NewzIntel.com

Category: Australia

  • MIL-Evening Report: X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ziteng Wang, Associate Lecturer, Curtin Institute of Radio Astronomy (CIRA), Curtin University

    Author provided

    In a new study published today in Nature, we report the discovery of a new long-period transient – and, for the first time, one that also emits regular bursts of X-rays.

    Long-period transients are a recently identified class of cosmic objects that emit bright flashes of radio waves every few minutes to several hours. This is much longer than the rapid pulses we typically detect from dead stars such as pulsars.

    What these objects are, and how they generate their unusual signals, remains a mystery.

    Our discovery opens up a new window into the study of these puzzling sources. But it also deepens the mystery: the object we found doesn’t resemble any known type of star or system in our galaxy – or beyond.

    An image of the sky showing the region around ASKAP J1832-0911. The yellow circle marks the position of the newly discovered source. This image shows X-rays from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, radio data from the South African MeerKAT radio telescope, and infrared data from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope.
    Author provided

    Watching the radio sky for flickers

    There’s much in the night sky that we can’t see with human eyes but can detect when we look at other wavelengths, such as radio emissions.

    Our research team regularly scans the radio sky using the Australian SKA Pathfinder (ASKAP), operated by CSIRO on Wajarri Yamaji Country in Western Australia. Our goal is to find cosmic objects that appear and disappear (known as transients).

    Transients are often linked to some of the most powerful and dramatic events in the universe, such as the explosive deaths of stars.

    In late 2023, we spotted an extremely bright source, named ASKAP J1832-0911 (based on its position in the sky), in the direction of the galactic plane. This object is located about 15,000 light years away. This is far, but still within the Milky Way.

    Some of the ASKAP antennas, located at Inyarrimanha Ilgari Bundara, the Murchison Radio-astronomy Observatory in Western Australia.
    CSIRO

    A dramatic event

    After the initial discovery, we began follow-up observations using telescopes around the world, hoping to catch more pulses. With continued monitoring, we found the radio pulses from ASKAPJ1832 arrive regularly – every 44 minutes. This confirmed it as a new member of the rare long-period transient group.

    But we did not just look forward in time – we also looked back. We searched through older telescope data from the same part of the sky. We found no trace of the object before the discovery.

    This suggests something dramatic happened shortly before we first detected it – something powerful enough to suddenly switch the object “on”.

    Then, in February 2024, ASKAPJ1832 became extremely active. After a quieter period in January, the source brightened dramatically. Fewer than 30 objects in the sky have ever reached such brightness in radio waves.

    For comparison, most stars we detect in radio are about 10,000 times fainter than ASKAPJ1832 during that flare-up.

    A lucky break

    X-rays are a form of light that we can’t see with our eyes. They usually come from extremely hot and energetic environments. Although about ten similar radio-emitting objects have been found so far, none had ever shown X-ray signals.

    In March, we tried to observe ASKAPJ1832 in X-rays. However, due to technical issues with the telescope, the observation could not go ahead.

    Then came a stroke of luck. In June, I reached out to my friend Tong Bao, a postdoctoral researcher at the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics, to check if any previous X-ray observations had captured the source. To our surprise, we found two past observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, although the data were still under a proprietary period (not yet public).

    We contacted Kaya Mori, a research scientist at Columbia University and the principal investigator of those observations. He generously shared the data with us. To our amazement, we discovered clear X-ray signals coming from ASKAPJ1832. Even more remarkable: the X-rays followed the same 44-minute cycle as the radio pulses.

    It was a truly lucky break. Chandra had been pointed at a different target entirely, but by pure coincidence, it caught ASKAPJ1832 during its unusually bright and active phase.

    A chance alignment like that is incredibly rare – like finding a needle in a cosmic haystack.

    NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory is the world’s most powerful X-ray telescope, in orbit around Earth since 1999.
    NASA/CXC & J. Vaughan

    Still a mystery

    Having both radio and X-ray bursts is a common trait of dead stars with extremely strong magnetic fields, such as neutron stars (high-mass dead stars) and white dwarf (low-mass dead stars).

    Our discovery suggests that at least some long-period transients may come from these kinds of stellar remnants.

    But ASKAPJ1832 does not quite fit into any known category of object in our galaxy. Its behaviour, while similar in some ways, still breaks the mould.

    We need more observations to truly understand what is going on. It is possible that ASKAPJ1832 is something entirely new, or it could be emitting radio waves in a way we have never seen before.

    Ziteng Wang 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. X-rays have revealed a mysterious cosmic object never before seen in our galaxy – https://theconversation.com/x-rays-have-revealed-a-mysterious-cosmic-object-never-before-seen-in-our-galaxy-256797

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Police incident Royston Park

    Source: New South Wales – News

    Police are investigating an incident at Royston Park.

    At 2.45am Thursday 29 May police saw an incident occurring between a man and a woman on Payneham Road Royston Park.

    As a result, police attempted to arrest the man who was restrained.

    During his arrest he became unresponsive.

    SA Ambulance attended the scene, and the man was taken to hospital where he remains.

    Major Crime and Ethical and Professional Standards detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.

    The investigation is in the early stages and is ongoing.

    More information will be released later this morning.

    Any members of the public who witnessed or have footage of this incident are asked to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Severe Thunderstorm Watch 344

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL4

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Severe Thunderstorm Watch Number 344
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    320 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Severe Thunderstorm Watch for portions of
    Southeast Louisiana
    Southern Mississippi

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 320 PM
    until 900 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 65 mph possible

    SUMMARY…At least an isolated downburst/damaging wind threat will
    exist through late afternoon and early evening across the region
    within a very moist and unstable air mass.

    The severe thunderstorm watch area is approximately along and 65
    statute miles north and south of a line from 40 miles south
    southwest of Natchez MS to 50 miles east southeast of Pine Belt MS.
    For a complete depiction of the watch see the associated watch
    outline update (WOUS64 KWNS WOU4).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means conditions are
    favorable for severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch area.
    Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for threatening
    weather conditions and listen for later statements and possible
    warnings. Severe thunderstorms can and occasionally do produce
    tornadoes.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…WW 342…WW 343…

    AVIATION…A few severe thunderstorms with hail surface and aloft to
    1 inch. Extreme turbulence and surface wind gusts to 55 knots. A few
    cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean storm motion vector
    20025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW4
    WW 344 SEVERE TSTM LA MS 282020Z – 290200Z
    AXIS..65 STATUTE MILES NORTH AND SOUTH OF LINE..
    40SSW HEZ/NATCHEZ MS/ – 50ESE PIB/PINE BELT MS/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 55NM N/S /39NNW BTR – 29NNW SJI/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..1 INCH. WIND GUSTS..55 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 20025.

    LAT…LON 32039156 32138855 30258855 30149156

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU4.

    Watch 344 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Low ( 2 inches

    Low (

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Gary Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Using a Firearm to Commit Murder

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HAMMOND–Devonte Hodge, 29 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon after a jury found him guilty of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and using a firearm to commit murder following a 6-day jury trial, announced Acting United States Attorney Tina L. Nommay.

    Hodge was sentenced to life in prison for using a firearm to commit murder. He was also sentenced to 480 months in prison followed by 4 years of supervised release for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin. Both sentences are to run concurrently.

    According to documents in the case, in the summer of 2016, Hodge and others conspired to sell and sold cocaine and heroin from a residence located in Gary, Indiana. Additionally, on October 8, 2016, Hodge shot and killed a victim who was sitting in a car in Gary, believing the victim was cooperating with law enforcement about the drug conspiracy.   

    This case was investigated by the FBI/GRIT Task Force and ATF/HIDTA Task Force with the assistance of the Hobart Police, the Indiana State Police, the Lake County Sheriff’s Department and the Gary Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David J. Nozick and Joel Mathur.

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SPC Tornado Watch 342

    Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

    Note:  The expiration time in the watch graphic is amended if the watch is replaced, cancelled or extended.Note: Click for Watch Status Reports.
    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 342
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    215 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Colorado
    Western Kansas
    Oklahoma Panhandle

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 215 PM
    until 1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Severe storms including supercells are expected to develop
    across the region this afternoon, moving generally southeastward
    through early/mid-evening. Large hail should be the most common
    severe risk, with tornado potential increasing near/east of the
    Colorado/Kansas border vicinity.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles north northwest of Burlington
    CO to 30 miles east southeast of Guymon OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30025.

    …Guyer

    SEL2

    URGENT – IMMEDIATE BROADCAST REQUESTED
    Tornado Watch Number 342
    NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
    215 PM CDT Wed May 28 2025

    The NWS Storm Prediction Center has issued a

    * Tornado Watch for portions of
    Eastern Colorado
    Western Kansas
    Oklahoma Panhandle

    * Effective this Wednesday afternoon and evening from 215 PM
    until 1000 PM CDT.

    * Primary threats include…
    A couple tornadoes possible
    Scattered large hail likely with isolated very large hail events
    to 3 inches in diameter possible
    Scattered damaging wind gusts to 70 mph possible

    SUMMARY…Severe storms including supercells are expected to develop
    across the region this afternoon, moving generally southeastward
    through early/mid-evening. Large hail should be the most common
    severe risk, with tornado potential increasing near/east of the
    Colorado/Kansas border vicinity.

    The tornado watch area is approximately along and 60 statute miles
    east and west of a line from 40 miles north northwest of Burlington
    CO to 30 miles east southeast of Guymon OK. For a complete depiction
    of the watch see the associated watch outline update (WOUS64 KWNS
    WOU2).

    PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…

    REMEMBER…A Tornado Watch means conditions are favorable for
    tornadoes and severe thunderstorms in and close to the watch
    area. Persons in these areas should be on the lookout for
    threatening weather conditions and listen for later statements
    and possible warnings.

    &&

    OTHER WATCH INFORMATION…CONTINUE…WW 341…

    AVIATION…Tornadoes and a few severe thunderstorms with hail
    surface and aloft to 3 inches. Extreme turbulence and surface wind
    gusts to 60 knots. A few cumulonimbi with maximum tops to 550. Mean
    storm motion vector 30025.

    …Guyer

    Note: The Aviation Watch (SAW) product is an approximation to the watch area. The actual watch is depicted by the shaded areas.
    SAW2
    WW 342 TORNADO CO KS OK 281915Z – 290300Z
    AXIS..60 STATUTE MILES EAST AND WEST OF LINE..
    40NNW ITR/BURLINGTON CO/ – 30ESE GUY/GUYMON OK/
    ..AVIATION COORDS.. 50NM E/W /36SE AKO – 32S LBL/
    HAIL SURFACE AND ALOFT..3 INCHES. WIND GUSTS..60 KNOTS.
    MAX TOPS TO 550. MEAN STORM MOTION VECTOR 30025.

    LAT…LON 39770144 36509992 36500208 39770370

    THIS IS AN APPROXIMATION TO THE WATCH AREA. FOR A
    COMPLETE DEPICTION OF THE WATCH SEE WOUS64 KWNS
    FOR WOU2.

    Watch 342 Status Report Message has not been issued yet.

    Note:  Click for Complete Product Text.Tornadoes

    Probability of 2 or more tornadoes

    Mod (40%)

    Probability of 1 or more strong (EF2-EF5) tornadoes

    Low (20%)

    Wind

    Probability of 10 or more severe wind events

    Mod (50%)

    Probability of 1 or more wind events > 65 knots

    Low (10%)

    Hail

    Probability of 10 or more severe hail events

    Mod (60%)

    Probability of 1 or more hailstones > 2 inches

    Mod (40%)

    Combined Severe Hail/Wind

    Probability of 6 or more combined severe hail/wind events

    High (80%)

    For each watch, probabilities for particular events inside the watch (listed above in each table) are determined by the issuing forecaster. The “Low” category contains probability values ranging from less than 2% to 20% (EF2-EF5 tornadoes), less than 5% to 20% (all other probabilities), “Moderate” from 30% to 60%, and “High” from 70% to greater than 95%. High values are bolded and lighter in color to provide awareness of an increased threat for a particular event.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Eccentric ‘Star’ Defies Easy Explanation, NASA’s Chandra Finds

    Source: NASA

    Scientists have discovered a star behaving like no other seen before, giving fresh clues about the origin of a new class of mysterious objects.
    As described in our press release, a team of astronomers combined data from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory and the SKA [Square Kilometer Array] Pathfinder (ASKAP) radio telescope on Wajarri Country in Australia to study the antics of the discovered object, known as ASKAP J1832−0911 (ASKAP J1832 for short).
    ASKAP J1832 belongs to a class of objects called “long period radio transients” discovered in 2022 that vary in radio wave intensity in a regular way over tens of minutes. This is thousands of times longer than the length of the repeated variations seen in pulsars, which are rapidly spinning neutron stars that have repeated variations multiple times a second. ASKAP J1832 cycles in radio wave intensity every 44 minutes, placing it into this category of long period radio transients.
    Using Chandra, the team discovered that ASKAP J1832 is also regularly varying in X-rays every 44 minutes. This is the first time that such an X-ray signal has been found in a long period radio transient.
    In this composite image, X-rays from Chandra (blue) have been combined with infrared data from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope (cyan, light blue, teal and orange), and radio from LOFAR (red). An inset shows a more detailed view of the immediate area around this unusual object in X-ray and radio light.

    Using Chandra and the SKA Pathfinder, a team of astronomers found that ASKAP J1832 also dropped off in X-rays and radio waves dramatically over the course of six months. This combination of the 44-minute cycle in X-rays and radio waves in addition to the months-long changes is unlike anything astronomers have seen in the Milky Way galaxy.

