NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • Govt consistently increased budget allocation for science and research in last five years: Jitendra Singh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The government has consistently increased the budget allocation for science and research, with the highest allocation made in FY 2025-26 over the last five years, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh informed Parliament on Thursday.

    In a written reply in the Rajya Sabha, Singh said that “more than ₹65,307 crore has been allocated to six scientific agencies for research in FY 2025-26.” In comparison, ₹41,581.96 crore was allocated for science and research in 2024-25, and ₹39,843 crore in 2023-24.

    In 2022-23, the government allocated ₹37,828 crore, while ₹37,823 crore was allocated in 2021-22.

    The six major scientific agencies/departments are the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research/Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR/CSIR), the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), the Department of Space (DoS), the Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), and the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).

    “DST received the highest allocation of ₹28,508.90 crore in FY 2025-26, followed by DoS with ₹13,416.20 crore,” Singh said. These agencies have received their highest allocations this year since FY 2021-22.

    Additionally, the Minister informed that the government has been implementing several fellowships offering direct benefits to young scientists and researchers.

    Some of the key schemes include the INSPIRE Fellowship, INSPIRE Faculty Fellowship, Women in Science and Engineering (WISE)-PhD, WISE-Post Doctoral Fellowship (PDF), and the Scheme for Young Scientists and Technologists (SYST).

    To provide high-level strategic direction for research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the country, the government has established the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) through the ANRF Act of 2023, Singh added.

    Under the Act, special provisions have been made to encourage public sector enterprises as well as private sector entities to invest in ANRF-led initiatives.

    Recently, the government launched the Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) scheme with a financial outlay of ₹1 lakh crore over five years. This DST-led scheme aims to promote private sector participation in sunrise sectors, thereby driving growth and innovation.

    Singh also informed the House about the steps taken by the government to enhance private sector participation in research and development.

    Key efforts include incentivising private sector investment to increase their share in Gross Expenditure on Research and Development (GERD), and creating avenues for collaborative science, technology, and innovation (STI) funding through portfolio-based mechanisms such as public-private partnerships and other innovative hybrid funding models, the Minister said.

    IANS

  • IMD forecasts week-long downpour in Northeast; rainfall subsides in central India

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The India Meteorological Department (IMD) on Thursday forecast heavy to very heavy rainfall over the Northeast and adjoining eastern India during the next seven days, with isolated extremely heavy showers expected in Assam and Meghalaya on August 2. In contrast, a significant reduction in rainfall is likely over eastern Rajasthan and western Madhya Pradesh starting August 1, while central and southern peninsular India are expected to witness subdued rainfall activity over the next six to seven days.

    According to the IMD, very heavy rainfall is expected in Rajasthan on July 31, and across Arunachal Pradesh from August 1 to 6. Similarly, heavy rainfall is anticipated in Assam and Meghalaya between July 31 and August 3, and again on August 6. Other regions likely to experience very heavy rainfall include sub-Himalayan West Bengal and Sikkim from August 2 to 4, and Bihar on August 2 and 3.

    In the past 24 hours (ending at 8:30 AM on July 31), heavy to very heavy rainfall (7–20 cm) was recorded at isolated places over eastern Rajasthan, western Madhya Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Heavy rainfall (7–11 cm) was also observed in parts of Haryana, Punjab, western Uttar Pradesh, western Rajasthan, West Bengal & Sikkim, Chhattisgarh, eastern Madhya Pradesh, Assam & Meghalaya, Odisha, and Bihar.

    For the Delhi-NCR region, the forecast indicates generally cloudy skies with light to moderate rainfall and thunderstorms through August 3.

    On Thursday, the city is likely to receive one or two spells of light rain, with a possibility of moderate rain at isolated spots. Maximum temperatures will range between 30 to 32°C, below normal by 2 to 4°C. Surface winds will blow from the southeast at 5–10 kmph in the morning and afternoon, shifting to the northeast by evening.

    On August 1, the capital will see very light to light rain with thunderstorms or lightning. Maximum and minimum temperatures are expected to range between 33 to 35°C and 23 to 25°C, respectively, both remaining below normal. Winds will shift from the northeast in the morning to southwest in the afternoon at 10–15 kmph, later coming from the southeast during the evening and night.

    Rainfall will continue on August 2 and 3, with cloudy skies and light precipitation accompanied by thunderstorms. Temperatures will hover between 34 to 36°C for the maximum and 24 to 26°C for the minimum, with the latter staying below normal. Winds are expected to remain between 10–20 kmph from varying directions, predominantly from the northwest and northeast.

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Canon named a Leader in IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Hardcopy Remanufacturing 2025 Vendor Assessment

    Source: APO

    Today, Canon (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is pleased to announce that it has been named as a Leader in The IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Hardcopy Remanufacturing 2025 Vendor Assessment [1]. The report highlights the increased demand for circularity and sustainability in the print and document solutions market and takes an in-depth look at the global, regional, and local level activities of eight major industry vendors.

    The study looks specifically at device and consumables remanufacturing, assessing the capabilities of those surveyed through a number of factors including types of remanufactured products, levels of innovation, cost of ownership, sales strategy and distribution. With demand for remanufactured printing technology increasing as sustainability becomes an integral business priority, the report provides a strong reference point for businesses who wish to improve the carbon footprint of their print infrastructure.

    The IDC MarketScape report highlighted Canon’s strengths including its remanufacturing history and resources, citing that “Canon has been remanufacturing its products since the last millennium and has a wealth of experience and resources across the globe to meet current and future market trends for reuse”. It also noted the breadth of Canon’s office multifunction printer portfolio, highlighting. that “Canon’s remanufactured devices include monochrome and colour A3 devices and cover a wide variety of speed segments”.

    Building on this, Hiro Imamura, Executive Vice President, Digital Printing & Solutions at Canon Europe comments; “With a strong heritage in sustainability and global remanufacturing and refurbishing expertise, we are well placed to help our customers make concrete steps to improve their carbon footprint and meet their environmental goals. Reusing, recycling and repairing our products for a second life is a core part of this approach and we are delighted to be recognised as a Leader in this important IDC MarketScape report. We will continue to accelerate our efforts towards the circular economy, reducing impacts across every single part of our business and expanding our sustainable product range, from our printers to our papers, to further support our customers for the future”.

    About Canon’s sustainability actions

    Canon is committed to achieving carbon net zero emissions by 2050 and has recently been awarded with the EcoVadis Platinum Rating for its sustainability efforts, placing it within the top 1%  of companies assessed, with an overall score in the 99th percentile. This accolade highlights Canon’s strong sustainability focus throughout its global business, across crucial areas covering environmental, social and governance criteria.

    Circular approach

    Support for the circular economy also forms a significant part of Canon’s sustainability strategy. The robust and durable nature of Canon’s products provides a strong platform for refurbishment and remanufacturing processes – supporting the organization in its efforts to recycle parts and hardware, where possible, for a second life.

    Canon remanufactures its flagship imageRUNNER ADVANCE multifunction devices, which it markets as the imageRUNNER ADVANCE ES and ES+ range in the EMEA region, and as the Refreshed Series in Japan. This robust monochrome and colour A3 range is made with at least 90%+ reused parts, undergoing intensive cleaning, part replacement and rebuilding processes at Canon’s specialist factories. This result is a like new quality product which delivers optimal performance to support different business needs. Within its production print business, Canon also remanufactures its Arizona devices to support customers in the wide format segment. 

    Additionally, in EMEA, Canon also refurbishes its imageRUNNER ADVANCE range to create its Certified Used (CU range) – these multifunction devices deliver quality, high performance printers, which are designed for a second life.

    Canon’s second life products are also supported by regular firmware and software updates – helping customers to deliver high levels of workflow productivity with security and further contributing towards their sustainability efforts.

    Recycling

    Canon also has a long-established inkjet cartridge recycling programme, which began in 1996 and is available in 15 countries across Europe. At Canon Bretagne in France, Canon operates a closed loop toner cartridge recycling programme and since 2011, has established a system for collecting used toner bottles, refilling them with toner, and supplying them to the European market, helping to further reduce Canon’s plastic usage.

    To learn more about Canon’s approach to sustainability, please see here (http://apo-opa.co/46BqReK)

    [1] Doc # EUR153222025, March 2025

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA).

    Media enquiries, please contact:
    Canon Central and North Africa
    Mai Youssef
    e. Mai.youssef@canon-me.com

    APO Group – PR Agency
    Rania ElRafie
    e. Rania.ElRafie@apo-opa.com

    About IDC MarketScape:
    IDC MarketScape vendor assessment model is designed to provide an overview of the competitive fitness of technology and service suppliers in a given market. The research utilizes a rigorous scoring methodology based on both qualitative and quantitative criteria that results in a single graphical illustration of each supplier’s position within a given market. IDC MarketScape provides a clear framework in which the product and service offerings, capabilities and strategies, and current and future market success factors of technology suppliers can be meaningfully compared. The framework also provides technology buyers with a 360-degree assessment of the strengths and weaknesses of current and prospective suppliers.

    About Canon Central and North Africa:
    Canon Central and North Africa (CCNA) (https://en.Canon-CNA.com) is a division within Canon Middle East FZ LLC (CME), a subsidiary of Canon Europe. The formation of CCNA in 2016 was a strategic step that aimed to enhance Canon’s business within the Africa region – by strengthening Canon’s in-country presence and focus. CCNA also demonstrates Canon’s commitment to operating closer to its customers and meeting their demands in the rapidly evolving African market.

    Canon has been represented in the African continent for more than 15 years through distributors and partners that have successfully built a solid customer base in the region. CCNA ensures the provision of high quality, technologically advanced products that meet the requirements of Africa’s rapidly evolving marketplace. With over 100 employees, CCNA manages sales and marketing activities across 44 countries in Africa.

    Canon’s corporate philosophy is Kyosei (http://apo-opa.co/4moTJvy) – ‘living and working together for the common good’. CCNA pursues sustainable business growth, focusing on reducing its own environmental impact and supporting customers to reduce theirs using Canon’s products, solutions and services. At Canon, we are pioneers, constantly redefining the world of imaging for the greater good. Through our technology and our spirit of innovation, we push the bounds of what is possible – helping us to see our world in ways we never have before. We help bring creativity to life, one image at a time. Because when we can see our world, we can transform it for the better.

