impact on India’s CAD, as the price differential between Russian Ural and the benchmark Brent Crude has significantly narrowed to around $3 per barrel from an average of $20 per barrel in 2023.

    India’s merchandise exports to the US stood at $87 billion in FY25. Electronic goods accounted for the largest share of exports at 17.6 per cent. This was followed by pharma products (11.8 per cent) and gems & jewellery (11.5 per cent).

    The US accounts for 37 per cent of India’s total electronic exports. Select items from this sector have been temporarily exempted from the 25 per cent US tariffs. Additionally, India’s pharma exports to the US (accounting for 35 per cent of India’s total pharma exports) have also been excluded from the tariffs, the report states.

    However, the overarching risk of sector-specific tariff action remains. India has one of the highest numbers of US FDA-approved manufacturing facilities catering to the generic medicine requirements of the US. While tariff uncertainties persist, the sector’s fundamental competitive advantages offer some resilience, the report observes.

    India’s relative tariff advantage for its exports to the US compared to several Asian peers, such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and South Korea, has effectively reversed following the 25 per cent US tariff, along with the possibility of an additional penalty linked to India’s trade ties with Russia, according to the report.

    However, India-US trade negotiations are expected to continue and could bring some relief. Still, India is likely to remain cautious about opening sensitive sectors such as agriculture and dairy, suggesting that the talks may take some time to conclude, the report said.

    Against this backdrop, it is too early to determine the clear winners and losers from the evolving tariff landscape. Volatility in global financial markets is likely to persist, and tariff-related developments will be critical to watch in the coming months, the report added.

    (IANS)

  • South Korea’s ex-leader Yoon Suk Yeol lay on floor of cell and refused to be questioned, prosecutors say

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    South Korea’s ousted President Yoon Suk Yeol, who is in detention while on trial and facing various criminal probes, lay on the floor of his cell on Friday and refused to leave it for questioning, a spokesperson for a special prosecutor said.

    Yoon was removed from office in April by the Constitutional Court over his botched attempt last year to declare martial law and is now being investigated by a special prosecution team formed under new President Lee Jae Myung.

    Prosecutors investigating influence-peddling allegations connected to Yoon and his wife had tried to get him to comply with an arrest warrant and attend questioning voluntarily, a spokesperson for the special prosecution said.

    “But the suspect stubbornly refused to do so, while lying on the ground, not dressed in a prison uniform,” Oh Jung-hee told a news briefing. She said investigators would try again to bring him in, even if they had to use force.

    Yoon was dressed only in his undershirt and underwear when prosecutors came to his cell, the Yonhap News Agency reported, citing the special prosecution.

    Yu Jeong-hwa, one of Yoon’s lawyers, told Reuters that bringing up what he was wearing in a small space where the temperature was close to 40 degrees Celsius (104°F) was a public insult to his dignity and showed how the state was violating inmates’ human rights.

    The former president was put back in a solitary cell at the Seoul Detention Center in July, as prosecutors investigating his short-lived declaration of martial law in December sought additional charges against him.

    Yoon is already on trial for insurrection, a charge which is punishable by death or life imprisonment.

    He also faces a string of other investigations led by special prosecutors including one into scandals surrounding his wife, former First Lady Kim Keon Hee, where the couple allegedly exerted inappropriate influence over elections.

    Yoon has denied any wrongdoing and his lawyers have accused prosecutors of conducting a politically-motivated witch hunt.

    The former president has repeatedly rejected requests by prosecutors to appear for questioning, citing health issues.

    His lawyers said on Thursday that he was unwell due to preexisting conditions, including a condition that meant there was a risk of him losing his eyesight.

    In a reference to Yoon’s position as a former top prosecutor, Oh, the spokesperson for the special prosecution, said the case was being closely scrutinised by the public.

    “The suspect has consistently highlighted the importance of laws, principles, fairness and common sense and through this case people are watching if the law applies equally to everyone,” Oh said.

    Separately, investigators requested that Yoon’s wife Kim, who has also denied any wrongdoing, attend questioning on August 6. Kim’s lawyers have said she would cooperate with the investigation.

    (Reuters)

  • Amarnath Yatra suspended from Jammu for second day; over four lakh pilgrims have visited so far

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Amarnath Yatra from Jammu to the Valley remained suspended for the second consecutive day on Friday, with authorities citing ongoing maintenance work along the Pahalgam route. Pilgrims were, however, allowed to proceed from the Baltal base camp.

    This year’s yatra, which began on July 3, is scheduled to conclude on August 9, coinciding with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan. Pilgrims undertake the journey either via the 46-km traditional Pahalgam route, which takes four days on foot, or the 14-km Baltal route, which allows same-day return after darshan. There are no helicopter services this year due to security reasons.

    Officials of the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB) confirmed that no yatri was allowed to move from Jammu or the Pahalgam base camp due to safety concerns along the traditional route. Movement towards the holy cave shrine, situated at 3,888 metres in the Kashmir Himalayas, was permitted only from the Baltal axis.

    The number of pilgrims undertaking the yatra this year has crossed the 4 lakh mark, according to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who also heads the SASB.

    “Baba Amarnath makes the impossible possible. With his blessings, the holy Yatra today crossed the figure of 4 lakh,” Sinha posted on X. “I bow to Lord Shiva for this miracle and express my gratitude to everyone involved in making the pilgrimage a divine experience.”

    The holy cave houses a naturally forming ice stalagmite, believed by devotees to represent Lord Shiva.

    Meanwhile, the Chhari Mubarak — Lord Shiva’s sacred mace — will begin its final journey from Srinagar’s Amareshwar Temple on August 4 and reach the cave shrine on August 9. Rituals and pujas will be conducted en route at Pampore, Bijbehara, Mattan, and Pahalgam.

    Security arrangements remain tight, with multiple layers of protection deployed along the yatra routes, especially after the April 22 terror attack in Baisaran near Pahalgam, in which 26 people were killed.

  • ENG vs IND: Chris Woakes ruled out of remainder of 5th Test with shoulder injury

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    England seamer Chris Woakes has been ruled out of the remainder of the fifth and final Test of the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy against India after injuring his left shoulder on Day 1 at The Oval, the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) confirmed on Friday.

    In a statement, the ECB said: “Chris Woakes will continue to be monitored throughout the remainder of the Fifth Test at The Kia Oval, following a left shoulder injury sustained on day one of the match against India. At this stage, the injury has ruled him out of any further participation in the Test. A further assessment will be conducted at the conclusion of the series.”

    The injury occurred during the 57th over of India’s first innings when Woakes, fielding at long-off, dived to stop a boundary hit by Karun Nair. He landed awkwardly on his left shoulder and remained on the ground clutching it before walking off with his arm in a makeshift sling.

    Before leaving the field, Woakes had bowled 14 overs and returned figures of 1/46. His absence compounds England’s injury concerns, with captain Ben Stokes already ruled out of the series decider due to a shoulder injury.

    Woakes, 35, has been a mainstay of England’s bowling attack this series and is one of only two seamers—alongside India’s Mohammed Siraj—to have featured in all five Tests. He has bowled 181 overs across the series, picking up 11 wickets at an average of 52.18.

    With Woakes sidelined, England’s bowling attack is left short on experience. The rest of the seamers in the squad have a combined total of just 18 Test caps.

