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Category: Asia

  • 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

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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

    August 5, 2025
  • 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

    NNNN

    CategoriesMIL-OSI

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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.

    August 5, 2025
  • 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.

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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 –

    August 5, 2025
  • 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

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: GigaCloud Technology Inc to Announce 2025 Second Quarter and Six Month Financial Results and Host Conference Call on August 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EL MONTE, Calif., July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — GigaCloud Technology Inc (Nasdaq: GCT) (“GigaCloud” or the “Company”), a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise, today announced that it will report its financial results for the second quarter and six months ended June 30, 2025 after the market closes on Thursday, August 7, 2025. The Company will host a conference call to discuss its financial results on the same day at 6:30 PM Eastern Time.

    To access the conference call, participants should pre-register here to receive the dial-in information and a unique PIN. All participants are encouraged to dial-in 15 minutes prior to the conference call’s start time.

    A live and archived webcast of the conference call will be accessible on the Company’s investor relations website at https://investors.gigacloudtech.com/news-events/events.

    About GigaCloud Technology Inc
    GigaCloud Technology Inc is a pioneer of global end-to-end B2B ecommerce technology solutions for large parcel merchandise. The Company’s B2B ecommerce platform, the “GigaCloud Marketplace,” integrates everything from discovery, payments and logistics tools into one easy-to-use platform. The Company’s global marketplace seamlessly connects manufacturers, primarily in Asia, with resellers, primarily in the U.S., Asia and Europe, to execute cross-border transactions with confidence, speed and efficiency. GigaCloud offers a comprehensive solution that transports products from the manufacturer’s warehouse to the end customer’s doorstep, all at one fixed price. The Company first launched its marketplace in January 2019 by focusing on the global furniture market and has since expanded into additional categories, including home appliances and fitness equipment. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://investors.gigacloudtech.com/

    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: QuestionPro Launches Partnerships Ecosystem to Transform Research Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — QuestionPro announces the launch of the QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem, a comprehensive ecosystem designed to push the traditional boundaries of speed, intelligence, and depth of research norms. This ecosystem positions itself as the definitive platform for next-generation research capabilities.

    The future of research will be powered by three forces. Faster research turnaround, smarter research processes, and deeper insights.The goal of the QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem is to foster a new culture of collaboration to enable our clients to successfully embrace the future of research. Where the future of insights isn’t siloed but collaborative.

    “The question isn’t whether organizations need faster, smarter, deeper research capabilities – it’s whether any single organization can solve all these emerging challenges alone,” said Vivek Bhaskaran, CEO of QuestionPro. “The answer is no. That is at the core of why we built this curated ecosystem.”

    “The future of insights will be powered by ecosystems,” said Sumair Sayani, Global Lead AI Programs & Strategic Partnerships. “The QuestionPro Partner Ecosystem democratizes advanced research capabilities, allowing businesses of all sizes to access enterprise-grade tools without complexity.”

    The QuestionPro Partnerships Ecosystem is now available worldwide. Special offers are available for early adopters, with broader availability throughout Q3 2025. Offering ready-to-launch solutions for every research need, with AI and automation capabilities that reduce time organizing data while increasing time acting on insights.

    About QuestionPro
    Founded in 2006, QuestionPro is a global provider of online survey and research services that help companies make better decisions through data. Our fully integrated online platform includes surveys, research & insights, customer experience (CX) and workforce/employee experience software. We additionally offer polling, journey mapping, employee 360s, and data visualization. Our clientele ranges from small businesses to Fortune 100 companies, who rely on us for insights about customers, employees, and the partnerships. With offices in the US, Canada, Mexico, U.K., Germany, Japan, Australia, the United Arab Emirates and India, we offer customers 24-7 access to highly trained support specialists and engineers. More information is available at https://www.questionpro.com/us/

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Teads Unveils Connected Ads: A New Premium Brand and Performance Solution for the Open Internet

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Teads (NASDAQ: TEAD), the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, today announced the beta launch of Connected Ads, an innovative branding solution which expands creative possibilities and engagement across premium publisher environments while reinforcing the company’s core value proposition: to deliver brand-to-performance outcomes at scale.

    Connected Ads introduces a unified ad experience featuring two complementary ad placements within the same publisher page – the first embedded within the article and the second at the end of the article. As users scroll through publisher pages, the second ad placement appears, creating a canvas for more opportunities for brands to stand out. Advertisers can use this space for high-impact messaging or introduce interactive elements to deepen engagement. This exclusive format gives advertisers two sequential, high-attention opportunities in a single content session, helping brands build awareness and drive measurable outcomes on the open internet.

    “With this unique ad experience, we’re giving brands the ability to cut through the noise and tell new impactful stories,” said Remi Cackel, EVP of Global Demand Product at Teads. “Fully rooted in Teads’ creative excellence, it’s the first step in achieving brandformance goals in one seamless experience, powered by high-quality environments and user-first design.”

