NewzIntel.com

Category: Banking

  • MIL-OSI China: China remains ‘thriving land’ in global economy: Premier Li

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

    BEIJING, June 26 — Premier Li Qiang said on Thursday that China’s economy will remain a thriving land in the global economy, and the expansion and upgrading of the massive Chinese market will keep generating significant dividends, offering greater trade and investment opportunities for other countries.

    Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 10th Annual Meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) Board of Governors, Li affirmed China’s commitment to high-standard opening up and its ongoing deep integration into the global economy, a move set to create fresh development opportunities worldwide.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) Minister of Hydraulic Resources, Electricity Joins African Mining Week


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    Teddy Lwamba, Minister of Hydraulic Resources and Electricity of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has confirmed his participation as a speaker at African Mining Week (AMW), taking place from October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town under the theme, From Extraction to Beneficiation: Unlocking Africa’s Mineral Wealth.

    Minister Lwamba will join the panel, Powering Africa’s Mining Operations with Renewables, highlighting the DRC’s efforts to integrate renewable energy and modern infrastructure into its mining value chain.

    AMW 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.

    The event provides a strategic platform for Minister Lwamba to emphasize growing collaboration between the mining and power sectors, aimed at unlocking the DRC’s estimated $24 trillion in untapped mineral wealth. The DRC is currently the world’s leading cobalt producer, accounting for over 70% of global supply, and Africa’s largest copper producer.

    In June 2025, the DRC began construction of the 64 MW Katende Hydroelectric Power Plant (http://apo-opa.co/3FY1EQV), set to power key mining areas including Kananga, Bunkonde, Tshimbulu and Mbuji-Mayi. In partnership with the African Development Bank’s Mission 300 energy access initiative, the DRC aims to triple GDP by expanding electricity access for residential, industrial, and mining users. Through the $340 million Moyi Power Metro-Grids project (http://apo-opa.co/4ehPCOS), the government will also deliver reliable electricity to over one million people and businesses in Bumba, Isiro and Gemena.

    Further advancing the country’s energy ecosystem, a $634 million government-backed program (http://apo-opa.co/4eFqxhf) – supported by the World Bank and Green Climate Fund – was launched in March 2025 to expand generation capacity and rehabilitate transmission networks across 14 towns.

    Under Minister Lwamba’s leadership, the Ministry has also fostered an enabling environment for private investment. Canadian mining firm Ivanhoe Mines (http://apo-opa.co/4erkLQa) has committed $200 million to stabilize the southern DRC grid, while mining firms including CMOC and ERG are investing in dedicated on-site generation and transmission infrastructure.

    AMW 2025 presents a timely opportunity for Minister Lwamba to engage with key energy and mining stakeholders and forge new partnerships to scale up infrastructure and drive sectoral growth. His participation also reinforces the DRC’s commitment to sustainable resource development and regional energy cooperation.

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

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EIB provides €107.5 million to back security and defence in Italy

    Source: European Investment Bank

    ©Don Jackson/ Unsplash

    • The EIB financing will contribute to the purchase of helicopters for the Italian army.
    • This is the third agreement between the EIB, the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Italian Ministry of Defence.

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a new strategic agreement with the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Defence, with the goal of further strengthening Italy’s security and defence capabilities.

    The operation is part of the EIB’s broader commitment to European security and defence. It recently expanded its eligibility criteria to backing military projects, in line with EU priorities.

    The loan will be disbursed to the Ministry of Economy and Finance, which will then channel the EIB resources to the Ministry of Defence. The favourable conditions offered by the EIB on international markets mean that the loan will enable the Italian government to make substantial interest savings over the 20-year term.

    This is the third agreement of its kind between the EIB, the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Defence In 2022, the EIB provided €240 million to finance the purchase of 16 light helicopters for the Italian Carabinieri and upgrades to the national air traffic control system, while in 2020, it provided €220 million to build three hydro-oceanographic vessels.

    “This agreement shows the EIB’s growing commitment to supporting European security and defence, and is the result of ongoing fruitful dialogue with the Italian government to promote strategic investments strengthening the competitiveness and security of Italy,” said EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti. “We will continue to work side by side with our partners to safeguard the strategic autonomy of the European Union.”

    Background information

    The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight key priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives by bolstering climate action and the environment, digitalisation and technological innovation, security and defence, cohesion, agriculture and bioeconomy, social infrastructure, the capital markets union, and a stronger Europe in a more peaceful and prosperous world. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed over 900 projects worth nearly €89 billion in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. The EIB Group signed 99 operations totalling €10.98 billion in Italy in 2024, helping to unlock almost €37 billion of investment in the real economy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement, as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Almost 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation, adaptation, and a healthier environment. Fostering market integration and mobilising investment, the funds made available by the Group unlocked over €100 billion in new investment for Europe’s energy security in 2024 and mobilised a further €110 billion for startups and scale-ups. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower than the EU average.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: France: Gatewatcher secures €25 million EIB investment to accelerate growth and reinforce European cyber resilience

    Source: European Investment Bank

    • The EIB is backing Gatewatcher’s ambition to strengthen Europe’s technological sovereignty.
    • The French firm, recently named the only “Visionary” in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant for network detection and response (NDR), will use the funding to boost innovation and continue to expand internationally.
    • This transaction is part of the EIB Group’s ever-stronger commitment to security and defence, as reaffirmed by the Board of Governors at their annual meeting on 20 June.  

    Marking its largest venture debt investment in cybersecurity to date, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a €25 million financing facility to Gatewatcher, a French company recognised as a European leader in cyber threat detection. Gatewatcher has developed an advanced network detection and response (NDR) platform that combines artificial intelligence and threat intelligence to deliver real-time visibility across all digital environments. The funds will accelerate the development of Gatewatcher’s advanced detection technologies and support its international expansion in a context of rising cyber threats and renewed focus on European autonomy.

    EIB Vice-President Ambroise Fayolle said: “Cybersecurity is a strategic sector within the defence industry. Having the capability to prevent cyberattacks, safeguard the integrity of infrastructure and data, and identify those responsible for attacks is now imperative for Europe’s security and the competitiveness of our economies. We are therefore proud to support the development of a company like Gatewatcher, which is fully dedicated to cybersecurity and whose results are already promising. The project is also fully in line with the EIB’s new strategy to finance the European security and defence sector.”

    “This investment is a strong signal of trust from a major European institution. It represents a shared commitment to building a secure, digital future,” said CEO and founder of Gatewatcher Jacques de La Rivière. “This financing allows us to pursue our innovation efforts for our clients and partners, while accelerating the market launch of our latest AI solution. Our ambition is clear: to bring cutting-edge threat detection technologies to the broadest possible market, while contributing to the emergence of a robust European cybersecurity industry. This next phase of growth is first and foremost a collective one, driven by our teams and guided by a sense of responsibility to our ecosystem.”

    The financing comes as Gatewatcher marks its tenth anniversary and continues to scale across Europe, Middle East, Asia and Africa. A pioneer in large-scale fundraising within the European cybersecurity sector, Gatewatcher is confirming its long-term vision, strategic independence and strength in a fiercely competitive global market with this new milestone. Its inclusion as the only fully European vendor, and the sole “Visionary” in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant for network detection and response further confirms its role as a key player in Europe’s cyber defence ecosystem. Today, Gatewatcher’s technologies protect hundreds of public and private organisations, including critical infrastructure operators, governments and enterprises.

    For the EIB Group, this transaction confirms its commitment to security and defence, just a few days after the Bank’s annual Board of Governors meeting on 20 June, where the 27 EU Member States approved the plan to increase the financing volume for 2025 to an unprecedented level of up to €100 billion. This revised ceiling will notably enable 3.5% of total financing to be dedicated to European security and defence. Further information on the EIB Group’s financing of security and defence projects is available here.

    Background information

    About EIB:

    The European Investment Bank (EIB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. Built around eight core priorities, we finance investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. The EIB Group, which also includes the European Investment Fund (EIF), signed nearly €89 billion in new financing for over 900 high-impact projects in 2024, boosting Europe’s competitiveness and security. In France, the EIB Group signed more than 100 operations in 2024 for a total amount of €12.6 billion, which made it possible to mobilise €62 billion in investments in the real economy. Nearly 60% of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation.

    About Gatewatcher:

    Gatewatcher, a leader in cyber threat detection, has been protecting the networks of businesses and public institutions, including the most critical ones, since 2015. The Gatewatcher NDR Platform (network detection and response) combines artificial intelligence, dynamic and behavioural analytics techniques, and contextualised cyber threat intelligence (CTI). This enables unified, comprehensive visibility, real-time detection and mapping of systems, and an automated, prioritised response to attacks. Deployed across cloud, on-premise or sensitive infrastructure, and compatible with information technology, operational technology and internet of things environments, it secures all critical assets while streamlining operations through its integrated AI assistant. Gatewatcher combines technological power with operational peace of mind to align cybersecurity with your business objectives. 

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Where climate change and your energy bills meet

    Source: European Investment Bank

    In 2020, the European Investment Bank signed a €20 million loan to help the Polish city of Szczecin build and refurbish residential buildings for energy efficiency and comfort. This project is part of larger urban regeneration programme in the historic part of the city that limits vehicle traffic, encourages cycling and aims to attract more retailers.

    Grażyna Szotkowska, president of the board for one of two housing agencies in Szczecin that used some of the funding from this loan, says the city is a leader in cutting emissions in housing. That’s because many of its big residential buildings are connected to the city’s central heating, rather than having small boilers in every apartment.

    “We also are adding thick layers of insulation to many social housing buildings,” Szotkowska says. “Most importantly, they are getting triple-glazed windows, which are highly efficient in terms of energy loss but also block road noise. Better insulation and windows also mean lower energy consumption, which reduces the costs for the tenants.”

    Lower expenses for homeowners, tenants and building owners is a topic energy experts always mention.

    “Energy improvements are one of the main advantages of housing upgrades, as they help reduce energy bills for households while also cutting carbon emissions,” says Gladys Sevilla, an EIB loan officer who works on housing projects.

    In other words, governments may like energy efficiency because it cuts carbon emissions or because it reduces the need to build new homes to beat the housing crisis. Residents like energy efficiency because it saves them money and increases the value of their homes.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI: MoonFox Data | “New Consumer Trends F4” Soar in Hong Kong Stock Market; Pop Mart’s Mark Value Hits All-Time High

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Shenzhen, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fueled by the global explosion in popularity of LABUBU, Pop Mart, one of the so-called “New Consumer Trends F4” stocks on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, has seen its share price skyrocket. As of market close on June 9, Pop Mart’s market capitalization reached HKD 336.8 billion, setting a new all-time high. With a 48.73% ownership stake, founder Wang Ning has now become the richest individual in Henan province.

    According to MoonFox Data, Pop Mart’s monthly average DAU (daily active users) on mobile surged 257% since the beginning of the year, while its customer UV index at offline retail stores rose 11%. The continued rise in its share price is a direct reflection of the company’s comprehensive growth across all operational metrics. Behind this momentum lies a meticulously planned commercial strategy that has laid a solid foundation for sustained growth.