  • MIL-OSI China: Cambodia, Thailand to mull over border issue in Malaysia next week

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Cambodia has welcomed Thailand’s proposal to hold talks on border issue in Malaysia next week, a Cambodian defense ministry spokesperson said on Friday.

    “I would like to take this opportunity to confirm that Cambodia welcomes Thailand’s proposal to hold a meeting of the General Border Committee (GBC) in Kuala Lumpur,” Cambodian Defense Ministry’s Undersecretary of State and spokesperson Lt. Gen. Maly Socheata said at a press briefing.

    “We’re very confident that this meeting will be constructive and yield fruitful outcomes,” she said.

    According to Socheata, Cambodia’s Defense Minister Tea Seiha and Thailand’s Deputy Defense Minister Nattaphon Narkphanit will attend the upcoming meeting.

    The office of the spokesperson of Thailand’s Ministry of Defense said Thursday on social media that Deputy Minister of Defense Nattaphon Narkphanit had officially responded to “Cambodia’s invitation” for a special GBC meeting.

    In his reply, Nattaphon welcomed the opportunity to join the meeting and emphasized a shared commitment to reduce tensions and resolve border security issues in a peaceful and constructive manner.

    On July 24, armed clashes broke out between soldiers of Cambodia and Thailand along disputed border. The two countries agreed on a ceasefire on July 28, taking effect at the midnight of July 28.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Death toll from Russian strikes on Ukrainian capital rises to 28

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The death toll from Thursday’s Russian missile and drone strikes on Kiev has risen to 28, including three children, authorities said on Friday.

    Ukraine’s State Emergency Service reported that 159 people were injured in the attack.

    The heaviest casualties occurred in the Sviatoshinskyi district, where part of a nine-story apartment building was destroyed.

    Search and rescue efforts are ongoing at the scene.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing hosts eldercare robot competition

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The inaugural Beijing Intelligent Healthcare and Nurse Robots Application Competition took place on Tuesday in the Beijing Economic-Technological Development Area (Beijing E-Town), coinciding with the launch of the IEC 63310 international standard for eldercare robots.

    The competition showcased 53 products from 40 teams across China, focusing on five key scenarios of eldercare: rehabilitation training, caregiving, intelligent companionship, health monitoring, and public services. Participants represented cities including Beijing, Tianjin, Shenzhen, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Wuxi, covering the entire industry chain from hardware manufacturing to software development.

    The competition broke away from traditional formats by introducing a pioneering “Direct-to-Market” model, designed to better match supply with demand through collaboration among government, industry, academia, research institutions, and end users.

    “Participating in this competition helps boost our market recognition and brand competitiveness, enabling precise supply-demand matching and accelerating implementation,” said Shuai Mei, CEO of Beijing AI-robotics Technology Co., Ltd.

    The competition invited senior citizens to participate as judges, aiming to collect their feedback to ensure that the featured technologies meet their real life needs. One participant, a 73-year-old senior surnamed Zhang, said “Robotic care for the elderly is the future trend. I saw many specialized robots today that assist with walking and hand rehabilitation.”

    As the world confronts aging demographics, Beijing E-Town is leading the way in the eldercare robotics, with over 300 specialized companies and an industrial chain exceeding 10 billion yuan (US$1.39 billion).

    “This event is not only a technical competition but also a platform for building the industrial ecosystem,” said a government representative from Beijing E-Town. “We aim to promote research, application, and production through the competition, facilitating the transition of robotic technology from the laboratory to the frontline of eldercare, and ensuring it meets the real needs of seniors.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Free events for families in Plymouth parks this August

    Source: City of Plymouth

    Fit and Fed on tour in Central Park

    Throughout August, parks and green spaces in Plymouth will be filled with fun, free activities for families.

    These events are a great opportunity to keep kids entertained during the summer holiday while also finding out more about the support that’s on offer for parents and carers across the city.  

    The popular Fit and Fed programme will go on tour every Tuesday during August, taking place from 10am to 2pm:

    • Victoria Park on Tuesday 5 August
    • Ernesettle Green on Tuesday 12 August
    • Tothill Park on Tuesday 19 August
    • Central Park on Tuesday 26 August.

    Hundreds of free healthy lunches will be available for children at each event, offered on a first come, first served basis.

    Organised by Plymouth Active Leisure and Plymouth City Council with support from Plymouth Argyle Community Trust and St John’s Ambulance, Fit and Fed on Tour features a huge range of activities for children to enjoy.

    This includes inflatables, slime making, scrap art sessions, cycling, mini golf and archery. Local organisations such as Peninsula Dental School and Plymouth Libraries will also be on hand with games, activities and lots of advice and guidance for parents and carers.

    Councillor Sue Dann, Cabinet Member for Sport and Leisure, said: “Fit and Fed is a lifeline for many families during the summer holidays. It’s about making sure children have access to healthy food, safe spaces to play, and opportunities to stay active and engaged.

    “I’m delighted that we’re working with Plymouth Active Leisure to take Fit & Fed on tour once again this year so that even more families can access support right in the heart of their communities.”

    Plymouth Family Hubs will then be hosting ‘Play and Beyond’ events on Wednesdays throughout August, which also take place between 10am and 2pm:

    • Devonport Park on Wednesday 6 August
    • Hillcrest Park (near Hillcrest Close) in Plympton on Wednesday 13 August
    • Freedom Fields Park on Wednesday 20 August
    • Bond Street Park in Southway on Wednesday 20 August
    • Deans Cross Playing Fields in Plymstock on Wednesday 27 August.

    The Family Hubs teams from Barnardo’s, Action for Children and LARK will be on hand at these events providing fun activities for children of all ages, including face painting, bouncy castles, football, STEM activities and storytelling sessions.

    There will also be lots of advice available about infant feeding and learning activities to try at home with younger children. Young parents can also find out more about the local support available to them.

    Staff will also be on hand to showcase all the support on offer at your local Family Hub, including parenting workshops, courses and more.

    Councillor Jemima Laing, Cabinet Member for Children’s Social Care said: “We’re really excited to be bringing free, family-friendly fun to local communities across Plymouth this August.

    “These events are a brilliant way to keep children active and entertained during the summer holidays, while also connecting parents and carers with the fantastic support available to them.”

    Plymouth Family Hubs are also hosting free pop-up sessions with lots of activities and storytelling at The Little Box, outside The Box on Tavistock Place. All families are welcome, but the activities are aimed at pre-school age children. The sessions will include ideas for activities that parents and carers can try at home with their children.

    Drop in to the sessions anytime between 9.30am and 3pm, with stories at 10am, 11.30am and 1pm, every weekday from 4 to 8 August and 11 to 15 August.

    Find out more about Plymouth Family Hubs at www.plymouth.gov.uk/family-hubs or follow Plymouth Family Hubs on Facebook.

    Find out more about Fit and Fed programme at www.plymouth.gov.uk/fit-and-fed. 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Extremists use gaming platforms to recruit – study

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    New research published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology reveals how extremist groups are exploiting the popularity of video games to recruit and radicalise impressionable users.

    The study shows that gaming-adjacent platforms, which allow users to chat and live stream while playing, are being used as “digital playgrounds” for extremist activity and that video game players are being deliberately “funnelled” by extremists from mainstream social media platforms to these sites, in part because of the challenges faced in moderating them.