    Key benefits of Connected Ads include:

    • A premium open-web branding format that enables sequential storytelling and deeper engagement.
    • High-attention placements that maximize impact without disrupting the user experience.
    • An exclusive creative solution, only available on the Teads platform.
    • Built for brands that value premium environments, innovation, and brand-to-performance outcomes.

    Connected Ads reflects Teads’ ongoing commitment to innovation at the intersection of brand and performance outcomes, enabling advertisers to capitalize on multiple stages of the marketing funnel within a single integrated solution.

    The beta launch is live across leading publishers in Germany, France, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US and is being tested by several enterprise advertisers.

    About Teads
    Teads is the omnichannel outcomes platform for the open internet, driving full-funnel results for marketers across premium media. With a focus on meaningful business outcomes for branding and performance objectives, Teads ensures value is driven with every media dollar by leveraging predictive AI technology to connect quality media, beautiful brand creative, and context-driven addressability and measurement. One of the most scaled advertising platforms on the open internet, Teads is directly partnered with more than 10,000 publishers and 20,000 advertisers globally. The company is headquartered in New York, with a global team of nearly 1,800 people in 30+ countries.

    For more information, visit www.teads.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws, which statements involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements generally relate to possible or assumed future results of our business, financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, plans and objectives. You can generally identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “could,” “intends,” “guidance,” “outlook,” “target,” “projects,” “contemplates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “foresee,” “potential” or “continue” or the negative of these terms or other similar expressions that concern our expectations, strategy, plans or intentions.

    We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections regarding future events and trends that we believe may affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. The outcome of the events described in these forward-looking statements is subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, including but not limited to: the risk that advertisers may not adopt our new Connected Ads solution at the rate we expect or that the beta program may not be successful; the risk that our new ad formats, including Connected Ads, may not deliver the anticipated benefits of enhanced attention, storytelling, and brand-to-performance outcomes; risks related to the successful development and scaling of new and complex advertising products; our ability to compete effectively and maintain any technological or creative advantages in the competitive digital advertising market; and the other important risks described in the section entitled “Risk Factors” and elsewhere in the Annual Report on Form 10-K filed for the year ended December 31, 2024, in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed for the quarter ended March 31, 2025, and in subsequent reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which are available on our website at https://investors.teads.com/ and on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

    Accordingly, you should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. We cannot assure you that the results, events and circumstances reflected in the forward-looking statements will be achieved or occur, and actual results, events or circumstances could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. We do not assume any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

    Media Contact
    press@teads.com

    Investor Relations Contact
    IR@teads.com
    (332) 205-8999

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Monthly Data on India’s International Trade in Services for the Month of June 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The value of exports and imports of services during June 2025 is given in the following table.

    International Trade in Services
    (US$ million)
    Month Receipts (Exports) Payments (Imports)
    April – 2025 32,843
    (8.8)
    16,909
    (0.9)
    May – 2025 32,452
    (9.6)
    16,694
    (-1.1)
    June – 2025 32,105
    (12.0)
    15,897
    (5.0)
    Note: Figures in parentheses are growth rates over the corresponding month of the previous year which have been revised on the basis of balance of payments statistics.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/817

    MIL OSI Economics –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Data on India’s Invisibles for Fourth Quarter (January-March) of 2024-25

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank today released data on India’s invisibles as per the IMF’s Balance of Payments and International Investment Position Manual (BPM6) format for January-March of 2024-25.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/816

    MIL OSI Economics –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Banking: Lending and Deposit Rates of Scheduled Commercial Banks – July 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Data on lending and deposit rates of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) (excluding regional rural banks and small finance banks) received during the month of July 2025 are set out in Tables 1 to 7.

    Highlights:

    Lending Rates:

    • The weighted average lending rate (WALR) on fresh rupee loans of SCBs declined to 8.62 per cent in June 2025 from 9.20 per cent in May 2025.

    • The WALR on outstanding rupee loans of SCBs dropped to 9.48 per cent in June 2025 from 9.69 per cent in May 2025.1

    • 1-Year median Marginal Cost of Funds based Lending Rate (MCLR) of SCBs moderated to 8.75 per cent in July 2025 from 8.90 per cent in June 2025.

    Deposit Rates:

    • The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on fresh rupee term deposits of SCBs stood at 5.75 per cent in June 2025 as compared to 6.11 per cent in May 2025.

    • The weighted average domestic term deposit rate (WADTDR) on outstanding rupee term deposits of SCBs was 6.99 per cent in June 2025 (7.07 per cent in May 2025).1

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/818


    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN to Welcome President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, will welcome H.E. José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat, on 1 August 2025.
     