    The research team argues that ASKAP J1832 is unlikely to be a pulsar or a neutron star pulling material from a companion star because its properties do not match the typical intensities of radio and X-ray signals of those objects. Some of ASKAP J1832’s properties could be explained by a neutron star with an extremely strong magnetic field, called a magnetar, with an age of more than half a million years. However, other features of ASKAP J1832 — such as its bright and variable radio emission — are difficult to explain for such a relatively old magnetar.
    On the sky, ASKAP J1832 appears to lie within a supernova remnant, the remains of an exploded star, which often contain a neutron star formed by the supernova. However, the research team determined that the proximity is probably a coincidence and two are not associated with each other, encouraging them to consider the possibility that ASKAP J1832 does not contain a neutron star. They concluded that an isolated white dwarf does not explain the data but that a white dwarf star with a companion star might. However, it would require the strongest magnetic field ever known for a white dwarf in our galaxy.
    A paper by Ziteng Wang (Curtin University in Australia) and collaborators describing these results appears in the journal Nature. Another team led by Di Li from Tsinghua University in China independently discovered this source using the DAocheng Radio Telescope and submitted their paper to the arXiv on the same day as the team led by Dr Wang. They did not report the X-ray behavior described here.
    NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, manages the Chandra program. The Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory’s Chandra X-ray Center controls science operations from Cambridge, Massachusetts, and flight operations from Burlington, Massachusetts.

    Learn more about the Chandra X-ray Observatory and its mission here:

    chandra

    https://chandra.si.edu
    Visual Description:
    This release features two composite images of a mysterious object, possibly an unusual neutron star or white dwarf, residing near the edge of a supernova remnant. The object, known as ASKAP J1832, has been intriguing astronomers from the Chandra X-ray Observatory and Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder radio telescope with its antics and bizarre behavior.
    Astronomers have discovered that ASKAP J1832 cycles in radio wave intensity every 44 minutes. This is thousands of times longer than pulsars, which are rapidly spinning neutron stars that have repeated variations multiple times a second. Using Chandra, the team discovered that the object is also regularly varying in X-rays every 44 minutes. This is the first time such an X-ray signal has been found in a long period radio transient like ASKAP J1832.
    In the primary composite image of this release, the curious object is shown in the context of the supernova remnant and nearby gas clouds. Radio data is red and and X-ray sources seen with Chandra are in dark blue. The supernova remnant is the large, wispy, red oval ring occupying the lower right of the image. The curious object sits inside this ring, to our right of center; a tiny purple speck in a sea of colorful specks. The gas cloud shows infrared data from NASA’s Spitzer Space Telescope and resembles a mottled green, teal blue, and golden orange cloud occupying our upper left half of the square image.
    The second, close-up image shows a view of the immediate area around ASKAP J1832. In this composite image, infrared data from Spitzer has been removed, eliminating the mottled cloud and most of the colorful background specks. Here, near the inside edge of the hazy red ring, the curious object resembles a bright white dot with a hot pink outer edge, set against the blackness of space. Upon close inspection, the hot pink outer edge is revealed to have three faint spikes emanating from the surface.
    The primary and close-up images are presented both unadorned, and with labels, including fine white circles identifying ASKAP J1832.

    Megan WatzkeChandra X-ray CenterCambridge, Mass.617-496-7998mwatzke@cfa.harvard.edu
    Lane FigueroaMarshall Space Flight Center, Huntsville, Alabama256-544-0034lane.e.figueroa@nasa.gov

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: FEMA, SBA and the State of Arkansas Are Adding More Sites to Assist Survivors

    Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

    Headline: FEMA, SBA and the State of Arkansas Are Adding More Sites to Assist Survivors

    FEMA, SBA and the State of Arkansas Are Adding More Sites to Assist Survivors

    LITTLE ROCK– The state of Arkansas, FEMA and U

    S

    Small Business Administration (SBA) will offer face-to-face help at four additional sites this week for residents affected by the March 14-15 and April 2-22 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding

    Homeowners and renters in Greene, Hot Spring, Independence, Izard, Jackson, Lawrence, Randolph, Sharp and Stone counties and impacted by the March 14-15 storms and tornadoes and may be eligible for FEMA assistance for losses not covered by insurance

    Assistance is also available to eligible residents living in Clark, Clay, Craighead, Crittenden, Desha, Fulton, Hot Spring, Jackson, Miller, Ouachita, Pulaski, Randolph, Saline, Sharp, St

    Francis and White counties impacted by the April 2-22 severe storms, tornadoes and flooding

    The four new locations providing survivor assistance include:CLARK COUNTYArkadelphia Recreation Center2555 Twin Rivers DriveArkadelphia, AR 71923Dates: Thursday, May 29 – Saturday, May 31Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    DESHA COUNTYMcGhee Municipal Complex901 Holly Street McGhee, AR 71654Dates: Thursday, May 29 – Saturday, May 31Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    CRITTENDEN COUNTYRoberta Jackson Neighborhood Center 1300 Polk AvenueWest Memphis, AR 72301Dates: Thursday, May 29 – Saturday, May 31Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    FULTON COUNTYFulton County Courthouse154 South Main StreetSalem, AR 72570Dates: Wednesday, May 28 – Saturday, May 31Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    Additional locations continuing to provide survivor assistance include: GREENE COUNTY Paragould Community Center3404 Linwood DriveParagould, AR 72112Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Thursday, May 29Times: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    RANDOLPH COUNTYBlack River Technical CollegeAcademic Complex Building, Room AC 1001410 Highway 304 EastPocahontas, AR 72455Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Thursday, May 29 Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    IZARD COUNTYOzarka College – John Miller Auditorium218 College DriveMelbourne, AR 72556Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Thursday, May 29Hours: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    SALINE COUNTYSaline County Career and Technical Campus Auditorium13600 I-30 NorthBenton, AR 72019 Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Saturday, May 31Times: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    JACKSON COUNTYASU-Newport Center for Fine Arts7648 Victory BoulevardNewport, AR 72112 Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Thursday, May 29Times: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    SHARP COUNTY Ash Flat City Hall897 Ash Flat DriveAsh Flat, AR 72513Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Saturday, May 31Times: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    MILLER COUNTYMiller County Office of Emergency Management – Conference Room409 Hazel StreetTexarkana, AR 71854 Dates: Tuesday, May 27 – Saturday, May 31Times: 8 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    SHARP COUNTYCity Hall – Cave CityConference Room201 South Main StreetCave City, AR 72521*Entrance and parking at back of buildingDates: Tuesday, May 27 – Thursday, May 29Times: 9 a

    m

    – 6 p

    m

    Survivors can apply to FEMA in several ways including going online to DisasterAssistance

    gov, downloading the FEMA App for mobile devices or calling the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362

    Calls are accepted every day from 6 a

    m

    to 10 p

    m

    CT

    Help is available in most languages

     If you use a relay service, such as video relay (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA the number for that service

    To view an accessible video about how to apply visit: Three Ways to Register for FEMA Disaster Assistance – YouTube

    For more information, visit fema

    gov/disaster/4865 or fema

    gov/disaster/4873

    Follow FEMA Region 6 on social media at x

    com/FEMARegion6 and at facebook

    com/FEMARegion6/

    erika

    suzuki
    Wed, 05/28/2025 – 12:18

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Launch of New I Love NY Summer Tourism Camapign

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced the launch of I LOVE NY’s new integrated summer tourism and travel campaign, highlighted by two new ads running through August across New York State, and in traditional drive markets including Canada. This includes advertising across broadcast, streaming and social platforms, and showcases some of the attractions and activities available. The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest mobile marketing tour ever, and additional complementary travel industry efforts to promote visitation to the State’s 11 diverse vacation regions.

    “Tourism is synonymous with New York State, thanks to all of our amazing attractions, from beaches to high peaks, from the Erie Canal to iconic museums and performing arts venues,” Governor Hochul said. “This vital industry is facing challenging new political and economic headwinds. That’s why supporting our tourism industry is more important than ever, and why we are getting out the message that no matter where you’re from, you’re always welcome in New York State.”

    I LOVE NY’s multifaceted summer tourism campaign begins with two new ads featuring a new tagline – “New York State: Everything You Love.” – reflecting the depth and breadth of the world-class attractions and memory-making activities available in communities throughout the state. The new ads can be viewed here and www.iloveny.com/summer.

    Empire State Development President, CEO and Commissioner Hope Knight said, “Tourism is crucial to New York State, supporting jobs and local economies, and we have so many incredible attractions ready to welcome visitors, from Niagara Falls to Montauk Point. This summer, New York wants to extend a special invitation to travelers from across America and all around the world: this is the perfect opportunity to plan a trip to celebrate history, explore our incredible landscapes, and enjoy all that our incredible state has to offer.”

    Empire State Development Division of Tourism Executive Director and Vice President Ross D. Levi said, “In addition to iconic attractions across our state’s eleven beautiful vacation regions, the next few months in New York hold special delights for travelers from near and far. Guests can look forward to special events commemorating the bicentennial of the Erie Canal, a summer of thoroughbred racing at Saratoga Race Course headlined by the Belmont Stakes and Travers races, the Ryder Cup tournament at Bethpage golf course on Long Island, and food and fun at the Great New York State Fair in Syracuse. The endless variety of activities shows that there truly is everything to love in New York State.”

    As part of this new campaign, I LOVE NY is extending a special invitation to international visitors – especially Canada, which represents New York’s largest inbound international market. International visitation is vital to New York State’s tourism economy. Historically, overseas visitors plan longer trips and produce more direct spending during their stays. New for this year’s campaign is a direct-to-consumer international marketing element in the United Kingdom and Australia, which includes digital billboards, plus streaming and digital advertising. I LOVE NY also continues to work with members of the travel trade industry, like tour operators and travel agents in Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany and Australia through trade shows, sales missions and familiarization tours.

    The summer campaign also includes I LOVE NY’s largest-ever mobile marketing tour with more than 40 stops throughout the Northeast. The mobile tour will make stops at popular events such as music festivals, street fairs and sporting events where guests can interact with fun experiences to learn more about the state’s attractions, win special I LOVE NY prizes, and take pictures with a large I LOVE NY logo sculpture.

    Under Governor Hochul, tourism is New York State’s second largest industry, supporting one in 10 jobs. Recently, more than 306.3 million travelers visited New York State, generating $88 billion in direct spending and a record-high economic impact of $137 billion. Each year, tourism spending saves the average New York State household $1,400 in taxes.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Larsen Announces 2025 Congressional App Challenge

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

    Today, Rep. Rick Larsen announced the launch of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge (CAC). The annual competition, which runs through Thursday, October 30, 2025, is open to high school and middle school students who live in or attend school in Washington state’s 2nd congressional district.

    Students can compete in the CAC by creating an application for desktop/PC, web, tablet, mobile, or other devices such as robotics and wearable technology. The CAC accepts any programming language, including C, C++, Java, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, or “block code.”

    “The Congressional App Competition is an opportunity for students to show off their skills,” said Rep. Larsen, whose office has participated in the CAC every year since its founding. “Northwest Washington is a leader in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education for young people, and I look forward to seeing the region’s STEM creativity and talent showcased in this year’s submissions.”

    Last year’s winner, Sydney Vo from Mariner High School in Everett, designed a website and app called AccessLink to help individuals experiencing homelessness connect with resources like shelters, food banks, and more.

    Students can sign up to participate and read the full competition rules at https://www.congressionalappchallenge.us/students/student-registration/. Students have until 9:00 a.m. PST on Thursday, October 30, 2025, to register and enter, but CAC organizers recommend students register early to receive extra support and tips.

    Rep. Larsen will announce a district winner in December and invite the winner to the #HouseofCode Capitol Hill Science Fair in Washington, D.C. Winning apps will be electronically displayed in the U.S. Capitol and on the CAC’s house.gov website. 

    Students and STEM educators who want to learn more about the competition should reach out to Jessica Zuleta at Jessica.Zuleta@mail.house.gov or at (425) 252-3188.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Norma Torres joins Rep. Nanette Barragán in Urging Trump Administration to Protect Head Start Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    May 28, 2025

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Norma Torres (CA-35) joined Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44) in sending a letter to President Donald Trump and Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., urging them to safeguard federal funding for the Head Start program. The letter comes in response to alarming reports that the Trump Administration considered eliminating Head Start funding during recent federal budget discussions.

    “From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability,” wrote the members. “These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.”

    California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, Head Start and Early Head Start programs served more than 94,000 children across the state. These programs offer critical support to children by integrating early education with health, nutrition, and family services—providing targeted support to those experiencing poverty, housing insecurity, and systemic inequities.

    “The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic,” the letter states. “In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children—disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.”

    Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has served over 40 million children and families nationwide. Decades of research confirm that the program improves school readiness, boosts long-term academic and employment outcomes, and helps break the cycle of poverty.

    “Head Start is not optional—it is a national commitment that must be honored,” the members added. “I will continue fighting to protect this vital investment in our children’s futures.”

    The letter was co-signed by each of the 45 Democratic members of the California Congressional Delegation: Senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, and Representatives Pete Aguilar, Nancy Pelosi, Robert Garcia, Linda Sánchez, John Garamendi, Kevin Mullin, Mark Takano, Ted Lieu, Julia Brownley, Maxine Waters, Laura Friedman, J. Luis Correa, Ro Khanna, Mike Thompson, Mark DeSaulnier, Juan Vargas, Gilbert Ray Cisneros, Jr., Judy Chu, Derek Tran, Raul Ruiz, Jared Huffman, Doris Matsui, Salud Carbajal, Brad Sherman, Ami Bera, Jimmy Panetta, Zoe Lofgren, Eric Swalwell, Lateefah Simon, Dave Min, Jimmy Gomez, Sydney Kamlager-Dove, Jim Costa, George Whitesides, Luz Rivas, Sara Jacobs, Scott Peters, Josh Harder, Adam Gray, Mike Levin, and Sam Liccardo.