    Building and Operating the Pop Mart IP Universe

    A global co-creation network of artists: POP MART has built a global creative network of over 200 designers, operating under a dual-track model of “emerging talent discovery + master collaborations.” By working closely with prominent artists such as Hong Kong designer Kenny Wong (creator of the “MOLLY” IP) and Dutch illustrator Kasing Lung (creator of the “LABUBU” IP), the company transforms artistic concepts into commercial value through a full industrialized pipeline of “concept sketches → 3D modeling → mass production → retail”.

    Emotionally resonant design: Take CRYBABY as an example: its core design concept revolves around “crying as therapy” and the idea that “everyone has moments when they need to cry”. It aims to encourage people to move forward with courage after releasing their emotions. By conveying the core message of emotional freedom, it provides emotional value to fans and evokes deep resonance, making it Pop Mart’s fastest-growing emerging IP in 2024, with a YoY revenue increase of over 1,537.2%.

    Continued development of core IPs: Classic IPs such as MOLLY and DIMOO continue to iterate with new themes, while emerging IP THE MONSTERS (which includes LABUBU) has expanded beyond static pop toys and figurines into plush accessories and interactive companions through diverse product designs and performances featuring park character interactions. These efforts have strengthened emotional bonds with fans, driving a remarkable 726.6% YoY revenue growth in 2024.

    Tiered pricing strategy across consumer scenarios:

    Blind Box Economy (RMB 59-69): By lowering the threshold to trigger impulse purchases, it enhances interactive fun through “hidden edition mysticism” and “blind box strategies”, stimulating desire to buy with the unpredictability of content and the scarcity of hidden editions.

    Mega Collection (RMB 1,000-10,000+): The MEGA series (e.g., 1000% SPACE MOLLY) targets high-spending collectors with an emphasis on art investment. Collaborations with institutions like the Van Gogh Museum and artists like Mika Ninagawa elevate the brand’s cultural cachet and pricing power, appealing to sophisticated buyers seeking both emotional and investment value.

    Understanding core consumers and capturing emotional demand:

    According to Pop Mart’s active user portrait, the core consumer group consists primarily of women aged 16 to 35, with Generation Z and young white-collar workers as the dominant force. These users are mainly concentrated in first- and second-tier cities with developed consumer markets. They are highly receptive to new trends, willing to pay for emotional value, possess a certain level of economic stability, and demonstrate strong purchasing intent. As both primary buyers and key nodes in social sharing, they play a central role in driving consumption and brand communication.

    The rise of Pop Mart’s commercial empire lies in its deep understanding and precise grasp of the consumer psychology of its target audience. By skillfully leveraging various psychological mechanisms, Pop Mart transforms the act of purchasing pop toys into an experience rich in fun and emotional connection. The unpredictability of blind boxes offers instant gratification; IP collectibles serve as symbols of self-expression for young consumers; and the exclusivity of hidden editions fosters a sense of group identity and pride. Together, these elements cater to a wide range of emotional needs, including comfort, individuality, surprise, achievement, and social connection.

    Omni-channel Reach and Precision Operations

    Offline Retail Expansion and Store Functionality Upgrade

    Retail Stores: By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had opened 401 stores across Mainland China, primarily located in high-traffic commercial districts. With an emphasis on immersive store design, each outlet serves not just as a point of sale but also as a powerful channel for brand storytelling and customer engagement. According to MoonFox Data, the offline customer UV index in 2024 increased by 47.7% YoY, showing a strong correlation with in-store revenue.

    ROBOSHOPS: By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had deployed 2,300 ROBOSHOPS, with a net increase of 110 units during the year. These automated vending machines, with their low operating costs and flexible deployment, have accelerated enterprises’ penetration into multi-tier cities and high-frequency consumption scenarios such as commercial complexes and transportation hubs, significantly enhancing the efficiency of consumer reach.

    Online Omni-channel Expansion and Development

    Self-owned Platforms: Pop Mart Official Mall and Pop Mart Blind Box Machine (WeChat applet) are the company’s core proprietary online channels. The Pop Mart Blind Box Machine simulates the offline blind box experience, enhancing user engagement and purchase satisfaction, and has demonstrated strong sales growth. According to MoonFox Data, the Pop Mart Blind Box Machine’s MAU grew by 58.5% throughout 2024, with revenue increasing 52.7% YoY.

    Additionally, following the online release of LABUBU 3.0 on April 24, Pop Mart saw an explosive short-term spike in market buzz and DAU, which was soon followed by a sustained upward trend in its share price, with growth momentum significantly accelerating in June.

    Third-Party E-commerce Platforms: Pop Mart has established official flagship stores on mainstream e-commerce platforms such as Tmall, JD.com, and Douyin. According to its 2024 financial report, its overall revenue from online channels rose 76.9% YoY, with Douyin and Tmall seeing particularly strong growth.

    Membership System Development and Value

    Pop Mart has built a large and highly active membership ecosystem. By implementing a tiered membership system and offering exclusive benefits such as points redemption, birthday gifts, and early access to new products, the brand has significantly boosted customer loyalty and lifetime value. According to the financial report data of 2024, the number of registered members in mainland China reached 46.083 million, with members contributing 92.7% of total sales. The repurchase rate stood at 49.4%. User behavior data from the app side also indicates growing frequency and duration of use.

    Meanwhile, Pop Mart is accelerating both the diversification of its IP portfolio and its global expansion. The company is undergoing a transformative shift from a “pop toy manufacturer” to a global IP ecosystem operator. Several major international investment banks have expressed bullish views on Pop Mart. Deutsche Bank, for instance, issued a report stating that Pop Mart’s potential market size is significantly larger than previously estimated, maintaining a “Buy” rating and raising its target price from HKD 200 to HKD 303.

    Looking ahead, the key challenges for Pop Mart will include sustaining the creative momentum of its IP lifecycle, addressing delayed tech integration, and restoring community trust. To maintain the emotional engagement of its 40 million users, the company must ensure that the “emotional deposit interest rate” on their emotional deposits keeps pace with “emotional inflation”. For investors, Pop Mart’s rise represents a “collective reckoning” within the investment community, an opportunity in the new consumer trends to step beyond traditional frameworks and develop a deeper understanding of consumer culture, identity, and behavioral trends behind each channel. In many ways, these qualitative insights may prove more predictive than financial report figures alone.

    About MoonFox Data

    MoonFox Data, a subsidiary of Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG), is a leading alternative data provider delivering actionable insights to global financial institutions and investment firms. Trusted by top 50 funds, MoonFox leverages proprietary big data and advanced analytics to help clients uncover market trends and drive smarter decisions across China and emerging markets.

    For Media Inquiries:

    Contact: zhouxt@jiguang.cn | Website: http://www.moonfox.cn/en

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MoonFox Data | “New Consumer Trends F4” Soar in Hong Kong Stock Market; Pop Mart’s Mark Value Hits All-Time High

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Shenzhen, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Fueled by the global explosion in popularity of LABUBU, Pop Mart, one of the so-called “New Consumer Trends F4” stocks on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, has seen its share price skyrocket. As of market close on June 9, Pop Mart’s market capitalization reached HKD 336.8 billion, setting a new all-time high. With a 48.73% ownership stake, founder Wang Ning has now become the richest individual in Henan province.

    According to MoonFox Data, Pop Mart’s monthly average DAU (daily active users) on mobile surged 257% since the beginning of the year, while its customer UV index at offline retail stores rose 11%. The continued rise in its share price is a direct reflection of the company’s comprehensive growth across all operational metrics. Behind this momentum lies a meticulously planned commercial strategy that has laid a solid foundation for sustained growth.

    Building and Operating the Pop Mart IP Universe

    A global co-creation network of artists: POP MART has built a global creative network of over 200 designers, operating under a dual-track model of “emerging talent discovery + master collaborations.” By working closely with prominent artists such as Hong Kong designer Kenny Wong (creator of the “MOLLY” IP) and Dutch illustrator Kasing Lung (creator of the “LABUBU” IP), the company transforms artistic concepts into commercial value through a full industrialized pipeline of “concept sketches → 3D modeling → mass production → retail”.

    Emotionally resonant design: Take CRYBABY as an example: its core design concept revolves around “crying as therapy” and the idea that “everyone has moments when they need to cry”. It aims to encourage people to move forward with courage after releasing their emotions. By conveying the core message of emotional freedom, it provides emotional value to fans and evokes deep resonance, making it Pop Mart’s fastest-growing emerging IP in 2024, with a YoY revenue increase of over 1,537.2%.

    Continued development of core IPs: Classic IPs such as MOLLY and DIMOO continue to iterate with new themes, while emerging IP THE MONSTERS (which includes LABUBU) has expanded beyond static pop toys and figurines into plush accessories and interactive companions through diverse product designs and performances featuring park character interactions. These efforts have strengthened emotional bonds with fans, driving a remarkable 726.6% YoY revenue growth in 2024.

    Tiered pricing strategy across consumer scenarios:

    Blind Box Economy (RMB 59-69): By lowering the threshold to trigger impulse purchases, it enhances interactive fun through “hidden edition mysticism” and “blind box strategies”, stimulating desire to buy with the unpredictability of content and the scarcity of hidden editions.

    Mega Collection (RMB 1,000-10,000+): The MEGA series (e.g., 1000% SPACE MOLLY) targets high-spending collectors with an emphasis on art investment. Collaborations with institutions like the Van Gogh Museum and artists like Mika Ninagawa elevate the brand’s cultural cachet and pricing power, appealing to sophisticated buyers seeking both emotional and investment value.

    Understanding core consumers and capturing emotional demand:

    According to Pop Mart’s active user portrait, the core consumer group consists primarily of women aged 16 to 35, with Generation Z and young white-collar workers as the dominant force. These users are mainly concentrated in first- and second-tier cities with developed consumer markets. They are highly receptive to new trends, willing to pay for emotional value, possess a certain level of economic stability, and demonstrate strong purchasing intent. As both primary buyers and key nodes in social sharing, they play a central role in driving consumption and brand communication.

    The rise of Pop Mart’s commercial empire lies in its deep understanding and precise grasp of the consumer psychology of its target audience. By skillfully leveraging various psychological mechanisms, Pop Mart transforms the act of purchasing pop toys into an experience rich in fun and emotional connection. The unpredictability of blind boxes offers instant gratification; IP collectibles serve as symbols of self-expression for young consumers; and the exclusivity of hidden editions fosters a sense of group identity and pride. Together, these elements cater to a wide range of emotional needs, including comfort, individuality, surprise, achievement, and social connection.

    Omni-channel Reach and Precision Operations

    Offline Retail Expansion and Store Functionality Upgrade

    Retail Stores: By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had opened 401 stores across Mainland China, primarily located in high-traffic commercial districts. With an emphasis on immersive store design, each outlet serves not just as a point of sale but also as a powerful channel for brand storytelling and customer engagement. According to MoonFox Data, the offline customer UV index in 2024 increased by 47.7% YoY, showing a strong correlation with in-store revenue.

    ROBOSHOPS: By the end of 2024, Pop Mart had deployed 2,300 ROBOSHOPS, with a net increase of 110 units during the year. These automated vending machines, with their low operating costs and flexible deployment, have accelerated enterprises’ penetration into multi-tier cities and high-frequency consumption scenarios such as commercial complexes and transportation hubs, significantly enhancing the efficiency of consumer reach.