    For more information: https://en.Canon-CNA.com

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from Somerset District of Somerset County in UK suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (July 31) that in view of a notification from the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) about an outbreak of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Somerset District of Somerset County in the United Kingdom (UK), the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products (including poultry eggs) from the area with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

    A CFS spokesman said that according to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 390 tonnes of chilled and frozen poultry meat, and about 830 000 poultry eggs from the UK in the first six months of this year.

    “The CFS has contacted the British authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the WOAH and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreak. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Axi Honoured with Five Awards by World Business Outlook Awards for 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SYDNEY, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Axi, an industry-leading global broker, has been recognised with five awards* from the World Business Outlook Awards for 2025, marking a significant milestone in its continued growth and commitment to excellence:

    Best CFD Provider Australia

    Best Forex Trading Platform Australia

    Best 24/7 Customer Service Provider Australia

    Best Forex Broker Australia

    Most User-Friendly Trading Experience Australia

    “We are beyond proud and humbled to receive five awards from World Business Outlook Awards,” said Louis Cooper, CCO at Axi. “This recognition reflects and reinforces our mission to help our traders and partners gain the edge they need to stay ahead in this rapidly evolving industry. From providing the best-in-class trading platform and backing it up with top-tier customer service, we’re incredibly excited to see our efforts reaffirmed.”

    The latest accolade follows a series of other notable achievements for Axi. Earlier this year, Global Business and Finance Magazine Awards recognised Axi with the ‘Best Financial Institution 2025’ award for the UK, Middle East, and LatAm markets. In 2024, the broker received widespread industry acclaim with the ‘Innovator of the Year’ award at the 2024 Dubai Forex Expo. That same year, Axi was named Best Broker (MENA), Most Trusted Broker (LatAm), Most Reliable Broker (Europe), and Best Introducing Broker Program (Asia) by Global Forex Awards.

    About Axi

    Axi is a global online FX and CFD trading company, with thousands of customers in 100+ countries worldwide. Axi offers CFDs for several asset classes including Forex, Shares, Gold, Oil, Coffee, and more.

    For more information or additional comments from Axi, please contact: mediaenquiries@axi.com

    *These awards are granted to the Axi group of companies.

    The MIL Network –

  • Cabinet clears ₹6,520 crore outlay for PM Kisan Sampada Yojana till FY26

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Union Cabinet on Thursday approved a total outlay of ₹6,520 crore for the ongoing Central Sector Scheme, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY), for the period of the 15th Finance Commission cycle (2021-22 to 2025-26). The approved amount includes an additional allocation of ₹1,920 crore to support new and existing projects under the scheme.

    Of the total outlay, ₹1,000 crore has been earmarked to set up 50 Multi-Product Food Irradiation Units under the component scheme Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure (ICCVAI) and 100 NABL-accredited Food Testing Laboratories under the Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure (FSQAI) component. These initiatives are in alignment with announcements made in the Union Budget.

    The remaining ₹920 crore will be used to sanction projects under various other components of PMKSY during the current Finance Commission cycle. Both ICCVAI and FSQAI are demand-driven schemes, with proposals to be invited through Expressions of Interest (EOIs) from eligible entities across the country. Projects will be selected following scrutiny based on the eligibility norms outlined in the scheme guidelines.

    According to the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, the 50 irradiation units are expected to create additional preservation capacity ranging from 20 to 30 lakh metric tonnes (LMT) per annum, depending on the types of food processed. These units will play a crucial role in extending the shelf life of agricultural produce, thereby reducing post-harvest losses.

    In parallel, the proposed 100 food testing labs in the private sector are aimed at developing advanced infrastructure for analysing food samples. The Ministry said these facilities would help strengthen food safety mechanisms and ensure the availability of safe, quality-compliant food products in the market.

    The Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana, launched in 2017, seeks to create modern infrastructure and efficient supply chains for the food processing sector.

  • MIL-OSI USA: Secretary Noem is Taking a Sledgehammer to Criminal Human Trafficking Rings

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: Secretary Noem is Taking a Sledgehammer to Criminal Human Trafficking Rings

    lass=”text-align-center”>On this World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, Kristi Noem and the Department of Homeland Security continue taking action to disrupt criminal human trafficking organizations
    WASHINGTON – On this year’s World Day Against Trafficking in Persons, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is announcing a series of major crack downs against the worst of the worst criminal organizations: human trafficking rings

     
    The previous administration’s open border policies empowered human traffickers and allowed over 450,000 unaccompanied children to be illegally smuggled over the border

     
    Under President Trump and DHS Secretary Kristi Noem, the full weight of the American government is bringing the hammer down on human trafficking rings

      In just the first few months, the Trump administration has developed leads on thousands of human trafficking cases

     
    DHS has also cracked down on the criminal terrorist gang Tren de Aragua, which enriches itself through the sex trafficking of vulnerable young women

      The Trump administration has arrested more than 2,700 members of Tren de Aragua so far

     
    This crisis is fueled by organized crime networks: sophisticated cartels that exploited the weakness of the previous administration, especially its open border and refusal to enforce immigration law, to rake in billions from forced labor, brutal sexual exploitation, coercing innocent people into drug running, and other heinous crimes

     
    “The brave men and women of DHS are the best in the world at going after traffickers

    They are always able to track down those who are trafficking individuals, find the ringleaders, and rip that evil off by its head,” said Secretary Kristi Noem

    “I’m so thankful that I get the chance to lead individuals like that, and agents who get up every day to help save our children and to save women and men from the kind of slavery that we’ve seen

    ” 
    Below are some examples of how DHS is fighting to put human traffickers out of business: 

    July 28, 2025: As part of Operation Apex Predator, a Child Exploitation Investigations Unit initiative with the Cyber Crimes Center, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Newark arrested four illegal alien child predators over the course of four days

    All four are registered sex offenders

    July 23, 2025: ICE arrested 243 illegal aliens in the Denver metro area

    Among those arrested were aliens wanted for human trafficking, and several members of transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), including Tren de Aragua (TdA), Los Zetas, and the Sinaloa Cartel

    July 22, 2025: Following an ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigation, a resident of Laredo, Texas was sentenced to 63 months in prison for smuggling 101 migrants in a locked trailer

    Among the illegal aliens smuggled were 12 children

    The suspect was sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to transport migrants

    July 21, 2025: As a result of an investigation by ICE HSI Rio Grande Valley, a convicted human smuggler was sentenced to 20 years in prison for possessing images of sexual assaults of prepubescent children

    July 10, 2025: ICE and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) executed criminal warrant operations at marijuana facilities in Carpinteria and Camarillo, California

    In these facilities, at least 14 migrant children were rescued from potential exploitation, forced labor, and human trafficking

    During this operation, federal officers also arrested at least 361 illegal aliens

    Among those arrested were criminals with convictions for kidnapping, rape, attempted rape, and attempted child molestation, among other charges

    July 10, 2025: As the result of an ICE New York investigation, the leader of a Mexican sex trafficking organization was sentenced to 188 months in prison for sex trafficking multiple victims by force, fraud, and coercion

    July 9, 2025: An ICE Del Rio investigation resulted in an illegal Honduran alien being sentenced to 10 years in prison, with three years of supervised release, for his role in smuggling thousands of aliens into the United States for financial gain

    His smuggling conspiracy spanned three years and involved thousands of aliens from 11 different countries

    July 7, 2025: Border Patrol agents assisted the U

    S

    Marshals in executing an arrest warrant on a high-priority target linked to a criminal syndicate operating in human exploitation

    The suspect, a U

    S

    citizen, was wanted for multiple charges, including procurement of persons, placing individuals into prostitution, residing in a house of prostitution, and profiting from the earnings of prostitution

    The suspect was arrested without incident in Yuma, Arizona

     
    June 24, 2025: HSI Nashville identified one child victim and one adult victim of labor trafficking

    During an immigration court proceeding, the child victim revealed that she and her 18-year-old brother had been forced by their sponsor to work to pay off their smuggling fees and to pay for the sponsor’s household expenses

    June 16, 2025: A worksite enforcement operation by ICE HSI targeted employers and subcontractors who knowingly hire illegal aliens

    During this operation, HSI Mobile identified and rescued a child and arrested eight foreign nationals for violating immigration law

    The child was found to be working among adults and was believed to have never attended school since entering the United States two years ago

    June 6, 2025: The Department of Justice (DOJ) indicted Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Venezuelan illegal alien and member of MS-13 arrested by ICE, on charges of alien smuggling and conspiracy to commit alien smuggling

    Despite the mainstream media insisting for months that Garcia was an innocent “Maryland father,” he is now standing trial after evidence emerged of his involvement in criminal smuggling rings

    June 2, 2025: ICE Rio Grande Valley discovered a stash house in South Texas and subsequently arrested 16 illegal aliens

    The owner of the property admitted to harboring the illegal aliens, who came from five different countries

    A Mexican national was taken in for questioning for his role in human smuggling

    May 28, 2025: HSI New York special agents arrested an adult male from Ecuador at his residence for violations relating to the sexual exploitation of a child

    New York received information regarding a 15-year-old female who was apprehended near El Paso, Texas, after illegally entering the United States

    At that time, she was pregnant with the adult’s child and had been in a relationship with him in Ecuador since the age of thirteen

    The subject organized the smuggling of the teenager across the border to engage in sexual acts

    His mother sponsored her after her illegal entry, and the subject continued his relationship with the children, living with his mother in Harlem

    May 28, 2025: CBP issued a Withhold Release Order against Zhen Fa 7, a Chinese-flagged fishing vessel

    As a result, CBP officers at all U

    S

    ports of entry will detain seafood harvested by Zhen Fa 7 based on reasonable suspicion that the vessel uses forced labor to harvest such seafood

    May 28, 2025: Border Patrol agents in the San Diego Sector prevented an attempt to smuggle two Mexican nationals into the United States

    The attempt involved one United States citizen and one Mexican national, who attempted to smuggle the illegal aliens across the border using a truck

    Inside the truck were three fully loaded firearms, including a “ghost gun

    ” The suspected smugglers face felony charges of bringing in and harboring aliens, and unlawful acts involving firearms

     
    May 12, 2025: HSI Austin identified and rescued a child, arrested two Guatemalan nationals for violating immigration law, and initiated an HSI-led investigation of state and federal charges of human trafficking and statutory rape