    The visit will include a Policy Speech by H.E. José Ramos-Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste and an Interface with the Secretary-General of ASEAN, the Committee of Permanent Representatives to ASEAN (CPR) and the Ambassador of Timor-Leste to ASEAN. The visit will highlight, among others, the progress in Timor-Leste’s journey towards membership in ASEAN. During the Policy Speech, attendances would include members of the diplomatic corps in Jakarta, representatives of Entities associated with ASEAN, academia and think tanks, the business community, as well as staff members of the ASEAN Secretariat.
    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN to Welcome President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste to the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Statement by all Members of Seventh LegCo on safeguarding national security

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
     
         All Members of the Seventh Legislative Council (LegCo) today (July 31) issued the following statement through the LegCo Secretariat:
     
         Safeguarding national security is the highest principle of “One Country, Two Systems”. All Members of the Seventh LegCo have full confidence that the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) fully and faithfully implements, and resolutely protects the authority of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance. This is also the constitutional duty and the bottom line of the HKSAR. The HKSAR Government and the governance team of the HKSAR, including LegCo, have resolute determination to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.
     
         All LegCo Members stress that the Basic Law of the HKSAR of the People’s Republic of China (Basic Law) clearly stipulates that LegCo of the HKSAR shall be the legislature of the region. Fugitives endangering national security who fled overseas have been challenging the bottom line of “One Country, Two Systems” and the HKSAR’s national security. They blatantly organised the so-called “election” for the “Hong Kong Parliament”, seriously violating the Basic Law and the HKNSL, and undermining the Constitution and constitutional order of the HKSAR as established by the Basic Law. The unlawful election is nothing but a farce. Their aim was to disrupt the hard-earned stability and peace in Hong Kong, and attempted to commit the offence of subversion of state power, seriously endangering national security.
     
         Safeguarding national security is in line with international practice. LegCo Members firmly reject and castigate the biased, groundless, smearing and double-standard remarks by some politicians in western countries against the HKSAR Government’s lawful pursuit of individuals who endangered national security.
     
         The HKSAR Government’s decisive and swift law enforcement actions are not only righteous, but also reasonable, legal and constitutional. The actions are also widely supported by various sectors of the community. All LegCo Members fully support the Hong Kong Police Force in their lawful efforts to apprehend national security offenders who fled overseas. They also resolutely support the statement issued by the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR, and firmly support sanctions against the fugitives in order to safeguard national security and the stability of Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ‘Space oil drug’ renamed etomidate

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The “space oil drug” has officially been renamed as etomidate to help promote anti-drug messages, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said today.
     
    Mr Tang made the announcement when he spoke to the media this afternoon after attending the Fight Crime Committee meeting and explained the reason behind giving the dangerous drug a new name.
     
    “When we look at the increase in drug offences, for the first half of 2025 we have 591 cases of serious drug offences. Among those drug (cases), one-fourth of them is relating to etomidate.
     
    “Previously we called it ‘space oil drug’, and some of the drug traffickers make use of the name to promote a sort of fantasy and some positive feelings after taking drugs. I think this is absolutely wrong.
     
    “Etomidate only brings you harm. It will make you behave abnormally, and will cause (defacement) in your appearance, such as losing hair. I think we have to properly name it as etomidate.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Strengthening collective labor rights can help reduce economic inequality

    Source: The Conversation – USA (2) – By Skip Mark, Assistant professor of political science, University of Rhode Island

    Only about 1 in 10 U.S. workers belong to unions today. champc/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    Despite the strength of the U.S. economy, the gap between rich and poor Americans is increasing.

    The wealthiest 1% of Americans have more than five times as much wealth as the bottom 50%, according to the U.S. Federal Reserve. That’s up from four times as much in the year 2000. In 2024 alone, the wealthiest 19 families got a total of US$1 trillion richer – the largest one-year increase on record.

    And yet 59% of Americans don’t have enough money saved up to cover an unexpected $1,000 expense.

    We are political scientists who study human rights and political economy.

    In a 2023 study, our team looked at 145 countries, including the U.S., to understand the link between labor rights and inequality. We found evidence that strengthening collective labor rights may reduce economic inequality.

    Empowering workers

    Collective labor rights include the rights to form and join a union, bargain collectively for higher pay and better working conditions, go on strike, and get justice if employers punish workers who exercise these rights.

    In the U.S., where less than 10% of workers belong to unions, union members typically earn higher wages than their nonunion counterparts.

    Through negotiations on behalf of their members, unions can pressure employers to provide fair wages and benefits. If negotiations break down, the union can call for a strike – sometimes winning better benefits and higher wages as a result.

    Some U.S. unions don’t have the right to strike, including air traffic controllers, teachers and those working on national security issues. But most unions have some ability to implement work stoppages and impose costs on employers to negotiate for raises and better benefits and conditions.

    Reducing inequality

    For our study, we analyzed the human rights in the CIRIGHTS dataset, which uses human rights reports from the U.S. State Department, Amnesty International and other sources to measure government respect for 24 human rights, including the rights to unionize and bargain collectively. The dataset is produced by the University of Rhode Island, Binghamton University and the University of Connecticut. One of us, Skip Mark, serves as a co-director of the project.

    Using a scoring guide, a team of researchers reads human rights reports and gives each country a score of zero if they have widespread violations, one point if they have some violations, or two if they have no evidence of violations. The team has assigned scores for all 24 rights from 1994 through 2022.