    The research was carried out by Dr William Allchorn and Dr Elisa Orofino, senior research fellows at Anglia Ruskin University’s International Policing and Public Protection Research Institute (IPPPRI), and includes interviews with platform content moderators, tech industry experts and those involved in preventing and countering violent extremism.

    It found that far-right extremism is the most common ideology shared on these gaming-adjacent platforms. This includes content promoting white supremacy, neo-Nazism and anti-Semitism, often accompanied by misogyny, racism, homophobia and conspiracy theories, including references to QAnon.

    Islamist extremism was also reported, though less frequently, alongside “extremist-adjacent” material such as the glorification of school shootings – all content that violates the terms of service of mainstream platforms but often evades detection.

    The study explains that hyper-masculine gaming titles, such as first-person shooter games, have particular appeal to extremists, and highlights how the unique nature of online gaming brings together strangers with a common interest.

    After initial contact, funnelling takes place where interactions move to the less regulated gaming-adjacent platforms, providing an environment where extremists can socialise, share propaganda and subtly recruit.

    One interviewee in the study explained how grooming might start: “That’s where you have matchmaking. It’s where you can build quick rapport with people. But that’s the stuff that very quickly moves to adjacent platforms, where there’s sort of less monitoring.”

    A recurring concern among participants was the danger of younger users coming under the influence of extremist influencers, who combined streaming live game play with extremist narratives.

    Participants highlighted that law enforcement need to better understand how these platforms and their subcultures operate, and also emphasised the importance of educating parents, teachers and children about the risks of online radicalisation.

    Moderators who took part in the study expressed frustration at inconsistent enforcement policies on their platforms and the burden of deciding whether content or users should be reported to local law enforcement agencies.

    In-game chat is unmoderated, but the moderators still report being overwhelmed by the volume and complexity of harmful content, including the use of hidden symbols often used to circumvent banned words.

    AI tools are being used to assist with moderation, but they struggle to interpret memes or when language is ambiguous or sarcastic. Phrases such as “I’m going to kill you” may be common in gameplay, but difficult for automated systems to interpret in context.

    “These gaming-adjacent platforms offer extremists direct access to large, often young and impressionable audiences and they have become a key tool for extremist recruitment.

    “Social media platforms have attracted most of the attention of lawmakers and regulators over the last decade, but these platforms have largely flown under the radar, while at the same time becoming digital playgrounds for extremists to exploit.

    “The nature of radicalisation and the dissemination of extremist content is not confined to any single platform and our research identified a widespread lack of effective detection and reporting tools.

    “Many users don’t know how to report extremist content, and even when they do, they often feel their concerns aren’t taken seriously. Strengthening moderation systems, both AI and human, is essential, as is updating platform policies to address content that is harmful but technically lawful. Decisive action works and platforms can be doing more to help curb the spread of extremism.”

    Dr William Allchorn, Senior Research Fellow at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU)

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey to be consulted on proposal to introduce new fire safety regulations01 August 2025 Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey to be consulted on proposal to introduce new fire safety regulations Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey, or are involved… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    01 August 2025

    Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey to be consulted on proposal to introduce new fire safety regulations Islanders who live in tall residential buildings in Jersey, or are involved in their ownership or management, are to be consulted on a proposal from the Minister for Justice and Home Affairs to introduce new fire safety regulations for tall residential buildings in Jersey. 

    The proposed regulations would directly implement some of the key recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Phase One inquiry report which are aimed at maintaining and where necessary, improving safety for residents of tall residential buildings. Tall residential buildings, TRBs, are defined, in Jersey as those buildings which are 11 metres tall and above. 

    Typically, these are blocks of flats where there are five or more stories, including the ground level. In some limited cases, this can include four-storey blocks of flats. 

    Jersey currently has more than 125 of these buildings providing homes to thousands of islanders, including both renters and owner occupiers. 

    In the regulations, tall residential buildings are defined as buildings which meet all of the following criteria: 

    • contains a top storey more than 11 metres above ground level 
    • contains two or more residential dwellings (typically flats) 
    • contains common parts through which residents evacuate in the case of an emergency (typically shared corridors and stairways).

    Speaking about the proposals, Minister for Justice and Home Affairs, Deputy Mary Le Hegarat, said: “Islanders will recall that Grenfell Tower was a 24-floor tall block of flats in London in which a significant fire occurred in 2017, leading to the tragic death of 72 people. Thankfully, no similar fires have occurred here, but that does not mean we should not seek to make the places where so many Islanders live as safe as possible.”

    In England, a similar set of regulations to those being proposed by the Minister were introduced in January 2023 known as the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022. Since the introduction of the English regulations, Jersey’s Fire and Rescue Service has been working closely with local property managers and building owner groups to implement the requirements on a voluntary basis in their buildings. 

    This approach has allowed property managers and building owners to become more familiar with the requirements and provided the Minister’s team with the opportunity to assess the impact of the regulations in England before designing something similar for Jersey. 

    “Throughout this work, it has been clear that fire safety responsibilities are taken very seriously. Approximately 19 per cent of Jersey’s tall residential buildings are estimated to be closely meeting the English regulatory requirements, with some others partially achieving them. 

    “However, the fact that the requirements are currently voluntary risks investment and time being de-prioritised in favour of other areas.” 

    While there has been no significant evidence of excessive fire risk, Jersey’s tall residential buildings as a group are now at risk of falling behind similar buildings in England in three areas: 

    • The frequency of routine checks taking place on key fire safety features such as self-closing fire doors, fire service lifts, dry risers and smoke control systems and resolution of any issues 
    • The provision of fire safety instructions to residents 
    • The quality of building information provided to the Fire Service to help them tackle fires in tall residential buildings where the risk and complexity can be higher.

    While Jersey’s building byelaws will have ensured tall residential buildings are built to local fire safety standards, there is currently no dedicated Jersey fire safety law that requires these buildings to manage and maintain their fire safety measures on an ongoing basis. 

    Deputy Le Hegarat added: “Creating regulations to implement some of the key building fire safety recommendations from the Grenfell Tower Phase One inquiry report is a logical and sensible step in the light of the inquiry’s findings.” 

    States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service Area Commander, Jason Masterman said: “As firefighters, our top priority is keeping Islanders safe, especially in the places they call home. The proposed fire safety regulations for tall residential buildings are a vital step toward that goal. 

    “They will ensure key safety features, like self-closing fire doors, smoke control systems, and fire service lifts, are regularly checked and maintained. Residents will also receive clear fire safety information, and our crews will have access to simple accurate building floor plans and signposting to help them respond more effectively in emergencies.” 

    The consultation opens on Monday 4 August and will be available on gov.je. ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Portadown Golf Club marks 125th Anniversary

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray with Portadown Golf Club Officers, Bill Nixon, Mens President, Mark Jones, Mens Captain, Sharon Horsfall, Lady Captain and Doreen Johnston, Lady President at the reception to mark the 125th Anniversary of the club.

    The Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray was joined by Councillor Kyle Savage and Cllr Kate Events to host a Civic Reception for Members of Portadown Golf Club to mark the Club’s 125th Anniversary.