    During a welfare check, HSI Agents, assisted by the FBI, identified a pregnant 14-year-old female residing with an unrelated adult male sponsor, later determined to be the biological father of the unborn child

    May 7, 2025: CBP’s Air and Marine Operations (AMO) interdicted a vessel with four illegal aliens from Uzbekistan that were being smuggled into Puerto Rico

    The vessel attempted to enter Puerto Rico on the island of Vieques; onboard were the four illegal aliens from Uzbekistan and three United States citizens

    The Uzbeki nationals did not have any documents for an authorized entry or stay in the United States

    May 4, 2025: Border Patrol agents in the Tucson Sector arrested a United States citizen and two Mexican nationals after a high-speed pursuit

    The United States citizen, who was driving the car and had an extensive criminal history, fled from law enforcement at high speed after failing to stop at an immigration checkpoint

    After crashing into another car, the three occupants fled on foot before being arrested

    The driver faces federal charges that include human smuggling, fleeing law enforcement, and endangering human life

    May 2, 2025: Four Mexican nationals in the United States illegally were charged for their roles in an international human smuggling conspiracy that brought aliens across the Canadian border into the United States for profit

    The smuggling organization had been operating for two years and smuggled hundreds of aliens per week through Canada

    The aliens or their family members would pay thousands of dollars to be smuggled into the United States

    April 29, 2025: CBP officers at the Area Port of San Luis arrested a woman in connection with the failed smuggling attempt of a child

    The suspect, a Mexican citizen, had sedated the child prior to attempting to cross the border

    The suspect also presented a false birth certificate and alleged that she was the mother; the officers discovered that there was no family relationship between the woman and the child

    April 2, 2025: CBP issued a Withhold Release Order against Taepyung Salt Farm, based on information that reasonably indicates the use of forced labor in the production of the company’s sea salt products

    As a result, CBP personnel at all U

    S

    ports of entry will detain sea salt products from Taepyung Salt Farm in South Korea

    March 25, 2025: After an ICE Arizona investigation with law enforcement partners, a human smuggling coordinator was sentenced to 30 months in prison for her role in smuggling over 100 Colombians into the United States

    She had been operating a travel agency in her native country, Colombia, where she would charge the victims a fee to travel to Mexico, with additional bribes required at Mexican airports

    February 14, 2025: Working with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, an ICE investigation led to a four-count indictment against eight defendants with ties to Tren de Aragua on charges related to their involvement with a transnational commercial sex enterprise

    Everyone can be part of the fight against human trafficking

    The DHS Blue Campaign can help you recognize human trafficking and provide resources to report suspicious activity to law enforcement

     
    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: HIEMA – NEWS RELEASE – ALL CLEAR-TSUNAMI THREAT

    Source: US State of Hawaii

    HIEMA – NEWS RELEASE – ALL CLEAR-TSUNAMI THREAT

    Posted on Jul 30, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom

    STATE OF HAWAIʻI

    KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI

     

    JOSH GREEN, M.D.

    GOVERNOR

    KE KIAʻĀINA

     

    DEPARTMENT OF DEFENSE

    KA ʻOIHANA PILI KAUA

     

    MAJOR GENERAL STEPHEN F. LOGAN

    DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
     LUNA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

    HAWAIʻI EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY

    KEʻENA HOʻOMALU PŌULIA O HAWAIʻI

    JAMES DS. BARROS

    ADMINISTRATOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT
    KAHU HOʻOMALU PŌULIA

      

    ALL CLEAR: TSUNAMI THREAT HAS PASSED

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                                                                                                            2025-010

    July 30, 2025

    HONOLULU — The Hawaiʻi Emergency Management Agency (HIEMA) announces that the tsunami threat, initially raised during the evening, has been officially lifted. After extensive discussions and monitoring with the Pacific Tsunami Warning Center (PTWC), we are pleased to report that conditions have stabilized, and there is no longer any risk of a tsunami affecting our state. As a result, the Advisory has been formally canceled.

    While HIEMA issues an all-clear, we remind the public that all counties will continue to conduct assessments to ensure community safety. We urge residents to exercise caution and follow any county directives as ocean activities resume, ensuring the safety of all individuals on or near local waters.

    # # #

    Contact:

    Kīelekū Amundson

    Communications Director

    Phone: 808-733-4300 Ext 522

    Email: [email protected]

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Meeting Hosted by Malaysia to Address the Current Situation Between Cambodia and Thailand

    Source: ASEAN

    We welcome the outcome of the Special Meeting chaired, hosted and witnessed by Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia as the Chair of ASEAN, to address the situation between Cambodia and Thailand on 28 July 2025 in Putrajaya.

     

    We commend Malaysia’s role in facilitating bilateral dialogue toward ceasefire between Cambodia and Thailand. We are also appreciative of the role of the United States of America in co-organising the Special Meeting and the active participation of the People’s Republic of China, to promote a peaceful resolution to the ongoing situation.

     

    We encourage Cambodia and Thailand to resolve the issue amicably in accordance with international law, and consistent with the principles enshrined in the United Nations (UN) Charter, ASEAN Charter, Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia, and in the spirit of ASEAN family, unity and good neighbourliness. We hope that the ceasefire agreed by both sides will be fully implemented in good faith.

     

    We are confident that the goodwill demonstrated by both Cambodia and Thailand will result in the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire and all decisions of the Special Meeting. We also express support for Malaysia’s readiness to coordinate an observer team comprising ASEAN Member States to impartially verify and ensure the implementation of the ceasefire.

     
    Download the full statement here.
    The post ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Statement on the Outcome of the Special Meeting Hosted by Malaysia to Address the Current Situation Between Cambodia and Thailand appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers online lecture for Hiroshima University on “ASEAN 2045: Charting the Future of Community Building”

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, this afternoon delivered an online lecture for the IDEC Institute at Hiroshima University on the future of ASEAN Community-building, focusing on the ASEAN Community Vision 2045 and its four Strategic Plans. Dr. Kao also exchanged views virtually with students and faculty members on regional and global issues as well as ASEAN-Japan relations.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN delivers online lecture for Hiroshima University on “ASEAN 2045: Charting the Future of Community Building” appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Myanmar announces formation of new union government

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    YANGON, July 31 (Xinhua) — Myanmar’s National Defence and Security Council on Thursday formed a new union government and a National Security and Peace Commission, state broadcaster MRTV reported.

    The Union Government is headed by Nyo Soe as Prime Minister and the National Security and Peace Commission is led by Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, the statement said.

    According to the report, the National Defense and Security Council also decided to cancel the order to transfer powers to the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

    Myanmar State Administrative Council spokesman Zaw Min Tun said on Thursday that the National Defence and Security Council had decided to lift the state of emergency to hold a general election.

    In February 2021, Myanmar’s then-acting President Myint Swe declared a one-year state of emergency and handed over supreme power to the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. The Office of the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces subsequently formed the State Administrative Council, chaired by Min Aung Hlaing. Myanmar’s National Defense and Security Council has repeatedly extended the state of emergency for six months, until July 31 this year. –0–

    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 Asia-Pac: Digital Policy Office introduces initiatives to promote cybersecurity in second half 2025 (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Digital Policy Office introduces initiatives to promote cybersecurity in second half 2025  
    The Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Tony Wong, said that with rapid developments in the digital era, cybersecurity threats have grown increasingly severe. The Government is adopting a multipronged strategy to continuously enhance the cybersecurity resilience of Hong Kong. Reviewing the DPO’s work on cybersecurity in the first half of the year, Mr Wong stated that in addition to co-ordinating with the HKIRC to launch the Cybersec One Programme to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), schools, and non-governmental organisations in strengthening their cybersecurity protection level, the DPO also worked closely with the CSTCB, the HKCERT and various stakeholders to organise a range of awareness campaigns and cybersecurity drills to raise cybersecurity awareness and response capabilities among government departments and the public. In the second half of the year, the DPO will continue to launch a variety of initiatives, including co-ordinating with the HKCERT to implement the Cybersecurity Service Providers Connect Programme, leading the organising of the second Hong Kong Cybersecurity Attack and Defence Drill, and hosting a series of activities to fully support the annual China Cybersecurity Week. These initiatives will further promote cross-sectoral and cross-regional collaboration, strengthen the local cybersecurity ecosystem, and drive the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s digital economy.
     
    At the briefing, the Chief Superintendent of the CSTCB, Mr Lam Cheuk-ho, announced the technology crime figures recorded in the first half of 2025. A total of 16 262 cases were recorded, with financial losses exceeding $3 billion, mainly attributable to substantial losses from online investment fraud, with both figures representing an increase of 0.5 per cent and 14.7 per cent respectively compared to the same period last year. Among these cases, there were only 42 incidents involving destructive hacking, a 22 per cent decrease compared to the same period last year. Mr Lam emphasised that in the face of escalating cybersecurity threats, the Police are intensifying law enforcement while actively strengthening the development of Hong Kong’s cybersecurity ecosystem from multiple dimensions through raising public awareness, nurturing professionals and enhanced public-private partnerships to comprehensively solidify the city’s cybersecurity defence.
     
    The Chief Executive Officer of the HKIRC, Mr Wilson Wong, shared the latest security scan findings, which revealed that around 65 per cent of websites belonging to SMEs, educational and social welfare organisations are at risk of data leakage, reminding organisations to act proactively by patching vulnerabilities and strengthening cybersecurity measures. He encouraged enterprises and organisations to leverage the services of the Cybersec One Programme, including free website risk assessments, vulnerability identifications, staff training and phishing email drills in order to foster a cybersecurity culture and comprehensively improve defence capabilities.
     
    The Chief Digital Officer of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, Mr Edmond Lai, speaking on behalf of the HKCERT, highlighted findings from the 2024 Hong Kong Enterprise Cyber Security Readiness Index and AI Security Survey, noting that nearly 70 per cent of surveyed businesses had experienced cyberattacks, underscoring the urgent need for companies to continue strengthening cybersecurity measures to confront increasingly complex and frequent threats. He added that the Cybersecurity Service Providers Connect Programme launched by the HKCERT will effectively connect cybersecurity service providers with local enterprises and organisations to help them find suitable solutions. The Programme is now open for applications, and the classified and vetted service providers will be showcased on a dedicated platform.
     
