NewzIntel.com

Category: Banking

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s message to the United Nations-Organization of Islamic Cooperation Conference on the Question of Jerusalem

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    I thank the United Nations Committee on the Exercise of the Inalienable Rights of the Palestinian People and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for co-organizing this conference.

    I salute Senegal for hosting — a powerful example of African solidarity with the Palestinian people.

    You come together at a time when Palestinian suffering has reached new heights and hopes for a just and lasting solution have reached new depths. 

    Following the terror attacks by Hamas and other Palestinian armed groups on 7 October 2023 — which I have unequivocally condemned — the Israeli military operations have created a humanitarian crisis of horrific proportions, more dire today than at any point in this long and brutal crisis.

    It is time for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza. The immediate and unconditional release of all hostages in a dignified manner. Full, safe and sustained humanitarian access.

    UNRWA’s mandated role in supporting Palestinian refugees must be respected.

    And obligations under international humanitarian law and Security Council resolutions must also be respected.

    Meanwhile, the situation in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, is in freefall.
    This year alone, over 150 Palestinians, including over 20 children, were killed in the occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem, in Israeli security forces operations, attacks by settlers and other incidents.

    Armed Israeli settler violence has surged, with many Palestinians killed, including sometimes in the proximity — and with the support — of Israeli security forces.

    Since early 2025, tens of thousands of Palestinians have been forced to flee by Israeli security forces operations.

    Illegal settlement expansion, large-scale land seizures and demolitions of Palestinian-owned structures continue unabated.

    Israel’s policies in East Jerusalem, including restrictions on Palestinian access and worship, are deeply troubling.

    Jerusalem — Al-Quds — holds a unique place in the hearts of millions of Muslims, Jews and Christians around the world.

    What happens in Jerusalem — including continued provocations and incitements to violence — reverberates globally.

    The position of the United Nations is clear:

    The status of Jerusalem cannot be altered by unilateral actions, including settlement activities in occupied East Jerusalem.

    It can only be resolved through negotiations between the parties.

    Jerusalem’s demographic and historical character must be preserved.

    Respecting and upholding the status quo at the Holy Sites is essential.

    The International Court of Justice, in its Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024, affirmed that Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem and Gaza, is unlawful.

    Israel has an obligation to bring an end to its presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory as rapidly as possible.
    The only realistic, just, and sustainable path is the two-State solution, with Israel and an independent, democratic, contiguous, viable and sovereign Palestinian State, with Gaza as an integral part — living side by side in peace within secure, recognized pre-1967 borders, and with Jerusalem as the capital of both States.

    The two-State solution remains the only framework rooted in international law, endorsed by numerous General Assembly resolutions, and supported by the international community.  

    This conference offers a timely platform to mobilize collective efforts towards this solution, and the just and lasting peace that Palestinians and Israelis deserve.  

    Now is the time to choose the path of peace.

    For Palestinians. For Israelis. For the people of the Middle East and the world. 

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Live Oak Bancshares, Inc. Announces Date of Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WILMINGTON, N.C., July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Live Oak Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: LOB) today announced that it will report its second quarter 2025 financial results after U.S. financial markets close on Wednesday, July 23, 2025.

    In conjunction with this announcement, Live Oak will host a conference call to discuss the company’s financial results and business outlook on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. ET.

    The call will be accessible by telephone and webcast using Conference ID: 25229. A supplementary slide presentation will be posted to the website prior to the event, and a replay will be available for 12 months following the event.

    The conference call details are as follows:

    Live Telephone Dial-In
    U.S.: 800.549.8228
    International: +1 646.564.2877
    Pass Code: None Required

    Live Webcast Log-In
    Webcast Link: investor.liveoakbank.com
    Registration: Name and Email Required
    Multi-Factor Code: Provided After Registration

    About Live Oak Bancshares
    Live Oak Bancshares, Inc. (NYSE: LOB) is a financial holding company and parent company of Live Oak Bank. Live Oak Bancshares and its subsidiaries partner with businesses that share a groundbreaking focus on service and technology to redefine banking. To learn more, visit liveoakbank.com. 

    Contacts:
    Walter J. Phifer | CFO
    910.202.6929

    Claire Parker | Investor Relations
    910.597.1592

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA consults to amend its technical standards on own funds and eligible liabilities

    Source: European Banking Authority

    The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched a public consultation to amend the EU Delegated Regulation on own funds and eligible liabilities. The proposed key amendment is the shortening of the timeframe to process the applications to reduce own funds and eligible liabilities instruments under the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR), with the aim of simplifying processes. The consultation runs until 9 October 2025.

    Leveraging on the experience that competent and resolution authorities have gained during the past few years, and to allow institutions more flexibility in their capital planning, the EBA is proposing to shorten the timeframe to process the applications to reduce own funds and eligible liabilities instruments from four to three months. The initiative is in line with the EBA’s commitment in 2021 to monitor how the submission and assessment of applications is implemented in practice. In addition, the simplified procedure for the reduction of MREL eligible liabilities for liquidation entities is removed from the RTS, in line with recent amendments of the Level 1 text. 

    Consultation process

    Responses to the consultation can be sent to the EBA by clicking on the “Submit response” button on the consultation page.

    All contributions received will be published after the consultation closes, unless requested otherwise. The deadline for the submission of comments is 9 October 2025.

    A public hearing on this consultation will take place via conference call on 2 September 2025 from 9:00 to 10:00 CEST. Deadline for registration is 28 August 2025 at 16:00 CEST.

    Legal basis and background

    The 2021 update of the RTS on own funds and eligible liabilities instruments, among other changes, extended the timeframe to reduce own funds and eligible liabilities instruments from three to four months. The extension was necessary to cater for the more complex assessment that competent and resolution authorities needed to undertake.

    The industry considered the four-month timeline too long in 2021 and the EBA committed to monitoring the implementation. As a result of the monitoring, in 2024, the EBA considered that competent and resolution authorities had gained the necessary experience and were able to process applications within a shorter period. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • SEBI bars Jane Street over alleged Bank Nifty manipulation

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Jane Street has been barred from the Indian securities market by its markets regulator, which has said the U.S. firm used its trading strategies to “manipulate” a key stock market index, leading to losses for millions of retail investors, allegations Jane Street has rejected.

    WHAT EXACTLY IS SEBI ACCUSING JANE STREET OF DOING?

    The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in its interim order said Jane Street accumulated large volumes of constituent stocks of the Bank Nifty index, which comprises the 12 top Indian bank stocks, in the cash and futures markets, thus pushing up the index prices.

    Simultaneously, Jane Street took short positions in the derivatives segment by buying cheap “put” options and selling expensive “call” options linked to the Bank Nifty, the regulator said.

    The SEBI order said that during the second half of most days in which Jane Street’s positions were studied, the U.S. firm reversed the first leg of its trade, selling the constituents in the cash and futures markets, thereby pushing down the price of the index and its constituents.

    This, in turn, led to a rise in value for the “put” options and a drop in value for “call” options, earning Jane Street large profits, which outweighed any losses that were incurred during the first leg of the trade.

    SEBI said this trading pattern created “a false or misleading appearance of market activity” and attracted “unsuspecting” investors to trade at levels that were “artificial and temporary”.

    WHAT IS JANE STREET SAYING ABOUT ITS INDIA TRADING STRATEGY?

    Jane Street, in an internal email to its employees, said the activities in question were what is known as an “arbitrage trade”, which is commonly used by large trading firms in financial markets.

    In an arbitrage trade, firms simultaneously buy and sell the same asset in different markets and pocket the profits from the difference in prices.

    In its internal memo, Jane Street argued there was a large gap between the price of the Bank Nifty index in the options markets and the price implied by the level at which the stocks were trading. This divergence, it said, was clearly observed and Jane Street traded in a direction consistent with closing that gap.

    Arbitrage trading is legal in India.

    WHAT FACTORS WERE CRUCIAL TO JANE STREET’S INDIA STRATEGY?

    According to details in the SEBI order, the first is size.

    In the first leg of the trade, where Jane Street was buying shares of constituents of the Bank Nifty Index, it was doing so in volumes large enough to move the index.

    Its trades made up 15%-25% of the entire market’s traded value in the constituents of the banking index, SEBI said.

    The second is the distortions between the cash and derivative markets in India.

    India’s derivatives-to-cash market ratio in terms of volume is the highest in the world, SEBI said. In 2024, this ratio was 400 times.

    In its order, SEBI highlighted Jane Street’s trading activities on January 17, 2024 – one of the trading days under investigation – saying the U.S. firm traded roughly $1.2 trillion (103 trillion rupees) worth of cash-settled options on the Nifty Bank index.

    That amount equates to roughly 353 times the trading volumes of the bank stocks in the index.

    WHO ARE THE LOSERS IN INDIA’S DERIVATIVES MARKET?

    Proprietary trading giants such as Jane Street have made hefty profits from India’s derivatives market, which accounts for roughly 61% of equity options contracts that are currently traded worldwide, according to data from the Futures Industry Association.

    In the 12 months to March 2024, proprietary traders and foreign investors made gross profits of 330 billion rupees and 280 billion rupees, respectively, a SEBI study in September 2024 showed.

    During that same period, retail traders lost 524 billion rupees.

    On Monday, SEBI said retail investor losses on derivative trades widened by 41% to 1.06 trillion rupees in the subsequent year. It did not blame proprietary traders for the widening losses of retail investors and nor did it provide fresh data on gains made by proprietary traders.

    WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS FOR JANE STREET AND SEBI?