    At the Civic Reception the Lord Mayor on behalf of Council congratulated everyone involved with the Club on their commitment and effort to keep the club thriving through the years, from the Committee to the players, staff, volunteers and everyone in the golfing community.  Council was then thanked for the reception by Captain Mark Jones.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Carleton Street Orange Hall Celebrates 150th Anniversary

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Alderman Stephen Moutray and Councillor Kyle Moutray with John Proctor, William McClean and Joe Partridge, the Trustees of Carlton Street Orange Hall.

    In a few weeks on 12th August 2025 Carleton Street Orange Hall in Portadown will mark its 150th Anniversary, and last evening the Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray, along with Alderman Ian Burns, Councillor Kyle Moutray and Councillor Julie Flaherty received representatives from each of the groups who meet in the Hall for a Civic Reception in Craigavon Civic Centre to mark the anniversary.

    The Lord Mayor welcomed all present and mentioned each of the Lodges and organisations who are based in Carleton Street Orange Hall.  One of which is the Portadown Heritage Tours Association who have produced an anniversary booklet giving a detailed history of the Hall.

    As well as the different organisations the Lord Mayor also mentioned the Jones family who lived in the hall when Mr Rab Jones was Caretaker.    He wished the whole of the Carleton Street Orange Hall Community the very best as they cherish their Hall for many more years to come.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: US Consul General pays visit to Armagh

    Source: Northern Ireland City of Armagh

    Lord Mayor of Armagh Stephen Moutray welcomes US Consul General James Applegate to The Palace Armagh The Palace Armagh CREDIT: LiamMcArdle.com

    The US Consul General, Mr James Applegate (US Consulate General Belfast), accompanied by Ms Dori Winter, Political Economic Chief, paid a visit to the Archbishops Palace, Armagh yesterday (30th July 2025) where they met with the Lord Mayor, Alderman Stephen Moutray, Chief Executive, Mr Roger Wilson and Director, Mr Paul Tamati.

    Mr Applegate and Ms Winter were happy to chat on a range of issues including the continuation of the important economic links that our Borough has with the USA and the importance of strengthening these.

    2026 also marks the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in the United States and the Consul General also talked about how Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council may possibly play a part in these celebrations.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: What’s the story? Oasis to visit Edinburgh

    Source: Scotland – City of Edinburgh

    With a week to go until Rock ‘n’ Roll stars Oasis arrive in Edinburgh, we’ve released advice for residents, businesses, and visitors.

    The sold-out shows taking place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Friday 8, Saturday 9 and Tuesday 12 August mark the band’s first appearance in the Capital since 2009 and are expected to draw Supersonic crowds of up to 210,000 fans over the three nights.

    And we won’t just Roll with it. To keep the city running smoothly for everyone, planning has been underway for some time in collaboration with our partners. As the fans Slide Away, we will be making sure key areas surrounding Murrayfield will be tidied up all three nights after each show. We will also be dedicating extra litter collectors for Roseburn Park.

    City of Edinburgh Council Leader Cllr Jane Meagher, said:

    Excitement is building in Edinburgh for Oasis Live 25 as it’s our turn to witness rock history. With all of our partners in the city we’ve been planning for this for some time to make sure we’re ready to welcome thousands of Oasis fans over three nights.

    There will be extra trains, trams, and buses to accommodate concert goers, along with those attending our summer festivals. With this in mind we urge you to plan ahead.

    We are keen for everyone to have an enjoyable experience, not only at the show, but on their way before and after. Whilst we relish hosting the biggest and best events and want everyone attending to truly enjoy themselves, it’s important that we remember our residents.

    We ask that visitors are considerate and respectful of them whilst enjoying our fantastic capital city. We’re urging people to only travel to Murrayfield and the surrounding area if you have a ticket.

    To find out more, and for helpful information in the lead-up to the concerts, visit our dedicated events webpage.

    Please also check the dedicated webpage of the Scottish Rugby Union with detailed advice for attendees.

    Published: August 1st 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The Polytechnic University summed up the results of the competition “Best Teacher in the Eyes of Students-2025”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    At the initiative of the student community, the Polytechnic University traditionally held the “Best Teacher through the Eyes of Students” competition from June 5 to July 12.

    The competition has been held at the university since 2021 and this year it celebrated a small anniversary – five years. As usual, students nominate teachers for participation in the competition who, from their point of view, best meet such approved criteria as “Personal interest in the subject”, “Openness to everything new”, “Pedagogical excellence”, “Culture of interaction with students”, “Commitment to the traditions of the Polytechnic University”, etc. However, this year, only graduating students who received their diplomas this year could vote for teachers. For each of the nine criteria of the competitive selection, the students had to nominate only one teacher.

    “Our university is changing, and the rules for the “Best Teacher in the Eyes of Students” competition are changing along with it,” explained SPbPU Vice-Rector for Educational Activities Lyudmila Pankova. “In this anniversary year for the competition, it was important for us to find out which teachers remain in the hearts of graduates leaving the university on their way to a new, big life.”

    Perhaps the most important change in the rules of the competition was that student voting was transferred to the Telegram bot “Digital Pelican” of the Trade Union of Students of SPbPU.

    “We think it is important that our students have taken responsibility not only for developing the evaluation criteria for the competition, but also for its implementation,” noted Elena Zima, Director of the Education Quality Center. “This significant step in improving the competition procedure will increase the university students’ confidence in the competition results and their involvement, which will undoubtedly contribute to improving the overall culture of education quality at the Polytechnic.”

    494 Polytechnic graduates took part in the voting. The winners and prize winners were 10 teachers from seven institutes: GI, IBSiB, IKNK, IPMEiT, IFiM, IFKSiT, IE. All of them will receive cash prizes. The results of the competition are also taken into account in the rating of the faculty. The award ceremony for teachers will traditionally take place on Knowledge Day, September 1.

    The winners of the competition in the nomination “Best of the Best” were:

    Anton Pavlovich Shaban (IPMEiT); Sergey Aleksandrovich Vazhnov (IE); Elmira Alyarovna Nazarova (IPMEiT).

    Full list of winners and prize winners of the competition posted on the website of the Center for Education Quality.

    Congratulations to the winners! We wish you creative success, new discoveries and new victories!

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Steil Applauds Groundbreaking Crypto Report

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bryan Steil (Wisconsin-1)

    Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) released the following statement after the release of the White House Crypto Policy Report:

    “The golden age of Digital Assets is here and America will lead,” said Steil. I applaud President Trump and AI & Crypto Czar Sacks for promoting a stable regulatory regime for digital assets in the United States. This report expresses strong support for the CLARITY Act, provides a roadmap for building on the historic signing of the GENIUS Act, and charts a path forward for ensuring U.S. leadership in the Web3 revolution.”

    Background: 

    • Congressman Steil serves as the Chairman of the House Financial Services Subcommittee on Digital Assets, Financial Technology, and Artificial Intelligence.
    • Congressman Steil is an original cosponsor of the CLARITY Act. The CLARITY Act will establish a federal framework for the issuance and trading of digital assets in the United States.
    • The CLARITY Act passed through the House on July 17, 2025 on a non-partisan vote of 294-132.
       