    Using this data, we created a measure of collective labor rights by adding scores for the right to workplace association and the right to collective bargaining. The resulting collective labor rights score ranges from zero to four.

    Countries where workers’ rights are routinely violated, such as Afghanistan, China and Saudi Arabia, scored a zero. The United States, Macedonia and Zambia, three countries with little in common, were among those that tended to get two points, placing them in the middle. Countries with no reported violations of the rights to workplace association and collective bargaining, including Canada, Sweden and France, got four points.

    According to the CIRIGHTS dataset, the strength of respect for collective labor rights around the world declined by 50%, from 2.06 in 1994 to 1.03 in 2022.

    At the same time, according to the World Inequality Dataset, the share of income earned by the 1% with the biggest paychecks increased by 11%.

    We used advanced statistical methods to figure out whether better worker protections actually reduce inequality or are just associated with it.

    Gaps between individuals and ethnic groups

    We also measured what’s been happening to economic inequality, using two common ways to track it.

    One of them is vertical inequality, the gap between what people earn within a country – the rich versus the poor. The more unequal a society becomes, the higher its vertical inequality score gets. We measured it using the disposable income measure from the Gini index, a commonly used indicator of economic inequality that captures how much money individuals have to spend after taxes and government transfers.

    We found that a one-point increase in collective labor rights on our four-point scale reduces vertical inequality by 10 times the average change in inequality. For the U.S., a one-point increase in collective labor rights would be about enough to undo the increase in inequality that occurred between 2008 and 2010 due to the Great Recession and its aftermath. It would also likely help stem the growing wealth gap between Black and white Americans. That’s because income disparities compound over time to create wealth gaps.

    We also assessed the connection between horizontal inequality, which measures income inequality between ethnic or other groups, and collective labor rights.

    Negative horizontal inequality measures the amount of a country’s income held by the poorest ethnic group. Higher scores for this metric indicate that the lowest-earning ethnic group has less income relative to the rest of society. Black Americans have the lowest median income of any racial or ethnic group, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

    Positive horizontal inequality measures the income earned by the richest ethnic group. When positive horizontal inequality rises, that means the richest ethnic group has more income relative to the rest of society. According to the same Census Bureau report, Asian Americans had the highest median earnings.

    We found that stronger collective labor rights, both in law and in practice around the world, also reduce both types of horizontal inequality. This means they raise the floor by helping to improve the income of the poorest ethnic groups in society. They also close the gap by limiting the incomes of the richest ethnic group, which can reduce the likelihood of conflicts.

    That is, our findings suggest that when workers are free to advocate for higher wages and better benefits for themselves, it also benefits society as a whole.

    Stephen Bagwell is a researcher with the Human Rights Measurement Initiative, a charitable trust registered in New Zealand

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

    – ref. Strengthening collective labor rights can help reduce economic inequality – https://theconversation.com/strengthening-collective-labor-rights-can-help-reduce-economic-inequality-254258

    MIL OSI –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK Government backs Ford’s global transformation

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    UK Government backs Ford’s global transformation

    UK Export Finance announces a new £1 billion export guarantee, supporting Ford UK’s transition to electric vehicle production.

    • Iconic car manufacturer Ford continues global transformation as government backs new loan  

    • Financing assists Ford’s operations in developing world-leading products, including cleaner engines and electric power units while supporting thousands of jobs 

    • Latest action in the government’s Plan for Change and in support for the UK’s automotive sector as part of the Industrial Strategy 

    UK Export Finance (UKEF) is providing a £1 billion export development guarantee to Ford UK, supporting the car giant’s long-term growth ambitions around the world. 

    Ford operates various sites across the country including the UK’s largest automotive research & development (R&D) centre based in Essex and directly employs more than 5,500 workers across the country.   

    The loan will help Ford continue its global transformation, engineering and manufacturing smart, connected and electrified vehicles for customers around the world.  

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    Ford has been the pride of Essex since 1911, over a century of innovation and industry. The R&D centre in Basildon employs thousands of people in well-paid, highly skilled jobs. 

    This £1 billion loan guarantee is a major boost for Britain’s auto sector. It will help develop world-leading products, open new export markets, and secure jobs. This is our Plan for Change in action – delivering growth and putting more money in people’s pockets.

    Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

    We’re proud of our historic auto sector, and the commitment that global companies like Ford have made to make cars and create jobs in the UK. 

    I’m delighted that UKEF is backing Ford in supporting the company’s ambitions for growth, helping to cement our position as a global leader for manufacturing and backing our Plan for Change. 

    This Government has taken significant action to back auto firms – including by securing landmark trade deals with the US and India to bring down tariffs for British car manufacturers and create new export opportunities, measures to lower electricity prices in our Industrial Strategy, and updating the ZEV mandate to support UK manufacturers and safeguard jobs of the future.