    SEBI has seized $567 million of Jane Street’s funds, equivalent to the amount of what it calls “unlawful gains”.

    The U.S. firm can deposit that amount and regain access to the Indian markets. It also has 21 days to file its reply or any objections to the order, and can also challenge the order judicially via the Securities Appellate Tribunal.

    SEBI, meanwhile, is working on a final order and also expanding its investigation into Jane Street’s trade on indexes other than the Bank Nifty.

    -Reuters

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today held a bilateral meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay, Mario Lubetkin, on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They discussed ways to enhance ASEAN- Uruguay cooperation, following Uruguay’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uruguay appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Somerset Trust Holding Company to OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Somerset Trust Holding Company (OTCQX: SOME) (the “Company”), the holding company of Somerset Trust Company, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Somerset Trust Holding Company upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Somerset Trust Holding Company begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “SOME.”  U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the Company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    The OTCQX Market enables companies to demonstrate the value of being a public company by providing transparent trading and easy access to company information for shareholders. To qualify for OTCQX, community banks must meet high financial standards, follow best practices in corporate governance, and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    Monroe Financial Partners Inc. is acting as the Company’s corporate broker.

    About Somerset Trust Holding Company
    Somerset Trust Holding Company (OTCQX: SOME) (the “Company”), the holding company of Somerset Trust Company (the “Bank”), is headquartered in Somerset, Pennsylvania. The Bank is a state-chartered bank, which has an expansive network of branches throughout southwestern Pennsylvania, northern Maryland, and northern Virginia and offers a variety of consumer and commercial lending and deposit products, together with trust and investment management services, an extensive ATM network, and online and mobile banking for consumers and businesses. The Company’s and the Bank’s revenues are derived from a variety of sources, including the Bank’s portfolio of residential real estate, commercial mortgage and commercial and consumer loans, investment and trust services, and securities portfolio.

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market, OTCID™ Basic Market and Pink Limited™ Market. Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATS™ are each SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC. To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Westminster’s green makeover: £500,000 funding boost for public spaces | Westminster City Council

    Source: City of Westminster

    Westminster City Council has selected 16 local projects to receive funding through its Greening Westminster grants programme — a community-led initiative to make the city’s public spaces greener, healthier, and more welcoming. 
     
    This year, almost £500,000 has been awarded to a range of local groups and partner organisations to deliver green projects in parks, on highways and housing estates.   

    From tree planting and pollinator-friendly flowers to edible gardens and greener play areas, the chosen projects showcase a creative, community-driven approach to bring more nature into Westminster’s built-up urban environment. 

     The Greening Westminster programme is a key part of the Council’s Fairer Westminster strategy, which helps improve the environment and supports communities to make positive changes in their neighbourhoods. The programme also aims to give residents greater access to high-quality green spaces that benefit their health and wellbeing.  

     Projects include:  

    • The Onion Garden (Victoria): Adding more plants and wildlife features to a popular community garden.
    • Charfield Court in Bloom  (Amberley Estate): Residents are adding greenery to their housing estate.
    • Covent Garden Playground: Making the playground greener with plants and showcasing a sustainable approach
    • University of Westminster: Improving green spaces on campus and along Marylebone Road.
    • North Paddington Food Bank – The Roots Garden Kitchen: Creating a garden to grow food for the community by the community.  
    • Parish of St Marylebone: Turning church gardens into greener, more welcoming public spaces.
    • Paddington Now BID: Putting up flower baskets with pollinator-friendly plants on Eastbourne Terrace. 

    Cllr Geoff Barraclough, Westminster City Council Cabinet Member for Planning and Economic Development, said:  

    “We’re proud to support these inspiring community-led projects that will help make Westminster greener, healthier, and more welcoming for everyone.  

    “By working together with local groups, we’re transforming public spaces into vibrant places that bring people closer to nature and to each other, which is part of our Fairer Environment commitment.” 

    For more information and a full list of funded projects, visit: 
    www.westminster.gov.uk/greening-westminster 

    ENDS 

    • The Council received 20 applications for its Greening Westminster grants programme and approved 16  
    • Since 2017, Greening Westminster has supported 51 projects across Westminster  

    The 16 recipients who have successfully been awarded funding: 

    Walterton and Elgin Community Homes (WECH) 
    Parish of St Marylebone
    Covent Garden Playground
    St Augustine’s School
    St Barnabas Church
    St Stephens Church 
    North Paddington food bank
    The Onion Garden
    University of Westminster
    Stone Wharf Gardens
    Charfield Court Resident Group – Amberley Estate 
    Grosvenor Residents Association – Edric House
    Hallfield Estate
    Oldham’s Walk
    Community 4 All – Lydford Hall garden

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), the Insurance Authority (IA) and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority (MPFA) today (July 9) announced the launch of the Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0 (the Charter 3.0). This joint effort is fully supported by the Consumer Council, the Hong Kong Association of Banks, the Hong Kong Police Force, and the Office of the Communications Authority.

    Building on the success of the Charters 1.0 and 2.0, launched in 2023 and 2024 respectively, the Charter 3.0 represents a significant step forward in anti-scam actions by establishing a collaborative framework between financial regulators and technology firms and telecommunications firms in combatting financial fraud and scams targeting the Hong Kong public. The Charter 3.0 introduces six key principles (see Annex), focusing on the reporting of suspected financial fraud and scams, checking of advertisers, internal monitoring processes, enforcement of terms of service, and collaboration on public education and awareness.

    During the launch event, executives from financial regulators, technology firms and telecommunications firms engaged in productive discussions on the latest trends of financial fraud and scams as well as their collaborative efforts for the common purpose of combatting such fraud and scams. 

    The Chief Executive of the HKMA, Mr Eddie Yue, said, “The fight against financial fraud and scams and to protect the public requires a united front, bringing together the public and private sectors, as well as the community at large. The Charter 3.0 represents a significant milestone in this endeavour, harnessing the collective strength of the financial, technology, and telecommunications industries to better safeguard the public.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of the SFC, Ms Julia Leung, added, “The Charter 3.0 is a meaningful step forward, bringing in major technology and telecommunications companies to join the fight against online scams. It is our shared responsibility to disrupt these threats at their source. This initiative not only echoes global governments and regulators’ call to action but also positions Hong Kong as a leader in safeguarding the financial world’s digital future. Together, we are building a safer, more responsible online landscape that prioritises vigilance, collaboration, and public trust.”

    The Chief Executive Officer of the IA, Mr Clement Cheung, said, “The Charter 3.0 represents the outcome of collaborative efforts made by key stakeholders in forging a robust and resilient alliance to prevent financial fraud and scams. The IA will leverage on this platform to strengthen public education and empower policy holders so that they can safeguard effectively against the increasingly sophisticated plots concocted by swindlers.”

    The Managing Director of the MPFA, Mr Cheng Yan-chee, said, “MPF is the valuable retirement reserve accumulated by the working population. The MPFA will not tolerate any fraudulent activities that undermine their retirement savings in MPF. We are pleased to see financial regulators, enforcement agencies and relevant organisations together with major technology and telecommunications companies under the Charter 3.0 stepping up efforts in combatting scams and enhancing anti-scam awareness in the community. We urge the working population to stay vigilant and join hands with us by proactively reporting suspected scams to safeguard their MPF interests.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Roadside skips

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is a question by the Hon Chan Pui-leung and a reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (July 9):

    Question:

    There are views that roadside skips unlawfully occupying public roads not only affects the safety of road users, but also poses environmental hygiene problems. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the information on the enforcement actions taken by the Hong Kong Police Force and the Lands Department against roadside skips in the past five years, including the number of complaints or referrals received, the number of statutory notices posted or warnings issued to operators, as well as the number of skips removed; among them, the number of cases in which prosecutions were instituted and the number of convicted cases, as well as the relevant penalties imposed;

    (2) of the current utilisation situations of the four sites made available for use by the trade for storing skips; as the Government indicated in its reply to a question raised by this Council in May 2023 that the skip storage site in Tseung Kwan O Area 137 would become part of the new community, and that the Government would make arrangements in due course, of the progress of the relevant arrangements, including whether alternative sites will be identified for the operation of the skips trade; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (3) as there are views that the regulation of roadside skips involves a number of government departments, whether the Government will consider assigning a designated department to take full responsibility so as to improve enforcement efficiency; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

    Construction waste is generated from construction sites, buildings under maintenance and shops under renovation, which is then transported to landfills or public fill banks for handling. Before skips emerged in the market, most construction waste from construction and renovation sites were piled up at roadside before it was collected for delivery. This not only affected the environmental hygiene, but also caused nuisance to residents and pedestrians, and even affected the road safety. Skips could store relatively large quantity of waste, in particular, construction waste. Using skips can avoid waste being placed everywhere and help maintain a clean and hygienic environment and road safety. It also helps the construction and renovation industry handle construction waste in a neat and orderly way.

    Skips are primarily placed at site of use, such as construction sites, renovation sites, shopping malls, housing estates and designated locations nearby, to collect construction waste generated by construction or renovation works in the buildings nearby. Skips that are not being used need to be stored. According to the result of a questionnaire survey with the trade, there are about 1 500 roadside skips in Hong Kong. Among these, about half of them need to be stored while there is only storage space for 330 skips on four pieces of land provided. Under such a circumstance, some skip operators may place the skips at roadside or other improper locations.

    Management of skips involves various bureaux and departments. Through the Joint Working Group on Management of Roadside Skips (Working Group), the Government coordinates the work on enhancing management of roadside skips among the Environment and Ecology Bureau, the Development Bureau, the Transport and Logistics Bureau, the Environmental Protection Department, the Lands Department (LandsD), the Transport Department, the Highways Department, the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department, and the Home Affairs Department. Since skips placed on at roadside is also a problem of district concern, the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration also looks into this problem with the bureaux and departments concerned through inter-departmental meetings. 