    Online Omni-channel Expansion and Development

    Self-owned Platforms: Pop Mart Official Mall and Pop Mart Blind Box Machine (WeChat applet) are the company’s core proprietary online channels. The Pop Mart Blind Box Machine simulates the offline blind box experience, enhancing user engagement and purchase satisfaction, and has demonstrated strong sales growth. According to MoonFox Data, the Pop Mart Blind Box Machine’s MAU grew by 58.5% throughout 2024, with revenue increasing 52.7% YoY.

    Additionally, following the online release of LABUBU 3.0 on April 24, Pop Mart saw an explosive short-term spike in market buzz and DAU, which was soon followed by a sustained upward trend in its share price, with growth momentum significantly accelerating in June.

    Third-Party E-commerce Platforms: Pop Mart has established official flagship stores on mainstream e-commerce platforms such as Tmall, JD.com, and Douyin. According to its 2024 financial report, its overall revenue from online channels rose 76.9% YoY, with Douyin and Tmall seeing particularly strong growth.

    Membership System Development and Value

    Pop Mart has built a large and highly active membership ecosystem. By implementing a tiered membership system and offering exclusive benefits such as points redemption, birthday gifts, and early access to new products, the brand has significantly boosted customer loyalty and lifetime value. According to the financial report data of 2024, the number of registered members in mainland China reached 46.083 million, with members contributing 92.7% of total sales. The repurchase rate stood at 49.4%. User behavior data from the app side also indicates growing frequency and duration of use.

    Meanwhile, Pop Mart is accelerating both the diversification of its IP portfolio and its global expansion. The company is undergoing a transformative shift from a “pop toy manufacturer” to a global IP ecosystem operator. Several major international investment banks have expressed bullish views on Pop Mart. Deutsche Bank, for instance, issued a report stating that Pop Mart’s potential market size is significantly larger than previously estimated, maintaining a “Buy” rating and raising its target price from HKD 200 to HKD 303.

    Looking ahead, the key challenges for Pop Mart will include sustaining the creative momentum of its IP lifecycle, addressing delayed tech integration, and restoring community trust. To maintain the emotional engagement of its 40 million users, the company must ensure that the “emotional deposit interest rate” on their emotional deposits keeps pace with “emotional inflation”. For investors, Pop Mart’s rise represents a “collective reckoning” within the investment community, an opportunity in the new consumer trends to step beyond traditional frameworks and develop a deeper understanding of consumer culture, identity, and behavioral trends behind each channel. In many ways, these qualitative insights may prove more predictive than financial report figures alone.

    About MoonFox Data

    MoonFox Data, a subsidiary of Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG), is a leading alternative data provider delivering actionable insights to global financial institutions and investment firms. Trusted by top 50 funds, MoonFox leverages proprietary big data and advanced analytics to help clients uncover market trends and drive smarter decisions across China and emerging markets.

    For Media Inquiries:

    Contact: zhouxt@jiguang.cn | Website: http://www.moonfox.cn/en

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: New Development Bank appoints Tshepiso Moahloli as regional DG

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The New Development Bank (NDB) has appointed Tshepiso Moahloli as the new Africa Regional Centre (ARC) Director-General, following an international competitive recruitment process. 

    Moahloli’s appointment took effect on 20 June 2025. 

    Moahloli’s role will entail managing the Bank’s African regional operations and leading the African continent, with a focus on project origination, preparation, and implementation supervision. She will also serve as a primary interface between the NDB and key project stakeholders in the region.

    The NDB is celebrating 10 years of operations this year. Since its inception in 2015, the Bank has approved 15 infrastructure projects in South Africa, valued at a total of US$7.3 billion. 

    These projects focus on addressing crucial infrastructure needs in sectors sincluding water, energy, transport and logistics networks.

    “Moahloli is a former National Treasury Deputy Director-General (DDG) for Asset and Liability Management and has amassed more than a decade of experience in the National Treasury providing operational and strategic leadership in Debt Management, Risk Management and Stakeholder Relations.

    “Prior to this appointment, Moahloli provided consulting services on various projects related to public debt, climate financing and broad infrastructure development. Moahloli provided strategic expertise at the newly formed Oman Debt Management Office,” National Treasury said.

    In partnership with the World Bank, she has also provided consulting support for the NDB in mapping out requisite reforms in infrastructure delivery for the National Treasury.

    Moahloli holds a Master of Business Administration in Executive Management from the University of Cape Town, and a Master of Commerce Economic Science (with Distinction) from the University of the Witwatersrand.

    National Treasury Director-General, Dr Duncan Pieterse, who is also South Africa’s representative on the NDB Board of Directors, wishes Moahloli well in her new role as she leads the expansion of the NDB Project Portfolio in South Africa and the broader African region for greater development impact. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Afreximbank Launches 2025 Report on African Trade in a Shifting Global Financial Landscape

    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) (www.Afreximbank.com) today launched its flagship African Trade Report 2025, themed “African Trade in a Changing Global Financial Architecture”, during the Afreximbank Annual Meetings (AAM2025) in Abuja.

    Download Document: https://apo-opa.co/3FY7kKJ

    The report looks at the performance of Africa’s trade in a challenging global environment charaterised by rising geopolitical tensions, new trade barriers, and financial uncertainty—and analyses how the continent could leverage these challenges into opportunities to enhance its resilience and navigate the evolving landscape.

    Professor Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Afreximbank, said: “This year’s report provides a compelling roadmap for Africa to reposition itself in a volatile global economy. From strengthening trade finance systems to accelerating the AfCFTA, the message is clear: Africa must turn global fragmentation into an opportunity for industrialisation, digital progress, and greater control over its financial systems.”

    Dr. Yemi Kale, Afreximbank’s Group Chief Economist and Managing Director of Research, added: “Despite global headwinds, Africa’s trade rebounded strongly in 2024, with trade between African countries growing by 12.4% to reach US$220.3 billion, from a contraction of 5.9% in 2023. This shows the tangible benefits of AfCFTA implementation, even as the continent contends with rising inflation, sovereign debt risks, and a persistent trade finance gap.”

    The report shows that Africa’s total merchandise trade recovered, surging by 13.9% in 2024, to US$1.5 trillion, following a 5.4% contraction in 2023. However, Africa still makes up only 3.3% of global exports. That’s a clear signal. The continent must do more by moving away from commodity exports and accelerating its industrialisation process if it is to enhance its integration into global value chains and boost intra-African trade. It also needs better access to trade finance to bridge the gap estimated at about US$100 billion.

    While the global economy slowed to 3.3% growth in 2024 and is expected to dip further in 2025, Africa held steady. The continent’s economy grew by 3.2%, helped by strong commodity prices and better public finances. Still, growth remains uneven across the continent.

    Afreximbank’s African Trade Report 2025 emphasises the importance of advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which is becoming a foundation for trade resilience across the region. It also highlights the expanding use of the Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS), which is helping to reduce reliance on foreign currencies and making cross-border trade more efficient.

    In addition, the report offers practical guidance on making trade rules and regulations more consistent across countries, unlocking investment from African institutions like pension funds and sovereign funds, and using Africa’s new seat in the G20 to push for overdue global reforms. This includes ensuring a fairer share of global financial resources, such as Special Drawing Rights, an international reserve currency created by the IMF and increasing access to climate finance. It also calls for changes in credit ratings to better reflect the strength and potential of African economies.

    The report highlights the growing significance of the Alliance of African Multilateral Financial Institutions (AAMFI), as it is increasing funding for development and helping to rebuild a financial ecosystem that works better for Africans. In 2024, Afreximbank alone disbursed more than US$17.5 billion in trade finance. It plans to increase that amount to US$40 billion by 2026.

    As Africa faces a rapidly changing global environment, the report offers more than just analysis. It provides a clear and practical plan for building a stronger, fairer, and more resilient African economy, driven from within the continent.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Afreximbank.

    Media Contact:
    Vincent Musumba
    Communications and Events Manager (Media Relations)
    Email: press@afreximbank.com

    Follow us on:
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    About Afreximbank:
    African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) is a Pan-African multilateral financial institution mandated to finance and promote intra- and extra-African trade. For over 30 years, the Bank has been deploying innovative structures to deliver financing solutions that support the transformation of the structure of Africa’s trade, accelerating industrialisation and intra-regional trade, thereby boosting economic expansion in Africa. A stalwart supporter of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), Afreximbank has launched a Pan-African Payment and Settlement System (PAPSS) that was adopted by the African Union (AU) as the payment and settlement platform to underpin the implementation of the AfCFTA. Working with the AfCFTA Secretariat and the AU, the Bank has set up a US$10 billion Adjustment Fund to support countries effectively participating in the AfCFTA. At the end of December 2024, Afreximbank’s total assets and contingencies stood at over US$40.1 billion, and its shareholder funds amounted to US$7.2 billion. Afreximbank has investment grade ratings assigned by GCR (international scale) (A), Moody’s (Baa1), China Chengxin International Credit Rating Co., Ltd (CCXI) (AAA), Japan Credit Rating Agency (JCR) (A-) and Fitch (BBB-). Afreximbank has evolved into a group entity comprising the Bank, its equity impact fund subsidiary called the Fund for Export Development Africa (FEDA), and its insurance management subsidiary, AfrexInsure (together, “the Group”). The Bank is headquartered in Cairo, Egypt.

    For more information, visit: www.Afreximbank.com

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: 19th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee convenes

    Source: ASEAN

    The 19th Meeting of the ASEAN-Japan Joint Cooperation Committee (AJJCC) was held today on 26 June 2025 at the ASEAN Headquarters/ASEAN Secretariat. The Meeting reviewed the progress of ASEAN-Japan cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed its future direction, including preparation for the 28th ASEAN-Japan Summit in October this year.
     

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New Homes England 2024 to 2025 housebuilding statistics published

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    New Homes England 2024 to 2025 housebuilding statistics published

    Today’s statistics show the number of housing starts on site and completions delivered by Homes England between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025.

    Housing programmes delivered by Homes England resulted in 38,308 new houses starting on site and 36,872 new homes completed between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025. This represents an increase in both starts (by 5%) and completions (by 12%) compared to the same period the previous year.   

    30,087 of new starts on site were for affordable houses — a 0.6% increase on the previous year, and representing 79% of all starts.  

    Of the affordable homes started in this period:  

    • 5,680 were for social rent, an increase of 43% on the previous year  

    • 2,800 were for intermediate affordable housing schemes, including shared ownership and rent to buy — a decrease of 27% on the previous year 

    • 2,665 were for affordable rent, a decrease of 18%.  

    • The tenure is still to be confirmed for a further 18,942 of the affordable homes starts (a 1% increase on this figure for the same period last year). 

    Of the affordable housing starts delivered, 96% were delivered from the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026, up from 74% on the same period last year. This is because the Shared Ownership and Affordable Housing Programme (SOAHP) 2016 to 2021 closed to new business and finished delivering housing starts in March 2024. Over its lifetime, it exceeded its target of 130,000, delivering 136,169 affordable starts on site. It is due to finish delivery of completions by March 2026.  