    In conclusion, Mr Tony Wong emphasised the theme of “Cybersecurity for the People, Cybersecurity relies on the People”, and maintained that cybersecurity requires the joint efforts of the whole society. Several large-scale major events will take place in Hong Kong in the second half of this year, including the 15th National Games and the Legislative Council general election, etc. These events extensively utilise information technology, and cybersecurity is critical to ensure the smooth execution of the large-scale events. The DPO will continue to partner with all sectors to launch diverse activities and training to continuously enhance Hong Kong’s overall capabilities to tackle risks in cybersecurity, and he appealed for media support in jointly disseminating the importance of cybersecurity and the building of a safer and more resilient digital future.
    Issued at HKT 18:38

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Economy grows 3.1% in Q2

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Hong Kong’s economy in the second quarter increased 3.1% year-on-year, picking up from the 3% growth in the preceding quarter.

     

    The Census & Statistics Department announced the figures today as it released its advance estimates on gross domestic product for the second quarter.

     

    According to the estimates, private consumption expenditure increased 1.9% in real terms in the second quarter.

     

    Government consumption expenditure grew 2.5% year-on-year.

     

    Gross domestic fixed capital formation rose 2.9% year-on-year.

     

    Over the same period, exports of goods increased 11.5%, accelerated further from the growth of 8.4% in the first quarter. Imports of goods grew 12.7%, higher than the increase of 7.2% in the first quarter.

     

    Compared with a year earlier, exports of services rose 7.5% in the second quarter, while imports of services went up 7%.

     

    Commenting on the figures, the Government said that during the second quarter, total exports of goods saw accelerated growth, as the external demand was resilient and the temporary easing of US tariff measures led to some rush shipments.

     

    Exports of services continued to expand notably, thanks to strong growth in inbound tourism, further expansion in cross-boundary traffic, and vibrant financial and related business service activities amid the buoyant local stock market.

     

    Domestically, private consumption expenditure resumed moderate growth after four consecutive quarters of decline, as supported by the stabilisation in the domestic consumption market. Meanwhile, overall investment expenditure increased further alongside the economic expansion.

     

    Hong Kong’s economy exhibited remarkable resilience in the first half of 2025.

     

    Looking ahead, steady economic growth in Asia, particularly in the Mainland, combined with the Government’s various measures to bolster consumption sentiment, attract investment, diversify markets, and promote economic growth, will continue to provide steadfast support for various segments of the Hong Kong economy.

     

    Nevertheless, uncertainties in the external environment remain elevated. The US’ renewed tariff hikes of late will exert pressure on global trade flows as well as its domestic economic activity and inflation. The uncertain pace of US interest rate cuts will also affect investment sentiment.

     

    Moreover, the “rush shipment” effect is expected to fade later this year.

     

    Hong Kong’s economic performance going forward will, to a certain extent, depend on how these factors evolve, the Government added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Grattan on Friday: Aggrieved Liberals stamp their feet, testing Sussan Ley’s authority

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    As any leader of a political party knows, when you demote people they can become difficult, or worse.

    Among Opposition Leader Sussan Ley’s multiple problems are two very unhappy former frontbenchers. Sarah Henderson, who was opposition education spokeswoman last term, and Jane Hume, who had a high profile in finance, were dumped to the backbench in Ley’s reshuffle.

    There were mixed views about Ley’s judgement. But it was clear neither would take the relegation lying down.

    Henderson at the time declared she found it regrettable that “a number of high-performing Liberal women have been overlooked or demoted”. Hume said, ominously, “there is something very liberating about being on the backbench and being able to speak without having to stick to the party line and without having to stick to talking points”.

    This week, both women used their freedom to freelance.

    On the government’s student debt legislation, Henderson made her presence felt by moving an amendment designed to cap indexation. It got only a handful of votes from the crossbench. The opposition abstained.

    Also in the Senate, Hume put down her marker, on a motion moved by One Nation repudiating the net zero target. Predictably, Matt Canavan (Nationals) and Alex Antic (right-wing South Australian Liberal) voted for the motion. The Liberals’ official position – given they’re in no-man’s land, reviewing their policy – was to abstain. But Hume and Andrew McLachlan (a moderate from South Australia), voted against the motion.

    Hume has kept a regular spot on Sky News Australia, an opportunity to use her “liberated” voice.

    Then there’s Andrew Hastie who, despite being a frontbencher, doesn’t feel under collective discipline. Hastie, whom some see as a possible future leader, didn’t get his wish for a non-security portfolio in the reshuffle. Instead, the former defence spokesman was moved to home affairs, a broad job that presents many opportunities.

    When the Western Australian Liberal council passed a motion rejecting net zero at the weekend, Hastie gave his enthusiastic backing.

    He then got stuck into state Liberal leader Basil Zempilas, who had said the WA parliamentary party supported “the status quo on the net zero targets”.

    Hastie fired off a newsletter to supporters declaring, “This motion – moved and supported by my division of Canning – reflects a growing concern from mainstream Australians about our expensive energy bills, unreliable supply, and the erosion of our national sovereignty.

    “I was therefore disappointed to see [Zempilas] publicly dismiss those concerns.”

    The government was quick to exploit this, with Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen telling parliament on Thursday Hastie “will undermine any opposition leader he can find. He’s taking a practice run in Perth for what he intends to do in Canberra, some time in the next 12 months as we all know. He loves undermining leaders of the opposition.”

    Peter Dutton was a disaster for the Liberals, as the election drubbing showed. But he was (mostly) able to impose substantial unity on the parliamentary party.

    That was seen as a big achievement. But it had two downsides. At the time, it stifled what might have been useful internal debate, or warnings, that could have helped the opposition. And now it has left some Liberals who felt they held their tongues last time determined not to do so again. Even those not aggrieved for specific reasons are likely to be more inclined to be outspoken this term.

    Ley will not be able to impose the degree of discipline that Dutton did.

    Meanwhile, as the aggrieved Liberals were stamping their feet, their colleague James Paterson, new to his post of finance spokesman, was seeking to repair some of the political damage the opposition did by its attacks on the public service.

    The hostility to the public service goes back a long way – some might argue it’s ingrained in the Liberals’ DNA. It was strong during Scott Morrison’s prime ministership.

    Dutton promised massive cuts to the Canberra-based public service, which even the Liberals admit would have been unattainable. Hume’s plan to force public servants back into the office five days a week, a policy the opposition had to drop midway through the election campaign, has also left deep suspicion.

    For the Liberals, attacking the public service has always appeared a ready road to savings. But the political dangers are obvious. It is not the seats directly affected – the ACT always votes Labor. But assaults on the public service can be readily segued by the Coalition’s opponents into code for attacks on government services.

    Paterson, who’s also shadow minister for the public service, told an Australian Financial Review summit on government services, “It is not lost on me that promising significant cuts to the size of the APS or changing the way public servants work from home was poorly received and not just here in Canberra.”

    Paterson said, “I have great respect for public servants, and I recognise the significant contributions they make to our democracy.

    “The Coalition aspires to have a respectful, constructive relationship with the APS. We want a motivated, high-performing public service that works in genuine partnership with government to deliver the services Australians rely on. And we want it to do so as a trusted steward of taxpayer dollars.”

    On the basis of history, the public servants will remain suspicious of the Liberals; Paterson’s aim will be to mitigate that as much as possible.

    In a twist on the working-from-home debate, the secretary of the health department, Blair Comley, this week expressed some concern about the implications of the trend.

    “I don’t think anyone is suggesting we go back to a rigid five days a week and no flexibility,” Comley told the AFR summit. But he was worried about what was happening to “learning, development, mentoring, and what’s happening to the social capital”.

    Knowing the sensitivities of the issue, Comley was extremely careful with his words. Hume, having been burned once, was not putting her hand into this particular fire again. “That is not a policy that the Coalition has now, not a policy that we took to the election”, she said. There is a limit to being liberated.

    Michelle Grattan does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Grattan on Friday: Aggrieved Liberals stamp their feet, testing Sussan Ley’s authority – https://theconversation.com/grattan-on-friday-aggrieved-liberals-stamp-their-feet-testing-sussan-leys-authority-262026

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • Markets end lower amid volatility; FMCG stocks lend support

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Indian equity markets closed marginally lower on Thursday after a volatile trading session marked by global uncertainties. Despite the imposition of tariffs by the United States on Indian imports, domestic indices managed to avert a sharp selloff, buoyed by buying interest in fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) stocks.

    The benchmark Sensex closed at 81,185.58, shedding 296.28 points or 0.36 per cent. It had opened sharply lower at 80,695.50 following weak global cues but briefly rebounded in the afternoon session, touching an intraday high of 81,803.27 before slipping again in the final hour due to the expiry of monthly derivatives.

    The Nifty 50 settled at 24,768.35, down 86.70 points or 0.35 per cent.

    Market analysts said the indices reflected the underlying strength of the Indian economy, which continues to show resilience amid global headwinds. “Investors gravitated toward domestically oriented, non-discretionary players, especially FMCG, which offered attractive valuations, demand outlook and relative insulation from tariff risks,” analysts noted.

    Hindustan Unilever led the gains on the back of encouraging quarterly results, lifting the Nifty FMCG index by 791 points or 1.44 per cent. ITC, Kotak Mahindra Bank, and Eternal were also among the gainers.

    On the downside, major drag came from heavyweight stocks like Tata Steel, Sun Pharma, NTPC, Reliance, Asian Paints, L&T, and Titan, which contributed to the day’s losses. Most sectoral indices ended in the red. Nifty Auto declined by 89 points, Nifty IT slipped 180 points, and Nifty Bank was down by 188 points.

    The broader market reflected a similar sentiment with the Nifty Midcap 100 falling 0.93 per cent and Nifty Smallcap 100 down 1.05 per cent, indicating profit booking across segments.

    Despite the subdued closing, market experts remain cautiously optimistic, citing strong domestic fundamentals and the rotation of investor interest toward sectors less exposed to global trade tensions.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI: QuantaSing Announces Further Investments into Letsvan

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuantaSing Group Limited (NASDAQ: QSG) (“QuantaSing” or the “Company”), a leading lifestyle solution provider empowering adults to live better and longer, today announced that it will undertake further steps to acquire all of the remaining equity interests in Shenzhen Yiqi Culture Co., Ltd. (深圳市熠起文化有限公司) (“Letsvan”) from the other investors with a combination of cash and stock consideration (the “Transactions”).