    In response to the question raised by the Hon Chan Pui-leung, in consultation with the HKPF and the LandsD, a consolidated reply is as follows:

    (1) Currently, the HKPF handles complaints involving roadside skips in accordance with the Summary Offences Ordinance (Cap. 228). Over the past five years, the HKPF has received a total of 5 913 complaints about skips. Police officers will, in light of the circumstances at the scene, make assessments and issue advice and/or warnings to the skip operators concerned if found. In most cases, the operators would remove the skips on their own within hours after receiving the advice and/or warning, with five cases requiring the HKPF to engage contractors to remove the skips. A total of 18 cases were prosecuted under police summons and were convicted. The convicted persons were fined between $300 and $9,000 by the court.

    Over the past five years, the LandsD has received a total of 3 674 complaints concerning skips. Among these complaints, 3 per cent were referred by other departments (including the HKPF), and the other 97 per cent were lodged by the public. Within two working days upon receiving a complaint or referral, the LandsD will conduct an on-site inspection and post a notice according to Section 6 of the Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Ordinance (Cap. 28) requiring the person concerned to remove the skip and to stop occupying the government land before the specified deadline no less than one clear day, otherwise it will be removed by the LandsD’s contractor. Over the past five years, the LandsD has removed a total of 27 skips, with the remaining removed by relevant persons on their own before the deadlines.

    (2)  As mentioned above, there are about 1 500 skips in Hong Kong. Considering factors such as job rotations, the trade estimates that about 600 to 700 idling skips would require space for storage each day. At present, the Government has provided four sites to the trade for storage of idling skips through short-term tenancy mechanism. These sites are located at Pak Shing Kok, an area next to the Tseung Kwan O Area 137 (TKO 137) Fill Bank, Siu Lang Shui in Tuen Mun, and adjacent to Tsing Nam Street in Tsing Yi respectively, altogether providing storage space for a total of 330 skips. The site at Pak Shing Kok can store about 110 skips; the site next to the TKO 137 Fill Bank can store about 120 skips; the site at Siu Lang Shui in Tuen Mun can store about 80 skips; and the site at Tsing Nam Street in Tsing Yi can store about 20 skips.

    To tie in with the future residential development of TKO 137, according to the current development timetable, the site leased to the trade under short-term tenancy for storing skips is expected to be returned in the second quarter of 2026 the earliest. Meanwhile, the Government has completed the open tendering process for a site at Tsing Chau Wan on Lantau Island, which is initially expected to accommodate approximately 100 skips and to be awarded within this year. To further improve the situation that some skip operators placed their skips at roadside or other improper locations, the Working Group also strives to find more suitable sites for skip storage by the trade through short-term tenancy tenders.

    (3) The management of roadside skips involves works of different departments and various pieces of legislation. Hence, the Government has its reason and need to coordinate relevant departments’ work through the Working Group. The Government is adopting a multipronged approach and looking for more effective ways to improve the problem of improper placement of skips. At the current stage, the Government focuses on enhancing enforcement on illegally placed skips that pose safety risk to road users. 

    Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: “We want to enable digital progress”

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    In his speech in Berlin, Branson emphasised that technologies with huge disruptive potential such as distributed ledger technology, artificial intelligence and quantum computing are developing at a rapid pace. This presents great opportunities for companies in the financial sector, he noted. Quantum computers, for example, could massively boost the efficiency of artificial intelligence systems. “A really fascinating combination,” he said.

    At the same time, Branson cautioned, new technologies harbour considerable risks. Quantum computers could undermine established encryption technologies, and AI could exacerbate unfair discrimination, for example. The spread of cryptoassets could create dangerous feedback loops affecting the traditional financial system. “We cannot ignore these risks. In the worst-case scenario, they could impact the entire financial system,” he warned.

    In light of this, BaFin strives to maintain the right balance between innovation and stability. Branson explained: “We want digital innovation. Today it´s the foundation of a strong, competitive financial sector – and only a strong, competitive financial sector can remain robust.” Innovation is therefore firmly anchored in BaFin’s strategic objectives for the years 2026 to 2029. At the same time, Branson added, BaFin is mandated to pursue the goal of ensuring the proper functioning, stability and integrity of the financial system. This is also reflected in BaFin’s strategic objectives.

    BaFin therefore scrutinises digital technologies and new business models carefully, Branson said. “We want to enable digital progress while ensuring the proper functioning, stability and integrity of the financial system. That is our guiding principle.” Branson emphasised that cooperation is needed in order to seize the opportunities of digital change in a responsible manner. “This is our shared responsibility.”

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: BaFin warns consumers about the website mega-platz.pro

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The Federal Financial Supervisory Authority (BaFin) warns consumers about the company MegaPlatz and the services it is offering. BaFin suspects the unknown operators of the website mega-platz.pro of offering consumers financial, investment and cryptoasset services without the required authorisation.

    The content of the website is identical to other platforms that BaFin has previously warned consumers about and that display the same opening sentence: “Upgrade Your Trading With…”.

    BaFin is issuing this information on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG) and section 10 (7) of the German Cryptomarkets Supervision Act (Kryptomärkteaufsichtsgesetz).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin, the German Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt – BKA) and the German state criminal police offices (Landeskriminalämter) recommend that consumers seeking to invest money online should exercise the utmost caution and do the necessary research beforehand in order to identify fraud attempts at an early stage.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar, Kyaw Nyun Oo, at the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They exchanged views on the follow-up to the 46th ASEAN Summit, particularly on ways to advance ASEAN Community-building efforts.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Myanmar appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – Support measures for the European fertiliser industry – E-001698/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    Fertilisers are highly tradeable internationally and the EU is dependent on imports for most of the inputs they require. Exogeneous developments, such as spikes of natural gas prices or tightening of global supply for phosphatic fertilisers, have a strong impact on production costs.

    The Commission is currently undertaking several initiatives to support the European industry, among which the action plan for Affordable Energy[1] that will benefit energy-intensive industries. In addition, the President of the Commission announced a dedicated action plan for the EU chemical industry[2].

    The Common Agricultural Policy[3] supports the improvement of nutrient management, that includes the substitution of mineral with bio-based fertilisers, closing nutrient loops and therefore reducing dependencies. Such actions are planned for 15.5% of EU farming area by 2027[4].

    A Fertiliser Market Observatory[5] was also established to improve market transparency and monitoring. Fertilisers availability and affordability in the EU improved in 2024, driven by increased nitrogen fertilisers production and lower prices.

    The Commission is currently exploring the simplification potential for rules on EU fertilising products[6], including possible disproportionate burden on small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

    Furthermore, SMEs can seek financial support from different EU programmes, like the EU Innovation Fund[7] and the European Hydrogen Bank[8].

    • [1] eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:52025DC0079.
    • [2] https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/el/read_25_1198.
    • [3] Regulation (EU) 2021/2115 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 2 December 2021 establishing rules on support for strategic plans to be drawn up by Member States under the common agricultural policy (CAP Strategic Plans) and financed by the European Agricultural Guarantee Fund (EAGF) and by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) and repealing Regulations (EU) No 1305/2013 and (EU) No 1307/2013, OJ L435, 6.12.2021.
    • [4] https://agridata.ec.europa.eu/extensions/DashboardCapPlan/result_indicators.html#.
    • [5] https://agriculture.ec.europa.eu/data-and-analysis/markets/overviews/market-observatories/fertilisers_en.
    • [6] Regulation (EU) 2019/ of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 June 2019 laying down rules on the making available on the market of EU fertilising products and amending Regulations (EC) No 1069/2009 and (EC) No 1107/2009 and repealing Regulation (EC) No 2003/2003, https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32019R1009.
    • [7] https://climate.ec.europa.eu/eu-action/eu-funding-climate-action/innovation-fund/what-innovation-fund_en.
    • [8] https://eur-lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/HTML/?uri=CELEX:52023DC0156.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Written question – Housing emergency in Italy for vulnerable groups and students – E-002620/2025

    Source: European Parliament

    Question for written answer  E-002620/2025
    to the Commission
    Rule 144
    Valentina Palmisano (The Left)

    In Italy, a worsening housing emergency is severely affecting vulnerable households, individuals with disabilities, people struggling socio-economically and university students. Despite the use of EU resources (National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF)), many municipalities are reporting delays to public housing and urban regeneration projects, with particularly serious effects in the south.

    At the same time, the right to study is being severely undermined by the high cost of renting: in the main Italian university cities, average rent for a single room exceeds EUR 600, making attending university increasingly less accessible to people from low-income families.

    In the light of these problems:

    • 1.What is the state of play of the NRRP-funded university housing programme and what steps have been planned to ensure it has been implemented in full by June 2026?
    • 2.What steps will be taken to ensure that European Investment Bank and cohesion policy funds have a tangible impact on housing supply in towns and cities experiencing high housing pressure, and is a social impact assessment being planned?
    • 3.Why are municipalities not fully involved in the affordable housing initiative decision-making processes, and will their operational and financial role be stepped up?

    Submitted: 30.6.2025

    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Answer to a written question – EU response to the Israeli Government’s announcement of 22 new illegal settlements in the occupied West Bank – P-002180/2025(ASW)

    Source: European Parliament

    The EU condemns the Israeli government’s decisions to further expand illegal settlements across the occupied West Bank and urges Israel to reverse these decisions[1]. In line with the EU’s commitment to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 and recalling that settlements are illegal under international law, constitute an obstacle to peace and threaten to make a two-state solution impossible, the EU reiterates its strong opposition to Israel’s settlement policy and actions taken in this context.