    In recent years, the company has invested heavily into electric vehicle development, including a £380 million transformation of its Halewood manufacturing plant from producing transmissions to electric motors for iconic vehicles like the Ford Transit van and Ford Puma. Ford has also invested £70 million in state-of-the-art testing and development labs at its R&D site in Essex.   

    This follows several significant announcements in recent months showing the government backing the UK’s automotive sector. This includes launching an Electric Car Grant to support the transition to zero emission vehicles and incentivise sustainable manufacturing, and the publication of the Advanced Manufacturing Sector Plan and Modern Industrial Strategy, which commits £2 billion capital and R&D funding to 2030, and an additional £500 million to extend the R&D support to 2035. This support is giving innovative manufacturers the confidence to pursue technological advancements needed in the automotive sector. 

    UKEF is guaranteeing 80 per cent (£800 million) of the £1 billion loan provided by Citi and a syndicate of lenders. Citi is the sole coordinator and agent on the loan to Ford. 

    This announcement forms part of the government’s Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth and raise living standards across the United Kingdom by supporting businesses to export and grow. 

    British car manufacturers now benefit from major tariff reductions when exporting to the US, thanks to the landmark trade deal secured with the US. The UK is the only country to have secured this deal with the US, which reduces car export tariffs from 27.5% to 10%, saving manufacturers hundreds of millions each year and protecting hundreds of thousands of jobs, backing the Plan for Change. 

    UKEF Chief Executive Tim Reid said:

    This is a great example of UKEF’s collaboration with the automotive industry, which is a key sector of the government’s Industrial Strategy. Our export development guarantee is a versatile product that has lasting impact on businesses. Boosting growth, securing key jobs, growing the UK’s export potential and doing so sustainably – that’s what UKEF does best. 

    Lisa Brankin, Chair, Ford Britain, said:

    Recent investments in the UK have proved crucial to our European operations and have expanded our UK export capability, on top of supporting Ford’s investment in an all-electric product line-for Europe. This new UKEF facility will play an important role in supporting our UK exporting footprint, especially amid the continued uncertainty in the trade landscape and the disconnect between electric vehicle targets and customer demand. 

    Richard Hodder, Global Head of Export and Agency Finance at Citi, said: 

    Citi is pleased to partner with Ford and UK Export Finance on this significant transaction. This third UKEF Guarantee loan under the EDG program demonstrates our dedication to supporting Ford’s global innovation and UK export operations. This transaction showcases both the cross-border expertise and local knowledge that Citi’s Services business provides clients in the UK, and around the world.

    This is the third EDG awarded by UKEF to Ford, taking total financing to almost £2.4 billion (£1.9 billion guaranteed by UKEF) since 2020: 

    • June 2022: £750 million UKEF EDG (UKEF guarantee of £600 million) supported phase two of Ford’s electric vehicle plans. The investment significantly expanding Ford’s electric power unit production line capability.  

    • June 2020: a £625 million UKEF EDG facility (UKEF guarantee on £500 million). This helped to finance Ford’s global vehicle research and development headquarters in Dunton in Essex, securing key of jobs and supporting the development of electric vehicle technologies. 

    This latest announcement follows the recent publication of UKEF’s annual report & accounts for 2024/25. 

    Over the last financial year, UKEF provided a record £14.5 billion in new financing, helping over 667 UK companies to export and grow and supported up to 70,000 jobs.

    Contact

    Media enquiries:

    Email newsdesk@ukexportfinance.gov.uk

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    Published 31 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI: Metaforms raises $9M to give market research agencies their own AI workflows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    San Francisco, July 31, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The market research boom is creating an unexpected casualty: the agencies themselves. In an industry where clients expect faster turnarounds, competitive pricing, and diverse capabilities, agencies are turning down work – not for lack of interest, but because outdated operational systems keep them from meeting client expectations. Metaforms, a startup born from this bottleneck, is helping research teams scale without burning out. Today, the company announces a $9 million Series A to expand its AI infrastructure platform and accelerate adoption across the $130 billion global research industry.

    The round was led by Peak XV Partners (formerly Sequoia India), with participation from Nexus Venture Partners and Together Fund. It brings Metaforms’ total funding to just over $10 million and will be used to grow the team, expand into new workflows like report generation and voice-based research, and deepen integrations with tools like Decipher, SPSS, and Confirmit.

    Metaforms cofounders Arjun S and Akshat Tyagi.

    “We’re thrilled to partner with Akshat and Arjun as they reimagine what a market research agency could look like in an AI-first world. Metaforms is scaling rapidly, by enabling some of the largest research agencies globally to automate workflows such as survey programming and data processing through their suite of AI agents.” Shailendra Singh, MD, Peak XV

    When a global brand like a shoe company wants to make critical decisions about how to market it’s new pair of shoes in a geography it has never ventured into before. It engages a market research agency to figure out lifestyle habits and cultural perceptions of a population. For this the agency has to recruit a target population, design a research study, convert the survey questions into an online link, clean the data for fraud, do in-person interviews, combine all the data to finally make a presentation.