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Veasey Statement on Republican Racist Redistricting Plan

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Marc Veasey (33rd District of Texas)

    Headline: Congressman Veasey Statement on Republican Racist Redistricting Plan

    Fort Worth, TX – Today, Congressman Marc Veasey (TX-33) released the following statement on the proposed congressional map by Republican lawmakers: 

    “Let’s be clear – this map is racist, it’s illegal, and it’s part of a long, ugly tradition of trying to keep Black and Brown Texas from having a voice. What Donald Trump and Greg Abbott are doing isn’t about democracy – it’s about consolidating power. Republicans are bending their knee to a wannabe king, drawing maps in backrooms to appease a man who tried to overthrow an election and now wants to overthrow the will of Texans.

    “To Trump, Abbott, and the servile Republicans, I say this: Black people in this country fought, bled, and died for the right to vote, and we will never bend the knee again to any man. Not to Trump. Not Abbott. Not to anyone who thinks they can shut us out.

    “Trump and the Republican cowards want to rig the system because they know they can’t win when every voice counts and every vote matters. So instead of earning our votes, they are trying to erase us. 

    “But we are still here. We will fight in the courts, in the streets, and at the ballot box. No matter how hard they try, we aren’t going anywhere.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Patria Reports Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Patria (Nasdaq:PAX) reported today its unaudited results for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025. The full detailed presentation of Patria’s second quarter 2025 results can be accessed on the Shareholders section of Patria’s website at https://ir.patria.com/.

    Alex Saigh, Patria’s CEO, said: “In 2Q we made continued progress in leveraging and expanding the diversified platform we’ve built the past several years as fundraising was a solid $1.3 billion in the quarter, bringing our total fundraising over the first half of 2025 to ~$4.5 billion. Reflecting our strong fundraising momentum and confidence in our outlook, we now expect full-year fundraising to be 5%-10% higher than our initial $6 billion target. We also reported 2Q25 FRE of $46 million, or $0.29 per share, representing year-over-year growth of 17% and 11%, respectively. Also, FEAUM grew 6% sequentially and 20% year-over-year, and we generated over $600 million of organic net inflows. Over the first half of 2025 our annualized organic growth rate exceeded 8%.

    While a looming trade war and global economic concerns create potential headwinds, we believe we are well positioned to generate the $200 to $225 million of FRE we are targeting for 2025 as the increased diversification of our platform is paying off in terms of fundraising and profitable organic growth, enhancing our confidence in the three-year targets we introduced at our Investor Day back on December 9th.”

    Financial Highlights (reported in $ USD)

    IFRS results included $12.9 million of net income attributable to Patria in Q2 2025. Patria generated Fee Related Earnings of $46.1 million in Q2 2025, up 17% from $39.5 million in Q2 2024, with an FRE margin of 56.8%. Distributable Earnings were $38.8 million for Q2 2025, or $0.24 per share.

    Dividends

    Patria declared a quarterly dividend of $0.15 per share to record holders of common stock at the close of business on August 15th, 2025. This dividend will be paid on September 15th, 2025.

    Share Repurchase Program

    Patria’s board of directors has authorized a new share repurchase program. Under the repurchase program, Patria may repurchase up to 3 million of its outstanding Class A common shares in the open market, based on prevailing market prices, or in privately negotiated transactions, over a period beginning in August 2025 continuing until the earlier of the completion of the repurchase or August 2026, depending upon market conditions. Patria’s board of directors will review the repurchase program periodically and may authorize adjustments to its terms and size or suspend or discontinue the repurchase program. Such purchases may benefit from the safe harbors provided by Rule 10b-18 and/or Rule 10b5-1, promulgated by the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The actual timing, number and value of shares repurchased under the repurchase program will depend on several factors, including constraints specified in the Rule 10b-18 and/or Rule 10b5-1, price, general business and market conditions, and alternative investment opportunities. The repurchase program does not obligate Patria to acquire any specific number of shares in any period, and may be expanded, extended, modified or discontinued at any time.

    Conference Call

    Patria will host its second quarter 2025 earnings conference call via public webcast on August 1st, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET. To register and join, please use the following link:

    https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/rpv5tvp5

    For those unable to listen to the live broadcast, there will be a webcast replay on the Shareholders section of Patria’s website at https://ir.patria.com/ shortly after the call’s completion.

    About Patria

    Patria is a global alternative asset management firm focused on the mid-market segment, specializing in resilient sectors across select regions. We are a leading asset manager in Latin America and have a strong presence in Europe through our extensive network of General Partners relationships. Our on-the-ground presence combines investment leaders, sector experts, company managers, and strategic relationships, allowing us to identify compelling investment opportunities accessible only to those with local proficiency. With 37 years of experience and over $48 billion in assets under management, we believe we consistently deliver attractive returns through long-term investments, while promoting inclusive and sustainable development in the regions where we operate. Further information is available at www.patria.com.

    Asset Classes: Private Equity, Solutions (GPMS), Credit, Real Estate, Infrastructure, and Public Equities

    Main sectors: Agribusiness, Power & Energy, Healthcare, Logistics & Transportations, Food & Beverage and Digital & Tech Services

    Investment Regions: Latin America, Europe and the U.S.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. You can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “outlook,” “indicator,” “believes,” “expects,” “potential,” “continues,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “seeks,” “approximately,” “predicts,” “intends,” “plans,” “estimates,” “anticipates” or the negative version of these words or other comparable words, among others. Forward-looking statements appear in a number of places in this press release and include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our intent, belief or current expectations. Forward-looking statements are based on our management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to our management. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we do not undertake any obligation to update them in light of new information or future developments or to release publicly any revisions to these statements in order to reflect later events or circumstances or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Such forward-looking statements are subject to various risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. Further information on these and other factors that could affect our financial results is included in filings we have made and will make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission from time to time, including but not limited to those described under the section entitled “Risk Factors” in our most recent annual report on Form 20-F, as such factors may be updated from time to time in our periodic filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), which are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements that are included in our periodic filings.

    Contact

    Patria Shareholder Relations
    E. PatriaShareholderRelations@patria.com
    T. +1 917 769 1611

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Marquette National Corporation Reports Second Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Marquette National Corporation (OTCQX: MNAT) today reported year-to-date net income of $6.6 million compared to net income of $13.2 million for the first six months of 2024. Earnings per share for the first six months of 2025 were $1.52, as compared to income of $3.02 per share for the comparable period in 2024.

    At June 30, 2025, total assets were $2.23 billion, an increase of $22 million, or 1%, compared to $2.21 billion at December 31, 2024. Total loans increased by $32 million to $1.44 billion compared to $1.41 billion at the end of 2024. Total deposits increased by $20 million, or 1%, to $1.76 billion compared to $1.74 billion at the end of 2024.

    Paul M. McCarthy, Chairman & CEO, said, “the primary reason for the decrease in consolidated earnings was a lower level of unrealized gains on the Company’s equity portfolio in 2025. The decrease in unrealized gains on the Company’s equity portfolio was partially offset by an increase in realized gains on the Company’s equity portfolio and an increase in net interest income. Other comprehensive income was positive for the first six months of 2025 and helped deliver an increase to tangible book value per share in 2025. Tangible book value per share increased by $2.69 during the first six months of 2025.”

    Marquette National Corporation is a diversified financial holding company and the parent of Marquette Bank, a full-service, community bank that serves the financial needs of communities in Chicagoland. The Bank has branches located in: Chicago, Bolingbrook, Bridgeview, Evergreen Park, Hickory Hills, Lemont, New Lenox, Oak Forest, Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Summit and Tinley Park, Illinois.