    In its Advisory Opinion of 19 July 2024, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) concluded, inter alia, that the State of Israel is under an obligation to cease immediately all new settlement activities, and to evacuate all settlers from the Occupied Palestinian Territory. The EU urges Israel to implement orders of the ICJ.

    In light of the untenable situation in Gaza due to the humanitarian blockade, and the deteriorating situation in the occupied West Bank, the High Representative/Vice-President has launched a review of Israel’s compliance with Article 2 of the EU-Israel Association Agreement[2]. Based on the review, it will be decided what further action, if any, to take.

    • [1] https://www.consilium.europa.eu/media/qa3lblga/euco-conclusions-27062024-en.pdf.
    • [2] https://eeas.europa.eu/archives/delegations/israel/documents/eu_israel/asso_agree_en.pdf.
    Last updated: 9 July 2025

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Mobile Mining Debuts on LBank with Revolutionary App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — If you asked a crypto investor in 2018 whether mobile mining would ever be a thing, most would have laughed. Fast forward to 2025, and not only is it real, it’s live, global, and profitable thanks to Bitcoin Solaris. The long-awaited Solaris Nova App has officially debuted alongside the token’s upcoming listing on LBank, bringing with it a completely reimagined way to mine crypto.

    In a world where most mining is still monopolized by expensive rigs and massive electricity bills, Bitcoin Solaris is flipping the game on its head. The goal is clear: make mining accessible, eco-friendly, and incredibly profitable for anyone.

    The LBank Listing: Why It Matters for Miners

    LBank is one of the fastest-growing centralized exchanges catering to early-stage altcoins and breakout tokens. Bitcoin Solaris’s listing there is more than a visibility boost. It’s a liquidity moment for miners and holders alike. The listing solidifies BTC-S’s legitimacy and enables real-time conversion from mined tokens to stablecoins or other assets. That means every token mined through your device or laptop suddenly becomes more than a number on a screen, it becomes accessible capital.

    LBank’s integration also simplifies wallet transfers and paves the way for mass adoption through mobile platforms. Whether you’re mining from a basic Android phone or a high-end gaming rig, the upcoming LBank listing turns your BTC-S into liquid gold.

    Meet the Solaris Nova App: Mobile Mining, Reimagined

    The Solaris Nova App is the centerpiece of Bitcoin Solaris’s Universal Mining model. It’s not just another mining program, it’s an entire ecosystem packaged into one simple interface. The app supports Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and even browser-based mining.

    Key features include:

    • One-tap mining functionality with built-in wallet support
    • Adaptive algorithms that calibrate for energy efficiency
    • Support for smartphones, laptops, and professional mining rigs
    • In-app tutorials for beginners and advanced customization for experts
    • 99.95% lower energy consumption than traditional Bitcoin mining
    • 2-second transaction finality powered by dual-consensus architecture

    What sets it apart is how easily it integrates mining into everyday life. You don’t need to be a blockchain engineer or own an expensive ASIC setup. If you have a phone and a few minutes, you’re in the game.

    Presale Status: Time Is Ticking

    Bitcoin Solaris has officially entered Phase 11 of its blazing-fast presale. The current price sits at $11, with the next phase holding steady at the same rate before the anticipated $20 launch price. With less than 4 weeks to go, this is shaping up to be one of the shortest and most explosive presales in recent memory.

    More than 13,900 unique users have already joined, pushing total contributions past the $6.3 million mark. The momentum is undeniable, and now, it’s being supercharged.

    Real Tech, Real Speed, Real Impact Only on Bitcoin Solaris

    In an unprecedented move, Bitcoin Solaris is introducing a limited-time Rollback. For a very short window, the price will drop to just $5. This rollback isn’t just generous, it’s rare. The team is recognizing the extraordinary support BTC-S has received, and opening the door for more participants to enter at an unbeatable rate. It’s a one-off opportunity that early believers simply shouldn’t ignore.

    To receive your tokens on launch day, Bitcoin Solaris recommends using Trust Wallet or Metamask for seamless delivery. These wallets are only for receiving tokens, not required for purchasing or joining the presale.

    Why Mining BTC-S Is Catching Fire

    Bitcoin Solaris mining isn’t just a gimmick. It’s tied into one of the most advanced consensus models in the crypto world. The hybrid Proof-of-Work and Delegated Proof-of-Stake system allows anyone to participate while supporting blazing speeds and low fees. That blend also enables real decentralization and network security without killing your device or your power bill.

    Here’s what makes it appealing:

    • Global access from any device, anywhere
    • Seamless validator rotation keeps things efficient
    • Reward potential scales with contribution, not wallet size
    • Participation feeds directly into network health

    Oh, and if you want to see how much you can make, check the official BTC-S mining calculator.

    In addition, Bitcoin Solaris introduced daily mini games for its holders for a chance to earn daily rewards, checkout all the details here.

    What’s the Catch?

    Honestly, there doesn’t seem to be one. Bitcoin Solaris has already passed audits from both Cyberscope and Freshcoins, reinforcing its credibility. And with an active community buzzing across Telegram and X, the network effect is snowballing.

    Final Verdict

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just riding the mobile mining trend, it’s leading it. By merging energy-efficient mining, accessible tech, a powerful app ecosystem, and a huge exchange listing, BTC-S delivers what old-school Bitcoin miners never could: simplicity and profitability for the everyday user.

    And now with the LBank listing just around the corner, the barrier between mining and real profit is officially gone.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:

    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
    Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
    X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36e37bde-7820-4a25-8f91-0a5e64b8bb99

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cee6b647-44c7-4e7d-ba90-e36ee65f07de

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/016af116-e53f-44e3-9cf8-248d7aa53ffa

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c7a009f-2ec3-4f50-a811-9941df7f9d5a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris Mobile Mining Debuts on LBank with Revolutionary App

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, July 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — If you asked a crypto investor in 2018 whether mobile mining would ever be a thing, most would have laughed. Fast forward to 2025, and not only is it real, it’s live, global, and profitable thanks to Bitcoin Solaris. The long-awaited Solaris Nova App has officially debuted alongside the token’s upcoming listing on LBank, bringing with it a completely reimagined way to mine crypto.

    In a world where most mining is still monopolized by expensive rigs and massive electricity bills, Bitcoin Solaris is flipping the game on its head. The goal is clear: make mining accessible, eco-friendly, and incredibly profitable for anyone.

    The LBank Listing: Why It Matters for Miners

    LBank is one of the fastest-growing centralized exchanges catering to early-stage altcoins and breakout tokens. Bitcoin Solaris’s listing there is more than a visibility boost. It’s a liquidity moment for miners and holders alike. The listing solidifies BTC-S’s legitimacy and enables real-time conversion from mined tokens to stablecoins or other assets. That means every token mined through your device or laptop suddenly becomes more than a number on a screen, it becomes accessible capital.

    LBank’s integration also simplifies wallet transfers and paves the way for mass adoption through mobile platforms. Whether you’re mining from a basic Android phone or a high-end gaming rig, the upcoming LBank listing turns your BTC-S into liquid gold.

    Meet the Solaris Nova App: Mobile Mining, Reimagined

    The Solaris Nova App is the centerpiece of Bitcoin Solaris’s Universal Mining model. It’s not just another mining program, it’s an entire ecosystem packaged into one simple interface. The app supports Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux, and even browser-based mining.

    Key features include:

    • One-tap mining functionality with built-in wallet support
    • Adaptive algorithms that calibrate for energy efficiency
    • Support for smartphones, laptops, and professional mining rigs
    • In-app tutorials for beginners and advanced customization for experts
    • 99.95% lower energy consumption than traditional Bitcoin mining
    • 2-second transaction finality powered by dual-consensus architecture

    What sets it apart is how easily it integrates mining into everyday life. You don’t need to be a blockchain engineer or own an expensive ASIC setup. If you have a phone and a few minutes, you’re in the game.

    Presale Status: Time Is Ticking

    Bitcoin Solaris has officially entered Phase 11 of its blazing-fast presale. The current price sits at $11, with the next phase holding steady at the same rate before the anticipated $20 launch price. With less than 4 weeks to go, this is shaping up to be one of the shortest and most explosive presales in recent memory.

    More than 13,900 unique users have already joined, pushing total contributions past the $6.3 million mark. The momentum is undeniable, and now, it’s being supercharged.

    Real Tech, Real Speed, Real Impact Only on Bitcoin Solaris

    In an unprecedented move, Bitcoin Solaris is introducing a limited-time Rollback. For a very short window, the price will drop to just $5. This rollback isn’t just generous, it’s rare. The team is recognizing the extraordinary support BTC-S has received, and opening the door for more participants to enter at an unbeatable rate. It’s a one-off opportunity that early believers simply shouldn’t ignore.

    To receive your tokens on launch day, Bitcoin Solaris recommends using Trust Wallet or Metamask for seamless delivery. These wallets are only for receiving tokens, not required for purchasing or joining the presale.

    Why Mining BTC-S Is Catching Fire

    Bitcoin Solaris mining isn’t just a gimmick. It’s tied into one of the most advanced consensus models in the crypto world. The hybrid Proof-of-Work and Delegated Proof-of-Stake system allows anyone to participate while supporting blazing speeds and low fees. That blend also enables real decentralization and network security without killing your device or your power bill.