    Through a series of previous transactions from December 2024 to March 31, 2025, the Company invested in Letsvan, a PRC-based company primarily engaged in IP incubation and discovery, IP operation, copyright commercialization, and the promotion and sales of pop toys and other cultural products for global artists. By March 31, 2025, the Company had obtained control over and was able to consolidate the results of Letsvan into the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Upon the consummation of the Transactions, Letsvan will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company.

    In furtherance of the Transactions and by way of private placement, the Company will issue an aggregate of 18,219,330 Class A ordinary shares of the Company to Mr. Huiyu Zhan (Zack) (“Mr. Zhan”), the founder and chief executive officer and a director of Letsvan, as consideration for his remaining interests in Letsvan. The share issuance will take place in three installments and be subject to certain restrictions and limitations, including respective vesting schedules and lock-up requirements. To promote the development and integration of Letsvan as part of the Company’s strategies in the consumer sector, the Company also intends to appoint Mr. Zhan as a member of its board of directors, effective upon August 1, 2025. Mr. Zhan is a seasoned entrepreneur with profound experience in the consumer sector. Prior to founding Letsvan in 2020, he had been engaged in continuous entrepreneurship in the cultural gifts and pop toys sectors. He had also served at Walmart (Shenzhen), Hong Kong Weiya Group, and CITIC Health, among others, with extensive experience in sales and management.

    The Company believes that the Transactions will further integrate the resources of both the Company and Letsvan, seamlessly aligning their business opportunities to create a more powerful synergy and reinforcing its competitive advantages in the pop toy segment and strategic positioning in the consumer sectors, and also enhance the platform capabilities of the Company.

    Safe Harbor Statements

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1955. All statements other than statements of historical or current fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding QuantaSing’s financial outlook, beliefs and expectations. These statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “potential,” “continue,” “ongoing,” “targets,” “guidance” and similar statements. The Company may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases, and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company’s growth strategies; its future business development, results of operations and financial condition; its ability to attract and retain new users and learners and to increase the spending and revenues generated from users and learners; its ability to maintain and enhance the recognition and reputation of its brand; its expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its services and products; the expected growth, trends and competition in the markets that the Company operates in; changes in its revenues and certain cost or expense items; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the Company’s business and industry, general economic and political conditions in China and globally, and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks, uncertainties, or factors is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC, including, without limitation, the final prospectus related to the IPO filed with the SEC dated January 24, 2023. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date this press release. All forward-looking statements are qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement, and the Company undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof.

    About QuantaSing Group Limited

    QuantaSing is a leading lifestyle solution provider that offers engaging, affordable and accessible online and offline services, as well as consumer products in selected areas that address senior users’ wellness aspirations. QuantaSing has expanded into the pop toys sector and continues to strategically diversify its portfolio by capturing opportunities in promising consumer sectors while maintaining financial discipline. For more information, please visit: https://ir.quantasing.com.

    Contact

    Investor Relations
    Leah Guo
    QuantaSing Group Limited
    Email: ir@quantasing.com
    Tel: +86 (10) 6493-7857

    Robin Yang, Partner
    ICR, LLC
    Email: QuantaSing.IR@icrinc.com
    Phone: +1 (212) 537-0429

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Audacity Capital Brings Tailored Features to Prop Contests and Trading with DXtrade

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading prop trading firm, Audacity Capital, has announced its licensing of DXtrade, the flagship trading platform from global software developer for the capital markets, Devexperts.

    Audacity Capital, which partners with disciplined, high-performance traders to unlock global market opportunities, will now offer its traders the option to trade using DXtrade, giving them access to a range of tailored features designed to enhance the trading experience. 

    With over 300,000 traders funded since 2012 and offering funded accounts up to $2m, Audacity Capital focuses on developing fast scaling programs and payout structures with a view to being a long term partner in trader success. The firm places an emphasis on transparency, personalization, and bespoke support.

    With DXtrade, which is available off-the-shelf in partly or fully customizable form, Audacity Capital will be able to deliver on these aims by providing its traders with a comprehensive suite of tools and features to enhance their prop trading experience, including an easy-to-navigate and intuitive interface with trading layout customization optionality; a performance dashboard to analyze performance, risk / reward ratios, win rates, and winning / losing trade holding times; an embedded trading journal, economic calendar, and multi-view watchlists; advanced charting library with responsive charting functionality; and all necessary order risk management settings.

    Traders can also benefit from Stop Loss and Take Profit settings, as well as order types and execution methods for all trading styles.

    Through its licensing of DXtrade, Audacity Capital will also be able to benefit from a variety of risk management capabilities to help manage traders and day-to-day activities. These include maximum drawdown and profit target, as well as real-time performance and rule adherence monitoring; support for group management; and integrated trading contest software, with fully adjustable settings along with leaderboards and shareable results.

    DXtrade also offers turnkey integration with any payment provider; custom prop plan, rules and metrics functionality; and full CRM connectivity.

    Karim Yousfi, CEO of Audacity Capital, says: “We’re excited to partner with DXtrade to bring our traders a powerful, flexible platform tailored to the demands of modern trading. This collaboration enhances our ability to support ambitious traders with the best tools available.”

    Jon Light, Head of OTC Platform at Devexperts, says: “Audacity Capital has built a strong reputation for finding and partnering with talented traders for the long term. We similarly look to build long-term relationships with our clients and know that offering an excellent service is a vital factor in doing so. We are therefore very pleased that Audacity has opted to license DXtrade and its comprehensive range of features designed to optimize the prop trading experience for firm and trader alike. As Audacity continues to grow, we look forward to our ongoing work together to deliver an intuitive and seamless experience. ”

    About Audacity Capital

    Founded in 2012, Audacity Capital is one of the longest standing and most trusted proprietary trading firms in the industry. With a mission to empower skilled traders globally, we offer fully funded accounts, no risk trading models, and tailored support to help traders reach their full potential. Having funded over 300,000 traders across 100+ countries, we’ve built a reputation for transparency, performance, and long term trader success.

    About Devexperts

    Devexperts has been developing software for the capital markets since 2002. The company’s flagship solution is DXtrade, a multi-asset platform for banks, brokerages, and wealth managers, serving customers across stocks, options, futures, ETFs, mutual bonds, FX, CFDs, and margin and spot crypto. With headquarters in Ireland, Devexperts’ development team consists of 800+ engineers located in offices in the USA, Germany, Bulgaria, Singapore, Portugal, Turkey, and Georgia. Learn more at: https://devexperts.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • India, Morocco sign agreement to boost judicial cooperation: Union Minister

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    India and Morocco have signed a Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote cooperation in judicial and legal spheres. The agreements aim to reinforce institutional linkages, facilitate legal modernization, and deepen mutual understanding between the two countries.

    Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Law and Justice, Arjun Ram Meghwal, shared this information in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday. He said that the partnership would allow the legal communities of both nations to share knowledge, build institutional capacity, and contribute to the rule of law through structured legal engagement.

    The MLAT focuses on civil and commercial matters, enabling both countries to cooperate in the service of judicial documents, the taking of evidence through Letters of Request, and the execution of judicial judgments, decrees, settlements, and arbitral awards.

    Additionally, the MoU, signed between India’s Ministry of Law & Justice and Morocco’s Ministry of Justice, focuses on the exchange of legal expertise, training, and research. It seeks to promote capacity building by organising symposiums, joint courses, and legal training programmes.

    The MoU also encourages mutual visits and delegation exchanges to study each other’s legal systems and administrative frameworks.

    A notable feature of the MoU is technological collaboration through the development and exchange of national judicial information systems. This collaboration is expected to enhance justice delivery through digital tools and modern legal infrastructure.

    To ensure effective implementation, a joint coordination committee will be established to plan annual cooperation programmes, keeping financial viability in mind.

    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Task Group on New Medical School conducts overall evaluation of proposals (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Task Group on New Medical School conducts overall evaluation of proposals (with photo) 
         Between May and June this year, the Task Group held two meetings with the three universities that submitted proposals, namely Hong Kong Baptist University, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, to have in-depth discussions and gain a better understanding of their submissions. Subsequently, the expert advisors conducted a comprehensive review of the proposals in their respective areas of expertise and provided advice from various perspectives (including innovative strategic positioning, curriculum structure and assessment methodologies, and financial sustainability) in accordance with the 10 key parameters set.
     
         At today’s meeting, the expert advisors conducted an overall assessment of the proposals, and initiated the next phase of follow-up work to conduct a thorough study of the funding arrangements and financial sustainability of the proposals. A final recommendation on the establishment of the new medical school is expected to be provided to the Government later this year.
     
         Professor Lo said, “Since its establishment, the Task Group has taken forward the evaluation exercise at full speed in a rigorous, impartial and professional manner. The meeting today marks a key milestone in the evaluation process, as the Task Group has largely reached a consensus on the evaluation of the proposals. We will consolidate the views of all Task Group members and submit our recommendation to the Chief Executive as soon as possible. The Government will thoroughly consider the Task Group’s report and announce the results in due course. I look forward to working with the Task Group in entering the next phase of preparing for the establishment of the new medical school.”
     
         Professor Lo emphasised, “The establishment of the third medical school is of paramount importance to the long-term development of the healthcare system in Hong Kong. The key to long-term development lies in reform and innovation. The new medical school will not only increase the number of locally trained doctors, but will also introduce healthy competition and complementary development with the two existing medical schools, hence creating synergy, raising the standard and capacity of local healthcare services, scientific research and medical education in the long run, thereby achieving the strategic goal of developing Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub.”
     
         Dr Choi said, “I sincerely thank the expert advisors and members of the Task Group for their efforts over the past months and their valuable professional input throughout the evaluation process. The establishment of a new medical school will inject impetus into Hong Kong’s higher education sector. We hope the selected university will leverage the strategic advantage of being located in the Northern Metropolis University Town to foster curriculum innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the nurturing of healthcare professionals equipped with global vision and innovative capability. This initiative responds to the national strategy of building the nation into a leading country in education and will further promote regional collaboration and the integration of innovation. We are confident that the new medical school will open a new chapter for higher education and medical development in Hong Kong.”
     