    28,370 of the housing completions for this period were for affordable homes. This is a 15% increase on the previous year, and represents 77% of all completions. This increase can be attributed to the maturing of the Affordable Homes Programme 2021 to 2026, where the starts from the first couple of years develop into completions. 

    Of the affordable homes completed in this period:  

    • 10,755 were for affordable rent, an increase of 15% on the same period last year  

    • 11,883 were for Intermediate Affordable Housing Schemes, an increase of 13%  

    • 5,732 were for social rent, an increase of 33%. 

    Eamonn Boylan, Chief Executive of Homes England, said:  

    The statistics published today demonstrate the commitment and determination of the sector to build the new homes and communities the country needs.  

    It also shows the importance of programmes like the Affordable Homes Programme (AHP) to enable the delivery of these much-needed homes — and comes hot on the heels of the government committing a further £39 billion in funding to affordable homes over a 10 year period, giving confidence and certainty to the sector.  

    We’ll be working closely with the government on the operationalisation of this funding over the coming months, alongside other new initiatives such as the creation of the National Housing Bank, whilst continuing to work closely with local leaders to understand local needs, and providers to ensure they have the support to meet that need.

    Notes to Editors  

    All ‘tenure to be confirmed starts’ originate from Strategic Partnerships (SP) where providers are not contractually required to identify the tenure of a unit until completion. These starts will be restated under their specified tenure headings in future national statistics updates once the tenure has been established at completion. Homes England also manages the Help to Buy equity loan scheme in England (including in London on behalf of the GLA). However, the completions are reported by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) and, therefore, are excluded from these statistics. 

    National housing statistics are published twice a year showing half and full year starts and completions as part of planned national statistical releases. The next release is half year starts and completions, which are due to be published in November or December 2025. Housing figures cannot be provided outside of these official releases.  

    Homes England programmes are funded by central government to enable private registered providers, house builders, community groups and local authorities to deliver affordable housing.  

    This release presents the housing starts on site and housing completions delivered by Homes England between 1 April 2024 and 31 March 2025 in England excluding London (for both the current and historical series) with the exception of the Build to Rent (BtR), Builders Finance Fund (BFF), Get Britain Building (GBB), the Home Building Fund – Short Term Fund (HBF-STF) and the Home Building Fund (HBF) programmes which are administered by Homes England on behalf of the Greater London Authority (GLA) and where delivery covers all of England including London.  

    Since April 2012, the Mayor of London has had oversight of strategic housing, regeneration and economic development in London.  

    The list of programmes included in these totals are detailed in the official housing statistics report.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Project Financing and Key Long Lead Contracts Confirm Schedule for First Bauxite Shipment in 1H 2026

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Highlights

    • Credit facility secured from AFG Bank Cameroon (~US$140M), together with proceeds from the recent option exercise by Eagle Eye Asset Holdings Pte Ltd (EEA) (A$15.8M), has paved the way for the purchase of long lead items and appointment of key contractors
    • Canyon in a strong position to commence production at the flagship Minim Martap Bauxite Project in early 2026 and make first bauxite shipment in 1H 2026
    • Locomotives order has been placed with CRRC Ziyang Co. Ltd (CRRC), with first deliveries scheduled for Q1 2026
    • Groundbreaking for the Inland Rail Facility (IRF) scheduled to commence in July 2025
    • Road construction contractor appointed with the haulage road upgrade works planned to commence in July 2025
    • Both the Mining Contractor and Ore Haulage contractor have been appointed and scheduled to mobilise to Minim Martap by end of CY2025 to commence mine production in Q1 2026
    • Remaining 124M options (A$8.7M) held by EEA expected to be converted in June
    • Updated JORC Compliant Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimates for Minim Martap scheduled for end of July 2025

    PERTH, Australia, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Leading bauxite developer Canyon Resources Limited (ASX: CAY) (‘Canyon’ or the ‘Company’) is pleased to announce the purchase of key long lead items and appointment of contractors, as the Company works towards the commencement of production at its flagship Minim Martap Bauxite Project (‘Minim Martap’ or ‘the Project’), located in Cameroon, in early 2026.

    Following the recently secured medium-term syndicated credit facility for ~US$140M with the AFG Bank Cameroon and the Company’s major shareholder and long-term supporter Eagle Eye Asset Holdings Pte Ltd exercising A$15.8M of its options, Canyon is now advancing critical site, port and rail development activities to ensure Stage One operations commence at Minim Martap in Q1, 2026.

    The Company has ordered 22 locomotives from CRRC and expects the first delivery to arrive in Q1 2026, ahead of the scheduled first bauxite shipment in 1H 2026.

    Canyon has appointed the main road construction contractor that will be responsible for upgrading the haulage road from Minim Martap, as well as supporting the development of the Inland Rail Facility (IRF) located in Ngaoundal.

    Groundbreaking at the IRF is expected to commence during the month of July, marking another significant milestone in the Company’s Project development.

    Mr Mark Hohnen, Canyon Executive Chairman commented: ”Since we received our Mining Licence in late 2024, we have moved quickly to deliver on our vision of moving the Minim Martap Bauxite Project into production, and today’s announcement is another big step forward in achieving this major goal.

    “I am incredibly proud of the tireless effort and commitment displayed by our team in recent months to get to this point. The support from our strategic partner and major shareholder, Eagle Eye, has been critical in the progress we’ve made to date, and the ongoing support from key stakeholders and shareholders holds us in good stead as we continue to accelerate our work program and move towards production in 1H 2026.

    “The loan agreement with AFG Bank Cameroon and the proceeds from Eagle Eye’s option exercise has put us in a strong position to advance critical workstreams for Stage One operations at Minim Martap. With the key contracts in place or close to being finalised, Canyon can now work towards finalising the Definitive Feasibility Study, which has a dedicated focus on a two stage ramp up strategy, positioning us for success upon the commencement of production.

    “Progress across all key aspects of the development of Minim Martap is on schedule and we anticipate breaking ground at the Inland Rail Facility in the coming weeks. The IRF, which is situated near the existing Makor Railway Station, will serve as the loading station for wagons of bauxite ore brought by road from the Project. The construction of this key piece of infrastructure will secure our transport supply chain from the mine to the Port of Douala, where we will then ship to our offtake customers.

    “In addition, we are also working towards updating Minim Martap’s Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserve Estimate and expect to release the results to the market very soon. These successive achievements underpin the strong recognition from the authorities in Cameroon, the local community, and our team in establishing Minim Martap as a key bauxite operation.

    “We are excited to keep this momentum going and establish Canyon as a key supplier of high-quality bauxite ore into a market that urgently needs new sources of long-term supply.”

    Image 1: Signing of the locomotive order with CRRC Ziyang Co. Ltd (CRRC)

    This announcement has been approved for release by the Canyon’s Board of Directors.

    Forward looking statements

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements can be identified by words such as “anticipate”, “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “opportunity”, “plan”, “potential”, “project”, “seek”, “believe”, “could”, “future” and other similar words that involve risks and uncertainties. These statements are based on an assessment of present economic and operating conditions, and on a number of assumptions regarding future events and actions that are expected to take place. Such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, its directors and management that could cause the Company’s actual results to differ materially from the results expressed or anticipated in these statements.

    The Company cannot and does not give any assurance that the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained in this announcement will actually occur and investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The Company does not undertake to update or revise forward-looking statements, regardless of whether any new information, future events or any other factors affect the information contained in this announcement, except where required by applicable law and ASX requirements.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/94a5abef-b500-40ec-bba4-89f9812c5155

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Norway: Staff Concluding Statement for the 2025 Article IV Consultation Mission

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 26, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Norway’s economy has shown resilience amid global uncertainty, supported by strong fiscal buffers and credible policy frameworks. Mainland real GDP growth is forecast to increase to 1.5 percent in 2025 (from 0.6 percent in 2024) and is projected to remain steady at around that level over the medium term. The labor market has held firm. Despite contractionary monetary policy, inflation remains above target; bringing inflation back to target is the most pressing near-term policy priority. The financial system is sound, and buffers are robust, but systemic vulnerabilities remain elevated, reflecting high levels of household debt and concentrated exposures to real estate. At the same time, macroprudential policy settings have been eased with the increase in the loan-to-value limit for mortgages earlier this year. Risks to the growth outlook are to the downside, driven by rising global policy and trade uncertainty; risks to the inflation outlook are balanced. The IMF staff’s main policy recommendations are: i) maintain the restrictive monetary policy stance until there is additional evidence that the recent easing of inflation has fully solidified; ii) do not ease macroprudential policy settings further, as financial stability risks could increase if downside risks to growth or upside risks to inflation materialize; iii) move towards a broadly neutral fiscal stance to enhance the coherence of the macroeconomic policy mix and lower the burden on monetary policy; and iv) continue advancing structural reforms aimed at increasing labor supply and inclusion.

    Context

    Norway’s economy has remained resilient despite tight financial conditions and ongoing global uncertainty. GDP continued to expand moderately last year, supported by high employment and supportive fiscal policy. Inflation has declined, though it remains above target, and financial stability risks, while elevated due to high household debt levels and concentrated exposures to the real estate sector, remain contained.

    Recent developments, outlook, and risks

    Economic activity strengthened in 2024. Overall real GDP grew by 2.1 percent, driven by record-high natural gas extraction. Mainland GDP expanded by 0.6 percent, primarily due to increased public spending, as activity in the construction and fishing sectors contracted, reflecting high borrowing costs and sector-specific challenges. Employment and hours worked increased, although the unemployment rate edged up to 4 percent. National accounts data and high frequency survey indicators point to resilient activity in the first part of 2025. Mainland GDP growth is forecast to rise to 1.5 percent in 2025, supported by easing financial conditions, an expansionary fiscal stance, and recovering real incomes. Over the medium-term, mainland GDP growth is expected to remain around its potential (1.5 percent).

    Inflation, despite a steady decline, remains above target. Services inflation and wage pressures have contributed to keeping inflation above the 2 percent target. However, recent developments point to slower-than-expected momentum in both headline and core inflation, partly due to one-off and base effects. Fiscal measures—such as those to stabilize electricity prices and reduce childcare costs—could lower inflation in the second half of the year. Under staff’s baseline scenario, headline and core inflation will fall to 2.2 and 2.6 percent by end-2025 and return to target by 2027. After holding the policy rate steady at 4.5 percent from January 2024, Norges Bank began normalizing monetary policy by lowering the rate to 4.25 percent in June and signaled that the policy rate will be reduced further in the course of 2025.

    The fiscal stance has become increasingly expansionary. While additional support to Ukraine in the revised budget is not expected to provide stimulus to the economy, overall, the 2025 budget implies a significant fiscal impulse. The structural non-oil deficit is projected to reach about 13 percent of trend mainland GDP, even as withdrawals from the Government Pension Fund Global (GPFG) are expected to remain below the fiscal rule’s 3 percent guideline (at around 2.7 percent of the GPFG’s 2024 market value). The government has also signaled alignment with NATO discussions to progressively increase defense spending toward 5 percent of GDP over the medium term.