    Here’s what makes it appealing:

    • Global access from any device, anywhere
    • Seamless validator rotation keeps things efficient
    • Reward potential scales with contribution, not wallet size
    • Participation feeds directly into network health

    Oh, and if you want to see how much you can make, check the official BTC-S mining calculator.

    In addition, Bitcoin Solaris introduced daily mini games for its holders for a chance to earn daily rewards, checkout all the details here.

    What’s the Catch?

    Honestly, there doesn’t seem to be one. Bitcoin Solaris has already passed audits from both Cyberscope and Freshcoins, reinforcing its credibility. And with an active community buzzing across Telegram and X, the network effect is snowballing.

    Final Verdict

    Bitcoin Solaris isn’t just riding the mobile mining trend, it’s leading it. By merging energy-efficient mining, accessible tech, a powerful app ecosystem, and a huge exchange listing, BTC-S delivers what old-school Bitcoin miners never could: simplicity and profitability for the everyday user.

    And now with the LBank listing just around the corner, the barrier between mining and real profit is officially gone.

    For more information on Bitcoin Solaris:

    Website: https://www.bitcoinsolaris.com/
    Telegram: https://t.me/Bitcoinsolaris
    X: https://x.com/BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    press@bitcoinsolaris.com
    Press Kit: Available upon request

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36e37bde-7820-4a25-8f91-0a5e64b8bb99

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cee6b647-44c7-4e7d-ba90-e36ee65f07de

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/016af116-e53f-44e3-9cf8-248d7aa53ffa

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7c7a009f-2ec3-4f50-a811-9941df7f9d5a

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Solid Bank has joined the implementation of the Long-Term Savings Program

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Solid Bank – Solid Bank –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Solid Bank, together with its partner JSC NPF GAZFOND Pension Savings, has launched a unique savings product – the Long-Term Savings Program. The program was developed by the Bank of Russia and the Ministry of Finance on behalf of the President of the Russian Federation. With it, citizens will be able to create capital or a financial cushion with state support. Savings are formed through personal contributions, state co-financing and the fund’s investment income.

    The long-term savings program has the following benefits for depositors:

    • State support in the form of cash contributions of up to 36,000₽/year for 10 years.

    • Possibility of receiving a tax deduction in the amount of 13%-22% of the amount of contributions paid, not exceeding 400,000₽/year. That is, the client can receive about 52,000-88,000₽/year. This depends on the annual income of the depositor and the personal income tax rate applied to his income.

    • Savings are insured by the Deposit Insurance Agency. Personal savings contributions and investment income on them are insured in the amount of up to 2.8 million ₽. And pension savings transferred from the OPS, additional incentive contributions (state co-financing) and investment income on these funds are fully insured, without any limitation on the amount.

    • There are no mandatory contributions – replenishment is optional.

    • Payments are not taxed if the contract was in effect for at least 5 years, the participant had no more than 3 contracts at the same time, the amount of payments exceeds the amount of contributions by no more than 30 million ₽ for each contract in each tax period.

    • Low risk level.

    • Legal protection from claims of third parties.

    • Possibility to appoint a successor.

    • A minimum guaranteed return is established for the first 3 years of the contract.

    • Possibility of transferring pension savings under the OPS to the PDS.

    Who is eligible for the program?

    The program is available for all ages: from youth to seniors, from 18 to 69 years old.

    What purposes is the program suitable for?

    • Creating capital for future large purchases or a financial cushion.

    • Increase your existing capital with minimal risks.

    • Investing with minimal risks.

    • Protection of savings with minimal risks.

    • Ensuring financial stability now or in the future.

    How does the program work?

    – You need to make a down payment of 30,000₽.

    – You can top up your account at any time with an amount from 1000₽.

    – You receive state co-financing – 36,000₽/year.

    – Apply for and receive additional tax benefits.

    – Choose a payment format that is convenient for you – one-time or regular.

    For the convenience of clients, online services have been developed that allow you to track the status of your account in the PDS, top it up without a commission via the SBP, and receive the necessary package for processing a tax deduction.

    For detailed consultation and registration, please contact Solid Bank offices.

    Registration of PDS is available throughout the Bank’s network in: Almetyevsk, Blagoveshchensk, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg, Elizovo, Izhevsk, Irkutsk, Kazan, Krasnoyarsk, Moscow, Novosibirsk, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, St. Petersburg, Tula, Ufa, Khabarovsk, Yakutsk.

     

    JSC Solid Bank. General license of the Central Bank of the Russian Federation No. 1329.

    VBV. SOLIDBANK.ru

    8 800 775 56 06 (free call within Russia)

    Share the news on social networks

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

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation Board Inaugurated

    Source: APO


    .

    Deputy Minister for Finance, Hon. Thomas Ampem Nyarko has inaugurated the Board of the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation (GDPC)

    During the inauguration he stated that one of the critical roles of the GDPC was to safeguard the deposits of ordinary Ghanaians and strengthen public confidence in the financial system.

    The Board is chaired by Governor of the C Bank of Ghana, Dr. Johnson Pandit Asiamah, Other members include Galahad Alex Andoh, Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Deposit Protection Corporation; Mr. Prosper Ayinbilla Awuni, representing the Ministry of Finance; Benjamin Amenumey; and Paul Kwasi Agyemang.

    The Board Chairman expressed gratitude to His Excellency the President and the Finance Minister, Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson, for the confidence reposed in the team.

    He again gave assurance of the Board’s commitment to providing effective leadership and strengthening the deposit protection scheme.

    Dr. Asiamah further noted that the Board will ensure transparency, good governance, and the use of innovative tools to improve the Corporation’s operations.

    Additionally, he stated the the Board’s plans to explore the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and integrate Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, among other strategies, to enhance how the Corporation serves the people.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance – Republic of Ghana.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Financial advice thematic findings published

    Source: Isle of Man

    The Isle of Man Financial Services Authority has published a report setting out the key findings of a thematic review involving low impact financial advisory firms based in the Island.

    The report, which can be accessed online, highlights the results of a questionnaire and onsite inspections conducted by the Authority’s Portfolio Supervision Division.

    Phase 1 of the review saw a total of 20 class 2 licenceholders respond to a questionnaire covering topics including extent of services, other advice, governance, client files and continuing professional development (CPD) records. Four firms were then selected for an onsite inspection in Phase 2.

    The report captures examples of best practice and topics for improvement, along with the Authority’s insights into the data. The findings will further enhance the Authority’s understanding of the financial advice sector and inform future outreach and engagement.

    Firms are encouraged to read the report and consider any action necessary to ensure their own processes and procedures are effective, up-to-date and properly documented.

    Sarah Kennedy, Head of the Portfolio Supervision Division, said: ‘Thematic reviews are an important part of the Authority’s supervisory approach, offering an efficient and effective way to identify and inform our picture of risk at a firm and sector level. This supports the work taking place to achieve our objectives of protecting consumers, reducing financial crime and maintaining confidence in the finance industry through effective regulation.’

    She added: ‘There was an excellent level of cooperation among the financial advisory firms, including feedback that will be considered as part of the Authority’s commitment to continuous improvement. I should like to thank the firms, the directors and staff for their continued positive and constructive collaboration on these critical regulatory reviews.’

    Financial Advice Thematic Report July 2025.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA consults on the revision of product oversight and governance Guidelines for retail banking products to consider products with ESG features and greenwashing risks

    Source: European Banking Authority

    The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched a public consultation proposing to revise the EBA Guidelines on product oversight and governance (POG) arrangements for retail banking products. The proposed revision aims to prevent greenwashing and ensure that financial institutions meet the highest standards of business conduct when offering products with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) features to consumers. The consultation runs until 9 October 2025.

    The proposed amendments aim to strike the right balance between clarifying existing POG requirements for products with ESG features to prevent consumer detriment (e.g. risks of misleading commercial practices, mis-selling of products etc.) that might occur if financial institutions fail to comply with conduct requirements when offering product with ESG features, without imposing additional regulatory burden on FIs.

    In June 2024, the EBA published a report on greenwashing, highlighting an increase in potential cases across all sectors, including among EU banks. In light of this report and recent legislative changes such as amendments to the Capital Requirement Directive (CRD) and the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) regarding ESG risks, the EBA concluded that it is necessary to give further consideration to products with ESG features and greenwashing risks in the existing POG Guidelines.

    The consultation paper proposes a targeted approach, adjusting only a limited number of existing requirements in the POG GLs related to the subject matter, manufacturer’s internal control functions, the target market, distribution channels, information for distributors and information and support for the manufacturer’s arrangements.

    The EBA expects to publish its final guidelines in Q1 2026, which will be applied as of 1 December 2026.

    Consultation process and next steps

    Comments to this consultation can be sent to the EBA by clicking on the “send your comments” button on the consultation page. Please note that the deadline for the submission of comments is 9 October 2025. All received contributions will be published at the end of the consultation, unless requested otherwise.

    The EBA will hold a virtual public hearing on the consultation paper on 11 September 2025 from 14:30 to 16:30 CET. Please register for the hearing here by 8 September 2025 by 17:00 CET. The dial-in details will be communicated to those who have registered for the meeting.

    Background

    The EBA issued its initial POG Guidelines in 2016 to address conduct failures of financial institutions. These Guidelines are addressed to manufacturers and distributors of retail banking products in EBA’s remit, namely mortgages, personal loans, deposits, payment accounts, payment services, and electronic money. Recent legislative developments necessitate a revision to incorporate ESG objectives and greenwashing risks and to ensure compliance with the highest standards of business conduct.