    For further information on financial results, visit: https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/MNAT/disclosure.

    Special Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements. 
    This document contains, and future oral and written statements of the Company and its management may contain, forward-looking statements with respect to the financial condition, results of operations, plans, objectives, future performance and business of the Company. Forward-looking statements, which may be based upon beliefs, expectations and assumptions of the Company’s management and on information currently available to management, are generally identifiable by the use of words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “bode”, “predict,” “suggest,” “project”, “appear,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” ”annualize,” “may,” “will,” “would,” “could,” “should,” “likely,” “might,” “potential,” “continue,” “annualized,” “target,” “outlook,” as well as the negative forms of those words, or other similar expressions. Additionally, all statements in this document, including forward-looking statements, speak only as of the date they are made, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update any statement in light of new information or future events.

    A number of factors, many of which are beyond the ability of the Company to control or predict, could cause actual results to differ materially from those in its forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: (i) the strength of the local, state, national and international economies and financial markets (including effects of inflationary pressures and supply chain constraints); (ii) effects on the U.S. economy resulting from the implementation of policies proposed by the new presidential administration, including tariffs, mass deportations and tax regulations; (iii) the economic impact of any future terrorist threats and attacks, widespread disease or pandemics, acts of war or threats thereof (including the Russian invasion of Ukraine and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East), or other adverse events that could cause economic deterioration or instability in credit markets, and the response of the local, state and national governments to any such adverse external events; (iv) new or revised accounting policies and practices, as may be adopted by state and federal regulatory agencies, the Financial Accounting Standards Board or the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board; (v) changes in local, state and federal laws, regulations and governmental policies concerning the Company’s general business and any changes in response to the bank failures in 2023; (vi) the imposition of tariffs or other governmental policies impacting the value of products produced by the Company’s commercial borrowers; (vii) increased competition in the financial services sector, including from non-bank competitors such as credit unions and fintech companies, and the inability to attract new customers; (viii) changes in technology and the ability to develop and maintain secure and reliable electronic systems; (ix) unexpected results of acquisitions which may include failure to realize the anticipated benefits of the acquisitions and the possibility that transaction costs may be greater than anticipated; (x) the loss of key executives and employees, talent shortages and employee turnover; (xi) changes in consumer spending; (xii) unexpected outcomes and costs of existing or new litigation or other legal proceedings and regulatory actions involving the Company; (xiii) the economic impact on the Company and its customers of climate change, natural disasters and exceptional weather occurrences such as tornadoes, floods and blizzards; (xiv) fluctuations in the value of securities held in our securities portfolio, including as a result of changes in interest rates; (xv) credit risk and risks from concentrations (by type of borrower, geographic area, collateral and industry) within our loan portfolio and large loans to certain borrowers (including CRE loans); (xvi) the overall health of the local and national real estate market; (xvii) the ability to maintain an adequate level of allowance for credit losses on loans; (xviii) the concentration of large deposits from certain clients who have balances above current FDIC insurance limits and who may withdraw deposits to diversify their exposure; (xix) the ability to successfully manage liquidity risk, which may increase dependence on non-core funding sources such as brokered deposits, and may negatively impact the Company’s cost of funds; (xx) the level of non-performing assets on our balance sheets; (xxi) interruptions involving our information technology and communications systems or third-party servicers; (xxii) the occurrence of fraudulent activity, breaches or failures of our third-party vendors’ information security controls or cybersecurity-related incidents, including as a result of sophisticated attacks using artificial intelligence and similar tools or as a result of insider fraud; (xxiii) changes in the interest rates and repayment rates of the Company’s assets; (xxiv) the effectiveness of the Company’s risk management framework, and (xxv) the ability of the Company to manage the risks associated with the foregoing as well as anticipated. These risks and uncertainties should be considered in evaluating forward-looking statements and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements.

    Marquette National Corporation and Subsidiaries
    Financial Highlights
    (Unaudited)
    (in thousands, except share and per share data)
                 
                 
    Balance Sheet        
               06/30/25       12/31/24 Percent
    Change
      Total assets   $2,229,653 $2,207,663 1%
      Total loans, net     1,421,815   1,390,799 2%
      Total deposits     1,759,649   1,739,799 1%
      Total stockholders’ equity   185,298   173,579 7%
             
      Shares outstanding   4,366,911   4,367,477 0%
      Book value per share $42.43 $39.74 7%
      Tangible book value per share $34.34 $31.65 8%
             
             
    Operating Results        
        Six Months Ended June 30,
    		 Percent
    Change
         2025   2024 
    		  
      Net Interest income $25,003 $22,486 10%
      Provision for credit losses   619   1,894 -67%
      Realized securities gains, net   9,996   1,261 *
      Unrealized holding gains (losses) on equity securities and exchange traded funds   (4,825)   16,294 *
      Other income   7,767   8,264 -6%
      Other expense   28,453   28,533 0%
      Income tax expense   2,233   4,645 -52%
      Net income   6,636   13,233 -50%
             
      Basic and fully diluted earnings per share $1.52 $3.02 -50%
      Weighted average shares outstanding   4,367,277   4,381,037 0%
             
      Cash dividends declared per share $0.62 $0.56 11%
             
      Comprehensive income $14,442 $12,348 17%
               
      * Not meaningful        
               

    For more information:
    Patrick Hunt
    EVP & CFO
    708-364-9019           
    phunt@emarquettebank.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MEXC Boosts Stock Futures Selection with TRON, BITF, ICG and More

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, Aug. 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MEXC, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has expanded its innovative Stock Futures offering by adding five new trading options: ICG, BITF, ETHWSTOCK, TRON, and CRCL. This move continues MEXC’s mission to bridge the gap between digital assets and traditional finance, providing users with seamless access to U.S. stock market opportunities through the flexibility of crypto-based derivatives.

    MEXC’s Stock Futures product is designed with traders in mind—offering zero trading fees, zero funding fees, and deep global liquidity. With a clean and intuitive user interface, the product removes traditional barriers to stock market access and brings popular equity exposures to a new generation of crypto-native investors. Users can now trade select U.S. stock-linked futures directly on MEXC without the need for a brokerage account.

    Each Stock Futures pair supports up to 5x leverage, allowing users to go long or short based on market sentiment, all settled in USDT. This structure empowers traders to capitalize on market movements with limited capital, while simplifying the trading process through familiar crypto infrastructure. By tokenizing price exposure to traditional stocks like ICG, BITF, and CRCL, MEXC is setting a new standard for global trading accessibility.

    Five Key Features of MEXC Stock Futures:

    0 Fees, Maximum Potential
    To celebrate the launch, MEXC is offering a limited-time “Double 0” promotion: 0 trading fees and 0 funding rates. This drastically reduces transaction costs for both high-frequency traders and long-term investors, helping users maximize profit potential.

    Industry-Leading Depth & Execution Speed
    Built on a high-performance matching engine and deep liquidity pools, MEXC delivers industry-leading trading depth for Stock Futures. Users benefit from ultra-low slippage, tight spreads, and millisecond-level execution, even for large-volume trades.