    The full letter can be found here and below:

    President Trump and Secretary Kennedy:

    We write today to express serious concern over reports that your Administration considered proposals to eliminate federal funding for the Department of Health and Human Services’ Head Start program in recent budget discussions. While we are relieved that the White House Office of Management and Budget’s Fiscal Year 2026 proposal did not include this cut, that such an action was even contemplated underscores the vulnerability of this vital program under your Administration. As members of the California Congressional Delegation, we urge you to safeguard this critical program, which plays an irreplaceable role in supporting California’s children and families, especially those facing economic hardship and systemic barriers.

    California is home to one of the largest populations of Head Start children in the nation. In Fiscal Year 2023 alone, more than 94,000 children and pregnant women in California were served by Head Start and Early Head Start programs.[1] These services are not just beneficial—they are essential. From Los Angeles County to the Central Valley to rural tribal lands, Head Start provides comprehensive early learning, health, nutrition, and family support services to children who are disproportionately impacted by poverty and housing instability. These essential services support our state’s economy by allowing parents to work and go to school, while giving our future workforce the strong start that they need to be successful later in life.

    Since its founding in 1965, Head Start has supported more than 40 million children and their families nationwide—and millions in California alone.[2] Research continues to confirm what educators and parents have long known: Head Start works. It boosts school readiness, improves long-term academic outcomes, increases high school graduation and employment rates, and helps break cycles of generational poverty.

    The elimination or reduction of Head Start funding would be catastrophic. In California, it would shut the doors of 1,835 Head Start and Early Head Start Centers and eliminate access to early education for tens of thousands of children—disproportionately children of color, English learners, children with disabilities, and those living in low-income and rural communities.[3] Thousands of parents would also lose their ability to go to work or school, and otherwise participate in the economy.

    Head Start is not optional—it is a national commitment that must be honored. For these reasons, we urge you to reject any future attempts to weaken or eliminate this program and to ensure its continued success for the children and families who rely on it every day.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Copilot for Gaming (Beta) begins rolling out for early testing on mobile devices

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Copilot for Gaming (Beta) begins rolling out for early testing on mobile devices

    If you’re not sure where to begin, here are a few suggestions to get you started – and remember, you can type your prompts in chat or speak directly with Copilot using voice:

    • Ask questions about a specific game or the game you’re currently playing, such as when you get stuck or need tips .
      • “Hey Copilot, can you remind me what materials I need to craft a sword in Minecraft?
      • [While playing South of Midnight] “I’m stuck on Rougarou right now. Can you give me some tips on how to beat this boss?”
      • “What’s my gamerscore and can you give me some tips to raise it?
    • Ask for game recommendations. If you’re new to Xbox, tell Copilot about your favorite game or entertainment genres and let it recommend new games to play. If you’re a seasoned player, ask for recommendations on what game to play next based on your gaming history.
      • “Hey Copilot, what should I play tonight?”
      • “I love horror movies. Any suggestions for what game I should play?”
      • “I’m looking for a new RPG. Can you recommend something that came out on Xbox recently?
    • Ask about your play history or account, such as Xbox Achievements or subscriptions.
      • “Hey Copilot, what’s the rarest achievement you can get in Avowed?”
      • “What was the last achievement I got in Starfield?”
      • “When does my Game Pass subscription renew?”

    When you ask Copilot a question, it sources your player activity on Xbox alongside public sources of information from the Bing search engine for its response. We’re working hard to bring deeper personalization, richer game assistance such as proactive coaching, and many more features to Copilot for Gaming (Beta) at a later date.

    How to Try Copilot for Gaming (Beta)

    This early preview of Copilot for Gaming in the beta version of the Xbox app for mobile is available in English for players aged 18 and older in the U.S., Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, and other regions. You can view the full list of regions where early testing is available here. We plan to release Copilot for Gaming (Beta) in additional regions at a later date.

    As we explore new ideas and continue to experiment,we’ll be bringing new features like Copilot for Gaming to the community early and often.Your feedback will be critical in helping us shape these experiences and ensuring that they’re truly aligned with player needs and preferences.

    Players who already have the beta version of the Xbox app for mobile downloaded on their iOS or Android device can begin providing feedback on Copilot for Gaming (Beta) directly by selecting “Give Feedback” under “More Options” in the top left corner of the app, or by simply marking any incorrect responses from Copilot with a “thumbs up” or “thumbs down” in the chat.

    Android users can download the beta version of the Xbox app for mobile in the Google Play Store. If you have an iOS device and don’t already have the beta version of the Xbox app for mobile downloaded, don’t worry – early testing for Copilot for Gaming (Beta) will also be coming soon to Game Bar on Windows PC, and we also have plans to make it available more widely in the Xbox app for mobile in the future. Stay tuned for more updates!

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Avison Young practices what it preaches by backing Stoke-on-Trent regeneration project

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Global property advisor, Avison Young, has put its weight behind Capital&Centric’s Goods Yard in Stoke-on-Trent, taking the entire Pavilion building and relocating its East Midlands team.

    The news comes after Stoke-on-Trent was named by the Sunday Times as one of the best places to invest in the UK earlier this year.

    Both organisations champion the role of urban regeneration and placemaking in improving people’s lives and creating economic growth. Social impact developer, Capital&Centric spends £3m a week on regeneration in towns and cities across the UK, with Goods Yard already creating hundreds of jobs and boosting the local economy by £63m.

    Avison Young will bring further jobs, training and investment into the new neighbourhood when it relocates in the spring.

    It’s not the first time that the two organisations have teamed up, with Avison Young joining forces with Capital&Centric’s Regeneration Brainery, an immersive national programme that aims to get young people from diverse backgrounds fired up about a career in the industry.

    Tom Wilmot, joint managing director at Capital&Centric, said: “There’s a massive buzz about Stoke-on-Trent, with Goods Yard right at the heart of this renaissance. It’s a real vote of confidence from Avison Young in not just the Goods Yard neighbourhood but also the city. What better way to support regeneration than putting your money where your mouth is and calling the place home. Our vision for Goods Yard has always been to create a collaborative mixing pot for like-minded businesses and we’ll be announcing more soon.”

    Nick Walkley, principal and UK president of Avison Young UK, said: “Our presence in Stoke has been long-standing, and moving to this outstanding space underlines our commitment to the city and the UK regions. This new office is going to be a vastly improved environment for our Avison Young colleagues in Stoke. We look forward to working closely with Stoke-on-Trent City Council and with Capital&Centric.”

    Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration at Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We are delighted to have worked with Capital & Centric to bring the Goods Yard to Stoke-on-Trent and make it a success. This long-awaited development will bring with it economic benefits and new opportunities for businesses, local residents and visitors.

    We are delighted that Avison Young have chosen to base themselves in Stoke-on-Trent and wish them the best of luck in their new home. It’s a remarkable vote of confidence in our city and our future. 

    “I know talks are ongoing with a number of other businesses who have also shown an interest in Goods Yard and we look forward to welcoming them too.”

    With a new direct link to the neighbouring Stoke-on-Trent main line rail station, the 174-home neighbourhood will feature a mix of spaces, with Capital&Centric assembling a complementary variety of businesses, bars, eateries, coffee shops and stores that want to be at the heart of the action when it opens in the spring.

    Goods Yard will also boast a new green space, about the size of a professional tennis court, and a footpath, which will wind through lush plants and shrubs, leading to the interior gardens, with hangout spaces, seating, over 70 trees and stacks of new plants.

    Avison Young is the first commercial business to take space at Goods Yard. Flexible spaces range from 1,200 sq ft to 14,000 sqft and include the Vaults Warehouse; the Victorian Signal Box on Glebe Street; the new build Pavilion workspaces; and the industrial style new build spaces on the ground floor of the apartment building.

    For more information visit www.capitalandcentric.com/goods-yard or email goodsyard@capitalandcentric.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The results of the XVI All-Russian Interuniversity Personnel Forum named after A.Ya. Kibanov have been summed up

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

    The XVI All-Russian Interuniversity Personnel Forum named after A.Ya. Kibanov “Innovative Personnel Management” was held at the State University of Management.

    More than 230 students, young scientists, authoritative teachers and experts in the field of personnel management took part in the forum’s in-person events. In total, over 450 people from different regions of Russia became participants in the event this year.

    The concept of the A.Ya. Kibanov Personnel Forum this year was based on the idea that HR specialists, like legendary Russian heroes, stand guard over the interests of the company and, armed with knowledge and skills, are ready to bring glory and prosperity to their organization, and create and strengthen its HR brand.

    Read about the opening and first day of the forum in this article.

    Participants discussed how to build effective and trusting communications within a company, which become the foundation for a cohesive and motivated team. Particular attention was paid to creating a unique and attractive employer brand for candidates, which would reflect the values of the organization and arouse genuine interest in talented specialists.

    Modern approaches to attracting and retaining highly qualified personnel were discussed, as well as strategies for increasing human capital through training, development and involvement. Experts shared practices for developing a corporate culture that helps to unlock the potential of each employee and create an atmosphere of mutual respect and support.

    The HR Forum became a platform for exchanging experiences and inspiration, where future HR specialists received new tools and ideas for creating a strong HR brand and building communications that can lead the company to sustainable growth and prosperity.

    Over the course of three days, the participants of the Student Olympiad immersed themselves in the world of HR: conducted analytical research, developed strategies, exchanged experiences, generated innovative ideas, fought in battle mode and presented their solutions to the expert jury. The victory went to the most goal-oriented and creative. In addition to the main assessment of the works by the expert jury, the Student Olympiad also included a Competition for the Audience Award, which was held in person: experts, speakers, teachers and jury members voted for the most liked homework from the teams participating in the Olympiad – the poster “HR-Bingo-Brand”.

    Also this year, the forum included an advanced training course on “Effective Methods of Training HR Specialists”, where 35 students studied and discussed current issues on the development of the use of effective methods in the process of training students in the field of “HR Management”.

    The XVI All-Russian Interuniversity Personnel Forum named after A.Y. Kibanov “Innovative Personnel Management” was held with the support of the Council for Professional Qualifications in Personnel Management, as well as with active interaction with such partners as: ANCOR, SuperJob, Roskachestvo, Aktion Students, Trivio, Perviy Bit, Independent Veterinary Laboratory “Chance Bio”, Educational Center Higher Veterinary School, City Clinical Hospital No. 67 named after L.A. Vorokhobov, Chernogolovka Group of Companies, SPILS.ART Creative Cluster, Aromapsychologist. Partner companies highlighted their nominations and provided participants and winners with valuable gifts and prizes.

    On the final day of the forum, the results were summed up, the winners were officially announced, and awards and gifts were presented.

    Results of the XVI All-Russian Interuniversity Personnel Forum named after A.Ya.Kibanov “Innovative Personnel Management”

    Correspondence competitions “Innovative personnel management – 2025”

    Competition “Best article on personnel management”

    1st place – Chulanova O.L., Savchenko A.Yu. (Surgut State University)

    Article “Tools for Overcoming the Shortage of Highly Qualified Personnel Based on the Bionic Approach and Sharing of Competencies”

    2nd place – Abdulova T.G., Gagarinskaya G.P., Khorovinnikova E.G. (Volga Region State Transport University)

    Article “Transformation of labor and human capital management in the context of digitalization: challenges, principles and trends”

    3rd place – Shumanskaya A.B., Obumova A.I. (Saint Petersburg State Technological Institute (Technical University))

    Article “Dependence of professional burnout on the social orientation of the profession and the level of empathy of the individual”

    Competition “Best article of a young scientist on human resource management”

    1st place – Zlobina N.K., Shanina E.V. (Penza State University)

    Article “Integration of Well-being approach into the organization’s personnel management”

    Scientific supervisor: Ekaterina Vladimirovna Shanina

    2nd place – Oglezneva E.E. (Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation)

    Article “Reverse Mentoring: Concept, Problems and Development Prospects”

    Scientific supervisor: Aleksashina Tatyana Viktorovna

    3rd place – Shkerina E.E., Goncharenko K.A. (Saint Petersburg State Technological Institute (Technical University))

    Article “Emotional intelligence of a manager as a factor in increasing the involvement of subordinates”

    Supervisor: Anna Anatolyevna Dorogovtseva

    Competition “Best educational and methodological development on personnel management”

    1st place – Lysenko E.V. INTERNATIONAL HR MANAGEMENT. Study guide for students studying in the direction 38.03.03 – Personnel Management (manuscript)

    2nd place – Learn to learn: features of working with information in the educational and scientific activities of university students: a teaching aid / E.A. Berezovskaya, O.V. Klimova, N.L. Krasnogor [et al.]; under the general editorship of I.Yu. Plotnikova; Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation, Ural Federal University. – Yekaterinburg: Publishing house of the Ural. University, 2024. – 260 p.

    3rd place – Fundamentals of project activities: textbook / Yu.A. Alekseeva, M.V. Gashkov, M.I. Imamverdieva; edited by O.L. Chulanova. – Moscow: INFRA-M, 2025 – 307 p.

    Competition “Best scientific work on personnel management”

    1st place – Milyaeva L.G. Modern technologies of personnel management: selected 2: monograph /L.G. Milyaeva. – Moscow: RUSAINS, 2024. – 212 p.