    The EBA developed these draft Guidelines in accordance with Article 16 of Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 which empowers the EBA to issue guidelines to ensure the effective and consistent application of European Union law. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: The EBA consults on the revision of product oversight and governance Guidelines for retail banking products to consider products with ESG features and greenwashing risks

    Source: European Banking Authority

    The European Banking Authority (EBA) today launched a public consultation proposing to revise the EBA Guidelines on product oversight and governance (POG) arrangements for retail banking products. The proposed revision aims to prevent greenwashing and ensure that financial institutions meet the highest standards of business conduct when offering products with Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) features to consumers. The consultation runs until 9 October 2025.

    The proposed amendments aim to strike the right balance between clarifying existing POG requirements for products with ESG features to prevent consumer detriment (e.g. risks of misleading commercial practices, mis-selling of products etc.) that might occur if financial institutions fail to comply with conduct requirements when offering product with ESG features, without imposing additional regulatory burden on FIs.

    In June 2024, the EBA published a report on greenwashing, highlighting an increase in potential cases across all sectors, including among EU banks. In light of this report and recent legislative changes such as amendments to the Capital Requirement Directive (CRD) and the Capital Requirements Regulation (CRR) regarding ESG risks, the EBA concluded that it is necessary to give further consideration to products with ESG features and greenwashing risks in the existing POG Guidelines.

    The consultation paper proposes a targeted approach, adjusting only a limited number of existing requirements in the POG GLs related to the subject matter, manufacturer’s internal control functions, the target market, distribution channels, information for distributors and information and support for the manufacturer’s arrangements.

    The EBA expects to publish its final guidelines in Q1 2026, which will be applied as of 1 December 2026.

    Consultation process and next steps

    Comments to this consultation can be sent to the EBA by clicking on the “send your comments” button on the consultation page. Please note that the deadline for the submission of comments is 9 October 2025. All received contributions will be published at the end of the consultation, unless requested otherwise.

    The EBA will hold a virtual public hearing on the consultation paper on 11 September 2025 from 14:30 to 16:30 CET. Please register for the hearing here by 8 September 2025 by 17:00 CET. The dial-in details will be communicated to those who have registered for the meeting.

    Background

    The EBA issued its initial POG Guidelines in 2016 to address conduct failures of financial institutions. These Guidelines are addressed to manufacturers and distributors of retail banking products in EBA’s remit, namely mortgages, personal loans, deposits, payment accounts, payment services, and electronic money. Recent legislative developments necessitate a revision to incorporate ESG objectives and greenwashing risks and to ensure compliance with the highest standards of business conduct.

    The EBA developed these draft Guidelines in accordance with Article 16 of Regulation (EU) No 1093/2010 which empowers the EBA to issue guidelines to ensure the effective and consistent application of European Union law. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.130 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.130 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, July 9, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB75.5 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on July 9, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Rate

    Bidding Volume

    Winning Bid Volume

    7 days

    1.40%

    RMB75.5 billion

    RMB75.5 billion

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年07月09日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Algeria deepens trade ties with other African countries as it gears up for Africa’s biggest marketplace

    Source: APO

    Algeria is working towards increasing its share of trade with other African countries by tapping into opportunities created by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

    In a keynote address during the Algeria Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) 2025 Business Roadshow, Algeria’s Minister of Foreign Trade and Export Promotion, H.E. Prof. Kamal Rezig stated that this includes enhancing continental connectivity through infrastructure projects such as the Trans-Sahara Highway and the Zouerate Road project linking the Tindouf border with Mauritania and the Nigeria-Algeria gas pipeline and fibre optic cable.

    “In order to improve the business climate in Algeria, the State has endeavoured to ensure a stable, transparent, stimulating and attractive economic and institutional environment for investment. This is in addition to ensuring stability of legislation that regulates local and foreign investment, and simplifying administrative procedures, development and strengthening of the banking system, the capital market and the insurance sector, as well as development of human resources capabilities and skills, with the aim of adapting its economy to global transformations,” H.E. Rezig said, adding that besides developing key sectors, the country is also promoting exports in the continent within the framework of AfCFTA.

    In 2024, Algeria’s share of total intra-African trade stood at 2.2%, marginally growing from 1.9% in 2022, according to African Trade Report 2025 (http://apo-opa.co/44BzJhH). Mineral fuels and oils make up 91.5% of its exports. The country’s top-five African export partners in 2023 based on volumes are Tunisia (70.7%), South Africa (6.7%), Cote d’Ivoire (3.6%), Nigeria (3.1%) and Senegal (2.7%) states the Country at a Glance: Algeria 2024 report (http://apo-opa.co/4m4chRF) while its top-five import partners  are Mauritania (38.8%), Tunisia (32.7%), Cote d’Ivoire (9%), Morocco (6%) and Uganda (2.2%).

    The Algeria IATF2025 Business Roadshow focused on promoting intra-African trade, bringing together government officials, the trade community, including businesses, investors, and executives from African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank). Hosted by Afreximbank, in collaboration with the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, the roadshow was one of the five roadshows hosted in key cities including Accra, Nairobi, Johannesburg, and Lagos in the run up to the fourth edition of IATF, Africa’s premier trade and investment event that is held biennially, scheduled to take place in Algiers, Algeria, from 4 – 10 September 2025 hosted by the Government of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria. IATF provides a platform for businesses to showcase goods and exchange trade and investment information within the continent’s single market.

    The Chairman of IATF2025 Advisory Council and former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo said that intra-African trade presents a huge opportunity for African economies to enhance their resilience in today’s rapidly changing world.

    “Through the IATF, the largest, go-to trade and investment fair on the continent, Africa needs to join hands and build on the gains that have been achieved so far in promoting trade with itself under the AfCFTA framework. AfCFTA provides an opportunity for the continent to achieve economic emancipation and self-reliance and build the Africa We Want. This will help unlock the continent’s vast potential while accelerating industrialisation and job creation,” H.E. Obasanjo added.

    The past three editions of IATF have attracted over 70,000 participants and 4,500 exhibitors, and hosted buyers and sellers from over 130 countries, generating more than $100 billion in trade and investment deals. This provides a glimpse of the immense potential that exists for intra-African trade and investment.

    Afreximbank’s Executive Vice-President, Intra-African Trade & Export Development, Mrs Kanayo Awani noted that whereas conventional wisdom attributes Africa’s low intra-continental trade to infrastructure deficits, a more fundamental barrier is the lack of access to trade and market information.

    “Afreximbank launched the IATF —not merely as an exhibition but as a marketplace for the AfCFTA and a platform to close the trade information gap. Since its inception in 2018, IATF has held three resoundingly successful fairs. In these fairs, Algeria showed up strongly and directly benefited from facilitated trade and investment deals worth over $2 billion. Now, Algeria has the opportunity to host the fourth edition. As Africa’s largest country by land and the fourth-largest economy by GDP, Algeria has both the duty and the opportunity to lead. Algeria’s competitive advantages—energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, financial services, light manufacturing, ICT, and automotive assembly—are all primed for scale and export across the continent,” Mrs Awani said. She challenged businesses and government agencies in Algeria and the North African region to take centre stage at IATF2025, where over 2,000 exhibitors from Africa and beyond will showcase their products to more than 35,000 visitors and buyers from over 140 countries, resulting in trade and investment deals in excess of US$44 billion.

    IATF2025 will feature a trade exhibition by countries and businesses; and the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) programme spotlighting cultural industries with a dedicated exhibition and summit on fashion, music, film, arts and craft, sports, literature, gastronomy and culinary arts. It will also include a four-day Trade and Investment Forum featuring leading African and international speakers; and the Africa Automotive Show for auto manufacturers, assemblers, original equipment manufacturers and component suppliers. Special Days will highlight countries, public and private sector entities, tourism, cultural attractions, and Global Africa Day celebrating ties with the African diaspora. Additional activities include business-to-business and business-to-government matchmaking, the AU Youth Start-Up programme, the Africa Research and Innovation Hub, and the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) to promote local trade and cultural exchanges. The IATF Virtual platform is also live, connecting exhibitors and visitors year-round.

    Planning for IATF2025 is in top gear with significant progress made in ensuring a seamless logistical experience and delivering a successful event.

    The theme of Algeria IATF2025 Business Roadshow was ‘Harnessing Regional and Continental Value Chains: Accelerating Africa’s Industrialisation and Global Competitiveness under the AfCFTA’. It was also attended by H.E Ms. Baleka Mbete, the founder of NaLHISA and former Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa; H.E Zitouny El-Tayeb, Minister of Internal Trade; H.E. Selma Mansouri, the Secretary of State to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, in charge of African Affairs; H.E. Moses Vilakati, AU Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment and Acting Commissioner for Economic Development, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals; and Mr. Jean Louis-EKRA, former President of Afreximbank and Deputy Chair of the Intra-African Trade Fair Advisory Council.

    To participate in IATF2025 please visit www.IntrAfricanTradeFair.com. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media contact: 
    media@intrafricatradefair.com 
    press@afreximbank.com

    About the Intra-African Trade Fair:
    Organised by the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), in collaboration with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat, the Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) is intended to provide a unique platform for facilitating trade and investment information exchange in support of increased intra-African trade and investment, especially in the context of implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). IATF brings together continental and global players to showcase and exhibit their goods and services and to explore business and investment opportunities in the continent. It also provides a platform to share trade, investment and market information with stakeholders and allows participants to discuss and identify solutions to the challenges confronting intra-African trade and investment. In addition to African participants, the Trade Fair is also open to businesses and investors from non-African countries interested in doing business in Africa and in supporting the continent’s transformation through industrialisation and export development. 