    Metaforms builds AI agents designed to work within research agencies’ existing workflows, automating the manual processes that limit capacity and erode margins. Instead of replacing research expertise, the platform acts as a force multiplier: turning questionnaires into survey code, flagging bad data before it breaks a project, coordinating panel vendors, and tracking quotas across complex multi-country studies. 

    Survey programming dashboard in Metaforms.

    For many agencies, this means the difference between turning away work and scaling up confidently.

    Metaforms has been incredibly successful thanks to their uniquely thoughtful approach to modernizing research operations—embedding seamlessly into the workflows, tools, and platforms that researchers and agencies already use. I’m excited to continue supporting the team as they build on that momentum with this Series A— Jonathan Tice, GTM Consultant [Prev: Chief Customer Officer, Forsta]

    Founded in 2022 by Akshat Tyagi and Arjun S, Metaforms was born out of a personal pain point. As early-stage founders, they struggled to access professional market research. The problem wasn’t demand – it was bandwidth. So Akshat and Arjun set out to build software that gave agencies a way to do more with what they already have.

    “Our goal is simple: help great research teams spend less time firefighting and more time doing the work that actually matters,” said Akshat Tyagi, co-founder and CEO of Metaforms. “When you automate the grunt work, you make high-quality research more accessible to more companies.”

    Since launching commercially just six months ago, Metaforms has signed four of the world’s top twenty research agencies, including Strat7, one of the largest market research agencies globally. The platform now processes over 1,000 surveys per month, and serves Fortune 500 companies. Every customer that started with a single AI agent has expanded to adopt additional ones, achieving a 100% expansion rate.

    Bidding management with Metaforms.

    “Metaforms is a breakout example of the India-to-global play in AI,” said Manav Garg, Co-founder and managing partner at Together Fund. “They’re not just automating tasks — they’re rebuilding research infrastructure for the modern era. With their early traction across global agencies, Akshat and Arjun are showing what’s possible when deep customer empathy meets technical ambition.”

    That accessibility is already changing the industry. By compressing turnaround times and reducing operational costs, Metaforms enables agencies to serve clients they would otherwise turn away, from early-stage startups testing their first ideas to global brands launching multi-country trackers.

    “Our partnership has delivered strong ROl, thanks to Metaforms’ exceptional service and prompt support” added Tabita Razaila Head of operations, Strat7

    “They’re solving a major pain point for the entire industry. That focus and ability to deeply understand customer needs and address that using genetic AI is the hallmark of Metaforms team. We are thrilled to back Akshat and Arjun in their journey of building a remarkable company!”, said Jishnu Bhattacharjee and Arjun Gandhi, Nexus Venture Partners.

    Looking ahead, Metaforms plans to triple its team and continue expanding the breadth of its agent capabilities. Voice research, automated report generation, and expanded language support are all on the roadmap. The long-term vision is to process over 100,000 surveys per year and make professional-grade research available to every business that needs it.

    “When research agencies grow, better business decisions get made,” added Akshat Tyagi. “We’re not here to replace the humans in the loop. We’re here to give them leverage.”

    Media images can be found here. 

    About Metaforms
    Metaforms is the AI platform that helps market research agencies operate smarter and win more business. Our AI Agents augment research teams’ work output across survey programming, data processing, bidding management, and voice research; enabling them to handle exponentially more projects while maintaining quality.

    The MIL Network –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Pacific tsunami: modern early warning systems prevent the catastrophic death tolls of the past

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ian Main, Professor of Seismology and Rock Physics, University of Edinburgh

    The earthquake in Russia’s Kamchatka peninsula on July 30 2025 may have been one of the most severe on record, with a magnitude of 8.8. But innovations in science and technology gave governments vital time to warn and evacuate their people from the resulting tsunami.

    Millions of people escaped to higher ground before the tsunami hit.

    The 2004 Boxing Day 9.3 magnitude earthquake and tsunami in Sumatra, which caused approximately 230,000 deaths, some as far away as Somalia on the other side of the Indian Ocean, shows how important these warnings are.

    Early warning systems were not in place for the Indian Ocean in time for the 2004 disaster. But there is now a system in place, with 27 countries participating in the group effort.

    The 2004 tsunami was particularly tragic because tsunami waves travel at a steady speed in the open ocean, about as fast as a jet plane. This means they can take several hours to reach shore across an ocean, with plenty of time for warning.

    An early warning system for the Pacific Ocean, based in Hawaii, was created in 1948 following a deadly tsunami two years before. On April 1 1946, the magnitude 8.6 Aleutian Islands earthquake in the northern Pacific Ocean generated a tsunami that devastated parts of Hawaii hours later, leading to 146 fatalities.

    The death toll was exacerbated by the leading wave being downwards. This happens in around 50% of tsunamis, and exposes the seashore in a similar way to when the tide goes out, but exposing a larger area than normal. People sometimes investigate out of curiosity, bringing them closer to the danger.