         The Chief Executive announced in the 2024 Policy Address that the Government supports the establishment of the third medical school by a local university to nurture more outstanding medical practitioners to support the local healthcare system in providing quality services, while at the same time promoting the development of Hong Kong into an international medical training, research and innovation hub. To take forward the relevant work, the Task Group was established in October 2024, comprising seasoned local, Mainland and overseas academics in medical education and university management, professionals, representatives from the Medical Council of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Academy of Medicine, as well as representatives from the relevant government bureaux and departments.
    Issued at HKT 19:12

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Cabinet approves ₹11,169-crore rail multitracking projects across six states

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Thursday approved four key railway multitracking projects worth approximately ₹11,169 crore. These projects, spanning six states and 13 districts, are expected to expand Indian Railways’ network by 574 kilometres and are scheduled for completion by 2028-29.

    The projects span 13 districts across Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, and Jharkhand, and will add around 574 kilometres to the existing railway network. The approved corridors include the fourth line between Itarsi and Nagpur, doubling of the Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar)-Parbhani section, and the third and fourth lines on the Aluabari Road-New Jalpaiguri and Dangoaposi-Jaroli routes.

    These multitracking works are aligned with the government’s PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, focusing on multi-modal connectivity through integrated planning and stakeholder consultations. The enhanced line capacity is expected to alleviate congestion, increase operational efficiency, and provide more reliable services for both freight and passenger trains.

    The proposed upgrades will benefit approximately 2,309 villages with a population of about 43.6 lakh and generate an estimated 2.29 crore person-days of direct employment during the construction phase.

    The corridors identified are vital freight routes for commodities such as coal, cement, clinker, gypsum, fly ash, containers, agricultural produce, and petroleum products. The capacity augmentation is projected to handle an additional 95.91 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of freight traffic.

    Beyond economic and logistical benefits, the projects are aligned with India’s climate goals. The railways’ increased capacity is estimated to reduce oil imports by 16 crore litres annually and lower carbon dioxide emissions by 515 crore kilograms – equivalent to planting around 20 crore trees.

  • Cabinet approves ₹2,000 crore grant to NCDC to boost cooperative sector

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a move aimed at strengthening India’s cooperative sector, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Thursday approved a Central Sector Scheme titled “Grant in Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC)” with a total outlay of ₹2,000 crore. The scheme will be implemented over a four-year period from 2025-26 to 2028-29, with an annual budgetary allocation of ₹500 crore.

    The approved grant will enable NCDC to raise ₹20,000 crore from the open market over the next four years. These funds will be utilized to provide loans to cooperatives for setting up new projects, expanding existing operations, upgrading technology, and meeting their working capital needs.

    According to the government, the initiative is expected to benefit approximately 2.9 crore members across 13,288 cooperative societies spanning various sectors, including dairy, livestock, fisheries, sugar, textiles, food processing, storage, cold storage, labour cooperatives, and women-led cooperatives.

    Implementation Strategy

    NCDC will serve as the nodal agency for the scheme. It will be responsible for the disbursement of loans, project monitoring, and recovery of funds. Loans will be extended either directly to eligible cooperatives or routed through respective state governments, as per NCDC’s funding guidelines. Direct funding will be allowed against admissible security or with a state government guarantee.

    The scheme aims to provide both long-term credit for infrastructure development and short-term loans for working capital, helping cooperatives run their businesses more efficiently and profitably.

    Economic and Employment Impact

    The Cabinet noted that the infusion of funds will facilitate the creation of income-generating assets and enhance liquidity in the cooperative sector. This, in turn, is expected to increase productivity, profitability, and job creation, especially in rural areas. The move is seen as a catalyst for socio-economic empowerment, particularly for women and marginalized communities.

    Furthermore, infrastructure development backed by these loans is likely to generate employment opportunities across various skill levels, thus contributing to India’s inclusive growth agenda.

    A Strategic Boost to Rural Economy

    India’s cooperative movement contributes significantly to the Indian economy, particularly by driving socio-economic advancement, strengthening rural infrastructure and generating employment in the rural sector. Spanning credit and banking, fertiliser distribution, sugar production, dairy, agricultural marketing, consumer retail, handlooms, handicrafts, fisheries, housing and more, cooperatives in India have their outreach across many production areas. Today, the country hosts more than 8.25 lakh registered cooperatives, enrolling over 29 crore members; remarkably, about 94 per cent of all farmers are linked to cooperatives in some form or the other.

    By offering targeted financial support, especially to under-resourced segments like dairy, poultry, fisheries, and women-led cooperatives, the scheme aims to enhance the sector’s capacity for modernization, diversification, and economic resilience.

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: June retail sales up 0.7%

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The value of total retail sales in June, provisionally estimated at $30.1 billion, was up 0.7% compared with the same month in 2024, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    After netting out the effect of price changes over the same period, the provisional estimate for the month was 0.3% lower year on year.

    On a seasonally adjusted basis, the provisional estimate of the value of total retail sales was up 0.3% in the second quarter compared with the first quarter, while the provisional estimate of the volume of total retail sales increased by 2.7%.

    Online sales accounted for 8.5% of the total retail sales figure for the month. Provisionally estimated at $2.5 billion, the value of online retail sales rose 8.4% compared with a year earlier.

    Meanwhile, the value of sales of jewellery, watches and clocks, and valuable gifts increased by 6.8%.

    There were also increases in the value of sales in the following categories: “other consumer goods not elsewhere classified” (+7.2%); commodities in supermarkets (+0.4%); medicines and cosmetics (+6%); commodities in department stores (+5.7%); and optical items (+1%).

    By contrast, the value of sales of apparel decreased by 4.3% for the period. Also down were sales of food, alcoholic drinks and tobacco (-1.5%); electrical goods and other consumer durable goods not elsewhere classified (-9.3%); motor vehicles and parts (-6%); fuels (-8.7%); furniture and fixtures (-16.3%); footwear, allied products and other clothing accessories (-7.2%); Chinese drugs and herbs (-2%); and books, newspapers, stationery and gifts (-4.7%).

    The Government said that retail sales have shown signs of stabilisation in recent months. Looking ahead, it expects that continued increases in employment earnings and a buoyant local stock market, coupled with the Government’s efforts in promoting tourism and mega events, as well as enterprises’ efforts to provide more diversified experiences, will support consumption.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Japan Blockchain Week 2025 (Aug 22 – Sep 19) — The Perfect Window to Experience Japan’s Most Vibrant Web3 Scene

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TOKYO, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — If you have ever thought about visiting Japan’s fast-growing crypto ecosystem, this is the year and this is the moment. From August 22 to September 15, 2025, Tokyo will host Japan Blockchain Week 2025 (JBW 2025)—a four-week festival that bundles the country’s flagship Web3 gatherings into one seamless schedule.

    Launched in 2022 to connect Japan’s builders and community with the global community, JBW has become the annual rendez-vous for investors, founders, developers, and policymakers who want to see where crypto meets the real world. This summer, one JBW AI summit and 6 headline partner events will create an unparalleled density of talent, capital, and cutting-edge ideas:

    Event Schedule

    Date Headline Event What to Expect
    Aug 23 JBW summit AI edition A deep dive into AI × Web3 and the coming ASI era—governance, privacy, and value creation on a planetary scale.This is a futuristic conference where experts from the AI ​​and web3 industries gather to discuss the updates of society around the world in preparation for the ASI era.
    Aug 24 Solana SuperTokyo SuperTokyo2025 is the largest Solana conference in Japan, organized by the Solana Foundation-certified community “SuperTeam Japan” to promote the growth of the Solana ecosystem in Japan. Once a year, Solana entrepreneurs, users, and fans from Japan and abroad will gather in Tokyo to create useful opportunities, and sessions by famous experts and startup camp programs will be held.
    Aug 25-26 WebX WebX2025 is produced by CoinPost, Japan’s largest Web3 media. The event will take place on August 25th and 26th, 2025 at The Prince Park Tower in Tokyo. WebX2025 is Asia’s largest global conference gathering professionals related to crypto assets, blockchain, and other Web3 technologies, offering visitors a direct interaction with companies, experts, entrepreneurs, investors, government officials, and media from Japan and abroad.
    Aug 27 Blockchain Leaders Summit Unified community: Bridge between Japan and the globe Participants will have an extraordinary opportunity to gain valuable insights directly from esteemed industry leaders and emerging powerhouses actively shaping the future landscape.
    Sep
    11    		 Web3privacy now Web3Privacy Now is a think-and-Do-tank of hundreds of people, projects, and organizations committed to protecting and advancing civil liberties, decentralization, and open-source software. ​​We facilitate cross-stack and cross-community collaboration to drive meaningful impact. We challenge standardization and maximalism, avoid abstractions and stereotypes. We work on the forefront of technology with a poly-disciplinary approach, togetherness, and care, assiting each other in clarifying paths toward effective progress.
    Sep 12-15 ETH Tokyo ETHTokyo is an engaging conference and hackathon for the global Ethereum community where people with all sorts of backgrounds, ideas, and skills come together to share their love for Ethereum and its world..
    Sep
    16-19    		 EDCON Once a year, the most impactful speakers, mentors and projects from around the world are invited to attend and share their message. Prior years include: Paris 2017, Toronto 2018, Sydney 2019, Online 2020-21, San Francisco 2022, Montenegro 2023, Tokyo 2024. EDCON is committed to serving the Ethereum ecosystem by boosting communication and engagement between Ethereum communities worldwide.

    Why Plan Your Trip Around JBW 2025?

    • One flight, five world-class conferences. Every week offers a new flagship event—optimise your travel budget while maximising exposure.
    • Cross-pollination at its best. Discuss the future of AI x web3 on Saturday,Meet Solana Tokyo community on Sunday, debate business in Japan on Monday, then hack Solidity in September—without leaving Tokyo.
    • Asia’s most underestimated market. Japan is opening up to token incentives,IP deployment to web3, stablecoin issuance, and DAO frameworks faster than headlines suggest. Tap early.
    • Seamless logistics. All venues are within 30 minutes of central Tokyo; an English-friendly metro, and top-tier hospitality make navigation easy.
    • Culture & crypto in one trip. In between conferences and networking nights, enjoy summer festivals, Michelin-level cuisine, and Tokyo’s unique and diverse culture.

    Quick Facts

    • Total 2024 attendance: over 50,000 attends in-person
    • Official language: English & Japanese (simultaneous interpretation provided)
    • Hashtag: #JBW2025

    About Japan Blockchain Week

    Japan Blockchain Week is a not-for-profit movement launched in 2022 to bridge the Japanese and global blockchain industries. By clustering independent conferences and hackathons under a single seasonal banner, JBW lowers friction for overseas participation and accelerates cross-border collaboration.CoinDesk Japan has joined as an special media partner.