    Competition of innovative projects on personnel management and labor economics for students and postgraduates

    Winner in the nomination “Homo qui videt”

    Evseeva A.A., Le Thi My Linh, Petrishchev A.K. (Ulyanovsk State Technical University)

    Scientific supervisor: Natalia Mikhailovna Tsytsarova

    Project “Ageism in the Labor Market: A Modern View”

    Winner in the nomination “Homo aliena”

    Vdovichenko V.A., Fedchuk A.V., Potapova D.S. (Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation)

    Scientific supervisor: Natalia Valerievna Sakharova

    Project: “Animal ID. Paw HR”

    Winner in the nomination “Homo excitari”

    Gataullina A.I. (Surgut State University)

    Scientific supervisor: Chulanova Oksana Leonidovna

    Project: “Development of tools for motivating project teams”

    Winner in the nomination “Homo neiro”

    Dudnik E.V., Monul D.A., Fomenko M.V. (State University of Management)

    Scientific supervisor: Mitrofanova Alexandra Evgenievna

    Project: “Atlas of HR Professions”

    3rd place

    Smirnov D.R. (Surgut State University)

    Scientific supervisor: Chulanova Oksana Leonidovna

    Project: “Using a dashboard in working with the staff of the Admissions Office of Surgut State University”

    2nd place

    Kabanova Yu.I., Druzhinina S.A., Kutumova D.R. (National Research Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N.I. Lobachevsky)

    Supervisor: Mariko Valeria Valerievna

    Project: “Chatbot for translation and explanation of Anglicisms “Info Motya””

    1st place

    Nikitina K.D., Druzhinina P.Yu., Nguyen Ngoc Ha Phyung, Nguyen Thi Thanh Huyen, Fastovskaya M.S., Makarkin M.M. (State University of Management)

    Scientific supervisor: Ph.D., Associate Professor Lobacheva Anastasia Sergeevna

    Project: “HR in the Heart”

    Grand Prix

    Krapiventseva A.A. (State University of Management)

    Scientific supervisor: Ph.D., Associate Professor Ekaterina Viktorovna Kashtanova

    Project: “Development of a board business game for student adaptation”

    Student Olympiad “Human Resources Management: Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”

    Best homework

    Team: “Mafia HR”.

    Team members: Arustamyan Nane Armenovna, Bakhteeva Alina Fyaimovna, Drobysheva Victoria Vitalievna, Tkacheva Irina Olegovna, Churikova Kristina Maksimovna (State University of Management)

    Scientific supervisor: Illarionova Ekaterina Sergeevna

    The best case

    Command: “NEXT PROFI”. Team composition: Aminov Danila Fanilievich, Vedeneeva Polina Dmitrievna, Kabanova Yulia Ivanovna, Zubova Ekaterina (National Research Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N. I. Lobachevsky)

    Scientific supervisor: Ulmaeva Liliya Nailevna

    The best quest

    Team: “Adepts of Human Resources”. Team members: Snezhana Evgenievna Batayeva, Georgy Mikhailovich Solomatin, Vladislav Denisovich Abrashnev (Moscow Automobile and Road State Technical University (MADI)

    Scientific supervisor: Olga Anatolyevna Peshkova

    3rd place

    Team: “Vedunya Kadrov” (Personnel Witches). Team members: Sokolovskaya Sofia Sergeevna, Sushkevich Yulia Dmitrievna, Chernikova Polina Vadimovna (Volga Region Institute of Management named after P. A. Stolypin – branch of RANEPA)

    Scientific supervisor: Moiseenko Natalia Vladimirovna

    2nd place

    Command: “Vector”. Team composition: Druzhinina Svetlana Andreevna, Negodnova Anastasia Sergeevna, Khakov Rinat Denisovich, Chabanyuk Elina Aleksandrovna, Kutumova Daria Romanovna (National Research Nizhny Novgorod State University named after N. I. Lobachevsky)

    Supervisor: Mariko Valeria Valerievna

    1st place

    Team: “Polyanitsi”. Team members: Kvach Ekaterina Sergeevna, Kozhevnikova Darina Alekseevna, Sergeeva Polina Aleksandrovna (St. Petersburg State University)

    Scientific supervisor: Kulchitskaya Elena Valerievna

    Grand Prix

    Team: “Snake Icharych.” Team composition: AGlushkova Anastasia Sergeevna, Ishkova Olga Andreevna, Shchetinin Mark Alekseevich (State University of Management)

    Scientific supervisor: Ekaterina Viktorovna Kashtanova

    Detailed information about the Forum, its annual program, format and results is presented on the official website, and you can see more photos in the VKontakte community.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ARU Peterborough champions disabled entrepreneurs

    Source: Anglia Ruskin University

    Picture: Richard Fraser Photography

    ARU Peterborough has played a key role in a landmark report that outlines strategies to better support disabled entrepreneurs across the UK, potentially driving significant economic growth.

    The Lilac Review, an independent, Government-backed review to address the inequality disabled entrepreneurs face, has concluded that significant financial, operational, and accessibility barriers are holding back the nation’s disabled-led businesses.

    Disabled entrepreneurs represent 25% of the UK’s 5.45 million small businesses, but just 8.6% of business turnover. The Lilac Review estimates that removing these obstacles could unlock an additional £230 billion in UK business revenue.

    The research for The Lilac Review report was supported by Professor Tom Williamson and Dr Cheryl Greyson from ARU Peterborough in collaboration with Small Business Britain, with support from Lloyds.

    The ARU Peterborough academics analysed survey data from 750 disabled entrepreneurs and found that despite their resilience, disabled founders face additional and complex barriers to growth and funding. Over half (57%) of respondents identified financial support as their critical need for the coming year.

    Alongside a range of targeted support and tailored solutions, a key recommendation from The Lilac Review is to enhance the reach and impact of the new Disability Finance Code launched last December.

    The Lilac Review also highlights the importance of greater access to peer-led business networks and mentorship, with 51% of respondents indicating that bridging this gap would benefit them.

    The need to embed inclusivity at the heart of all future business support to build equity and opportunity was emphasised, with data showing 35% of disabled entrepreneurs find current programmes inaccessible.

    The Lilac Review also advocates for greater investment and innovation in inclusive AI training and skills development and AI-powered assistive technology, as well as placing accessibility and inclusion at the heart of AI policy and product development. This recognises the transformative potential of AI to level the business playing field.

    Professor Williamson of ARU Peterborough took part in the review’s Steering Board, alongside a number of prominent disabled founders and representatives from the wider business community including: Small Business Britain, Lloyds, eBay, BT, Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), British Chambers of Commerce (BCC), The Entrepreneurs Network, and the Business Disability Forum.

    “We’re proud that ARU Peterborough has played a key role in this important new report. The recommendations could help empower millions of disabled entrepreneurs across the country, combat inequality and drive business growth, which could significantly benefit the UK economy.

    “The next phase of The Lilac Review will see us working closely with Small Business Britain over the next 12 months to develop the concept for The LILAC Centre for Disabled Entrepreneurship. This would be the UK’s first business incubator and research centre dedicated to advancing the success of disabled entrepreneurs, and our aim is for this to be hosted at ARU Peterborough.”

    Professor Williamson, Assistant Principal of ARU Peterborough and head of the Faculty of Business, Innovation and Entrepreneurship 

    “I’m proud to have co-chaired The Lilac Review and welcome its valuable insights and recommendations to help empower disabled entrepreneurship, tackle inequality, and unlock growth opportunities.

    “Through our Plan for Change, this government is committed to delivering further and faster economic growth. A key part of this is ensuring that those with the ambition to start and scale up a business have the right support to do so, no matter their background or circumstances.”

    Gareth Thomas, Minister for Small Businesses and co-chair of The Lilac Review

    “Disabled entrepreneurs are innovative, impactful, and growing. Yet we remain underrepresented, underfunded, and underestimated.

    “The Lilac Review is a bold and necessary step toward recognising the unique challenges that disabled entrepreneurs face – and more importantly, toward removing them. The findings of this report are clear: change is needed – not later, but now. That means inclusive finance, accessible business support, and communities that empower rather than exclude.

    “It has been an honour to co-chair this review, and I hope the voices within it spark action, partnership, and a fundamental rethinking of what opportunity should look like – for everyone.”

    Victoria Jenkins, co-chair of The Lilac Review and founder of Unhidden

    “Our university is driving forward real change in the workforce not only in Peterborough, but across the whole of the UK. The Lilac Review represents a real opportunity to level the playing field for disabled entrepreneurs and to remove some of the unique challenges they face.

    “The whole city is really proud of those who have been involved in this pioneering project and are now re-shaping the future of business in the UK.”

    Councillor Nick Thulbourn, cabinet member for growth and regeneration at Peterborough City Council

    For more information on The Lilac Review visit https://lilacreview.com/final-report

    ARU Peterborough is a partnership between Anglia Ruskin University, Peterborough City Council and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Press Release: FDIC-Insured Institutions Reported Return on Assets of 1.16 Percent and Net Income of $70.6 Billion in the First Quarter

    Source: US Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation FDIC

    Net Income Increased From the Prior Quarter, Led by Higher Noninterest Income: For the 4,462 FDIC-insured commercial banks and savings institutions quarterly net income totaled $70.6 billion, up $3.8 billion (5.8 percent) from the prior quarter. The banking industry reported an aggregate ROA of 1.16 percent in first quarter 2025, up from 1.11 percent in fourth quarter 2024 and 1.09 percent in the year-ago quarter. The quarterly increase in net income was led by higher noninterest income (up $5.4 billion, or 7 percent). Gains in noninterest income were due to market movements and volatility as several large firms reported mark-to-market gains on certain financial instruments in the quarter. Lower losses on the sale of securities also contributed to an increase in net income.

    Community Bank Net Income Increased From Last Quarter: Quarterly net income for the 4,022 community banks insured by the FDIC totaled $6.8 billion in the first quarter, an increase of $621.0 million (10 percent) from fourth quarter 2024. The community bank pretax ROA increased 11 basis points from last quarter to 1.18 percent. Higher net interest income (up $315.7 million, or 1.4 percent) and lower losses on the sale of securities (up $313.7 million, 54.8 percent) along with lower provision expenses (down $249.7 million, or 19 percent) and noninterest expenses (down $423.2 million, or 2.3 percent) more than offset lower noninterest income (down $476.6 million, or 9.1 percent).

    Quarterly Net Interest Margin Ticked Down From the Prior Quarter: The industry reported a modest quarterly decline in net interest income (down $278.3 million, or 0.2 percent), as interest income decelerated slightly more than interest expense. The net interest margin (NIM) fell by two basis points to 3.25 percent, equal to the pre-pandemic average. [1] The community bank NIM of 3.46 percent increased two basis points quarter over quarter, increasing for the fourth consecutive quarter, but is still below the pre-pandemic average of 3.63 percent.  

    Asset Quality Metrics Remained Generally Favorable, Though Weakness in Certain Portfolios Persisted: Past-due and nonaccrual (PDNA) loans, or loans that are 30 or more days past due or in nonaccrual status, fell one basis point from the prior quarter to 1.59 percent of total loans. The industry’s PDNA ratio is still below the pre-pandemic average of 1.94 percent.  While banks reported quarterly decreases in PDNA of credit card loans (down $2.7 billion, or 9 basis points to 3.22 percent), and auto loans (down $2.6 billion, or 48 basis points to 2.84 percent), weaknesses persisted in certain portfolios. The PDNA rate for commercial real estate (CRE) portfolios is the highest it has been since the fourth quarter of 2014 at 1.49 percent. Multifamily CRE PDNAs have grown the most in the past year, up 88 basis points to 1.47 percent.

    The industry’s net charge-off ratio decreased three basis points to 0.67 percent from the prior quarter and is one basis point higher than the year-ago quarter. This ratio is 19 basis points above the pre-pandemic average. Most portfolios had net charge-off rates above their pre-pandemic averages including credit card loans, 123 basis points above the pre-pandemic average at 4.71 percent.  

    Loan Growth Remains Modest: Total loan and lease balances increased $62 billion (0.5 percent) from the previous quarter. The largest portfolio increases were reported in loans to non-depository financial institutions, in part due to continued reclassifications following the finalization of changes to how certain loan products should be reported. In addition to these reclassifications, commercial and industrial, and multifamily CRE contributed to the industry’s quarterly loan growth. The industry’s annual rate of loan growth in the first quarter was 3.0 percent, below the pre-pandemic average of 4.9 percent.

    Total loans at community banks increased 0.8 percent from the prior quarter and 4.9 percent from the prior year, led by increases in nonfarm nonresidential CRE loans and 1-4 family residential mortgage portfolios.

    Domestic Deposits Increased for the Third Consecutive Quarter: Domestic deposits increased $180.9 billion (1 percent) from fourth quarter 2024, rising for a third consecutive quarter. Savings deposits increased, with declines in small time deposits partially offsetting the increases. Brokered deposits decreased $14.9 billion (1.2 percent) from the prior quarter, declining for the fifth consecutive quarter. Estimated insured deposits increased this quarter (up $110.5 billion, or 1 percent).

    The Deposit Insurance Fund Reserve Ratio Increased Three Basis Points to 1.31 Percent: In the first quarter, the Deposit Insurance Fund balance increased $3.8 billion to $140.9 billion. The reserve ratio increased three basis points during the quarter to 1.31 percent.

    Change in Number of Insured Institutions: The total number of FDIC-insured institutions declined by 25 during the first quarter to 4,462. During the quarter, one bank opened, one bank failed and did not file a Call Report in the prior quarter, one bank was sold to an uninsured institution, and 25 institutions merged with other banks. 