    Streamlined, User-Friendly Interface
    The platform offers an intuitive UI with one-click leverage adjustment, quick order execution, and real-time risk alerts. Compared to the complexity of traditional CFDs, MEXC’s simplified design and smart tools make it easy for beginners to enter the leveraged trading space.

    Trading Hours Synchronized with U.S. Market Operations
    Unlike platforms that offer 24/7 trading, MEXC’s Stock Futures align with NASDAQ and NYSE trading hours, minimizing volatility during illiquid off-hours and ensuring a more authentic market experience. Real-time price feeds are sourced from official data providers, ensure transparency and minimize the risk of market manipulation.

    Institutional-Grade Asset Protection
    MEXC prioritizes user asset security with a dedicated Futures Insurance Fund to cover potential losses and a robust real-time risk management system to maintain a fair, stable trading environment.

    This guide will walk you through how to trade Stock Futures on MEXC, from opening an account to executing your first order.

    About MEXC

    Founded in 2018, MEXC is committed to being “Your Easiest Way to Crypto.” Serving over 40 million users across 170+ countries, MEXC is known for its broad selection of trending tokens, everyday airdrop opportunities, and low trading fees. Our user-friendly platform is designed to support both new traders and experienced investors, offering secure and efficient access to digital assets. MEXC prioritizes simplicity and innovation, making crypto trading more accessible and rewarding.
    MEXC Official Website｜ X ｜ Telegram ｜How to Sign Up on MEXC

    Risk Disclaimer: Futures trading carries inherent risk. Ensure you fully understand the associated risks involved before investing.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c3945edd-ad57-47dd-b7fd-8791609ce2c2

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Publication of updated Enforcement Decision-Making Process

    Source: Isle of Man

    The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has published an updated version of its Enforcement Decision-Making Process (EDMP).

    A high-level review of the EDMP was conducted as part of the Authority’s commitment to transparency, collaboration and continuous improvement. Feedback from internal and external stakeholders has informed some minor amendments aimed at enhancing the clarity of the document.

    The revised EDMP, which can be viewed online, sets out the steps to be followed by the Authority when exercising its statutory powers in relation to specific enforcement actions. It includes a table of sanctions that may be pursued by the Authority where it is considered proportionate, reasonable and appropriate to do so.

    The EDMP, which is effective from 1 August 2025, supports the Authority’s objectives of reducing financial crime, protecting consumers and maintaining confidence in the Island’s finance sector through effective regulation.

    Links:

    Updated EDMP

    Overview of Enforcement Action

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia Judicial Sector – AJOA Condemns Attacks on Coroner

    Source: Justice Steven Moore, President of the Australian Judicial Officers Association – 1 August 2025

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association (AJOA) calls on the Attorney General of the Northern Territory to defend the Northern Territory Coroner against personal attack.

    This follows an extraordinary attack on the Coroner in the Northern Territory Parliament by the Minister for Prevention of Domestic Violence on 29 July 2025.

    “Public discussion and debate about the work of the courts is an essential part of our democracy”, AJOA President Justice Steven Moore said.

    “But it must not undermine judicial independence and the vital work of the courts. Personal attacks by politicians on members of the judiciary have that effect and only undermine public confidence in the courts”.

    “In saying that the Coroner lacked ‘humility’ and ‘bravery’, and that she was ‘more focused on the reveal rather than the result’, the Minister unfairly belittled the integrity and professionalism of the Coroner in important proceedings of great public interest”.

    “There is no place for such personal attacks on judicial officers in our public debate”.

    The Australian Judicial Officers Association is the professional association of judges and magistrates in Australia.

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –

  • IMD predicts heavy rainfall over northeast, eastern India; TN and Kerala in for week-long wet spell

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Friday forecast continued heavy to very heavy rainfall over Northeast and adjoining eastern India over the next seven days, with extremely heavy downpours expected in specific pockets. Sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim, along with Meghalaya, are likely to receive intense rainfall on August 2 and 3. Arunachal Pradesh and Bihar are also forecast to witness extremely heavy rainfall on August 3.

    Southern states, including Tamil Nadu and Kerala are expected to experience sustained heavy to very heavy rainfall over the next six to seven days. In contrast, subdued rainfall activity is likely over central and north peninsular India during this period.

    Additional bouts of very heavy rainfall are anticipated in various parts of north and central India in the coming days.

    Himachal Pradesh is likely to receive very heavy showers on August 1. Eastern Rajasthan and western Uttar Pradesh are expected to see intense rain on August 4, while eastern Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand may witness heavy showers on August 3 and 4. Tamil Nadu is likely to receive very heavy rainfall on August 4 and 5, followed by Kerala and Mahe on August 6 and 7.

    In the past 24 hours (leading up to 8:30 a.m. on August 1), isolated locations across Rajasthan, Haryana, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya recorded heavy to very heavy rainfall (ranging between 7 and 20 cm). Isolated heavy rainfall was also reported from parts of sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand, Punjab, western Uttar Pradesh, and central Maharashtra.

    Weather outlook for Delhi-NCR

    On Friday, Delhi is likely to remain under a generally cloudy sky, with one or two spells of light rain and the possibility of moderate showers in isolated areas during the evening or night. Thunderstorms and lightning are also expected. Maximum temperatures are projected between 32°C and 34°C, which is 2 to 4 degrees below normal. Surface winds will predominantly blow from the south at 10–15 kmph during the afternoon, weakening to 5–10 kmph from the southwest by evening.

    On August 2, the capital will continue to witness a generally cloudy sky, accompanied by very light to light rain and occasional thunderstorms. Daytime temperatures may rise slightly, ranging from 34°C to 36°C, with minimums between 24°C and 26°C. Winds will shift from the west in the morning to the southwest by afternoon, reaching up to 20 kmph before subsiding to around 10–15 kmph in the evening.

    August 3 is forecast to bring light to moderate rainfall along with thunderstorms. Temperatures will dip slightly again, with maximums between 32°C and 34°C and minimums in the 24°C to 26°C range. Winds will initially come from the northwest at around 10–15 kmph and later shift to the southwest during the afternoon, before transitioning to the northeast in the evening.

    On August 4, the city is expected to remain under a cloudy sky, with light rainfall and thunderstorms. Maximum temperatures will continue to hover between 32°C and 34°C, while minimums may fall to 23°C to 25°C. Winds will begin from the northeast and increase from the east in the afternoon before calming again in the evening.

    Overall, the Delhi-NCR region is likely to experience relatively cooler days with intermittent rainfall and thunderstorms through the first week of August.

  • Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair assumes charge as Controller Personnel Services

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Vice Admiral CR Praveen Nair, AVSM, NM, has assumed charge as the Controller Personnel Services (CPS) at the Indian Navy on July 31. On taking over the new responsibility, the senior officer paid homage at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, honouring the sacrifices of India’s brave soldiers.

    Commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1991, Vice Admiral Nair is a specialist in Communications and Electronic Warfare. Over his distinguished career spanning more than three decades, he has held several key command, operational, and staff appointments.

    A Surface Warfare Officer, the Flag Officer’s sea tenures include service on INS Krishna, INS Kora, and INS Mysore. He has served as Fleet Electronic Warfare Officer and later as Fleet Communications Officer of the Western Fleet, during which he was awarded the Chief of the Naval Staff commendation for his contribution to the non-combatant evacuation of Indian nationals from Beirut during the Israel-Lebanon conflict in July 2006.