    Media files

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    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: World Bank Backs Mining as Zambia’s Economic Engine Ahead of African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

    Source: APO


    .

    International financial institution the World Bank has underscored the role the energy transition metals (ETM) value chain plays in unlocking sustainable economic growth in Zambia. In a report released this week, the institution has shown that while Zambia recorded 4% GDP growth in 2024, the country can further accelerate economic growth through scaling-up ETM production, maximizing fiscal potential and adding value to mineral resources.

    The upcoming African Mining Week (AMW) conference – taking place October 1-3 in Cape Town – will feature a country spotlight session on Zambia. The session – titled Zambia: Accelerating Exploration and Development Through License Allocation – will provide insight into the country’s mineral potential, connecting project and investment opportunities with financiers and mining operators. As Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders, AMW 2025 is well-positioned to support Zambian economic growth by facilitating new investment across the mining sector.

    Scaling Energy Transition Metals Production

    To support economic growth in Zambia, the World Bank underscores the need to scale-up the production of ETM. To achieve this, recommendations include the implementation of reforms aimed at boosting mineral output, exploration across new deposits and workforce development. In line with these recommendations, Zambia is already advancing a national plan to increase ETM production, specifically copper, while enhancing seismic data acquisition to support future exploration activities. Zambia has set a national target of increasing annual copper production to three million tons by 2031. In line with this goal, the country saw a 29.9% rise in copper output from Q1, 2024 to Q1, 2025. Major projects are also underway, including the Mimosa Resources-led Kashime copper mine, the relaunch of the Vedanta Resources-led Konkola mine and the International Resources Holding-led Mopani mine. Meanwhile, to support exploration efforts, the country is implementing a nationwide geomapping campaign to better understand its geology and mineral basins. As of June 2025, the campaign was 80% complete.

    Maximizing Fiscal Potential

    As production increases across the ETM sector, the World Bank has underscored the role of improved revenue management and better allocation mechanisms to support fiscal sustainability and sectoral service delivery. Such mechanisms would ensure that mining revenue creates long-term impacts for the economy. In line with these, Zambia’s Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development is operationalizing the Minerals Regulation Commission and restructuring its departments to include dedicated units for Geological Survey, Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining (ASM) and Large-Scale Investment Promotion. These reforms aim to improve governance, transparency and institutional efficiency. The government also unveiled the Zambia Integrated Mining Information System – a digital platform to track mining company activities, monitor local content and tax contributions and provide public access to data on mineral prospects.

    Adding Value to Mineral Resources

    In addition to ETM production and revenue, the development of Zambia’s copper value chain creates a range of economic opportunities for the country, from job creation to business participation to trade and financing. By redirecting capital to local businesses and downstream projects, the country will be able to address barriers to value-adding activities, thereby stimulating more inclusive economic growth. Progress is already underway in this regard. Zambia plans to establish mineral market centers and washing plants in Mumbwa, Rufunsa, Chisamba and Kasempa to empower small-scale miners, as part of its value addition strategy. A national training program for licensed artisanal miners is also in the pipeline to improve safety, productivity and skills. These efforts seek to support local miners, creating greater value from the ETM value chain.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

    About African Mining Week (AMW):
    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: The 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting convenes in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

    Source: ASEAN – Association of SouthEast Asian Nations

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today joined the ASEAN Foreign Ministers at the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The meeting was chaired by Minister of Foreign Affairs of Malaysia, The Honourable Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan, and was held in both plenary and retreat sessions. The meeting took stock of the progress made after the 46th ASEAN Summit held in Malaysia in May of this year, regarding the ASEAN Community-building efforts, and discussed the state of ASEAN’s external relations as well as regional and global developments. Timor-Leste attended the Meeting as Observer. The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Malaysia in realising its Chairmanship deliverables this year under the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability.”

    The post The 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting convenes in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Crédit Agricole Assurances announces the successful sale of its whole stake in FDJ United

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Crédit Agricole Assurances announces the successful sale of its whole stake in FDJ United

    9 July 2025 – Crédit Agricole Assurances (“CAA”) announces the successful sale, via its wholly-owned subsidiaries Predica and Crédit Agricole Assurances Retraite, of its whole FDJ United stake of 6,110,156 shares (the “Shares”), representing approximately 3.3% of the share capital of FDJ United (the “Company”). These Shares have been offered as part of an accelerated bookbuilding offering to institutional investors (the “Placement”). The transaction priced at €30.00 per share.

    CAA has been a shareholder of FDJ United, an international gaming operator, since its IPO in November 2019 and has supported the Company throughout its development, including the successful recent acquisition of Kindred. CAA completed an initial sale of c. 4.1 million shares in November 2024 as part of its strategy of actively managing its investment portfolio. Upon completion of the Placement, CAA will no longer be a shareholder of the Company.

    Settlement of the Placement is expected to take place on 11 July 2025.

    FDJ United’s shares are listed on the regulated market of Euronext in Paris (ISIN code: FR0013451333).

    This press release does not constitute an offer or solicitation to purchase and the offering of the shares in FDJ United does not constitute a public offering (except to institutional investors) in any country, including in France.

    Crédit Agricole Corporate and Investment Bank and Morgan Stanley Europe SE acted as Global Coordinators and Bookrunners on the Placement.

    About Crédit Agricole Assurances
    Crédit Agricole Assurances, France’s leading insurer, is Crédit Agricole group’s subsidiary, which brings together all the insurance businesses of Crédit Agricole S.A. Crédit Agricole Assurances offers a range of products and services in savings, retirement, health, personal protection and property insurance. They are distributed by Crédit Agricole’s banks in France and in 9 countries worldwide, and are aimed at individual, professional, agricultural and business customers. At the end of 2024, Crédit Agricole Assurances had more than 6,700 employees. Its 2024 premium income (non-GAAP) amounted to 43.6 billion euros.
    www.ca-assurances.com

    Press contacts
    Géraldine Bailacq +33 (0)6 81 75 87 59
    Nicolas Leviaux +33 (0)6 19 60 48 53
    Julien Badé +33 (0)7 85 18 68 05
    service.presse@ca-assurances.fr

    Disclaimer

    This press release is for information purposes only and does not, and shall not, constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy or subscribe any securities nor a solicitation to offer to purchase or to subscribe securities in any jurisdiction and does not constitute a public offer other than the offering to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including France.

    The sale of FDJ United shares does not constitute a public offering other than to qualified investors in any jurisdiction, including in France.

    No communication and no information in respect of the sale by Crédit Agricole Assurances of FDJ shares may be distributed to the public in any jurisdiction where a registration or approval is required. No steps have been or will be taken in any jurisdiction where such steps would be required. The offer of sale of FDJ United shares on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances may be subject to specific legal or regulatory restrictions in certain jurisdictions. Crédit Agricole Assurances, its shareholders and affiliates take no responsibility for any violation of any such restrictions by any person.

    European Economic Area
    In member states of the European Economic Area, this press release is an advertisement and is not a prospectus with the meaning of Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017, as amended (the “Prospectus Regulation”).

    With respect to the member states of the European Economic Area other than France (the “Member States”), no action has been or will be taken in order to permit a public offer of the securities which would require the publication of a prospectus in one of such Member States. In Member States, this communication and any offer if made subsequently is directed exclusively at persons who are “qualified investors” within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation.

    France
    In France, the offer of FDJ United shares described in this press release will be carried out through a placement through an accelerated bookbuilding process to qualified investors only within the meaning of Article 2(e) of the Prospectus Regulation and in accordance with applicable French laws and regulations. There will be no public offering in any country (including France) in connection with the shares of FDJ United, except to qualified investors only.

    United Kingdom
    In the United Kingdom, this communication is for distribution to, and is only directed at, persons in the United Kingdom that (i) are “investment professionals” falling within article 19(5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005 (as amended, the “Order”), (ii) are persons falling within article 49(2)(a) to (d) (“high net worth companies, unincorporated associations, etc.”) of the Order, or (iii) are located outside the United kingdom, or (iv) are persons to whom an invitation or inducement to engage in investment activity (within the meaning of Article 21 of the Order) in connection with the issue or sale of any securities may otherwise lawfully be communicated or cause to be communicated (all such persons together being referred to as “Relevant Persons”). This press release is only directed at Relevant Persons and are available only to Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person must act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    Any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is available only to Relevant Persons and will be engaged in only with Relevant Persons. Any person who is not a Relevant Person shall not act or rely on this document or any of its contents.

    With respect to the United Kingdom, securities may not be offered or sold absent the publication of a prospectus in the United Kingdom or an exemption from such publication under the Regulation (EU) 2017/1129, as amended, as it forms part of domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal Act) 2018 (the “UK Prospectus Regulation”). As a consequence, this document is directed only at persons who are “qualified investors” as defined in point (e) of Article 2 of the UK Prospectus Regulation.

    This press release is not a prospectus which has been approved by the Financial Conduct Authority or any other United Kingdom regulatory authority for the purpose of Section 85 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000.

    United States
    This press release does not constitute or form part of any offer or solicitation to purchase or subscribe for securities in the United States. Securities referred to in this announcement have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent such registration or an applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. FDJ United shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act and neither Crédit Agricole Assurances, nor any of its shareholders or their respective affiliates intend to register any portion of the proposed offering in the United States or to conduct a public offering in the United States.