    Risks to the growth outlook are tilted to the downside, while inflation risks are balanced. On growth, global tensions, including higher trade tariffs, could weigh on exports and investment, and continued tight financial conditions could further pressure highly indebted households and firms at a time when financial risks are elevated. Over the longer term, demographic headwinds and the expected structural erosion of oil-related revenues will weigh on economic resilience. Inflation could take longer to converge to target if domestic demand recovers faster than expected or higher oil prices put pressure on headline inflation. By contrast, further currency appreciation and higher productivity gains (e.g., from a faster-than-anticipated uptake of AI or automation) could bring inflation back to target more rapidly.   

    Policy recommendations

    Norges Bank should proceed cautiously with monetary policy normalization, ensuring there is further evidence that underlying inflation is firmly on a path back to target. Under staff’s baseline scenario, the current restrictive monetary policy is broadly appropriate to bring core inflation to target by 2027, even as medium-term inflation expectations and underlying inflation remain above target. The output gap is broadly closed, and inflation risks are balanced. While recent inflation developments are encouraging, further evidence of a decline in the trend of underlying inflation is needed to continue with the normalization of monetary policy.

    Norway’s strong monetary policy framework has served the economy well. After the adoption of inflation targeting in 2001, Norges Bank has operated with a high level of credibility and ranks among the most transparent central banks in the world. However, the current highly uncertain global outlook can present challenges for monetary policy formulation and implementation. Navigating rapidly evolving global developments and volatile data may require enhancements to the policy process. This could include expanding the use of scenario analysis—an approach Norges Bank has employed in the past—and refining communication strategies to maintain well-anchored expectations.

    The recent relaxation of the loan-to-value (LTV) limit for mortgages could increase financial vulnerabilities. Although households’ debt burden has stabilized, it remains high. A higher LTV limit may fuel further increases in house prices and household indebtedness, contributing to higher financial stability risks, particularly if downside risks to growth or upside risks to inflation materialize. Lasting improvements in housing affordability will require structural measures to address factors that keep prices elevated, including a relatively small rental market, limited land availability in urban areas, high construction costs, and a tax system that encourages mortgage debt. Gradually phasing-out mortgage interest deductibility (starting with a cap on income-tax deductions) would help curb speculative housing demand and enhance tax efficiency. Tightening eligibility for subsidized mortgages would also help manage housing demand and public spending.

    The financial system is sound with strong buffers, but further macroprudential easing should wait until systemic risks recede or financial disintermediation risks emerge. Continued close financial system monitoring is essential. Participation in the initiative to undertake a Nordic-Baltic regional stress test exercise would enhance the assessment of cross-border financial interlinkages and risks. Measures to address increased bank reliance on covered bonds are also welcome and would help mitigate interconnectedness risks. The current countercyclical capital buffer setting remains appropriate, but Norges Bank should be prepared to raise it if cyclical vulnerabilities increase. Priority should be given to preserving capital buffers, including by ensuring that banks’ models properly reflect credit risks and to strengthening contingency planning amid continued pressure on the commercial real estate (CRE) sector. Over the medium term, broadening the toolkit for CRE vulnerabilities could help address these in a more targeted manner during future upswings, and borrower-based-measures on CRE lending, as well as sector-specific capital surcharges to address risks from the insurance sector’s CRE exposures could be considered. Work to address the findings of the 2024 Nordic-Baltic crisis management exercise and the 2020 FSAP recommendations should continue.

    Moving towards a broadly neutral fiscal policy stance would support the disinflation effort and improve the coherence of the overall macroeconomic policy mix. The 2025 budget further expands the fiscal stimulus, with an estimated fiscal impulse of about 2.5 percent of trend mainland GDP. While the impact on domestic activity may be dampened by the composition of spending (including through imports and transfers abroad), the stimulus is still expected to provide a significant boost to the domestic economy.

    Enhancements to Norway’s robust fiscal framework would help ensure continued delivery of strong economic and social outcomes. Reinforcing countercyclicality and spending discipline would enhance fiscal resilience. Complementing the fiscal rule with explicit medium-term expenditure limits could reduce exposure to volatility from market-driven changes in the large and growing value of the GPFG and improve fiscal planning. Strengthening multi-year budgeting, improving public investment management, conducting more systematic spending reviews and setting efficiency targets would support more strategic resource allocation and enhance public service delivery. Benchmarking the setup of the Advisory Panel on Fiscal Policy Analysis against best international practices for independent fiscal councils and expanding its mandate would help further enhance the fiscal framework.

    Advancing fiscal reforms is essential to bolster resilience and support long-term growth. Tax reforms aimed at improving efficiency and broadening the revenue base remain a priority. Consolidating multiple VAT rates and enhancing incentives for work and investment would improve resilience of the tax system. Further measures to reform disability and sickness benefits, along the lines of past IMF recommendations, are needed to reduce work disincentives, increase labor force participation, and contain long-term fiscal costs. Sustained reform efforts are crucial to ensure long-term sustainability of fiscal policy in the face of rising structural spending pressures.

    A broad and ambitious reform agenda is essential to accelerate productivity growth and mitigate the effects of geoeconomic fragmentation. Advancing the “reinforced work line” agenda would reduce reliance on disability benefits, raise labor force participation among underrepresented groups—including youth and immigrants—and increase total hours worked. Strengthening education-to-work transitions, promoting full-time employment, and accelerating digitalization would further support productivity. Finally, further measures are likely to be needed to achieve Norway’s 2035 emission reduction targets.

    The IMF team thanks the Norwegian authorities and other counterparts for their hospitality and the constructive and insightful discussions.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Eva-Maria Graf

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/25/norway-staff-concluding-statement-for-the-2025-article-iv-consultation-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: CloudBees accelerates European momentum

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  CloudBees, a world-leading enterprise DevOps development solution, has reached significant milestones in its European expansion, following the 2022 appointment of CEO Anuj Kapur.

    With more than 110,000 developers using CloudBees across its EMEA business, the region now accounts for about a quarter of the global ARR and customer base, cementing the company’s position as a key player in the region. This presence builds on the sustained investment from CloudBees across the region, where there are now over 160 employees and the business continues to actively hire across main hubs in the UK, France, Germany, and the Middle East region.

    As of March 2025, the company supports over 100 enterprise customers across Europe, including HSBC, BNP Paribas, DZ Bank, Worldpay, and Tesco Bank. It continues to attract marquee ‘Global 2000’ brands from a wide range of industries, reflecting growing demand for enterprise-ready DevOps solutions in the region.

    “EMEA is one of the fastest-growing regions for enterprise software delivery, and CloudBees is making an important investment to meet that momentum,” said Philippe Van Hove, VP, Sales EMEA at CloudBees, who joined in April 2024 in this newly created role.

    “We’re building an expert team across the region to support our customers’ most complex DevOps challenges, from hybrid cloud environments to AI-enhanced delivery. This expansion marks the beginning of a long-term commitment to helping organizations scale securely, ship faster, and stay ahead.”

    Global momentum
    15 years since its founding, CloudBees has grown into a team of over 500, surpassed $150 million USD in global ARR, achieved profitability, and now supports over 500,000 developers.

    Today, the company enables hundreds of enterprises to accelerate innovation, improve efficiency, and reduce security risks. As part of its go-to-market strategy, CloudBees has built a robust global partner network, including AWS, Perficient, Aliado, Cognizant, and SPKAA and a global customer base, such as Salesforce, Adobe, Accenture, Mount Sinai Health System and others.

    In recent weeks, CloudBees announced CloudBees Unify, the industry’s most open and flexible DevOps solution, which enables organizations to consolidate governance, standardise security, and accelerate delivery without discarding existing systems. Unlike traditional DevOps platforms, CloudBees Unify acts as an operating layer on top of any existing toolchain, using an open and modular architecture that connects seamlessly with popular tools like GitHub Actions and Jenkins.

    Pioneering AI-powered software development
    Following its 2024 acquisition of AI-driven testing company Launchable, CloudBees launched “CloudBees Smart Tests”, an AI-augmented QA testing tool. Early customers, including LY Corporation and GoCardless, have reported dramatic improvements in testing efficiency – including a 50% reduction in machine hours, 90% decrease in test execution time, and 40% reduction in build times.

    The acquisition saw former CloudBees employee Jenkins-creator Kohsuke Kawaguchi return to the company at this critical growth stage.

    “We’re proud to be helping some of Europe’s leading enterprises solve their most complex development challenges. As developer demands grow, our focus remains on delivering scalable, secure, and compliant solutions that help teams move faster and thrive in the AI era,” said Anuj Kapur, CEO of CloudBees, who served as Chief Strategy Officer at Cisco and President at SAP before taking the helm at CloudBees in 2022.

    In 2024, Forrester reported that using CloudBees’ product suite brought its customers’ downtime to almost zero, and efficiency and security gains saw an ROI of 426%. By year two of partnering with CloudBees, total lost developer hours reduced by 99%, saving $4.5 million, which reached $10.6 million by year three. Software pipelines also increased by as much as 60% over a five-year period.

    About CloudBees

    CloudBees is a leading DevOps solution for enterprises navigating the complexity of modernizing software development at scale. Built for global enterprises, CloudBees bridges the gap between legacy systems and emerging technologies, helping organizations innovate securely, intelligently, and on their own terms.

    As the industry’s most open and flexible DevOps solution, CloudBees integrates with any developer tool, allowing teams to build better, faster, and safer across any environment. CloudBees automates and optimizes software delivery at scale with continuous compliance and enterprise-grade governance built-in, accelerated with AI capabilities.

    Founded in 2010, CloudBees is backed by Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley, Bridgepoint Capital, HSBC, Golub Capital, Delta-v Capital, Matrix Partners, and Lightspeed Venture Partners.

    Visit us at www.cloudbees.com.

    Contact

    Toby Andrews – Ballou PR
    cloudbeeseu@balloupr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • India’s strategic partnership with G7 to boost world trade: Study

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A strategic collaboration in areas including clean and renewable energy, climate finance, Digital Public Infrastructure, trade and supply chain resilience, as well as, healthcare and pharma will drive a mutually beneficial growth trajectory between India and the G7 advanced countries, according to a study released on Thursday.

    The study released by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry also mentioned the importance of maritime and Indo-Pacific security as a strategic factor that further cements the relationship between India and the G7 countries.

    The report highlighted that India’s merchandise trade with G7 countries has surged by 61 per cent, rising from $154 billion in FY 2020–21 to $248 billion in FY 2024–25, maintaining a steady trade surplus. This reflects India’s growing export competitiveness as indicated by the commodity net export price index, bolstering its external sector resilience, the report pointed out.

    “India’s consistent real GDP growth makes the country a key growth driver for the world economy. The transformative reforms, including GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Act, Production Linked Incentive Scheme, growing digital infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI) and ‘Make in India’ are strengthening India’s ascendancy in the World,” said Hemant Jain, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    With an average real GDP growth of more than 8 per cent from 2021 to 2024, India has consistently outpaced all G7 members. IMF’s 2025 projections indicate that India will maintain an average growth trajectory above 6 per cent through 2029, supported by robust domestic demand, sound macroeconomic fundamentals, and its demographic dividend.

    In terms of purchasing-power-parity (PPP) terms, India’s share in global GDP has surged from 7 per cent in 2020 to 8.3 per cent in 2024, and is anticipated to exceed 9 per cent by 2029, the report points out.