    ATTACHMENTS:
    Quarterly Banking Profile Home Page
    Charts & Data
    FDIC Statement

    # # #

    MEDIA CONTACT: 
    Julianne Breitbeil
    202-340-2043
    JBreitbeil@FDIC.gov

    [1] The “pre-pandemic average” refers to the period of first quarter 2015 through fourth quarter 2019 and is used consistently throughout this press release.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Mark Edele, Hansen Professor in History and Deputy Dean, The University of Melbourne

    United States President Donald Trump was “not happy” with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, this week.

    For three consecutive nights, from Friday to Sunday, Russia launched about 900 drones and scores of missiles at Ukraine. At least 18 people were killed, including three children.

    “We’re in the middle of talking and he’s shooting rockets into Kyiv and other cities,” Trump told reporters on Sunday, after Putin ordered the largest air assault on Ukraine’s civilians in its three-year war.

    Following up on his remarks, Trump posted on social media that Putin had “gone absolutely CRAZY!”

    Putin is not crazy. He is a tactician with a long-term goal: to make Russia a great power again and secure his place in the history books as the re-builder of Russia’s imperial might.

    Trump announced after a phone call with Putin on May 19 that Russia and Ukraine would “immediately start negotiations” towards a ceasefire.

    With his latest air campaign on Ukraine, however, Putin is threatening to destroy the goodwill he’s built up in Washington, where Trump has been consistently soft on Russia and tough on his allies.

    So, what is Putin’s strategy? Why is he launching these massive air bombardments on Ukrainian civilians now?

    Putin sees weakness in the West

    One theory is these attacks are somehow preparations for a major offensive. That makes little sense.

    Attacking military facilities, weapons depots or even frontline troops are useful preparations for an impending attack. Indiscriminate bombing of civilians, meanwhile, is a sign of either desperation or impatience.

    Britain and the US bombed German cities during the second world war because they had no alternatives until they built up enough capacity to transport land forces across the sea to invade the continent.

    The US also sent bombers to Japan in the final stages of the war because the American public became tired of seeing their sons, husbands, brothers and fathers die on Pacific islands they had never heard of. The war had dragged on forever by this point, and there seemed no end in sight.

    Is Putin desperate or impatient? Likely the latter.

    From the perspective of the Kremlin, Russia’s strategic situation is as good as it has been for years.

    The US is trying to destroy itself through trade wars and boorish diplomacy. Trump clearly dislikes Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and hopes the war will somehow end if he just demands it.

    Europe is continuing to back Ukraine. However, for the time being, it still needs US support because its entire security structure is built around NATO and US strength, both economic and military.

    What Putin sees when he surveys the international scene is weakness. In his thinking, such weakness needs to be exploited – now is the time to hurt Ukraine as much as possible, and hope it will crack. Analysts call this a “cognitive warfare effort”.

    Indiscriminate air war on civilians is the only means Putin currently has to pressure Ukraine. His army has been advancing, but painfully slowly. There is no breakthrough in sight, even once the spring muds dry and the summer fighting season starts in earnest.

    Russia has gradually advanced in Ukraine throughout 2024, but with no perceivable change in the overall situation. Putin does not command precision weapons or super spies, which he could use to take out Ukraine’s leadership.

    All he can do is rain death on women, children and the elderly from relatively cheap, unsophisticated weapons, such as drones. He now has these in large supply, thanks to ramping up military production at home.

    Bombing campaigns do not end wars

    A strategic air war on civilians seldom works, however.

    Japan’s surrender in 1945 is an exception, but it is misleading in many ways. The Americans had flattened Japan’s cities for a while already, just not using their new atomic weapons. Japan had already lost the war and the real question was if there would be a bloody US invasion or surrender.

    And as the US dropped its two nuclear bombs in August of that year, the Red Army joined the fight, racing across Manchuria to help occupy Japanese territories.

    In Germany, the British-American bombings from 1942 onwards certainly had an effect on war production, as they killed workers and destroyed factories. But they did not incapacitate the German army and certainly did not break morale.

    Instead, the bombings led to embitterment and a closing of ranks around the regime. German society fought to the last moment. It did so not just despite, but because of the air war. The German army was eventually defeated by the ground troops of the Red Army, who took Berlin in an incredibly bloody fight.

    Other historical failures are even more spectacular. The US air force dropped 864,000 tons of bombs on North Vietnam during an air campaign of more than 300,000 sorties lasting from 1965 to late 1968. The North Vietnamese lost maybe 29,000 people (dead and wounded), more than half of them civilians. The Americans and their South Vietnamese allies still lost the war.

    Putin’s air war will likely follow the historical pattern: it has further embittered the Ukrainians, who know very well that what comes from the east is not liberation.

    Another summer of fighting lies ahead. Ukraine’s friends in the democratic world need to urgently redouble their efforts to support Ukraine. The misguided hopes that Putin would somehow “make a deal” lie under the rubble his drones leave behind in Ukraine’s cities.

    Mark Edele receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. Is Vladimir Putin’s indiscriminate bombing of Ukrainian civilians ‘crazy’? It’s more a sign of impatience – https://theconversation.com/is-vladimir-putins-indiscriminate-bombing-of-ukrainian-civilians-crazy-its-more-a-sign-of-impatience-257630

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI: WSO2 Acquires Leading API Analytics and Monetization Startup Moesif

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Austin, TX , May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — WSO2, the leader in enterprise digital infrastructure technology, today announced it has acquired Moesif, a San Francisco-based startup specializing in advanced API analytics and monetization. The all-cash acquisition marks a strategic milestone in WSO2’s long-term plan to accelerate global growth through targeted inorganic opportunities.

    As part of the agreement, Moesif will operate as an independent subsidiary under WSO2’s API Management Business Unit. The Moesif brand and current product offering will be retained, and its leadership along with its team will continue to drive existing business and expand customer growth globally. Moesif customers will continue receiving the same level of service and support, while benefiting from WSO2’s global presence and expanded product offerings. Moesif’s advanced API analytics and monetization capabilities will also be integrated into WSO2’s product portfolio, bringing enhanced value to existing and future customers.

    “This acquisition is a first step in our strategy to establish WSO2 as a global technology leader through select inorganic opportunities,” said Dr. Sanjiva Weerawarana, founder and CEO of WSO2. “Moesif brings market-leading capabilities in API analytics and monetization, areas that are increasingly critical to digital businesses today. This is just the beginning—we’re committed to exploring further opportunities that align with our long-term goal to help enterprises deliver seamless, high-impact digital experiences.”

    The acquisition enhances WSO2’s positioning in the API management space by adding best-in-class analytics and monetization tools that help businesses optimize, measure, and generate revenue from their APIs. Moesif’s offerings will complement WSO2’s comprehensive API management platform, creating a synergy that benefits both customer bases.

    “Joining WSO2 is a natural next step in Moesif’s journey,” said Derric Gilling, founder and CEO of Moesif. “We share a deep commitment to empowering developers and businesses to build powerful digital experiences. As part of WSO2, we’ll continue to innovate rapidly, serve our customers with excellence, and now reach an even broader global audience.”

    WSO2 customers will start gaining access to Moesif’s capabilities as part of an enhanced product suite, while Moesif customers will benefit from WSO2’s global support infrastructure and expanded services.

    About WSO2
    Founded in 2005, WSO2 is the largest independent software vendor providing open-source API management, integration, and identity and access management (IAM) to thousands of enterprises in over 90 countries. WSO2’s products and platforms—including our next-gen internal developer platform, Choreo—empower organizations to leverage the full potential of artificial intelligence and APIs for securely delivering the next generation of AI-enabled digital services and applications. Our open-source, AI-driven, API-first approach frees developers and architects from vendor lock-in and enables rapid digital product creation. Recognized as leaders by industry analysts, WSO2 has more than 800 employees worldwide with offices in Australia, Brazil, Germany, India, Sri Lanka, the UAE, the UK, and the US, with over USD100M in annual recurring revenue. Visit https://wso2.com to learn more. Follow WSO2 on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).

    About Moesif
    Moesif is the leading AI-driven API analytics and monetization platform that helps companies build better developer experiences, monitor API usage, and drive revenue. With powerful tools for observability, governance, and product-led growth, Moesif empowers engineering and product teams to optimize APIs as a business channel. Moesif serves customers across many industries including logistics, fintech, and enterprise software including leading enterprises like UPS, Covetrus, and UK Royal Mail. Moesif was founded in 2017 and is based in San Francisco, US. Investors include Craft Ventures, Merus Capital, Heavybit, and Fresco. Visit www.moesif.com to learn more.

    Trademarks and registered trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Bay St. Lawrence — Victoria County District RCMP investigating stolen firearms, requesting public assistance

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Victoria County District RCMP is investigating a break and enter in Bay St. Lawrence involving the theft of firearms.

    On April 15, Victoria County District RCMP received a report of a break and enter believed to have occurred the day before at an unoccupied seasonal property on Bay St. Lawrence Rd. Through the investigation, officers determined that three firearms, a 12-gauge shotgun, 30-30 rifle and 303 rifle, were among the items taken. The guns were stored in a locked cabinet, which was damaged in the incident, and all included trigger locks.

    Investigators are asking anyone who may have information about this incident or the whereabouts of the firearms to contact Ingonish Beach RCMP Detachment at 902-285-2021. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.

    File # 2025-496646

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: Naval Special Warfare Group ONE celebrates 50 Years

    Source: United States Navy

    SAN DIEGO, Calif. – Retired and active operators, civilians, and combat support representing warfighters from every era of American combat since the Vietnam War, reunited with former and current teammates on May 22, 2025, to celebrate a milestone – 50 years of Naval Special Warfare Group (NSWG) 1.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    Source: Apple

    Headline: Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    May 28, 2025

    UPDATE

    Logic Pro amplifies beat making on Mac and iPad with advanced new capabilities

    An enhanced Stem Splitter and new features like Flashback Capture elevate hip-hop and electronic music production to a new level

    Apple today introduced new Logic Pro updates for Mac and iPad, supercharging beat making and producing. The innovative Stem Splitter feature now offers even greater audio fidelity, and can separate guitar and piano into stems. With Flashback Capture, users can retrieve and restore inspiring performances they may have forgotten to record. And with energetic new sound packs like Dancefloor Rush, beat makers have fresh loops and kits to fuel their next track.

    Stem Splitter Delivers Enhanced Audio Fidelity and New Stems

    The updated Stem Splitter extracts greater detail from old recordings and demos, and now offers added support for guitar and piano stems.1 Producers can easily select common stem variations, such as acapella, instrumental, or instrumental with vocals using presets. Additionally, a new submix feature makes it easy for users to export just the parts of audio they want — for example, removing vocals to create an instrumental track, or pulling out the drums and bass for a custom remix.

    Recall Every Moment with Flashback Capture

    Flashback Capture allows artists to recover unforgettable performances, even if they forgot to hit record.2 Users can quickly restore MIDI and audio performances using a key command or a custom control bar button. By enabling Cycle mode, musicians can improvise multiple takes, and Flashback Capture will automatically organize each pass into a take folder.

    New Sound Packs to Amplify Music Production

    Logic Pro adds new sound packs to amplify music production. Dancefloor Rush — the latest sound pack for Mac and iPad — features a world of expertly crafted drum-and-bass sounds with over 400 dynamic loops, punchy drum kits, and a custom Live Loops grid. Today’s update also introduces two new sound packs to Logic Pro for Mac: Magnetic Imperfections and Tosin Abasi. Magnetic Imperfections brings an original texture that captures the raw, unpolished essence of analog tape, while the Tosin Abasi sound pack showcases progressive metal guitar with boutique amps, unique effects, distinctive picking techniques, and the artist’s signature riffs.

    Learn MIDI Comes to iPad for Seamless Logic Pro Integration

    Learn MIDI is now available on iPad, allowing users to get hands-on control by easily assigning their favorite knobs, faders, and buttons on MIDI devices to control plug-ins, instruments, and other automatable parameters within Logic Pro.3 With Learn MIDI’s intuitive interface and real-time visual feedback, users can quickly create custom assignments, view available controls, and stay in their creative flow.

    Additional features to enhance creativity on Mac:

    • Notepad now features integrated support for Writing Tools, powered by Apple Intelligence, giving users more flexibility and control when they’d like to make their writing more expressive, get help with a rewrite, or even collaborate on song lyrics and more right inline.4
    • Users can manage large projects with the new search and select feature, which makes it easy to find and choose tracks by their name or track number.

    Pricing and Availability

    • Logic Pro for Mac 11.2 is available May 28 as a free update for existing users and for $199.99 (U.S.) for new users on the Mac App Store. It is also available as part of the Pro Apps Bundle for Education, which includes Final Cut Pro, MainStage, Motion, and Compressor for $199.99 (U.S.). Logic Pro for Mac requires macOS Sequoia 15.4 or later. For more information, visit apple.com/logic-pro.
    • Logic Pro for iPad 2.2 is available May 28 as a free update for existing users, and available on the App Store for $4.99 (U.S.) per month or $49 (U.S.) per year, with a one-month free trial for new users. Logic Pro for iPad requires iPadOS 18.4 or later. For more information, visit apple.com/logic-pro-for-ipad.
    1. Stem Splitter requires iPad or Mac with M1 chip or later.
    2. Audio support for Flashback Capture requires Logic Pro to be in active play mode.
    3. Connecting third‑party external microphones, musical instruments, or MIDI controllers with Logic Pro for iPad requires devices compatible with iOS and iPadOS.
    4. Apple Intelligence is available in beta on iPad mini (A17 Pro), and all iPad and Mac models with M1 and later, with Siri and device language set to Chinese (Simplified), English (Australia, Canada, India, Ireland, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa, UK, or U.S.), French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese (Brazil), or Spanish, as part of an iPadOS 18 and macOS Sequoia software update, with more languages coming over the course of the year, including Vietnamese. Some features may not be available in all regions or languages. For more details, visit apple.com/apple-intelligence.

