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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – CalAmp Announces Headquarters Relocation to Carlsbad, CA to Streamline Operations and Strengthen Technical Hub

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CARLSBAD, Calif., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CalAmp, a global technology solutions innovator, today announced the relocation of its corporate headquarters from Irvine, CA, to Carlsbad, CA. This strategic move is designed to streamline operations and further align the company’s focus on its core technical hub, where much of its engineering, product development, and hardware expertise reside.

    “Our move to Carlsbad is a natural evolution in our journey to optimize efficiency and reinforce our commitment to innovation,” said Chris Adams, President and CEO of CalAmp. “Carlsbad has long been home to our talented engineering and product teams, making it the ideal location to centralize our operations and drive technological advancements that improve our customers’ lives.”

    CalAmp’s new headquarters will be housed in its existing Carlsbad office, a well-established center for the company’s research and development initiatives. The relocation underscores CalAmp’s commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing collaboration among its technical teams.

    While the headquarters moves to Carlsbad, CalAmp will maintain its additional offices worldwide, including locations in Eden Prairie, MN; Brooklyn, NY; London, UK; Milan, Italy; Paris, France; Madrid, Spain; and Mexico City, Mexico. These offices will continue to support CalAmp’s global customers and partners with the high-quality service and solutions they expect.

    “This transition allows us to better leverage our strengths and position ourselves for future growth,” Adams added. “By consolidating our leadership and technical expertise in Carlsbad, we are creating an environment where innovation thrives and where we can better serve our customers.”

    For more information about CalAmp and its technology-driven solutions, visit www.calamp.com.

    About CalAmp

    CalAmp provides flexible solutions to help organizations worldwide monitor, track, and protect their vital assets. Our unique device-enabled software and cloud platform enables commercial and government organizations worldwide to improve efficiency, safety, visibility, and compliance while accommodating the unique ways they do business. With over 10 million active edge devices and 220+ approved or pending patents, CalAmp is the telematics leader organizations turn to for innovation and dependability. For more information, visit calamp.com, or LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube or CalAmp Blog.

    CalAmp, LoJack, TRACKER, Here Comes The Bus, Bus Guardian, CalAmp Vision, CrashBoxx and associated logos are among the trademarks of CalAmp and/or its affiliates in the United States, certain other countries and/or the EU. Spireon acquired the LoJack® U.S. Stolen Vehicle Recovery (SVR) business from CalAmp and holds an exclusive license to the LoJack mark in the United States and Canada. Any other trademarks or trade names mentioned are the property of their respective owners.

    CalAmp Investor  Contact: CalAmp Media Contact:
    Jikun Kim Mark Gaydos
    SVP & CFO Chief Marketing Officer
    ir@calamp.com Mgaydos@calamp.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund general meeting of investors and a notice to convene a new general meeting of investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Extraordinary General Meeting (hereinafter the “General Meeting”) of Baltic Horizon Fund unit-holders and Swedish Depositary Receipt (hereinafter the “SDR”) holders (hereinafter together the “Investors”) took place on 27 March 2025 in Tallinn, Estonia.  

    Proposed agenda of the meeting, as proposed by a unitholder, was the following:

    1. Decision to elect Andrius Smaliukas as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    2. Decision to elect Milda Dargužaitė as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    3. Decision to elect Antanas Anskaitis as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    4. Decision to pay remuneration to the chairman of the supervisory board for fulfilling obligations of the member of the supervisory board in the amount of EUR 36,000 per calendar year.
    5. Decision to pay remuneration to supervisory board members, other than  the chairman, for fulfilling obligations of the member of the supervisory board in the amount of EUR 11,000 per calendar year.
    6. Decision to recall Reimo Hammerberg, Monica Hammer and David Bergendahl from the position of the supervisory board member of Baltic Horizon Fund with the last date of the office being 30 April 2025.

    3 investors were registered as attending the meeting, holding less than 1% of the fund units which is below the required quorum. Investors were not able to adopt the proposed resolutions.

    Notice to convene a new general meeting

    According to section 10.11 of the rules of the fund, the management company Northern Horizon Capital AS convenes a new general meeting, with the same agenda.

    The new general meeting of Baltic Horizon Fund is to be held on 7 April 2025 at 13:00 (local Estonian time) at the office of Northern Horizon Capital AS at Roseni 7 (A tower), 6th floor, 10111 Tallinn, Estonia. Registration for the meeting will begin at 12:00. The General Meeting will be held in English.

    The meeting is convened in accordance with sections 10.3.3, 10.5, 10.11, 11.2 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund and section 47-1 of the Investment Funds Act of Estonia.

    Investors are invited to join the webinar to view the General Meeting online on 7 April 2025 at 13:00. Investors are invited to issue a power of attorney with instructions for voting to exercise their rights as an Investor. We propose the Investors to consider designating fund manager Tarmo Karotam as their authorised representative (please see instructions below and templates at Annex 1).

    To join the webinar, please register via the following link:

    https://nasdaq.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_vSmhsW1uQhqwRaTQ3EBXBA

    You will be provided with the webinar link and instructions how to join successfully. The webinar will be recorded and available online for everyone at the company’s website on www.baltichorizon.com.

    The total number of units and votes in Baltic Horizon Fund amounts to 143,562,514.