    The accuracy and response times of early tsunami warnings have significantly improved since 1948.

    How tsunamis happen

    To understand the work involved in protecting coastal communities, first you need to understand how tsunamis are generated.

    Tsunamis are caused by displacement of mass on the sea floor after an earthquake, landslide or volcanic eruption. This provides an energy source to set off a wave in the deep sea, not just near the surface like in the ocean waves we see whipped up by the wind and storms. Most are small. The Japanese word tsunami translates somewhat innocuously as “harbour wave”.

    Detailed global mapping of the sea floor, pioneered by US geologist Marie Tharpe between 1957 and 1978, helped establish the modern theory of plate tectonics. It also improved the physical models for how the tsunami will travel in the ocean.

    Wave height increases as it approaches the shore, and the topography of the sea floor can result in a complicated pattern of wave interference and concentration of the energy in stream-like patterns. The establishment of sea-floor observatories led to better data for the pressure at the sea floor (related to wave height) and satellite networks now directly monitor wave height globally using radar signals from space.

    One of the factors that has helped scientists predict the range of a tsunami includes the setting up of the worldwide standard station network of seismometers in 1963, which allowed better estimations of earthquake location and magnitude.

    These were superseded by the digital broadband global network of seismometers in 1978, which allowed more detail on the source to be calculated quickly. This includes a better estimate of earthquake size, the source rupture area and orientation in three dimensions.

    It also tells scientists about the slip, which controls the pattern of displacement on the sea floor. This data is used to forecast the time of landing, the amplitude of the wave on the shoreline, and its height in areas where the wave travels further inland.

    The Pacific Ocean warning system now has 46 countries contributing data. It also uses physical and statistical models for estimating tsunami height. The models developed as scientists learnt more about earthquake sources, mapped features on the sea floor and tested model forecasts against outcomes.

    Today’s technology

    The early warning systems we have today are due to a decades-long commitment to global research collaboration and open data. Scientists have also improved their forecast methods. Recently they started using trained AI algorithms which could improve the timeliness and accuracy.

    Pioneered by the US Geological Survey, rapid data sharing is now used routinely to estimate earthquake parameters and make them available to the public soon after the rupture stops. This can be within minutes for an initial estimate then updated over the next few hours as more data comes in.

    However, the forecast wave height is inherently uncertain, variable from place to place, and may turn out to be more or less than expected. Similarly, large earthquakes are rare, making it hard to estimate how likely they are on average, and therefore to design appropriate mitigation measures.

    The 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami in Japan destroyed or overtopped the eight-metre high protective sea walls that had been put in place based on such hazard estimates. There were over 19,000 fatalities. As a consequence, their height has been increased to 12-15 metres in some areas.

    Early warning systems also rely on rapid communication to the public, including mass alerts communicated by mobile phone, coordination by the relevant authorities across borders, clear advice, and advance evacuation plans and occasional alarm tests or drills. Although tsunami waves slow down to the speed of a car as they approach the shore, it is impossible to outrun one, so it is better to act quickly and calmly.

    The effectiveness of warnings also means accepting a degree of inconvenience in false alarms where the tsunami height is less than that forecast, because this is inevitable with the uncertainties involved. For good reason, authorities issuing alerts will err on the side of caution.

    To give an example, nuclear power plants on Japan’s eastern seaboard were shut down on July 30.

    So far it looks like the Pacific early warning system – combined with effective levels of preparedness and action by service providers and decision makers – has worked well in reducing the number of casualties that might have happened without it.

    There will always be a level of uncertainty we will have to live with. On balance, it is a small price to pay for avoiding a catastrophe.

    Ian Main is professor of Seismology and Rock Physics at the University of Edinburgh. He receives funding from UK Research and Innovation Research Council, a member of the UK Office for Nuclear Regulation Expert panel on external hazards, and acts as an independent reviewer for the Energy Industry-funded SeIsmic hazard and Ground Motion Assessment research program SIGMA3.

    – ref. Pacific tsunami: modern early warning systems prevent the catastrophic death tolls of the past – https://theconversation.com/pacific-tsunami-modern-early-warning-systems-prevent-the-catastrophic-death-tolls-of-the-past-262283

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    August 5, 2025
  • MIL-OSI Analysis: New peace plan increases pressure on Israel and US as momentum grows for Palestinian statehood

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    A new vision for Middle East peace emerged this week which proposes the withdrawal of Israel from Gaza and the West Bank, the disarming and disbanding of Hamas and the creation of a unified Palestinian state. The plan emerged from a “high-level conference” in New York on July 29, which assembled representatives of 17 states, the European Union and the Arab League.

    The resulting proposal is “a comprehensive and actionable framework for the implementation of the two-state solution and the achievement of peace and security for all”.

    Signatories include Turkey and the Middle Eastern states of Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt and Jordan. Europe was represented by France, Ireland, Italy, Norway, Spain and the UK. Indonesia was there for Asia, Senegal for Africa, and Brazil, Canada and Mexico for the Americas. Neither the US nor Israel were present.