    Press Contacts

    Zachary Kizer

    Apple

    z_kizer@apple.com

    Emily Ewing

    Apple

    e_ewing@apple.com

    Apple Media Helpline

    media.help@apple.com

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Defense News: NSW Enhances Drug Testing to Protect Personnel, Maintain Elite Readiness

    Source: United States Navy

    San Diego, Calif. – Ensuring the health and well-being of its personnel is critical to maintaining Naval Special Warfare’s (NSW) position as the nation’s premier maritime special operations force. Unauthorized use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) during training and operations poses a serious threat, potentially leading to injury, death, and long-term health problems.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: TruGolf Links Celebrates 1-Year Anniversary at New York International Franchise Expo

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Over 160 units in Development

    Salt Lake City, Utah, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — TruGolf Links Franchising, LLC, (“TruGolf”), wholly owned by TruGolf Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRUG), the leading provider of golf simulator software and hardware, announced today it will be exhibiting at the New York International Franchise Expo in New York City on May 29, 2025 at booth 409. The booth will feature a live TruGolf simulator, running our latest APEX software, and LaunchBox hardware hosting a Closest to the Pin contest with IFE attendees.

    Since beginning operations one year ago, TruGolf Links Franchising has signed agreements to bring over 160 units to market in Illinois, New Jersey, Tennessee, and New York. TruGolf expects the first franchise locations will open their doors in the coming months.

    On hand at the TruGolf booth will be members of its Presidents Circle of Franchisees, including Nick Reimondo, Regional Developer for Central New Jersey. Nick aims to bring the concept to the East Coast, fueling the indoor golf simulator scene with the most modernized technology.

    Bob Earley, franchisee from Chicago, is excited to bring TruGolf Links’ unique technology to his market for people of all skill levels and experience.

    Gio Dinsay, representing Long Island, NY, is eager to align performance, recreation, and rehabilitation in a powerful way with TruGolf Links.

    If you are interested in learning more about TruGolf Links Franchise, please come to the show and visit with us at our booth.

    For more information about TruGolf Links, visit www.trugolflinks.com or contact Andrew Johnson, Vice President of Franchising, at andrewj@trugolflinks.com. Connect on the brand’s social pages by visiting https://www.linkedin.com/company/trugolflinks and/or https://www.facebook.com/trugolflinks/.

    About TruGolf, Inc.

    Since 1983, TruGolf has been passionate about driving the golf industry with innovative indoor golf solutions. TruGolf builds products that capture the spirit of golf. TruGolf’s mission is to help grow the game by attempting to make it more Available, Approachable, and Affordable through technology – because TruGolf believes Golf is for Everyone. TruGolf’s team has built award- winning video games (“Links”), innovative hardware solutions, and an all-new e-sports platform to connect golfers around the world with E6 CONNECT. Since TruGolf’s beginning, TruGolf has continued to attempt to define and redefine what is possible with golf technology.

    About TruGolf Links Franchising

    While the company offers individual franchises, the focus of its expansion efforts is with Regional Developers who acquire a territory of 1M or more in population, open a flagship location within that territory, then develop the territory with additional units they own or with independent franchisees. Regional Developers are compensated for attracting franchisees and providing support locally to all TruGolf Links locations within their territory. For more information about TruGolf Links franchise program, visit: www.trugolflinks.com/franchising.

    CONTACTS: Brenner Adams
                          b@trugolf.com
                          (801) 298-1997
                          trugolflinks.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Element Demonstrates Progress on Climate Strategy and Enhanced Transparency in Latest Sustainability Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Element Fleet Management Corp. (TSX:EFN) (“Element” or the “Company”), the largest publicly traded, pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world, today released its 2025 Sustainability Report, underscoring the company’s commitment to driving sustainable practices that support long-term resilience and stakeholder value.

    “Motivated by our Purpose to Move the world through intelligent mobility, our sustainability report demonstrates how we are advancing sustainability with accountability, transparency, and meaningful action,” said Claire M. Murphy, EVP Chief Legal and Sustainability Officer at Element. “Sustainability is core to how we operate, and we are proud of the progress we’ve made to deepen our governance practices and foster positive environmental and social outcomes, while delivering tailored solutions that enable our clients to meet their own sustainability goals.”

     Key highlights from this year’s report include:

    • Climate ambition and action: In 2024, Element’s near-term science-based targets were validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), aligning the company’s decarbonization initiatives with global best practices. The Company also achieved, and surpassed, its Scope 1 and 2 reduction targets ahead of schedule, reinforcing its disciplined approach to climate action. Progress continued on reducing Scope 3 emissions intensity, with focused efforts on the most material areas of the Company’s value chain including use of sold products (Category 11) and downstream leased assets (Category 13).
    • Governance and transparency: Element continued to strengthen its sustainability governance and disclosure practices, maintaining a CDP Climate score of B for the second consecutive year. The Company also enhanced alignment with leading sustainability reporting frameworks, establishing the foundation for future regulatory readiness and reinforcing a commitment to transparent reporting practices. 
    • Inclusion and belonging: Element continued to foster inclusion and belonging through team member-led Business Resource Groups and enterprise-wide engagement initiatives.

    “Element is committed to making tangible and measurable differences in everything we do,” said Sheri McGrath, Vice President, Sustainability. “By embedding sustainability into our strategy and partnering closely with our clients, we are making significant strides toward a more sustainable future. This report is a reflection of these achievements, as well as our dedication to continuous improvement.”

    The 2025 Sustainability Report underscores Element’s commitment to act with integrity, innovation, and purpose to address global challenges. By fostering strong partnerships and implementing forward-thinking solutions, the Company is building a foundation for long-term resilience and shared prosperity.

    To explore Element’s sustainability initiatives and achievements in more detail, access the full report here.

    About Element Fleet Management:

    Element Fleet Management (TSX: EFN) is the largest publicly traded pure-play automotive fleet manager in the world. As a Purpose-driven and client-centric company, we deliver value through scalable, sustainable, and technology-enabled fleet and mobility solutions. With operations across North America, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and a growing global footprint through our technology platform Autofleet, we provide our clients with end-to-end fleet management services — from vehicle acquisition, maintenance, and risk management to route optimization, electric vehicle integration, and remarketing. At Element, we combine our fleet management expertise with advanced digital capabilities in order to unlock real-time data insights, dynamic planning tools, and advanced optimization that maximize the cost efficiency and vehicle productivity of our clients’ fleets. For more information, please visit: https://www.elementfleet.com.

    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements and forward-looking information regarding Element and its business, which are based upon Element’s current expectations, estimates, projections, assumptions, and beliefs. In some cases, words such as “plan,” “expect”, “intend”, “believe”, “will”, “potential”, “target”, and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions “may” or “will” occur are intended to identify forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements or information. Forward-looking statements and information herein may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to, among other things, the Company’s sustainability targets and objectives, including science-based targets, Element’s and our clients’ greenhouse gas emissions, fleet electrification, decarbonization strategies, future climate reporting, and other sustainability related expectations. By their nature, these statements require us to make assumptions and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties that may be general or specific, which give rise to the possibility that our expectations will not prove to be accurate, that our assumptions may not be correct and that our sustainability priorities, targets, commitments and goals will not be achieved. As we work to advance our sustainability strategy, external factors outside of Element’s reasonable control may impact our performance and ability to achieve our goals, including government policies, legislation and regulatory actions, our ability to implement various sustainability-related initiatives internally and with our clients under expected timeframes, the availability of comprehensive and high-quality GHG emissions data, and standardization of sustainability-related measurement methodologies. These and other factors may cause actual results to differ materially from the expectations expressed in the forward-looking statements and may require Element to adapt its initiatives and activities or adjust its commitments, metrics, targets, and goals. The forward-looking statements herein speak only as of the date hereof and we do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement except as required by law. In addition, a discussion of some of the material risks affecting Element and its business appears under the heading “Risk Management” in Element’s Management Discussion and Analysis for the twelve-month period ended December 31, 2024, and under the heading “Risk Factors” in Element’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, which have been filed on SEDAR+ and can be accessed on Element’s profile on www.sedarplus.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: YieldMax™ ETFs Announces Distributions on CVNY, CONY, YMAG, YMAX, ULTY, and Others

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, MILWAUKEE and NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YieldMax™ today announced distributions for the YieldMax™ Weekly Payers and Group C ETFs listed in the table below.

    ETF Ticker1 ETF Name Distribution Frequency Distribution per Share Distribution Rate2,4 30-Day
    SEC Yield3    		 ROC5 Ex-Date & Record Date Payment Date
    CHPY YieldMax™ Semiconductor Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.3860 – – 96.94% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    GPTY YieldMax™ AI & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.2895 33.82% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    LFGY YieldMax™ Crypto Industry & Tech Portfolio Option Income ETF Weekly $0.4906 62.59% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    QDTY YieldMax™ Nasdaq 100 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3115 38.15% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    RDTY YieldMax™ R2000 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.3538 40.76% 0.00% 97.17% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    SDTY YieldMax™ S&P 500 0DTE Covered Call ETF Weekly $0.2578 30.71% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    ULTY YieldMax™ Ultra Option Income Strategy ETF Weekly $0.0954 79.40% 0.00% 100.00% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    YMAG YieldMax™ Magnificent 7 Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.2929 97.28% 70.00% 96.58% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    YMAX YieldMax™ Universe Fund of Option Income ETFs Weekly $0.2149 81.04% 95.10% 81.23% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    ABNY YieldMax™ ABNB Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.3871 41.70% 3.22% 93.60% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    AMDY YieldMax™ AMD Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.4233 70.38% 3.31% 96.48% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    CONY YieldMax™ COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.7351 106.24% 3.39% 80.80% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    CVNY YieldMax™ CVNA Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $4.5659 125.74% 2.37% 99.33% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    FIAT YieldMax™ Short COIN Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.2667 65.81% 1.14% 96.24% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    HOOY YieldMax™ HOOD Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $3.3036 – – 99.33% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    MSFO YieldMax™ MSFT Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.5498 40.29% 3.26% 92.68% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    NFLY YieldMax™ NFLX Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.6832 46.84% 2.79% 94.49% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    PYPY YieldMax™ PYPL Option Income Strategy ETF Every 4
    weeks    		 $0.5507 53.61% 3.54% 95.28% 5/29/25 5/30/25
    Weekly Payers & Group D ETFs scheduled for next week: CHPY GPTY LFGY QDTY RDTY SDTY ULTY YMAG YMAX AIYY AMZY APLY DISO MSTY SMCY WNTR XYZY YQQQ
     

    Standardized Performance and Fund details can be obtained by clicking the ETF Ticker in the table above or by visiting us at www.yieldmaxetfs.com

    Performance data quoted represents past performance and is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when sold or redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance quoted above. Performance current to the most recent month-end can be obtained by calling (833) 378-0717.

    Note: DIPS, FIAT, CRSH, YQQQ and WNTR are hereinafter referred to as the “Short ETFs.”

    Distributions are not guaranteed. The Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield are not indicative of future distributions, if any, on the ETFs. In particular, future distributions on any ETF may differ significantly from its Distribution Rate or 30-Day SEC Yield. You are not guaranteed a distribution under the ETFs. Distributions for the ETFs (if any) are variable and may vary significantly from period to period and may be zero. Accordingly, the Distribution Rate and 30-Day SEC Yield will change over time, and such change may be significant.

    Investors in the Funds will not have rights to receive dividends or other distributions with respect to the underlying reference asset(s).

    1All YieldMax™ ETFs shown in the table above (except YMAX, YMAG, FEAT, FIVY and ULTY) have a gross expense ratio of 0.99%. YMAX, FEAT have a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.99% for a gross expense ratio of 1.28%. YMAG has a management fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.83% for a gross expense ratio of 1.12%. FIVY has a Management Fee of 0.29% and Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses of 0.59% for a gross expense ratio of 0.88%. “Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses” are indirect fees and expenses that the Fund incurs from investing in the shares of other investment companies, namely other YieldMax™ ETFs. ULTY has a gross expense ratio of 1.40%, and a net expense ratio after the fee waiver of 1.30%. The Advisor has agreed to a fee waiver of 0.10% through at least February 28, 2026.

    2 The Distribution Rate shown is as of close on May 27, 2025. The Distribution Rate is the annual distribution rate an investor would receive if the most recent distribution, which includes option income, remained the same going forward. The Distribution Rate is calculated by annualizing an ETF’s Distribution per Share and dividing such annualized amount by the ETF’s most recent NAV. The Distribution Rate represents a single distribution from the ETF and does not represent`t its total return. Distributions may also include a combination of ordinary dividends, capital gain, and return of investor capital, which may decrease an ETF’s NAV and trading price over time. As a result, an investor may suffer significant losses to their investment. These Distribution Rates may be caused by unusually favorable market conditions and may not be sustainable. Such conditions may not continue to exist and there should be no expectation that this performance may be repeated in the future.

    3 The 30-Day SEC Yield represents net investment income, which excludes option income, earned by such ETF over the 30-Day period ended April 31, 2025, expressed as an annual percentage rate based on such ETF’s share price at the end of the 30-Day period.

    4 Each ETF’s strategy (except those of the Short ETFs) will cap potential gains if its reference asset’s shares increase in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset’s shares decrease in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF. Each Short ETF’s strategy will cap potential gains if its reference asset decreases in value, yet subjects an investor to all potential losses if the reference asset increases in value. Such potential losses may not be offset by income received by the ETF.
    5ROC refers to Return of Capital. The ROC percentage indicates how much the distribution reflects an investor’s initial investment. The figures shown for each Fund in the table above are estimates and may later be determined to be taxable net investment income, short-term gains, long-term gains (to the extent permitted by law), or return of capital. Actual amounts and sources for tax reporting will depend upon the Fund’s investment activities during the remainder of the fiscal year and may be subject to changes based on tax regulations. Your broker will send you a Form 1099-DIV for the calendar year to tell you how to report these distributions for federal income tax purposes.