    Comment from Mai Fujimoto

    Co-organizer of Japan Blockchain Week / Co-founder of INTMAX

    “Japan Blockchain Week is more than just a series of events — it has evolved into a platform that bridges Japan and the global Web3 community.This year, JBW brings together seven distinct blockchain events across just one month in Japan. Each event has its own theme and character, offering a completely different perspective on the future every week — an unprecedented format.

    There are few other occasions where such a diverse group of people from across borders and industries gathers in a single city.Join us this summer in Tokyo and Osaka, and let’s shape the future together!”

    Book your flights. Pack your dev laptop. We’ll see you in Tokyo for the most condensed month of Web3 I innovation anywhere in 2025.

    Website | X

    Contact:
    Mio Nanase
    staff@japanblockchainweek.jp

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by Japan Blockchain Week. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/44bc5642-92b2-4885-bc2d-52f6a1ab0ad1

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: City Council awards £388,000 of grant funding to support local communities

    Source: City of Oxford

    Oxford City Council has awarded £388,000 of grant funding to 86 community groups and voluntary organisations – helping them to support local people across Oxford.  

    Oxford is the UK’s second most unequal city and the Council’s grants programme provides crucial financial support to organisations working to reduce inequality through the delivery of essential services, strategic projects, and community-led initiatives.  

     The Council has provided this latest funding through the Oxford Community Impact Fund (OCIF) programme, which is a three year fund that first started in 2022. It is already supporting essential services such as advice centres and domestic abuse support, with core funding maintained for these at the current level until March 2028. 

    Decisions have now been announced on two rounds of funding: 

    • Big Ideas Fund: Providing funding of £338,000 per year covering the period of 2025-2028.  
    • Small Grants (2025 Round 1): Providing funding of £50,000 (with £34,000 to follow in round 2), with a maximum of £3000 per organisation ensuring accessibility for smaller community groups.   

    All these grants have been awarded to organisations assessed on their work to reduce inequality and attract external funding to Oxford. 

    Big Ideas Fund 2025-28 

    The Council has awarded funding to 45 organisations across Oxford totalling £338,000 per annum, organisations will receive funding for three years. 

    These organisations are:   

    Ark-T Centre, Arts at the Old Fire Station, Aspire Oxfordshire, Asylum Welcome, Be Free Young Carers, Blackbird Leys Adventure Playground, Cowley Road Works, Cutteslowe Greenhouse Limited, Donnington Doorstep, EMBS Community College Limited, Emmaus Oxford, Fusion Arts, Home-Start, IF Oxford, In-Spire Sounds, Justice in Motion, Leys CDI, Makespace Oxford, Mandala Theatre, Museum of Modern Art, My Life My Choice, MyVision, OVADA, Oxford Community Action, Oxford Contemporary Music, Film Oxford, Oxford Hub, Oxford Mutual Aid, Oxford Pride, Oxford Youth Enterprise, Oxfordshire Chinese Community and Advice Centre, Oxfordshire Play Association, Peeple, Pegasus Theatre, Refugee Resource, Rose Hill Junior Youth Club, Sobell House, Survivor Space, T(ART) Productions, The Oxford Playhouse, The Parasol Project, The Story Museum, WASTE2TASTE, and Yellow Submarine. 

    Small Grants Fund 2025-6 (Round 1) 

    The Council has awarded funding to 41 organisations across Oxford, with funding totaling £50,000 overall. 

    These organisations are:  

    Parents And Children Together, Wild Boor Ideas, Fight Against Blindness (Fab), Rose Hill Community Larder, Oxford Opera Trust Cio, Response Organisation, Wood Farm Youth Centre, Action Deafness, Botley Bridges, Damascus Rose Kitchen, Blackbird Leys Boxing Club, Dovecote Voluntary Parent Committee, East Oxford Stay and Play, Fight Against Blindness, Headway Thames Valley Limited, Body Politic, Littlemore Hub, Syrian Sisters, Music at Oxford, Elmore Community Services, Read Easy Oxford, The Oxford Preservation Trust, Lowland Rescue, Oxford Afrobeats Festival, Iranian Community Network (ICN), Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra, Oxford Poetry Library, Tandem Collective, Oxford Health Charity (OHC), Oxford Peoples Theatre, MuMo Creative, Oxford Lindy Hoppers, Syrian Community Oxfordshire (SYRCOX), The Oxford Voice, The Porch, Oxfordshire Asian Women’s Voice, WEMPOWERED CIC, Rose Hill and Iffley Low Carbon, South Oxford Community-Association, The Good Gym, and Wood Farm Youth Centre. 

    It is estimated that for every £1 that the Council invests in local community organisations and groups through grant funding, this investment results in more than £15.92 of additional funding/earned income per organisation – helping to strengthen communities across the city. 

    This year, over half (51%) of applicants were new applicants. 

    You can learn more by visiting our grant funding webpages. 

    Comment 

    “We’ve streamlined our community grants programme and this year we’ve changed the criteria to provide a tight focus on work to reduce inequality in Oxford. We’re the UK’s second most unequal city and these grants will be spent on tackling this ugly scar on our beautiful city.

    “It is great news that we have been able to support so many community groups and organisations through this latest round of funding – and especially so many new groups. I can’t wait to visit as many of these projects as possible to see for myself the impact these funds will have on local communities and the difference made to people’s lives.” 

    Councillor Linda Smith, Cabinet Member for Housing and Communities

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Foreign Ministry: China urges Japan to take effective measures to ensure safety of Chinese citizens in Japan

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — China has noted relevant reports that two Chinese were seriously beaten in Tokyo, calling on the Japanese side to take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens in Japan, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Thursday.

    Earlier it was reported that on Thursday, four men in Tokyo attacked two Chinese people and caused them serious injuries.

    Answering questions from reporters at a regular departmental press conference, Guo Jiakun said that China has taken note of the relevant reports, adding that the Chinese Embassy in Japan, having immediately expressed its concerns to the Japanese side, continues to establish the circumstances of the incident.

    “We urge the Japanese side to take effective measures to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens,” Guo Jiakun concluded. -0-

    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 Russia: China’s Wushi County to Host 2 International Go Tournaments

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) — Two international invitational Go (Chinese name Weiqi) tournaments will be held from Aug. 4 to 6 in Wushi County, Aksu Prefecture, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, the prefectural government said.

    The upcoming competition will bring together 10 teams of Go players from eight countries, namely China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Russia, Mongolia, Vietnam and Laos.

    On the sidelines of the sporting events, the Chinese side is expected to sign strategic cooperation agreements in the field of go with Kyrgyzstan and Kazakhstan.

    The two events are aimed at promoting cultural exchanges between participating countries, local authorities said. -0-

    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 Russia: Thailand adjusts EV subsidy program to boost exports

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

    BANGKOK, July 31 (Xinhua) — The Thai government on Wednesday approved adjustments to the country’s key incentive programs to encourage manufacturers to boost exports of battery electric vehicles (BEVs), a move aimed at bolstering the country’s position as a regional EV manufacturing hub.

    Manufacturers participating in the EV subsidy program, which started in 2022, are required to produce electric vehicles domestically as compensation for receiving subsidies and exemption from import duties.

    Under the revised terms, one BEV produced for export will count as 1.5 vehicles under the local production quota, making it easier to meet production commitments.

    “The changes will allow for greater flexibility and help Thailand, already a leader in the region’s auto industry, become a key base for electric vehicle production,” said Narit Terdsteerasukdee, secretary general of the Thai Board of Investment (BOI).

    The adjustments to the program come as total investment in the country’s EV supply chain as of June reached 137.7 billion baht (about US$4.21 billion), the BOI said in a statement.

    The move is expected to boost Thailand’s EV exports to around 12,500 units in 2025 and 52,000 units in 2026.

    In the first half of 2025, the number of new BEV registrations increased by 52.4 percent year-on-year to reach 57,289 units, accounting for 15 percent of all new vehicle registrations in Thailand.

    To date, the Thai government has provided subsidies totaling more than 12 billion baht (approximately $367.82 million) for 175,064 BEVs and 34,559 electric motorcycles under the EV 3.0 and 3.5 subsidy programs. –0–

    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: Vema Hydrogen Names Energy Veteran Jim Kueser Chief Financial Officer

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Vema Hydrogen, developer of a disruptive renewable hydrogen production technology, announced that energy veteran Jim Kueser has joined as Chief Financial Officer. The strategic addition will help advance the company’s expansion across the U.S. and global markets, providing sustainable alternatives to support global energy demand.

    As CFO, Jim will lead Vema’s financial unit, including the financing of projects, the ongoing raise of capital as well as joining the leadership team responsible for navigating the long-term strategic roadmap for financing the company. Over the course of three decades of global energy infrastructure and finance experience, he has led 30+ energy infrastructure transactions totaling over $2.9 billion in deployed capital. His expertise will be key as Vema looks to continue its capital campaign and commence the financing of projects to advance its business platform.

    “As the energy sector pivots towards clean fuels and feedstocks, and as demand continues to escalate with the emerging appetite of power-hungry AI data centers, Vema’s hydrogen technology is positioned to be a long-term, low-cost solution,” said Jim Kueser, CFO at Vema. “From decades spent scaling energy companies, I’m eager to support Vema’s ambitious approach to hydrogen production that will make a lasting impact on clean energy supply.”

    Kueser previously co-founded four separate energy startups and led numerous private equity campaigns. His global energy sector tenure includes leading development, M&A, financing, capital-raise and portfolio optimization via investments in EU, Asia, Central America and the Caribbean.

    “With our recent funding, we are making incredible progress in pioneering Engineered Mineral Hydrogen to provide a scalable pathway for clean hydrogen in the U.S.,” said Pierre Levin, CEO of Vema Hydrogen. “As we enter our next phase of development – taking our laboratory R&D to the market – Jim will be central to ensuring that we are progressing financially to produce and supply clean hydrogen that can provide low-carbon energy for centuries to come.”

    About Vema Hydrogen
    Vema Hydrogen has developed a novel approach for the predictable production of cheap and clean hydrogen: Engineered Mineral Hydrogen. Vema’s technological breakthrough de-risks hydrogen production with precise location targeting and predictable, controlled manufacturing, which makes hydrogen a viable pathway for clean energy production. More https://www.vema.earth/.