    Significantly, it is the first time the Arab states have called for Hamas to disarm and disband. But, while condemning Hamas’s attack on Israel of October 7 2023 and recalling that the taking of hostages is a violation of international law, the document is unsparing in its connection between a state of Palestine and an end to Israel’s assault on Gaza’s civilians.

    It says: “Absent decisive measures toward the two-state solution and robust international guarantees, the conflict will deepen and regional peace will remain elusive.”

    A plan for the reconstruction of Gaza will be developed by the Arab states and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation – a Jeddah-based group which aims to be the collective voice of the Muslim world – supported by an international fund. The details will be hammered out at a Gaza Reconstruction and Recovery Conference, to be held in Cairo.

    It is a bold initiative. In theory, it could end the Israeli mass killing in Gaza, remove Hamas from power and begin the implementation of a process for a state of Palestine. The question is whether it has any chance of success.

    First, there appears to be growing momentum to press ahead with recognition of the state of Palestine as part of a comprehensive peace plan leading to a two-state solution. France, the UK and, most recently, Canada have announced they would take that step at the UN general assembly in September. The UK stated that it would do so unless Israel agreed to a ceasefire and the commencement of a substantive peace process.




    Read more:
    UK and France pledges won’t stop Netanyahu bombing Gaza – but Donald Trump or Israel’s military could


    These announcements follow those made in May 2024 by Spain, Ireland and Norway, three of the other European signatories. By the end of September at least 150 of the UN’s 193 members will recognise Palestinian statehood. Recognition is largely symbolic without a ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal from both Gaza and the West Bank. But it is essential symbolism.

    For years, many European countries, Canada, Australia and the US have said that recognition could not be declared if there was the prospect of Israel-Palestine negotiations. Now the sequence is reversed: recognition is necessary as pressure for a ceasefire and the necessary talks to ensure the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.

    Israel accelerated that reversal at the start of March, when it rejected the scheduled move to phase two of the six-week ceasefire negotiated with the help of the US, and imposed a blockade on aid coming into the Strip.

    The Netanyahu government continues to hold out against the ceasefire. But its loud blame of Hamas is becoming harder to accept. The images of the starvation in Gaza and warnings by doctors, humanitarian organisations and the UN of an effective famine with the deaths of thousands can no longer be denied.

    Saudi Arabia and Qatar, behind the scenes and through their embassies, have been encouraging European countries to make the jump to recognition. Their efforts at the UN conference in New York this week are another front of that campaign.

    Israel and the Trump administration

    But in the short term, there is little prospect of the Netanyahu government giving way with its mass killing, let alone entering talks for two states. Notably neither Israel nor the US took part in the conference.

    Trump has criticised the scenes of starvation in Gaza. But his administration has joined Netanyahu in vitriolic denunciation of France and the UK over their intentions to recognise Palestine. And the US president has warned the Canadian prime minister, Mark Carney, that recognition of Palestinian statehood would threaten Canada’s trade deal with the US.

    In response to Trump’s concern over the images of starving children and his exhortation “We’ve got to get the kids fed,” Israel has airdropped a few pallets of aid – less than a truck’s worth. Yet this appears more of a public relations exercise directed at Washington than a genuine attempt to ease the terrible condition on the Strip.

    A small number of lorries with supplies from UN and humanitarian organisations have also crossed the border, but only after lengthy delays and with half still held up. There is no security for transport and delivery of the aid inside Gaza.

    A sacrifice for a state?

    So the conference declaration is not relief for Gaza. Instead, it is yet another marker of Israel’s increasing isolation.

    After France’s announcement, the Netanyahu government thundered: “Such a move rewards terror and risks creating another Iranian proxy … A Palestinian state in these conditions would be a launch pad to annihilate Israel.”

    But while recognising Hamas’s mass killing of October 7 2023, most governments and their populations do not perceive Israel as attacking Hamas and its fighters. They see the Netanyahu government and Israeli military slaying and starving civilians.

    Even in the US, where the Trump administration is trying to crush sympathy for Palestine and Gazans in universities, non-governmental organisations and the public sphere, opinion is shifting.

    In a Gallup poll taken in the US and released on July 29, only 32% of respondents supported Israel’s actions in Gaza – an all-time low – and 60% opposed them. Netanyahu was viewed unfavourably by 52% and favourably by only 29%.

    Israel has lost its moment of “normalisation” with Arab states. Its economic links are strained and its oft-repeated claim to being the “Middle East’s only democracy” is bloodstained beyond recognition.

    This will be of no comfort to the people of Gaza facing death. But in the longer term, there is the prospect that this sacrifice will be the catalyst to recognise Palestine that disappeared in 1948.


    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Scott Lucas 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. New peace plan increases pressure on Israel and US as momentum grows for Palestinian statehood – https://theconversation.com/new-peace-plan-increases-pressure-on-israel-and-us-as-momentum-grows-for-palestinian-statehood-262259

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    August 5, 2025
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