    Each Fund has a limited operating history and while each Fund’s objective is to provide current income, there is no guarantee the Fund will make a distribution. Distributions are likely to vary greatly in amount.

    Important Information

    This material must be preceded or accompanied by the prospectus. For all prospectuses, click here.

    Tidal Financial Group is the adviser for all YieldMax™ ETFs.

    THE FUND, TRUST, AND ADVISER ARE NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY UNDERLYING REFERENCE ASSET.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable to all YieldMax ETFs referenced above, except the Short ETFs)

    YMAX, YMAG, FEAT and FIVY generally invest in other YieldMax™ ETFs. As such, these two Funds are subject to the risks listed in this section, which apply to all the YieldMax™ ETFs they may hold from time to time.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Referenced Index Risk. The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Index (or the Index ETFs). This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of companies that comprised the Index or an ETF that tracks the Index, even though it does not.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way. Investors in the Fund will not have the right to receive dividends or other distributions or any other rights with respect to the companies that comprise the Index but will be subject to declines in the performance of the Index.

    Russell 2000 Index Risks. The Index, which consists of small-cap U.S. companies, is particularly susceptible to economic changes, as these firms often have less financial resilience than larger companies. Market volatility can disproportionately affect these smaller businesses, leading to significant price swings. Additionally, these companies are often more exposed to specific industry risks and have less diverse revenue streams. They can also be more vulnerable to changes in domestic regulatory or policy environments.

    Call Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s call writing strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in the positive price returns of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold call options and over longer periods.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying instrument, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings. A high portfolio turnover rate increases transaction costs, which may increase the Fund’s expenses.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of call option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in increases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Call Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, which focuses on an individual security (ARKK, TSLA, AAPL, NVDA, AMZN, META, GOOGL, NFLX, COIN, MSFT, DIS, XOM, JPM, AMD, PYPL, SQ, MRNA, AI, MSTR, Bitcoin ETP, GDX®, SNOW, ABNB, BABA, TSM, SMCI, PLTR, MARA, CVNA, HOOD), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole.

    Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Indirect Investment Risk. The Index is not affiliated with the Trust, the Fund, the Adviser, or their respective affiliates and is not involved with this offering in any way.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GPTY)

    Artificial Intelligence Risk. Issuers engaged in artificial intelligence typically have high research and capital expenditures and, as a result, their profitability can vary widely, if they are profitable at all. The space in which they are engaged is highly competitive and issuers’ products and services may become obsolete very quickly. These companies are heavily dependent on intellectual property rights and may be adversely affected by loss or impairment of those rights. The issuers are also subject to legal, regulatory, and political changes that may have a large impact on their profitability. A failure in an issuer’s product or even questions about the safety of the product could be devastating to the issuer, especially if it is the marquee product of the issuer. It can be difficult to accurately capture what qualifies as an artificial intelligence company.

    Technology Sector Risk. The Fund will invest substantially in companies in the information technology sector, and therefore the performance of the Fund could be negatively impacted by events affecting this sector. Market or economic factors impacting technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technological advances could have a significant effect on the value of the Fund’s investments. The value of stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology is particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in technology product cycles, rapid product obsolescence, government regulation and competition, both domestically and internationally, including competition from foreign competitors with lower production costs. Stocks of information technology companies and companies that rely heavily on technology, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Information technology companies are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect profitability.

    Risk Disclosure (applicable only to MARO)

    Digital Assets Risk: The Fund does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. The Fund does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than the Fund. Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to BABO and TSMY)

    Currency Risk: Indirect exposure to foreign currencies subjects the Fund to the risk that currencies will decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar. Currency rates in foreign countries may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates and the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the U.S. or abroad.

    Depositary Receipts Risk: The securities underlying BABO and TSMY are American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”). Investment in ADRs may be less liquid than the underlying shares in their primary trading market.

    Foreign Market and Trading Risk: The trading markets for many foreign securities are not as active as U.S. markets and may have less governmental regulation and oversight.

    Foreign Securities Risk: Investments in securities of non-U.S. issuers involve certain risks that may not be present with investments in securities of U.S. issuers, such as risk of loss due to foreign currency fluctuations or to political or economic instability, as well as varying regulatory requirements applicable to investments in non-U.S. issuers. There may be less information publicly available about a non-U.S. issuer than a U.S. issuer. Non-U.S. issuers may also be subject to different regulatory, accounting, auditing, financial reporting, and investor protection standards than U.S. issuers.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to GDXY)

    Risk of Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund is exposed indirectly to the securities of foreign issuers selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies. Investments in the securities of foreign issuers involve risks beyond those associated with investments in U.S. securities.

    Risk of Investing in Gold and Silver Mining Companies. The Fund is exposed indirectly to gold and silver mining companies selected by GDX®’s investment adviser, which subjects the Fund to the risks associated with such companies.

    The Fund invests in options contracts based on the value of the VanEck Gold Miners ETF (GDX®), which subjects the Fund to some of the same risks as if it owned GDX®, as well as the risks associated with Canadian, Australian and Emerging Market Issuers, and Small-and Medium-Capitalization companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YBIT)

    YBIT does not invest directly in Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest directly in derivatives that track the performance of Bitcoin or any other digital assets. YBIT does not invest in or seek direct exposure to the current “spot” or cash price of Bitcoin. Investors seeking direct exposure to the price of Bitcoin should consider an investment other than YBIT.

    Bitcoin Investment Risk: The Fund’s indirect investment in Bitcoin, through holdings in one or more Underlying ETPs, exposes it to the unique risks of this emerging innovation. Bitcoin’s price is highly volatile, and its market is influenced by the changing Bitcoin network, fluctuating acceptance levels, and unpredictable usage trends.

    Digital Assets Risk: Digital assets like Bitcoin, designed as mediums of exchange, are still an emerging asset class. They operate independently of any central authority or government backing and are subject to regulatory changes and extreme price volatility. Potentially No 1940 Act Protections. As of the date of this Prospectus, there is only a single eligible Underlying ETP, and it is an investment company subject to the 1940 Act.

    Bitcoin ETP Risk: The Fund invests in options contracts that are based on the value of the Bitcoin ETP. This subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it owned shares of the Bitcoin ETP, even though it does not. Bitcoin ETPs are subject, but not limited, to significant risk and heightened volatility. An investor in a Bitcoin ETP may lose their entire investment. Bitcoin ETPs are not suitable for all investors. In addition, not all Bitcoin ETPs are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Those Bitcoin ETPs that are not registered under such statute are therefore not subject to the same regulations as exchange traded products that are so registered.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to the Short ETFs)

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.

    Price Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the value of the underlying reference asset. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the underlying reference asset, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, the Fund is subject to the risk that the value of the underlying reference asset increases. If the value of the underlying reference asset increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses.

    Put Writing Strategy Risk. The path dependency (i.e., the continued use) of the Fund’s put writing (selling) strategy will impact the extent that the Fund participates in decreases in the value of the underlying reference asset and, in turn, the Fund’s returns, both during the term of the sold put options and over longer periods.

    Purchased OTM Call Options Risk. The Fund’s strategy is subject to potential losses if the underlying reference asset increases in value, which may not be offset by the purchase of out-of-the-money (OTM) call options. The Fund purchases OTM calls to seek to manage (cap) the Fund’s potential losses from the Fund’s short exposure to the underlying reference asset if it appreciates significantly in value. However, the OTM call options will cap the Fund’s losses only to the extent that the value of the underlying reference asset increases to a level that is at or above the strike level of the purchased OTM call options. Any increase in the value of the underlying reference asset to a level that is below the strike level of the purchased OTM call options will result in a corresponding loss for the Fund. For example, if the OTM call options have a strike level that is approximately 100% above the then-current value of the underlying reference asset at the time of the call option purchase, and the value of the underlying reference asset increases by at least 100% during the term of the purchased OTM call options, the Fund will lose all its value. Since the Fund bears the costs of purchasing the OTM calls, such costs will decrease the Fund’s value and/or any income otherwise generated by the Fund’s investment strategy.

    Counterparty Risk. The Fund is subject to counterparty risk by virtue of its investments in options contracts. Transactions in some types of derivatives, including options, are required to be centrally cleared (“cleared derivatives”). In a transaction involving cleared derivatives, the Fund’s counterparty is a clearing house rather than a bank or broker. Since the Fund is not a member of clearing houses and only members of a clearing house (“clearing members”) can participate directly in the clearing house, the Fund will hold cleared derivatives through accounts at clearing members.

    Derivatives Risk. Derivatives are financial instruments that derive value from the underlying reference asset or assets, such as stocks, bonds, or funds (including ETFs), interest rates or indexes. The Fund’s investments in derivatives may pose risks in addition to, and greater than, those associated with directly investing in securities or other ordinary investments, including risk related to the market, imperfect correlation with underlying investments or the Fund’s other portfolio holdings, higher price volatility, lack of availability, counterparty risk, liquidity, valuation and legal restrictions.

    Options Contracts. The use of options contracts involves investment strategies and risks different from those associated with ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The prices of options are volatile and are influenced by, among other things, actual and anticipated changes in the value of the underlying reference asset, including the anticipated volatility, which are affected by fiscal and monetary policies and by national and international political, changes in the actual or implied volatility or the reference asset, the time remaining until the expiration of the option contract and economic events.

    Distribution Risk. As part of the Fund’s investment objective, the Fund seeks to provide current income. There is no assurance that the Fund will make a distribution in any given period. If the Fund does make distributions, the amounts of such distributions will likely vary greatly from one distribution to the next.

    High Portfolio Turnover Risk. The Fund may actively and frequently trade all or a significant portion of the Fund’s holdings.

    Liquidity Risk. Some securities held by the Fund, including options contracts, may be difficult to sell or be illiquid, particularly during times of market turmoil.

    Non-Diversification Risk. Because the Fund is “non-diversified,” it may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of a single issuer or a smaller number of issuers than if it was a diversified fund.

    New Fund Risk. The Fund is a recently organized management investment company with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors do not have a track record or history on which to base their investment decisions.

    Price Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will participate in decreases in value experienced by the underlying reference asset over the Put Period.

    Single Issuer Risk. Issuer-specific attributes may cause an investment in the Fund to be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment which diversifies risk or the market generally. The value of the Fund, for any Fund that focuses on an individual security (e.g., TSLA, COIN, NVDA, MSTR), may be more volatile than a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole and may perform differently from the value of a traditional pooled investment or the market as a whole. Inflation Risk. Inflation risk is the risk that the value of assets or income from investments will be less in the future as inflation decreases the value of money. As inflation increases, the present value of the Fund’s assets and distributions, if any, may decline.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to CHPY)

    Semiconductor Industry Risk. Semiconductor companies may face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, and such competition may have an adverse effect on their profit margins. Semiconductor companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. Semiconductor companies’ supply chain and operations are dependent on the availability of materials that meet exacting standards and the use of third parties to provide components and services.

    The products of semiconductor companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Capital equipment expenditures could be substantial, and equipment generally suffers from rapid obsolescence. Companies in the semiconductor industry are heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights. The loss or impairment of these rights would adversely affect the profitability of these companies.

    Risk Disclosures (applicable only to YQQQ)

    Index Overview. The Nasdaq 100 Index is a benchmark index that includes 100 of the largest non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market, based on market capitalization.

    Index Level Appreciation Risk. As part of the Fund’s synthetic covered put strategy, the Fund purchases and sells call and put option contracts that are based on the Index level. This strategy subjects the Fund to certain of the same risks as if it shorted the Index, even though it does not. By virtue of the Fund’s indirect inverse exposure to changes in the Index level, the Fund is subject to the risk that the Index level increases. If the Index level increases, the Fund will likely lose value and, as a result, the Fund may suffer significant losses. The Fund may also be subject to the following risks: innovation and technological advancement; strong market presence of Index constituent companies; adaptability to global market trends; and resilience and recovery potential.

    Index Level Participation Risk. The Fund employs an investment strategy that includes the sale of put option contracts, which limits the degree to which the Fund will benefit from decreases in the Index level experienced over the Put Period. This means that if the Index level experiences a decrease in value below the strike level of the sold put options during a Put Period, the Fund will likely not experience that increase to the same extent and any Fund gains may significantly differ from the level of the Index losses over the Put Period. Additionally, because the Fund is limited in the degree to which it will participate in decreases in value experienced by the Index level over each Put Period, but has significant negative exposure to any increases in value experienced by the Index level over the Put Period, the NAV of the Fund may decrease over any given period. The Fund’s NAV is dependent on the value of each options portfolio, which is based principally upon the inverse of the performance of the Index level. The Fund’s ability to benefit from the Index level decreases will depend on prevailing market conditions, especially market volatility, at the time the Fund enters into the sold put option contracts and will vary from Put Period to Put Period. The value of the options contracts is affected by changes in the value and dividend rates of component companies that comprise the Index, changes in interest rates, changes in the actual or perceived volatility of the Index and the remaining time to the options’ expiration, as well as trading conditions in the options market. As the Index level changes and time moves towards the expiration of each Put Period, the value of the options contracts, and therefore the Fund’s NAV, will change. However, it is not expected for the Fund’s NAV to directly inversely correlate on a day-to-day basis with the returns of the Index level. The amount of time remaining until the options contract’s expiration date affects the impact that the value of the options contracts has on the Fund’s NAV, which may not be in full effect until the expiration date of the Fund’s options contracts. Therefore, while changes in the Index level will result in changes to the Fund’s NAV, the Fund generally anticipates that the rate of change in the Fund’s NAV will be different than the inverse of the changes experienced by the Index level.