    Australia
    This press release is not a prospectus or product disclosure statement under the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) (the “Corporations Act”) and does not constitute a recommendation to acquire, an invitation to apply for, an offer to apply for or buy, an offer to arrange the issue or sale of, or an offer for issue or sale of, any securities in Australia except as set out below. Interests may only be offered, issued, sold or distributed in Australia by way of or pursuant to an offer or invitation that does not need disclosure to investors either under Part 7.9 or Part 6D.2 of the Corporations Act, whether by reason of the investor being a ‘sophisticated investor’ or ‘wholesale client’ (as defined in section 708(8) and 761G of the Corporations Act respectively) or otherwise. Nothing in this press release constitutes an offer of interests or financial product advice to a ‘retail client’ (as defined in section 761G of the Corporations Act and applicable regulations). Accordingly, this press release has not been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commissions (“ASIC”). Neither the Placement nor the contents of this press release have been approved by ASIC or any regulatory body or agency in Australia.

    Canada, Japan and South Africa
    The FDJ United shares may not and will not be offered, sold or purchase in Canada, Japan or South Africa. The information contained in this press release does not constitute an offer of securities for sale in Canada, Japan or South Africa.

    The release, publication or distribution of this press release generally may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions and persons into whose possession this document or other information referred to herein should inform themselves about and observe any such restriction. No action has been taken to allow offer of FDJ United shares or distribution of this press release in any jurisdiction where any such action would be required. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

    Any investment decision to purchase FDJ United shares must be made solely on the basis of publicly available information regarding FDJ United. Such information is not the responsibility of Crédit Agricole Assurances and has not been independently verified by Crédit Agricole Assurances.

    The global coordinators and bookrunners are acting on behalf of Crédit Agricole Assurances (to the exclusion of all others) in connection with the placement and will not be liable to any person other than Crédit Agricole Assurances either for warranties given to clients of the global coordinators and bookrunners or for advice in connection with the placement.

    Neither the global coordinators and bookrunners nor any of its directors, officers, employees, advisors or agents accept any responsibility for, or make any representations or warranty, express or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained in this press release (or if any information has been omitted from this press release) or any other information relating to FDJ United, Crédit Agricole Assurances, their respective subsidiaries or associated companies, whether in written, oral, visual or electronic form, and however transmitted or made available, or any loss from the use of this press release or its contents or otherwise.

    Distribution, publication or release of this press release are forbidden in any jurisdiction where such distribution or release would be unlawful.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio Launches National Water Security and WASH Access Project, Calls for Collective Action on Clean Water and Sanitation

    Source: APO – Report:

    .

    His Excellency President Dr Julius Maada Bio has officially launched the Water Security and WASH Access Project, a landmark $180 million, World Bank-funded initiative under the theme “Securing Water, Enabling Dignity, and Advancing Development.” The 10-year Multiphase Programmatic Approach aims to reach 4 million people by 2035, achieving 90% national WASH coverage.

    In his keynote address, President Bio described the launch as a historic milestone in Sierra Leone’s ongoing quest for equity, dignity, and sustainable development. He emphasized that access to safe water and sanitation is a fundamental right, not a privilege.

    “My government is guided by the belief that access to safe water and sanitation is not a favour extended to the few, but a right guaranteed to all,” the President declared. “That is why WASH is at the heart of our National Development Plan and central to our Human Capital Development agenda.”

    The President decried the daily challenges faced by citizens, stating that no child should have to walk miles for water before school, no mother should risk infection during childbirth due to lack of clean water, and no community should endure the indignity of open defecation or waterborne diseases in the 21st century.

    He affirmed that the new WASH programme marks a decisive step to break the cycle of deprivation. Structured in three progressive phases, the initiative provides a coherent roadmap to achieving water security and sanitation access nationwide. Each phase, he assured, will be robustly monitored, implemented with transparency, and tied to incentive-based delivery mechanisms.

    President Bio said the programme envisions a future where water poverty is eradicated, girls stay in school thanks to improved sanitation, health facilities are safe and functional, ecosystems are protected, and 5,000 jobs, including 2,000 for women, are created through a gender-responsive recovery.

    He also announced plans to establish a Water Administration House to consolidate oversight, regulation, and coordination within the sector. The President reaffirmed his government’s support to strengthen the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, to enforce standards, attract investment, and coordinate stakeholders.

    “This multiphase programmatic approach is a shining example of what is possible when national ownership meets international solidarity,” he said, adding that the project aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All.

    President Bio acknowledged the efforts of the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, the WASH sector public servants, GUMA Valley Water Company, SALWACO, EWRC, and the National Water Resources Management Agency (NWRMA), calling on all stakeholders to deliver with integrity and excellence.

    “As your President, I reaffirm my full commitment to this agenda. We will ensure the programme is fully resourced and that every Sierra Leonean, in both rural hamlets and urban wards, feels the impact of this transformative investment,” he declared. “Water is not just a development commodity; it is a symbol of justice, a foundation of peace, and a building block of national resilience.”

    World Bank Country Manager Dr Abdu Muwonge praised President Bio for his strong advocacy on behalf of the country, recalling how, President Bio personally made a plea in Washington for investment in Sierra Leone’s WASH sector two years ago, which, he noted, resulted in funding this transformative initiative.

    Dr Muwonge urged a holistic and inclusive strategy, strengthening the capacity of sector institutions such as GUMA, SALWACO, and local councils, while calling for nationwide engagement in the stewardship of water resources.

    Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Dr Sao-Kpato Hannah Max-Kyne, described the occasion as a defining moment in delivering President Bio’s development vision and called for national collaboration on implementation and the development of a clear, focused roadmap to address WASH sector challenges.

    – on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: 60 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza

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

    Palestinians mourn over a victim killed in an Israeli airstrike, outside the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, on July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 60 Palestinians, including six freed prisoners and a paramedic, were killed in Israeli airstrikes and gunfire across Gaza on Tuesday, according to Palestinian sources.

    Six people were killed by Israeli shelling on two tents housing displaced persons in Khan Younis, southern Gaza and the town of al-Zawaidain, central Gaza, Spokesperson for the Civil Defense in Gaza Mahmoud Basal told Xinhua.

    Hamas said in a press statement that the six were prisoners released from Israeli prisons and deported from the West Bank to Gaza.

    West of Gaza City, an Israeli airstrike on a gathering of Palestinians in the al-Rimal neighborhood killed six people, including two children and two women, and an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood killed four, including an infant, Basal said.

    Five people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a house in al-Tuffah, east of Gaza City, whereas three were killed when a bomb dropped by an Israeli drone hit a residential area in the al-Zeitoun neighborhood, south of Gaza City, Basal said, adding that two people, including a child, were killed in an Israeli bombing on al-Tuffah and Sheikh Radwan neighborhoods.

    A vehicle bombing in the city of Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, killed two people, Basal added.

    Meanwhile, Nasser Medical Complex reported in a brief press statement that 25 Palestinians were killed since dawn of Tuesday as a result of separate airstrikes on the Al-Mawasi area, west of Khan Younis.

    A paramedic was also killed while performing his duty as a result of Israeli shelling on Al-Mawasi, according to Palestinian medical sources.

    Six Palestinians, including three children, were killed by Israeli army fire near a U.S.-backed aid distribution center in north of Rafah, southern Gaza, said the sources.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli side on these incidents.

    Since Israel resumed its military campaign in Gaza on March 18, at least 7,013 Palestinians have been killed and 24,838 others injured, bringing the overall death toll in Gaza since the conflict began in October 2023 to 57,575, with a total of 136,879 people injured, according to data released Tuesday by health authorities in Gaza. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: 60 Palestinians killed in Israeli attacks across Gaza

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

    Palestinians mourn over a victim killed in an Israeli airstrike, outside the Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City, on July 8, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    At least 60 Palestinians, including six freed prisoners and a paramedic, were killed in Israeli airstrikes and gunfire across Gaza on Tuesday, according to Palestinian sources.

    Six people were killed by Israeli shelling on two tents housing displaced persons in Khan Younis, southern Gaza and the town of al-Zawaidain, central Gaza, Spokesperson for the Civil Defense in Gaza Mahmoud Basal told Xinhua.

    Hamas said in a press statement that the six were prisoners released from Israeli prisons and deported from the West Bank to Gaza.

    West of Gaza City, an Israeli airstrike on a gathering of Palestinians in the al-Rimal neighborhood killed six people, including two children and two women, and an Israeli airstrike on a house in the Tal al-Hawa neighborhood killed four, including an infant, Basal said.

    Five people were killed in an Israeli airstrike on a house in al-Tuffah, east of Gaza City, whereas three were killed when a bomb dropped by an Israeli drone hit a residential area in the al-Zeitoun neighborhood, south of Gaza City, Basal said, adding that two people, including a child, were killed in an Israeli bombing on al-Tuffah and Sheikh Radwan neighborhoods.

    A vehicle bombing in the city of Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, killed two people, Basal added.

    Meanwhile, Nasser Medical Complex reported in a brief press statement that 25 Palestinians were killed since dawn of Tuesday as a result of separate airstrikes on the Al-Mawasi area, west of Khan Younis.

    A paramedic was also killed while performing his duty as a result of Israeli shelling on Al-Mawasi, according to Palestinian medical sources.

    Six Palestinians, including three children, were killed by Israeli army fire near a U.S.-backed aid distribution center in north of Rafah, southern Gaza, said the sources.

    There was no immediate comment from the Israeli side on these incidents.

    Since Israel resumed its military campaign in Gaza on March 18, at least 7,013 Palestinians have been killed and 24,838 others injured, bringing the overall death toll in Gaza since the conflict began in October 2023 to 57,575, with a total of 136,879 people injured, according to data released Tuesday by health authorities in Gaza. 

    MIL OSI China News –