    A crucial underlying factor is the demographic divergence between India and the G7. India’s working-age population (15–64 years) is projected to increase in the coming years, with over 68 per cent of its population currently between 15-64 years. This demographic dividend supports labour supply expansion, boosts domestic consumption, and enhances the innovation ecosystem through a vibrant startup culture and rising tertiary education enrolment, the report states.

    Further, India’s share of the total population aged 65 and above constitutes less than 5 per cent (2025). Conversely, G7 nations are confronting demographic headwinds as their share is more than 10 per cent, highlighting rapidly ageing populations, shrinking labour pools, and rising old-age dependency ratios.

    By 2030, this share is expected to double or more than double for the G7 economies. This is likely to slow potential output, reduce consumer demand, and increase fiscal burdens related to pensions and healthcare, the report further states.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the G7 summit, underscored India’s leadership in clean energy transition, climate action, and digital innovation. Key global initiatives led by India – the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, and the Global Biofuels Alliance – are shaping a greener, more inclusive world.

    In the technology and digital governance space, India highlighted its commitment to a human-centric and ethical approach to AI, showcasing initiatives like BHASHINI and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as global models, he said.

    The Prime Minister urged for global cooperation on AI governance, resilient tech supply chains, and curbing the misuse of emerging technologies.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • India’s strategic partnership with G7 to boost world trade: Study

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A strategic collaboration in areas including clean and renewable energy, climate finance, Digital Public Infrastructure, trade and supply chain resilience, as well as, healthcare and pharma will drive a mutually beneficial growth trajectory between India and the G7 advanced countries, according to a study released on Thursday.

    The study released by the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry also mentioned the importance of maritime and Indo-Pacific security as a strategic factor that further cements the relationship between India and the G7 countries.

    The report highlighted that India’s merchandise trade with G7 countries has surged by 61 per cent, rising from $154 billion in FY 2020–21 to $248 billion in FY 2024–25, maintaining a steady trade surplus. This reflects India’s growing export competitiveness as indicated by the commodity net export price index, bolstering its external sector resilience, the report pointed out.

    “India’s consistent real GDP growth makes the country a key growth driver for the world economy. The transformative reforms, including GST, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Act, Production Linked Incentive Scheme, growing digital infrastructure (Aadhaar, UPI) and ‘Make in India’ are strengthening India’s ascendancy in the World,” said Hemant Jain, president, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

    With an average real GDP growth of more than 8 per cent from 2021 to 2024, India has consistently outpaced all G7 members. IMF’s 2025 projections indicate that India will maintain an average growth trajectory above 6 per cent through 2029, supported by robust domestic demand, sound macroeconomic fundamentals, and its demographic dividend.

    In terms of purchasing-power-parity (PPP) terms, India’s share in global GDP has surged from 7 per cent in 2020 to 8.3 per cent in 2024, and is anticipated to exceed 9 per cent by 2029, the report points out.

    A crucial underlying factor is the demographic divergence between India and the G7. India’s working-age population (15–64 years) is projected to increase in the coming years, with over 68 per cent of its population currently between 15-64 years. This demographic dividend supports labour supply expansion, boosts domestic consumption, and enhances the innovation ecosystem through a vibrant startup culture and rising tertiary education enrolment, the report states.

    Further, India’s share of the total population aged 65 and above constitutes less than 5 per cent (2025). Conversely, G7 nations are confronting demographic headwinds as their share is more than 10 per cent, highlighting rapidly ageing populations, shrinking labour pools, and rising old-age dependency ratios.

    By 2030, this share is expected to double or more than double for the G7 economies. This is likely to slow potential output, reduce consumer demand, and increase fiscal burdens related to pensions and healthcare, the report further states.

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his address at the G7 summit, underscored India’s leadership in clean energy transition, climate action, and digital innovation. Key global initiatives led by India – the International Solar Alliance, Mission LiFE, and the Global Biofuels Alliance – are shaping a greener, more inclusive world.

    In the technology and digital governance space, India highlighted its commitment to a human-centric and ethical approach to AI, showcasing initiatives like BHASHINI and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) as global models, he said.

    The Prime Minister urged for global cooperation on AI governance, resilient tech supply chains, and curbing the misuse of emerging technologies.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Investment mission takes off to Singapore and Malaysia

    Source: Australian Attorney General’s Agencies

    In April, the Albanese Labor Government pledged to send five new trade and investment missions to priority markets. I am pleased this week to see the third mission get underway with a delegation visiting Singapore and Malaysia.

    Southeast Asia is experiencing rapid economic growth, and Singapore and Malaysia serve as vital gateways to access these markets for Australian exporters, investors and businesses.

    Delegates on this investment mission will gain firsthand insights into Singapore’s role as a regional industrial and investment hub and Malaysia’s emergence as a key industrial and trade gateway in Southeast Asia.

    The mission brings together representatives from 16 leading Australian companies. It is led by Shayne Elliott, Australia’s Business Champion to Singapore and former CEO of ANZ Bank, and Tony Lombardo, Business Champion for Malaysia and Group CEO of Lendlease.

    Since the launch of our government’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040, the $2 billion Southeast Asia Investment Financing Facility, and the deployment of dedicated Investment Deal Teams, engagement with the region has surged.

    Australian businesses supported by Austrade recorded more than $1 billion in trade outcomes across Southeast Asia last year, a 45% increase on previous years.

    When Australian businesses grow their footprint in Southeast Asia, the benefits flow back home creating jobs, opening markets, and strengthening our economy.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Businessman Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding the COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program Out of Over $628,000

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah entrepreneur was sentenced today to 18 months’ imprisonment after he fraudulently obtained $628,307 from a COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan in 2021 by submitting a fraudulent loan application in the name of his business.

    The COVID-19 PPP Loans were provided to small businesses for funding to meet specific obligations, including payroll and rent during the pandemic.

    Marcelo Federico Torre, 42, of Draper, Utah, pleaded guilty to wire fraud, and possession of stolen mail on April 10, 2025. In addition to his sentence, and credit for time served, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Clark Waddoups sentenced Torre to three years’ supervised release and ordered him to pay $628,307 in restitution. Torre also forfeited a money judgement in the amount of $628,307.

    According to court documents and statements made at Torre’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, from April 27, 2021 to May 5, 2021, Torre fraudulently submitted a PPP Loan application through U.S. Bank for approximately $628,307 on behalf of his company, Offerworks Inc., a company he owned and controlled. By fraudulently submitting the Loan application, he lied to U.S. Bank and the United States government in order to be approved for the PPP Loan. Some of the false statements Torre made on the PPP Loan application included that his company, Offerworks Inc., had been in operation as of February 15, 2020, when it had not; his company had 37 employees, when it did not; and that Offerworks Inc., had an average monthly payroll of $251,323 in 2020, when it did not.

    “The amount of money Mr. Torre stole from the U.S. government and taxpayers, which was intended to keep businesses open and provide salaries for employees and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, is significant and his fraud and will not go unpunished,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “It is our hope Mr. Torre’s sentence will deter him and others who seek to take criminal advantage of government programs meant to help honest and hardworking business owners and their employees during a crisis.”

    The case was investigated jointly by the U.S. Postal Investigation Service, Draper City Police Department, U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office, Salt Lake City Police Department, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

    Assistant United States Attorney Todd C. Bouton of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.

    Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Utah Businessman Sentenced to Prison for Defrauding the COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program Out of Over $628,000

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A Utah entrepreneur was sentenced today to 18 months’ imprisonment after he fraudulently obtained $628,307 from a COVID-19 Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loan in 2021 by submitting a fraudulent loan application in the name of his business.

    The COVID-19 PPP Loans were provided to small businesses for funding to meet specific obligations, including payroll and rent during the pandemic.

    Marcelo Federico Torre, 42, of Draper, Utah, pleaded guilty to wire fraud, and possession of stolen mail on April 10, 2025. In addition to his sentence, and credit for time served, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Clark Waddoups sentenced Torre to three years’ supervised release and ordered him to pay $628,307 in restitution. Torre also forfeited a money judgement in the amount of $628,307.

    According to court documents and statements made at Torre’s change of plea and sentencing hearings, from April 27, 2021 to May 5, 2021, Torre fraudulently submitted a PPP Loan application through U.S. Bank for approximately $628,307 on behalf of his company, Offerworks Inc., a company he owned and controlled. By fraudulently submitting the Loan application, he lied to U.S. Bank and the United States government in order to be approved for the PPP Loan. Some of the false statements Torre made on the PPP Loan application included that his company, Offerworks Inc., had been in operation as of February 15, 2020, when it had not; his company had 37 employees, when it did not; and that Offerworks Inc., had an average monthly payroll of $251,323 in 2020, when it did not.

    “The amount of money Mr. Torre stole from the U.S. government and taxpayers, which was intended to keep businesses open and provide salaries for employees and their families during the COVID-19 pandemic, is significant and his fraud and will not go unpunished,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Felice John Viti of the District of Utah. “It is our hope Mr. Torre’s sentence will deter him and others who seek to take criminal advantage of government programs meant to help honest and hardworking business owners and their employees during a crisis.”

    The case was investigated jointly by the U.S. Postal Investigation Service, Draper City Police Department, U.S. Probation and Pretrial Services Office, Salt Lake City Police Department, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).

    Assistant United States Attorney Todd C. Bouton of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.

    Paycheck Protection Program (PPP)
    The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Development Asia: Bridging Transport and Health: Why Post-Crash Care is Critical for Road Safety Progress in Asia

    Source: Asia Development Bank

    For a post-crash response to be effective, it requires a systematically coordinated, well-integrated, and geographically organized approach. It demands a seamless delivery of inclusive and comprehensive care across the continuum—from the time of injury to transport to acute facilities, and to rehabilitation.

    Key approaches to improve trauma-care response are as follows:

    Prehospital care (provided at the scene of the crash):

    • Communication – An effective emergency response system relies on a single, universally-recognized, and easy-to-remember emergency number. Many low and middle-income countries face fragmented emergency services, often operating multiple systems with different contact numbers, which hampers timely response.
    • Emergency Transport – A well-organized system facilitates timely dispatch of appropriately equipped ambulances based on accurate information from the scene. A clear guideline on different types of transportation available depending on the severity and urgency of the case can minimize the risk of resource overuse. Many low and middle-income countries lack sufficient and properly equipped emergency transport services.
    • Triage – Efficient triage systems help assess the severity of injuries, prioritize treatment needs, and allocate medical resources accordingly. This process ensures that patients receive the right care at the right time for improved overall outcomes.
    • First aid management – In the absence of trained personnel, immediate care may be provided by bystanders or lay first-responders to stabilize victims quickly in remote or underserved areas. Therefore, community health literacy and basic first-aid training for the general public are essential.

    Hospital care:

    • Human Resources – An adequate number of staff who are well trained and equipped in the case of emergency crisis, and who receive appropriate administrative support can provide timely and effective care.
    • Infrastructure – Hospitals equipped with appropriate trauma facilities, medical equipment, and sufficient supplies can manage a wide range of injuries and conditions effectively.
    • Definitive care – Clear protocols that guide hospital admission, treatment, and discharge, or guidelines on stabilizing the patient and transferring to a higher-level facility for treatment can make post-care more effective.