    Media Contacts
    Mission Control for Vema Hydrogen
    vema@missionc2.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Banco Santander-Chile Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SANTIAGO, Chile, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banco Santander Chile (NYSE: BSAC; SSE: Bsantander) announced today its results1 for the six-month period ended June 30, 2025, and second quarter 2025 (2Q25).

    Solid financial performance with a ROAE2of 24.5% in 2Q253, the fifth consecutive quarter with a ROAE above 20%.

    As of June 30, 2025, the Bank’s net income attributable to shareholders totaled $550 billion ($2.92 per share and $1.25 per ADR), representing an increase of 62.8% YoY4 and with an ROAE of 25.1% in 6M255 compared to an ROAE of 15.8% in 6M246. The increase in results is explained by an increase in the Bank’s main revenue lines. Operating income increased 22.0% YoY and 12.6% compared to the second quarter of 2024 (2Q24), driven by a better net interest and readjustment income and higher fees and results from financial transactions.

    Compared to the previous quarter (1Q25), net income attributable to shareholders decreased slightly by 0.5%. The UF variation in 2Q25 was lower than in 1Q25, which reduced QoQ7 adjustment gains. The quarter also saw lower results from financial transactions and higher loan loss provisions. This was offset by higher interest income and cost controls. This marked the ROAE of 24.5% in 2Q25, the fifth consecutive quarter with ROAEs above 20%.

    Strong recovery of NIM8, reaching 4.1% in 2Q25

    Accumulated net interest and readjustment income (NII) as of June 30, 2025, increased 26.0% compared to the same period in 2024. This increase in NII was due to higher net interest income due to the effect of a lower monetary policy rate on our funding cost, which fell from 5.0% to 3.9% in 6M25. The increase is also explained by higher readjustment income, resulting from a greater variation in the UF during the period.

    Compared to 1Q25, net interest and readjustment income increased 1.2% QoQ due to a 2.0% increase in average interest earning assets, offset by lower readjustment income due to lower inflation in 2Q25 compared to the previous quarter.

    Given the above, the NIM increased from 3.1% in 2Q24 to 4.1% in 1Q25 and remained at 4.1% in 2Q25.

    The customer base continues to expand, with total customers increasing by 11.5% YoY and digital customers increasing by 7.9% YoY.

    Our strategy of strengthening digital products has led to continued growth in our customer base, reaching approximately 4.5 million customers, of which nearly 2.3 million are digital customers (87% of our active customers).

    The Bank’s market share in checking accounts remains strong at 22.4% through April 2025, driven by increased customer demand for US dollar checking accounts, as customers can open these types of accounts digitally through our platform in a few easy steps. This also demonstrates the success of Getnet’s strategy to encourage cross-selling of other products, such as checking accounts, to SMEs.

    Net commissions increased by 13.2% in 6M25, reaching recurrence levels9of 61.9%.

    Net commissions increased 13.2% in the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to the same period in 2024, driven by increased customer numbers and greater product usage. As a result, the recurrence ratio (total net commissions divided by core support expenses) increased from 58.3% as of June 2024 to 61.9% as of June 2025, demonstrating that more than half of the Bank’s expenses are funded by commissions generated by our customers.

    Best in Class efficiency10of 35.3% in 6M25.

    The Bank’s efficiency ratio reached 35.3% as of June 30, 2025, better than the 42.1% recorded in the same period last year. Total operating expenses (which include other expenses) increased 2.3% in 6M25 compared to 6M24, driven by administrative expenses primarily related to higher technology expenses in the first quarter, as well as other expenses related to the restructuring of our branch network and the transformation to Work/Café.

    In the first quarter of 2025, the Bank celebrated the major milestone of the Gravity project, the migration from the Mainframe to the Cloud. In January, we transitioned processing to our new Cloud, which resulted in higher transitional technology expenses related to the change and write-downs and impairments related to legacy systems.

    Solid CET1 ratio11of 10.9%.

    Our CET1 ratio rose to 10.9% by the end of June 2025, and the overall Basel III ratio12 will reach 17.0%. The Bank’s capital includes a provision for 60% of 2025 earnings to date.

    Banco Santander Chile is one of the companies with the highest risk ratings in Latin America, with an A2 rating from Moody’s, A- from Standard & Poor’s, A+ from the Japan Credit Rating Agency, AA- from HR Ratings, and A from KBRA. All of our ratings have a stable outlook as of the date of this report.

    As of June 30, 2025, the bank had total assets of Ch$66,188,442 million (US$69,371 million), total gross loans (including those owed by banks) at amortized cost of Ch$40,942,542 million (US$42,911 million), total deposits of Ch$29,614,613 million (US$31,039 million), and shareholders’ equity was $4,514,322 million (US$4,731 million). The BIS capital ratio was 17.0%, with a core capital ratio of 10.9%. As of June 30, 2025, Santander Chile employed 8,660 people and had 231 branches throughout Chile.

    CONTACT INFORMATION
    Cristian Vicuña
    Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Investor Relations
    Banco Santander Chile
    Bandera 140, Floor 20
    Santiago, Chile
    Email: irelations@santander.cl Website: www.santander.cl

    __________________________________________
    1     The information contained in this report is presented in accordance with Chilean Bank GAAP as defined by the Financial Markets Commission (FMC).
    2 Annualized net income attributable to owners of the Bank divided by the average equity attributable to equity holders.
    3 The second quarter of 2025.
    4 Year over year.
    5 The six months ending June 30, 2025.
    6 The six months ending June 30, 2024.
    7 Quarter over quarter.
    8 NIM: Net interest margin. Annualized net interest and readjustment income divided by average interest-earning assets.
    9 Recurrence: net commissions divided by core support costs.
    10 Operating expenses including impairment and other operating expenses/margin+fees+financial trx and other net operating income.
    11 Common Equity Tier 1 divided by risk-weighted assets under Chilean regulation.
    12 Effective equity divided by risk-weighted assets under Chilean regulation.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: authID Launches Identity Exchange (IDX) to Eliminate Enterprise Identity Blind Spots, in Strategic Partnership with NEC Networks & System Integration Corporation (NESIC)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New platform delivers passwordless, privacy-first, and interoperable digital credentials to modernize identity security and support Zero Trust architecture

    DENVER, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — authID®  (Nasdaq: AUID) (“authID”), a leading provider of biometric identity verification and authentication solutions, today announced the launch of authID Identity Exchange (IDX), a next-generation platform purpose-built to close long-standing gaps in enterprise identity and access management. IDX modernizes identity management with biometric-bound, passwordless, interoperable credentials that stop phishing attacks, ensuring only verified users can access sensitive systems and data.

    Developed in strategic partnership with NESIC, a subsidiary of NEC Corporation, and a leader in integrated IT and network solutions for digital transformation (DX), IDX allows authorized personnel to create or claim a central credential that can be leveraged across multiple subsidiaries of a large enterprise, simplifying and securing the management of workforce identities.

    With IDX, organizations can eliminate ghost accounts and shared credentials for every identity in the enterprise, automate onboarding through secure document verification, and extend protections to full-time employees and contractors alike. The platform also helps reduce identity-related IT support costs while ensuring compliance with global data security and privacy regulations.

    “At authID, our mission is to solve pain points in today’s identity infrastructure, particularly those that continually expose large, complex organizations to breaches, fraud, operational friction, and unnecessary compliance risks,” said Rhon Daguro, CEO of authID. “IDX helps redefine how identity verification should work in a Zero Trust world: unphishable, privacy-first, frictionless, and built to secure every identity across the extended enterprise.”

    IDX is the first enterprise platform built on the Accountable Digital Identity Association (ADI Association) specification (now part of the Secure Identity Alliance or SIA), ensuring it is aligned with global interoperability and data sovereignty standards. Key innovations include:

    • Privacy-by-Design: Leveraging privacy-preserving biometrics (via authID’s PrivacyKeyTM), IDX authenticates users without storing sensitive biometric data, eliminating honeypots and supporting compliance with GDPR, HIPAA, BIPA and other regulatory frameworks.
    • Frictionless Authentication: IDX is the first platform to combine authID’s PrivacyKey biometric protocol with FIDO2 in a single implementation, enabling strong, unphishable, and passwordless logins for every enterprise identity.
    • AI-Driven Identity Lifecycle Management: From onboarding to revocation, IDX uses intelligent automation to reduce IT overhead and ensure policy compliance.
    • Plug-and-Play Integration: IDX works seamlessly with leading Identity and Access Management (IAM) platforms including Microsoft Entra ID, Okta, and Ping Identity, while also interoperating with emerging global identity exchanges.

    “NESIC and authID share a vision for a more secure and connected digital future where every identity is verified, protected, and interoperable,” said Osamu Kikuchi, EVP, CDO, CIO, and member of the board at NEC Networks & System Integration Corporation. “Having launched the Japanese Identity Exchange via our Symphonict Trust framework, we’re excited to partner with authID to expand this vision globally.”

    The initial target use cases available at deployment include:

    • Enterprise workforce authentication across devices and locations.
    • Contractor and vendor onboarding without shared accounts.
    • Supply chain security and access governance.
    • Government and public-sector federated credentials.
    • Call centers and support with strong agent authentication.

    “IDX represents a foundational shift in how enterprises manage identity: decentralized, privacy-first, and built for a connected world,” said Ramesh Kesanupalli, co-founder of the ADI Association and FIDO Alliance founder. “This is the future of identity in motion.”

    About authID
    authID (Nasdaq: AUID) ensures enterprises “Know Who’s Behind the Device™” for every customer or employee login and transaction through its easy-to-integrate, patented biometric identity platform. authID powers biometric identity proofing in 700ms, biometric authentication in 25ms, and account recovery with a fast, accurate, user-friendly experience. With our ground-breaking PrivacyKey™ solution, authID provides a 1-to-1-billion false match rate, while storing no biometric data. authID stops fraud at onboarding, blocks deepfakes, prevents account takeover, and eliminates password risks and costs, through the fastest, most frictionless, and most accurate user identity experience demanded by today’s digital ecosystem. For further information please visit authid.ai.

    Media Contacts

    NextTech Communications
    Walter Fowler
    1-631-334-3864
    wfowler@nexttechcomms.com

    Investor Relations Contacts

    Investor-relations@authid.ai

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