    Vice Admiral Nair has commanded INS Kirch (Missile Corvette), INS Chennai (Guided Missile Destroyer), and INS Vikramaditya (Aircraft Carrier). He has also served in various important shore appointments, including as Directing Staff at the Naval War College, Goa, Officer-in-Charge at Signal School, and Commodore (Personnel) at the Directorate of Personnel, Naval Headquarters. He was also a member of the Indian Naval Strategic and Operational Council (INSOC), the Indian Navy’s think tank.

    An alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and the US Naval War College, Newport, USA, Vice Admiral Nair has been the recipient of several prestigious international awards, including the Robert E. Bateman International Award, Vice Admiral James H. Doyle Military Operations and International Law Prize, and the International Leadership Prize. He holds an M.Phil. in Defence and Strategic Studies from Mumbai University.

    He was awarded the Nao Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) in 2000 and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal in January 2025.

    Upon promotion to Flag rank, Vice Admiral Nair served as Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Policy and Plans), where he played a pivotal role in formulating the Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP 2022–37) and Maritime Infrastructure Perspective Plan (MIPP 2022–37). He subsequently commanded the Western Fleet in 2023–24 and led Operation Sankalp to safeguard India’s maritime interests in the region.

    Before assuming his current post, he served as the Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy.

  • Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh assumes charge as Vice Chief of Army Staff

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh has taken over as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff. He assumed the new responsibility on July 31, 2025, following his tenure as Director General Operational Logistics & Strategic Movement at the Army Headquarters.

    Commissioned into the 4th Battalion of the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces) in December 1987, Lt Gen Pushpendra Singh brings with him over 38 years of rich experience in operational and strategic roles across the Indian Army.

    An alumnus of La Martiniere College, Lucknow University, and the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, the General Officer has served in several key operations including OP PAWAN, OP MEGHDOOT, OP ORCHID, and multiple tenures in OP RAKSHAK.

    He has commanded a Special Forces unit in the Kashmir Valley and along the Line of Control, an Infantry Brigade, and a Mountain Division during OP SNOW LEOPARD along the Line of Actual Control. He also served as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of a Corps based in Himachal Pradesh, responsible for sensitive areas including Jammu, Samba, and Pathankot.

    Lt Gen Singh has undergone extensive training during his career, including the Staff Course at DSSC Wellington, Higher Defence Management Course at CDM Secunderabad, and the Advance Professional Programme in Public Administration at IIPA. He holds a Master’s in Management Studies from Osmania University and a Master’s in Philosophy from Punjab University.

    In recognition of his exemplary service, he has been decorated with the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal and a Bar to the Sena Medal.

     

  • Real Madrid’s request to postpone LaLiga opener denied, report says

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Real Madrid will begin their LaLiga campaign with a home game against Osasuna as scheduled after Spain’s federation (RFEF) rejected their appeal to postpone the August 19 fixture on Thursday, local media reported.

    Real had requested a longer rest period and pre-season after playing in the Club World Cup in the U.S., where they lost to Paris St Germain in the semi-finals on July 9, according to the report.

    Reuters has contacted the RFEF and Real for comment.

    An RFEF judge ruled that in order to preserve the integrity of the competition only a case of force majeure would warrant a change to the official calendar, and that Real’s case did not justify an alteration, Europa Press news agency reported.

    “Finally, it should be added that although the requesting club claims to have the agreement of the opposing party, CA Osasuna, there is no record of this entity having responded to the request made by this judge,” the sole judge was quoted as saying in his ruling by the Europa Press

    -REUTERS

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government announces measures to assist exporters

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has announced a set of measures in response to the tariff hike on South African exports to the United States, which comes into effect this month.

    “The dtic has announced a set of measures in response to the imminent 30% tariff hike on South African exports to the United States, which comes into effect on 1 August 2025.

    “These urgent interventions are part of the dtic’s ongoing commitment to protecting jobs, preserving market access in the United States, and promoting export diversification to alternate markets in Africa, the EU [European Union], Asia, Latin America, and other strategic partners,” Minister Parks Tau said in a statement ahead of the start of the implementation of the tariff.

    In Thursday’s statement, Tau said key among the interventions is the establishment of an Export Support Desk, which will serve as a direct point of contact for companies affected by the US tariff hike.

    “The Desk will provide updates on developments and tailored advisory services to exporters on alternative destinations, guidance on market entry processes, insights into compliance requirements and linkages to South African Embassies and High Commissions abroad.”

    READ | SA reaffirms commitment to US trade deal

    In July, President Cyril Ramaphosa noted the correspondence from the United States (US) President Donald Trump on the unilateral imposition of a 30% trade tariff against South Africa.

    In a letter addressed to President Ramaphosa, President Trump announced that he would subject imports from South Africa to new 30% tariffs, that would take effect from 1 August 2025.

    On Thursday, the dtic said the tariff hike poses a “direct threat” to the country’s export capacity, particularly in strategic sectors such as automotive, agro-processing, steel and chemicals, amongst others.

    “As government, we are fully committed to supporting our exporters through this challenging time. We are working with urgency and resolve to implement real and practical interventions that defend jobs and position South Africa competitively in a shifting global landscape.

    “The stakes are high and we must respond decisively to ensure our export industries remain resilient, competitive, and globally integrated into diversified markets.

    “Exporters are encouraged to engage directly with the Export Support Desk and also to visit the dtic website regularly for updates and support mechanisms. The dtic remains steadfast in its mission to assist local producers and safeguard South Africa’s trade interests amid growing global uncertainty,” the Minister explained.

    The contact details of the Export Support Desk are as follows:

    Exporters to the United States and Market Enquiries related to the Americas can contact:
    •    Ms. Nthatisi Moraloge 
    NMoraloge@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-1125
    Or 
    •    Mr. Karabo Modimokwane
    KModimokwane@thedtc.gov.za
    (012) 394-1164

    Market Enquiries related to other markets:

    In the African region exporters can contact: 
    •    Ms. Zamaswazi Nkosi 
    ZPNkosi@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-3533

    Or

    •    Mr. Mncedisi Madela
    MMadela@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-5659

    Or

    •    Ms. Sithembile Shongwe 
    SLShongwe@thedtic.gov.za 
    Or

    •    Ms. Sibongimpilo Mashatola
    SMashatola@thedtic.gov.za
    (012) 394-5507

    In ASEAN and Asia, exporters can contact:

    •    Ms. Meresina Ranphabana 
    MRanphabana@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-5918

    Or 
    •    Ms. Mundzhedzi Mahosi
    MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-5645

    Or 
    •    Ms. Ledile Bambo  
    LBambo@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-1997

    Or 
    •    Mr. Kenneth Malatsi 
    MMahosi@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-1061

    In the Europe region, exporters can contact :

    •    Ms. Hloniphile Nkiwane
    HNkiwane@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-3496

    Or

    •    Mr. Seth Pule 
    SPule@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-3087

    In the Middle East, exporters can contact :
    •    Mr. Waseem Rinquest 
    WRinquest@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-5863

    Or

    •    Ms. Mpho Sebatana
    MSebatana@thedtic.gov.za 
    (012) 394-3415

    – SAnews.gov.za 

    MIL OSI Africa –