    Posthospital care (care provided at follow-up, focused on recovery and restoring of functions):

    Rehabilitation should be integrated in the system. Rehabilitation care needs to be an integral part of the treatment plan to improve the long-term wellbeing and functionality of injured persons. It could include physical and occupational therapy but also extends to mental health services and other rehabilitation care that will improve functioning.

    Surveillance systems

    Such devices are essential tools for the health and transport sector alike, to monitor road traffic injuries, assess patient outcomes, and pinpoint high-risk groups or locations. These insights inform targeted enhancements in trauma care, guide effective resource allocation, and support coordinated responses among emergency services.

    Multiagency collaboration

    Multiagency involvement across the system can make response more effective. The transport sector may ensure the development and availability of emergency transport vehicles and accessible transport routes (roads, air transport), while the health sector may ensure the development and availability of health infrastructure, resources, emergency services, facilities, supplies, and human resources, among several others.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New statistics on banking and mortgage loans by corporate size

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Large corporations have the highest outstanding nominal amount per corporation 

    In addition to the total outstanding nominal amount, the statistics include distributional figures for each corporation size category calculated per borrower, which here corresponds to one company (one CVR number). In the 1st quarter of 2025, small corporations had the largest outstanding nominal amount, totaling to kr. 645 billion. Of this, 78 per cent is mortgage credit debt, making it by far the largest component of small corporations’ banking and mortgage debt. In contrast, for large corporations, approximately two-thirds of their banking and mortgage debt consists of bank loans.

    A few large corporations pull up the average

    There are the most borrowers in the group of small corporations. For small corporations, the average outstanding nominal amount is kr. 8.9 million in the 1st quarter of 2025. This is in line with the median, which is one of several distributional figures included in the new statistics. In comparison, a large corporation has an average outstanding nominal amount of nearly kr. 258 million. For large corporations, the average banking and mortgage debt is considerably higher than the median. This difference indicates a large variation in banking and mortgage debt among large corporations, where a few with very large debts pull the average up in relation to the median.

    Explore the new details in the table in the Statbank

    The new table expands the statistics for banking and mortgage lending based on microdata with a more detailed grouping of loans to corporations (non-financial corporations supplemented by self-employed individuals). The corporations are grouped hierarchically by sector and then by size.

    Banking and mortgage credit based on microdata is a statistical area that is continuously developed. The new detailed data can be found in the table DNMUVS. Read more about the methodologies and table contents in Sources and method on Danmarks Nationalbank’s website.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKCIF funded programme fosters entrepreneurship, job creation and resilience in coastal communities in Belize

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    UKCIF funded programme fosters entrepreneurship, job creation and resilience in coastal communities in Belize

    The FCDO funded a comprehensive technical assistance programme in Belize, through the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF).

    AHC Alistair White

    Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) supported under the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund (UKCIF) took centre stage at the Buy Belizean Expo on 14 June. The event in Dangriga Town gave them the opportunity to showcase their products and services after months of targeted assistance.

    Their participation was the culmination of a comprehensive technical assistance programme funded by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK FCDO), as part of the wider UKCIF Coastal Highway Upgrading Project. The initiative was implemented in partnership with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Belize Social Investment Fund (BSIF), the Ministry of Infrastructure Development and Housing (MIDH), and the Belize Trade & Investment Development Service (BELTRAIDE).

    The Coastal Highway Upgrading Project is financed by a £26 million (US$32 million) grant from the UK FCDO and a US$34.5 million (£28 million) loan from the CDB, along with counterpart funding from the Government of Belize. Together, these investments aim to strengthen infrastructure and economic resilience in coastal communities.

    The initiative has supported the formalisation of 80 Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and the training of 59 business owners in the coastal communities of Gales Point and Mullins River Villages – double the original target.

    BELTRAIDE has played a key role in equipping MSMEs with skills in business development and formalisation. For the entrepreneurs and businesses supported through the UKCIF programme – including those benefiting from BELTRAIDE’s training, the Buy Belizean Expo marked a pivotal milestone. It offered a platform to tap into new economic opportunities, expand market access, and experience the real-world impact of strategic investment in sustainable livelihoods.

    During the event, 21 MSMEs which had participated in the formalisation and training activities delivered by BELTRAIDE, alongside support agencies, highlighted their vibrant entrepreneurial spirit and economic resilience fostered through this initiative.

    The new acting British High Commissioner to Belize, Alistair White, spoke at the event, noting that,

    The UK is proud to support this expo, which brings to life some of our major aims through the UK Caribbean Infrastructure Fund – increasing opportunities and improving people’s lives.

    Elbert Ellis, portfolio manager in the Caribbean Development Bank’s Social Sector Division, spoke on behalf of the bank, praising the project’s training of female entrepreneurs. He noted,

    CDB’s commitment to supporting women-led enterprises is reflected at this Expo and overall Project, with 43 of the 80 newly formalized MSMEs being female-owned, helping to build a more inclusive business environment in Belize.

    Mr. Ishmael Quiroz, Executive Director of BELTRAIDE, said,

    At BELTRAIDE, we believe that small businesses are the cornerstone of Belize’s economic future. This Expo is a powerful reflection of what happens when capacity-building meets opportunity. The MSMEs on showcase here today have not only formalised their operations but are now positioned to thrive in larger markets, showcasing the success of strategic partnerships and community empowerment.

    amilah Cardona, P.Eng., Project Engineer in the MIDH’s Project Execution Unit, added,

    The work of the MIDH extends beyond building roads. We strongly believe that incorporating additional measures within these projects enhances the livelihoods and well-being of those communities directly impacted by the project and ensures that the benefits are widely shared and sustainable.

    This Buy Belizean Expo marked a significant accomplishment in the journey of supporting livelihoods along the Coastal Highway through the UKCIF Programme, celebrating community empowerment, equitable economic development, and the transformative impact of strategic partnerships.

    Updates to this page

    Published 26 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.121 [2025]

    Source: Peoples Bank of China

    Announcement on Open Market Operations No.121 [2025]

    (Open Market Operations Office, June 26, 2025)

    The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB509.3 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on June 26, 2025.

    Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

    Maturity

    Rate

    Bidding Volume

    Winning Bid Volume

    7 days

    1.40%

    RMB509.3 billion

    RMB509.3 billion

    Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

    2025年06月26日

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI: BPX Authorised to Operate UK Regulated Marketplace for Traditional and Tokenised Securities

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, June 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BPX is pleased to announce that it is authorised by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to operate as a Multilateral Trading Facility (MTF), Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM), Cryptoasset Exchange and Custodian Wallet Provider.

    With these institutional grade regulatory permissions in place, BPX is developing a fully integrated marketplace to support the entire lifecycle of a security. This includes issuance, trading and collateralised lending of traditional dematerialised and tokenised securities, alongside settlement and custody of tokenised securities.

    BPX is also the only FCA-authorised trading venue to have passed Gate 1 of the Bank of England and FCA’s Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS).

    BPX now enters its next phase: preparing for live operations and welcoming institutional participants to connect in anticipation of its first transaction.

    BPX’s mission is to enhance access and liquidity for Issuers and Investors in investment funds and digital assets. Its distributed ledger technology enabled platform enables efficient tokenisation at scale, broadening investment opportunities, unlocking new liquidity sources, and facilitating capital access.

    Dr. Robert Barnes, BPX Co-CEO, said: “Our vision is a marketplace of best practice, modernised for institutions, offering access through a single connection to a broader range of hard-to-access alternative assets, such as infrastructure and real estate investment funds, whether traditional or tokenised—available for issuance, trading, and use as collateral.”

    Ali Celiker, Co-CEO, added: “Our comprehensive regulatory permissions and integrated market infrastructure strongly position us to advance our mission: enhancing access and liquidity for issuers and investors, while leading the transformation of capital markets from legacy systems to tokenised workflows—firmly anchored in regulatory compliance and driven by innovation.”

    == ends ==

    Media Contact:

    Tina Kane
    tina.kane@therealizationgroup.com
    +44(0)7887947329

    About Us

    BPX is a regulated marketplace and infrastructure provider that aims to enhance access and liquidity for Issuers and Investors in Investment Funds and Digital Assets. Initial operations in the UK will focus on RWA-based funds, for example, real estate and money market funds, with expansion plans to other fund types and alternate investment products within a multi-jurisdiction UK and UAE offering.

    BPX is authorised by the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) to operate as both a Multilateral Trading Facility (MTF) and an Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM). In May, BPX was added to the UK’s Cryptoasset register, becoming only the third entity to receive approval in 2025, further strengthening its position at the intersection of the law, capital markets, and distributed ledger technology. Additionally, BPX has successfully passed Gate 1 of the Bank of England/FCA Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS) and is currently progressing its Gate 2 application. 

    Through this combination of permissions, BPX will optimise the end-to-end investment and securities lending lifecycle for Issuers and Investors.

    BPX is headquartered in London, with an entity established at the DIFC Innovation Hub in the UAE to support future expansion plans.

    Learn more: www.bpx.exchange

    Notes to Editors

    • 14 Jan 25 – Approved at Gate 1 of Bank of England/FCA Digital Securities Sandbox (DSS) –
      • The DSS was established to support the government’s objective of digitalising the UK’s financial market infrastructure. The DSS provides a regulated, live environment for exploring emerging technologies—particularly distributed ledger technology (DLT)—in the issuance, trading, and settlement of financial securities within the UK
    • FCA authorisations
      • 27 March 2025 – Multilateral Trading Facility (MTF)
      • 27 March 2025 – Alternative Investment Fund Manager (AIFM)
      • 29 May 2025 – Cryptoasset Exchange and Custodian Wallet Provider
    • Target audience:  Capital market participants such as;
      • Investment, Pension, hedge and mutual funds. sovereign wealth funds, wealth managers, private banks, insurance companies, family offices.
    • Legal-first, digital-first architecture, establishing standards in digital assets, innovating in cooperation with industry and regulators.
    • Single connection to fully integrated, hybrid marketplace for:
      • Traditional dematerialised and tokenised securities
      • Digital twinning of traditional securities, and digital-native securities
      • Exchange and OTC workflows for issuance, trading and securities lending
      • Execution to post-trade (e.g. notary, asset-servicing, settlement)
      • Interoperability with existing workflows.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Underwriting Auction for sale of Government Securities for ₹36,000 crore on June 27, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Government of India has announced the sale (issue/ re-issue) of Government Securities, as detailed below, through auctions to be held on June 27, 2025 (Friday).

    As per the extant scheme of underwriting commitment notified on November 14, 2007, the amounts of Minimum Underwriting Commitment (MUC) and the minimum bidding commitment under Additional Competitive Underwriting (ACU) auction, applicable to each Primary Dealer (PD), are as under:

    (₹ crore)
    Security Notified Amount MUC amount per PD Minimum bidding commitment per PD under ACU auction
    New GS 2028 6,000 143 143
    6.33% GS 2035 30,000 715 715

    The underwriting auction will be conducted through multiple price-based method on June 27, 2025 (Friday). PDs may submit their bids for ACU auction electronically through Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber) System between 09:00 A.M. and 09:30 A.M. on the day of underwriting auction.

    The underwriting commission will be credited to the current account of the respective PDs with RBI on the day of issue of securities.