    YieldMax™ ETFs are distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC. Foreside is not affiliated with Tidal Financial Group, or YieldMax™ ETFs.

    © 2025 YieldMax™ ETFs

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Update – Serious crash at Gawler Belt

    Source: New South Wales – News

    A rider has been taken to hospital in a serious condition following a crash at Gawler Belt this afternoon.

    Just before 2.30pm on Wednesday 28 May, police were called to the intersection of Horrocks Highway and Thiele Highway at Gawler Belt after reports a Holden station wagon and Husqvarna motorbike collided.

    The rider, a 66-year-old man from Evanston Park was taken to hospital with serious injuries. The driver of the car, a 53-year-old woman from Morgan was taken to hospital for minor injuries and mandatory blood analysis.

    Major Crash Investigators have attended the scene and investigations are ongoing.

    The road was closed for several hours but has since reopened.

    Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Women’s Rugby World Cup Trophy coming to York

    Source: City of York

    Published Tuesday, 27 May 2025

    Ahead of the Women’s Rugby World Cup, the newly-revealed trophy will be coming to York on Sunday 1 and Monday 2 of June.

    As part of the ‘Trophy Tour’ this summer, a fully branded Land Rover Defender will bring the new trophy into the city, for members of the public to see.

    On Sunday 1 and Monday 2 June the trophy will be displayed on Parliament Square, and during the evening of 2 June it will be taken to York Rugby Club from 6pm to allow local sports teams and organisations to enjoy the visit.

    Welcoming the trophy to the city, Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member for Economy and Culture, said:

    We’re thrilled to be hosting several exciting games as part of the Women’s Rugby World Cup later this summer.

    “Supporting this leg of the Trophy Tour is a great way to continue our amazing year of sport, and a great opportunity to celebrate the recent news that York is one of England’s most active cities. Our residents have shown how much love and support they have for sport, from grassroots all the way through to professional and international level competition”.    

    Interested residents and visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the trophy don’t need to book a space, just turn up at Parliament Square between 10:30am and 3.30pm on 1 June, or between 10am and 3pm on 2 June.

    During August and September York Community Stadium will host six matches, including USA Vs Australia, South Africa Vs Italy and New Zealand Vs Spain.

    Anyone interested in watching any of the Women’s Rugby World Cup games can find more information, and buy tickets, at www.rugbyworldcup.com/2025/en.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: BW Offshore: Acquires FPSO Nganhurra to leverage redeployment opportunities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Acquires FPSO Nganhurra to leverage redeployment opportunities

    BW Offshore has signed an agreement to acquire the FPSO Nganhurra, securing a high-quality production unit in a market where comparable opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. The transaction includes a limited upfront payment, with additional consideration contingent upon the successful redeployment of the unit before June 2027.

    With visible project opportunities emerging over the next few years, having this asset in place enhances our ability to offer timely and competitive redeployment solutions to our clients, strengthening our strategic position relative to industry peers.

    “The acquisition of the FPSO Nganhurra represents a strategic decision to capitalise on a compelling market opportunity. Given the limited availability of suitable FPSOs for redeployment, securing this unit places BW Offshore in a strong, competitive position,” said Marco Beenen, the CEO of BW Offshore.

    The FPSO Nganhurra is a purpose-built FPSO, constructed in 2006, with a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day and a storage capacity of 900,000 barrels. It operated offshore Western Australia until 2018 and was later laid up in Malaysia. The unit’s mooring system supports operation across varied offshore conditions, enhancing flexibility and reducing costs for future redeployment.

    The unit will have minimal lay-up costs and presents limited downside risk from recycling, ensuring prudent capital management while we assess redeployment options.

    For further information, please contact:
    Ståle Andreassen, CFO, +47 91 71 86 55

    IR@bwoffshore.com or www.bwoffshore.com

    About BW Offshore:
    BW Offshore engineers innovative floating production solutions. The Company has a fleet of FPSOs with potential and ambition to grow. By leveraging four decades of offshore operations and project execution, the Company creates tailored offshore energy solutions for evolving markets world-wide. BW Offshore has around 1,100 employees and is publicly listed on the Oslo stock exchange.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: View from the Hill: Liberals and Nationals patch things up and announce a shadow ministry

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

    Two Victorian Liberal women, Jane Hume and Sarah Henderson, have been dumped and a key numbers man has been promoted from the backbench to the shadow cabinet in the new frontbench announced by Coalition leaders Sussan Ley and David Littleproud.

    Hume was the high-profile finance spokeswoman last term and central in the disastrous work-from-home election policy debacle.

    Henderson was shadow education minister, and complained after the election about not being able to get some of her policy out. She said in a statement she was “very disappointed” not to be included in the shadow ministry. “I regret that a number of high performing Liberal women have been overlooked or demoted in the new ministry”.

    Alex Hawke, who was numbers man for Scott Morrison, and has played that role for Ley, becomes shadow minister for industry and innovation as well as manager of opposition business in the House of Representatives.

    The shadow ministry was unveiled after a Nationals party meeting earlier on Wednesday formally signed off on re-forming the Coalition, just over a week after it had dramatically split.

    Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, who defected from the Nationals in a vain hope of becoming deputy Liberal leader, is shadow minister for defence industry, outside the shadow cabinet. Price has lost out by her move – she would have been in the shadow cabinet if she had stayed in the Nationals. She indicated on Wednesday night she would continue to speak widely on issues.

    The post of “government efficiency” that Peter Dutton created for Price has been scrapped.

    As expected, Liberal deputy Ted O’Brien, who carried the nuclear debate for the opposition in the last term, becomes shadow treasurer. The deputy leader has the right to choose their own portfolio.

    Apart from O’Brien, the opposition economic team includes James Paterson in finance, Andrew Bragg in productivity, deregulation and housing, and Tim Wilson in industrial relations, employment and small business.

    This is a promotion for Paterson, considered a good performer on national security issues last term, and a big reward for Wilson for dislodging teal MP Zoe Daniel. There is a partial recount in Wilson’s seat of Goldstein at Daniel’s request, but he is considered safe.

    The opposition’s Senate leader Michaelia Cash receives the plum job of shadow foreign minister, while Angus Taylor, who ran unsuccessfully for leader, becomes shadow defence minister.

    Andrew Hastie, who wanted to move from the defence post, is in home affairs. Hastie decided not to run for leader after the election but is seen as positioning himself for a bid at some point in the future. He told the ABC this week: “Timing is really important in political life”.

    Kerrynne Liddle is shadow minister for Indigenous Australians, as well as having social services. Angie Bell becomes shadow minister for the environment while Dan Tehan is spokesman on energy and emissions reduction.

    Jonathon Duniam becomes education spokesman. Julian Leeser takes over shadow attorney-general, a position he held early last term before he resigned over the Voice.

    The Nationals, who wanted a stronger economic voice, have
    won the position of shadow assistant treasurer, which goes to Pat Conaghan.

    For their part, the Liberals have sliced off part of the infrastructure portfolio, held by the Nationals’ Bridget Mckenzie, to create a new shadow ministry for urban infrastructure and cities, which goes to Queensland senator James McGrath.

    Gisele Kapterian, who as of late Wednesday was only three votes ahead of teal Nicolette Boele for the Sydney seat of Bradfield, will become a shadow assistant minister if she wins.

    For Ley, the shadow frontbench reflects a juggling act of rewarding supporters while seeking to not excessively alienate those who opposed her.

    She was reluctant to be drawn on her dumping of Hume, who supported Taylor in the leadership. “I don’t reflect on private conversations. I will say this; These are tough days and having been through many days like this myself in my parliamentary career, I recognise that.”

    Tensions in the Nationals

    Though the Coalition is back together, ructions within the Nationals are continuing, with the longer-term implications for Littleproud unclear.

    Two former Nationals leaders, Michael McCormack and Barnaby Joyce, have been excluded from frontbench positions. Both had been critical of breaking the Coalition.

    McCormack welcomed the Coalition rejoining, but said “we should never have been apart”. Of his exclusion from the frontbench, he told reporter in his home city of Wagga Wagga, “I’m disappointed, but life goes on”.

    Nationals Colin Boyce, from Queensland, attacked Littleproud on Wednesday saying, “How can you support a bloke who misled the party room?” Boyce, speaking on Sky, said the party room had not been told “the whole truth about the conversations, the letters, the little extras that were demanded”.

    It was later revealed Littleproud had asked for Nationals shadow ministry to have freedom to freelance on policy. This was rejected by Ley, which Littleproud then accepted.

    The Coalition now faces a defining coming battle over whether to stay committed to the target of reducing emissions to net zero by 2050.

    Joyce – under whom the Nationals signed up to net zero – flagged he would push for change.

    He said net zero was a disaster for the economy and the environment, and most importantly for “poor people because they can’t afford their power bills”.

    Nationals senator Matt Canavan, who ran for the leadership against Littleproud, is a constant campaigner against net zero.

    Hastie this week described net zero as “a straitjacket that I’m already getting out of”.

    Ley was confident she and Littleproud could work well together. “Personally, David and I will be friends. I think a woman who got her start in the shearing sheds of western Queensland can always find something to talk about over a steak and a beer, David, with you, the person who represents those communities now.”

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

    – ref. View from the Hill: Liberals and Nationals patch things up and announce a shadow ministry – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-liberals-and-nationals-patch-things-up-and-announce-a-shadow-ministry-257335

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: SCIO organizes media trip to Chongqing and Hubei

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

    SCIO organizes media trip to Chongqing and Hubei

    China SCIO | May 28, 2025

    From May 18 to 23, the State Council Information Office (SCIO) organized a media trip to China’s Chongqing municipality and Hubei province. The journalist group attended press briefings there and visited enterprises, ports, logistics parks, and other sites, observing the high-quality development of the Yangtze River Economic Belt.

    The journalists included foreign correspondents from the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Switzerland, Australia, Singapore, Indonesia, Iraq, Qatar, and Japan.

    Reporters watch a drone light show in Chongqing, May 18, 2025. [Photo by Liu Jian/China SCIO]

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: The UK, the Netherlands, Egypt and Saudi Arabia among likely winners in the changing world order

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Global Business Complexity Index (GBCI) studies over 250 indicators of complexity in 79 jurisdictions that represent 94% of the world’s GDP. The complexity that the report measures is a dead-weight burden on business that stifles local innovation and deters foreign direct investment with no obvious societal benefit. The report has consistently shown that countries in Southern Europe and Latin America are the most complex for doing business and that continues to be true in 2025. At the other end of the scale, the least complex places to do business tend to be in Northern Europe and several of the offshore investment hubs. These all compete for investment on the basis of the ease of doing business there and have adopted less onerous requirements, as well as more efficient ways for firms to manage them.

    The report notes that complexity is relatively straightforward to navigate, at least for larger multinationals able to absorb the cost of complying with local rules. What is much harder to deal with is uncertainty. US-led sanctions, lockdowns in China and the Suez blockage had already begun a shift in globalisation towards more diversified supply chains, with companies seeking to reduce their reliance on single countries for sourcing, building or selling their products. A part of that solution noted in last year’s report was the rise of connector economies like Mexico, Philippines and Vietnam, bridging trade between China and the US in the so-called ‘China plus one’ strategy. That strategy has now fallen foul of US tariffs, set to reflect a country’s trade surplus in goods with the US and so punishing countries with connector status.

    Even if tariffs abate, their launch and rapid shifts point to an underlying risk for companies trading from countries with a high US trade surplus. The report notes a drop in confidence in stability, with the majority of jurisdictions (55%) reporting prioritisation of trade corridor diversity. It identifies a number of countries that might now emerge as the new connectors — with low levels of complexity pointing to business-friendly rules, a low US trade surplus pointing to less likely retaliatory action, a reasonable size and sophistication of economy to support a variety of activity at scale and absorb investment without tipping heavily into US trade surplus, and a multipolar stance that should allow them to trade across different blocs. Those countries include the UK and the Netherlands in Europe, Egypt and Saudi Arabia in the Middle East and Australia and Hong Kong in Asia Pacific.

    The report finally notes that at a time of great uncertainty for global trade — and in particular, trade with the US — governments should focus on making their countries less complex places to do business whilst seeking trade agreements across different blocs to encourage cross-investment. It also notes that companies will need to further diversify their supply chains. That will add to their internal complexity and costs. At the same time, companies can help themselves by simplifying their arrangements for managing those supply chains, with many having excessive numbers of legal entities for their geographic scope along with large numbers of suppliers to help manage them.

    TMF Group’s CEO Mark Weil, said:

    “The real challenge for businesses today isn’t complexity, it’s uncertainty. With rising trade tensions, a shifting geopolitical landscape and economic unpredictability, companies are forced to make decisions in an environment that can change overnight. Tariffs are just the latest signal of the risks of supply chain concentration. Diversification is a necessity in this context, although it comes with a cost. The good news is that businesses can offset some of the complexities of diversification by reducing their own internal intricacies. Our benchmarking reveals stark differences in structural complexity among similar firms. We see an opportunity here: by simplifying their structures and support models — for example, by having fewer legal entities and a few trusted global partners — businesses can gain flexibility. Done right, this can improve efficiency and agility as firms navigate an uncertain world.”

    Media Contacts
    Marina Llibre Martin, Global PR Manager
    marina.llibremartin@tmf-group.com

    The MIL Network –