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/593

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by SITI at Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2025 Award Presentation Ceremony (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Speech by SITI at Innovation and Technology Scholarship 2025 Award Presentation Ceremony (English only)    
         Since its inception in 2011, the Innovation and Technology Scholarship has reached an exciting milestone – its 15th year, nurturing up to 375 I&T young talents so far. We have witnessed countless Scholarship alumni growing into leaders or experts in their respective fields. Their journeys are a testament to how far drive and determination can take us and I am sure that their stories will inspire more young people to dream big and keep striving.
     
         Hong Kong enjoys a unique advantage of having strong support from the motherland and close connection with the world, converging global innovation resources, including high-calibre talent. With staunch support of our motherland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to developing Hong Kong into an International I&T Centre. Tangible progress is already underway. Over the past two years, we have attracted over 200 I&T enterprises with high potential and representativeness to set up or expand their businesses here. Furthermore, the construction of the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone is in full swing. Expecting move-in from the second half of this year, the Park will serve as a bridgehead for I&T collaboration between the Mainland and Hong Kong.   
         Before closing, I would like to thank the Scholarship’s organiser, the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups, and the sponsors, the Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation, the Innovation and Technology Commission, as well as members of the two Scholarship Selection Committees, and mentors from all sectors of society for your unfailing support in the past 15 years in nurturing talent together.
     
         As the video we just watched concludes, Let’s Make Change For Good! Together, we can shape a future where innovation uplifts lives and empowers generations to come. Thank you very much.
    Issued at HKT 13:22

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Indian stock market opens higher, all eyes on US reciprocal tariff deadline

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The domestic benchmark indices opened higher on Thursday amid mixed global cues, as buying was seen in the metal, auto, and financial services sectors in early trade.

    At around 9:26 a.m., the Sensex was trading 239.27 points, or 0.29 per cent, higher at 82,994.78, while the Nifty added 84.20 points, or 0.33 per cent, to reach 25,328.95.

    According to analysts, with a ceasefire between Israel and Iran, global markets are in risk-on mode. However, since the reciprocal tariff issue remains unresolved, a sustained rally may be difficult.

    Nifty Bank was up 41.50 points, or 0.07 per cent, at 56,662.65 in early trade. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was trading at 58,993.20 after gaining 111.50 points, or 0.19 per cent. The Nifty Smallcap 100 index stood at 18,785.05, up 57.20 points, or 0.31 per cent.

    Technically, the price action also traced an inside day, indicating that the possibility of a large, single-day trending move is rising, experts said.

    Meanwhile, in the Sensex pack, BEL, Eternal, Tata Motors, PowerGrid, Maruti Suzuki, Tata Steel, L&T, Bajaj Finserv, Bharti Airtel, and Titan were the top gainers. On the other hand, Tech Mahindra, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Trent, and ICICI Bank were among the top losers.

    Foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net sellers on June 25, offloading equities worth ₹2,427.74 crore. Meanwhile, domestic institutional investors (DIIs) remained buyers, purchasing equities worth ₹2,372.96 crore.

    In the Asian markets, Japan, China, Bangkok, and Jakarta were trading in the green, whereas Seoul and Hong Kong were in the red.

    In the previous trading session, the Dow Jones in the US closed at 42,982.43, down 106.59 points, or 0.25 per cent. The S&P 500 ended with a slight loss of 0.02 points at 6,092.16, while the Nasdaq closed at 19,973.55, up 61.02 points, or 0.31 per cent.

    —IANS

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Money Market Operations as on June 25, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 6,07,638.82 5.16 0.01-6.55
         I. Call Money 16,775.52 5.29 4.75-5.35
         II. Triparty Repo 4,09,038.35 5.25 5.20-5.28
         III. Market Repo 1,80,038.55 4.94 0.01-5.40
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,786.40 5.49 5.40-6.55
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 41.23 5.12 4.90-5.25
         II. Term Money@@ 381.00 – 5.70-6.20
         III. Triparty Repo 1,758.05 5.47 5.24-5.58
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Wed, 25/06/2025 1 Thu, 26/06/2025 1,309.00 5.75
    4. SDFΔ# Wed, 25/06/2025 1 Thu, 26/06/2025 2,55,293.00 5.25
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,53,984.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       6,433.53  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     6,433.53  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -2,47,550.47  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on June 25, 2025 9,35,907.86  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending June 27, 2025 9,54,173.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ June 25, 2025 0.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 30, 2025 5,84,684.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/592

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Hussein Dia, Professor of Future Urban Mobility, Swinburne University of Technology

    The Image Bank/Getty

    As the world watches the US–Iran situation with concern, the ripple effect from these events are reaching global oil supply chains – and exposing their fragility.

    If Iran closes the Strait of Hormuz as it is considering, it would restrict the global oil trade and trigger energy chaos.

    Petrol in some Australian cities could hit A$2.50 a litre according to some economists. As global instability worsens, other experts warn price spikes are increasingly likely.

    What would happen next? There is a precedent: the oil shocks of the 1970s, when oil prices quadrupled. The shock drove rapid change, from more efficient cars to sudden interest in alternative energy sources. This time, motorists would likely switch to electric vehicles.

    If this crisis continues or if another one flares up, it could mark a turning point in Australia’s long dependence on foreign oil.

    What would an oil shock mean?

    Australia currently imports 80% of its liquid fuels, the highest level on record. If the flow of oil stopped, we would have about 50 days worth in storage before we ran out.

    Our cars, buses, trucks and planes run overwhelmingly on petrol and diesel. Almost three-quarters (74%) of these liquid fuels are used in transport, with road transport accounting for more than half (54%) of all liquid fuels. Australia is highly exposed to global supply shocks.

    The best available option to reduce dependence on oil imports is to electrify transport.

    How does Australia compare on EVs?

    EV uptake in Australia continues to lag behind global leaders. In 2024, EVs accounted for 9.65% of new car sales in Australia, up from 8.45% in 2023.

    In the first quarter of 2025, EVs were 6.3% of new car sales, a decline from 7.4% in the final quarter of 2024.

    Norway remains the global leader, with battery-electric passenger cars making up 88.9% of sales in 2024. The United Kingdom also saw significant growth – EVs hit almost 20% of new car registrations in 2024.

    In China, EVs made up 40.9% of new car sales in 2024. The 12.87 million cars sold represent three-quarters of total EV sales worldwide.

    One reason for Australia’s sluggishness is a lack of reliable public chargers. While charging infrastructure is expanding, large parts of regional Australia still lack reliable access to EV charging.

    Until recently, Australia’s fuel efficiency standards were among the weakest in the OECD. Earlier this year, the government’s new standards came into force. These are expected to boost EV uptake.

    Could global tensions trigger faster action?

    If history is any guide, oil shocks lead to long-term change.

    The 1970s oil shocks triggered waves of energy reform.

    When global oil prices quadrupled in 1973–74, many nations were forced to reconsider where they got their energy. A few years later, the 1979 Iranian Revolution caused another major supply disruption, sending oil prices soaring and pushing much of the world into recession.

    Huge increases in oil prices drove people to look for alternatives during the 1970s oil shocks.
    Everett Collection/Shutterstock

    These shocks drove the formation of the International Energy Agency in 1974, spurred alternative energy investment and led to advances in fuel-efficiency standards.

    Much more recently, Russia’s invasion of Ukraine pushed the European Union to face up to its reliance on Russian gas and find alternatives by importing gas from different countries and accelerating the clean energy shift.

    Clearly, energy shocks can be catalysts for long-term structural change in how we produce and consume energy.

    The new crisis could do the same, but only if policy catches up.

    If fuel prices shot up and stayed there, consumer behaviour would begin to shift. People would drive less and seek alternate forms of transport. Over time, more would look for better ways to get around.

    But without stronger support such as incentives, infrastructure and fuel security planning, shifting consumer preferences could be too slow to matter.

    A clean-energy future is more secure

    Cutting oil dependency through electrification isn’t just good for the climate. It’s also a hedge against future price shocks and supply disruptions.

    Transport is now Australia’s third-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. Now that emissions are falling in the electricity sector, transport will be the highest emitting sector emissions source as soon as 2030.

    Building a cleaner transport system also means building a more resilient one. Charging EVs on locally produced renewable power cuts our exposure to global oil markets. So do biofuels, better public transport and smarter urban planning.

    Improving domestic energy resilience isn’t just about climate targets. It’s about economic stability and national security. Clean local energy sources reduce vulnerability to events beyond our control.

    What can we learn from China?

    China offers a compelling case study. The nation of 1.4 billion faces real oil security challenges. In response, Beijing has spent the past decade building a domestic clean energy ecosystem to reduce oil dependency and cut emissions.

    This is now bearing fruit. Last year, China’s oil imports had the first sustained fall in nearly two decades. Crude oil imports fell 1.5%, while oil refinery activity also fell due to lower demand.

    China’s rapid uptake of EVs has clear energy security benefits.
    pim pic/Shutterstock

    China’s green energy transition was driven by coordinated policy, industrial investment and public support for clean transport.

    China’s rapid shift to EVs and clean energy shows how long-term planning and targeted investment can pay off on climate and energy security.

    What we do next matters

    The rolling crises of 2025 present Australian policymakers a rare alignment of interests. What’s good for the climate, for consumers and for national security may now be the same thing.

    Real change will require more than sustained high petrol prices. It demands political will, targeted investment and a long-term vision for clean, resilient transport.

    Doing nothing has a real cost – not just in what we pay at the service station, but in how vulnerable we remain to events a long way away.

    Hussein Dia receives funding from the Australian Research Council, the iMOVE Australia Cooperative Research Centre, Transport for New South Wales, Queensland Department of Transport and Main Roads, Victorian Department of Transport and Planning, and Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications and the Arts.

    – ref. Oil shocks in the 1970s drove rapid changes in transport. It could happen again if Middle East tensions continue – https://theconversation.com/oil-shocks-in-the-1970s-drove-rapid-changes-in-transport-it-could-happen-again-if-middle-east-tensions-continue-259670

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Australia – SMEs resilient in the face of rising costs – CBA

    Source: Commonwealth Bank of Australia (CBA)

    With around 90 per cent of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) having experienced an increase in costs in the past year, keeping up with utilities, supplier and marketing costs is proving ever more challenging.

    Key findings:

    • New research commissioned by CommBank shows 89 per cent of small to medium enterprises (SMEs) have experienced an increase in business costs in the past 12 months.
    • Utility bills, including phone, internet and electricity bills, are by far the greatest contributor to the increased costs (66 per cent), while nearly half (47 per cent) have seen supplier costs soar.
    • These increases are followed by marketing (29 per cent), staff (26 per cent), and accounting software costs (25 per cent).
    • On average, business costs have increased by 10 per cent, however 40 per cent of SMEs who have experienced a rise report increases of more than 10 per cent.

    Justine Dalrymple, owner of Front Room Hair in Sydney’s lower North Shore suburb of Crows Nest, prides herself on not only the high standard of service her salon offers to local customers, but the community she’s been able to build around her business.

    “What I love the most about being a small business owner is the opportunity to bring the community together. We are so blessed that we get to make fri

    MIL OSI – Submitted News –