    Agenda, as proposed by the unitholder:

    1. Decision to elect Andrius Smaliukas as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    2. Decision to elect Milda Dargužaitė as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    3. Decision to elect Antanas Anskaitis as a new member of the supervisory board of Baltic Horizon Fund as of 1 May 2025 for a period of two years.
    4. Decision to pay remuneration to the chairman of the supervisory board for fulfilling obligations of the member of the supervisory board in the amount of EUR 36,000 per calendar year.
    5. Decision to pay remuneration to supervisory board members, other than  the chairman, for fulfilling obligations of the member of the supervisory board in the amount of EUR 11,000 per calendar year.
    6. Decision to recall Reimo Hammerberg, Monica Hammer and David Bergendahl from the position of the supervisory board member of Baltic Horizon Fund with the last date of the office being 30 April 2025.

    Investors are invited to send questions and comments on the agenda to the Baltic Horizon fund manager at Tarmo.Karotam@nh-cap.com by 31 March 2025. Northern Horizon Capital AS will respond to the questions and comments at the meeting itself.

    Participation – requirements and notice

    Investors who are entered in the Baltic Horizon Fund registry of unit-holders maintained by Nasdaq CSD SE and holders of SDRs registered in the Euroclear Sweden AB system ten days before the date of the General Meeting, i.e. at the end of business of Nasdaq CSD SE on 28 March 2025, are entitled to participate in the meeting.

    In order to facilitate the registration process, investors whose units are registered in their own name are invited to provide notice of their attendance by 4 April 2025 to bhfmeeting@nh-cap.com. Notice should include name, personal identification number (or the registration number of the legal person), address, number of units represented and, if applicable attendance of any representatives, along with the name and personal identification number of the representatives. The attendance of a representative does not deprive the unit-holder of the right to participate at the meeting.

    Instructions to holders of Baltic Horizon Fund SDRs registered with Euroclear Sweden AB in Sweden

    IMPORTANT REQUIREMENT: SDR holders whose SDR-s are registered with Euroclear Sweden AB via a bank or other nominee are required to notify their bank or nominee account provider by end of business of 28 March 2025 to temporarily add their name on the Euroclear Sweden AB owner register.

    Representation under a power of attorney

    Investors whose representatives are acting under a power of attorney are requested to prepare a written power of attorney for the representative in Estonian or English (templates can be found at Annex 1).

    A copy of the executed power of attorney should be sent to bhfmeeting@nh-cap.com together with the notice of participation. In case the power of attorney is issued by a legal person, a certified copy of the registration certificate (or equivalent certificate of authority) shall also be submitted together with, as applicable, the documents certifying the authority of the representative in case the power of attorney is signed by a person under a power of attorney.

    Baltic Horizon Fund is registered in Estonia, which means that any power of attorney (or any certified copy of the registration certificate of a legal person) issued in a foreign country should be notarised and accompanied by an apostille. The apostille requirement applies, for example, to powers of attorney issued and notarised in Sweden or Finland. 

    Instructions for the day of the General Meeting

    We kindly ask Investors to bring a personal identification document, and for their representatives also to present the original written power of attorney in English or Estonian. In case the Investor is a legal person, documentation in Estonian or English certifying the authority of the Investor’s representative or the signatory of the power of attorney will also be requested.

    Data collected by Northern Horizon Capital AS from powers of attorney, the unitholders registry maintained by Nasdaq CSD SE, and the list of holders of SDRs registered in the Euroclear Sweden AB system will be used for the purpose of registration and preparing the voting list for the meeting.

    Northern Horizon Capital AS proposals on the agenda items

    1. Decision to elect Andrius Smaliukas as a new member of the supervisory board of the Baltic Horizon Fund

    According to section 11.2 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund the members of the supervisory board shall be appointed at the general meeting for a period of at least two years. The  proposal is to elect Andrius Smaliukas as a new member of the supervisory board.

    Dr. Smaliukas is the Managing Partner at MMSP, a Lithuanian law firm focused on strategic corporate advisory and dispute resolution. He previously partnered at one of the leading Pan-Baltic firm, Valiunas Ellex, and holds nearly 20 years of experience as an arbitrator and international arbitration lead counsel. Dr. Smaliukas earned his Ph.D. and Master of Laws from Vilnius University, conducted postgraduate research at Oxford, and completed executive programs at Cambridge Judge Business School and Harvard Law School. Dr.Smaliukas serves on the boards of Staticus Group, Kesko Senukai, has extensive advisory experience in commercial real estate M&A and investment management across the Baltic countries.

    Andrius Smaliukas does not hold any units of the Baltic Horizon Fund.

    1. Decision to elect Milda Dargužaitė as a new member of the supervisory board of the Baltic Horizon Fund

    According to section 11.2 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund the members of the supervisory board shall be appointed at the general meeting for a period of at least two years. The proposal is to elect Milda Dargužaitė as a new member of the supervisory board.

    Milda Dargužaitė is the former CEO of Northern Horizon Capital A/S, the shareholder of Northern Horizon Capital AS. She was responsible for managing the company’s operations and strategic direction, including the development of new funds and investment vehicles. Milda has significant experience in both the public and private sectors, locally and internationally. She joined the company in 2018 after roles as the Chancellor at the Lithuanian Prime Minister’s Office, Managing Director of Invest Lithuania, and advisor to the Lithuanian Minister of Economy. Milda has a wealth of experience in finance and portfolio management from her time at Goldman Sachs in New York and Barclays in London. Milda Dargužaitė was the supervisory board member of Northern Horizon Capital AS from July 2018 until September 2023.

    Milda holds a bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Economics from Middlebury College and a master’s degree in Operations Research and Financial Engineering from Princeton University. She has served on the boards of several Northern Horizon Group entities.

    Milda Dargužaitė does not hold any units of the Baltic Horizon Fund.

    1. Decision to elect Antanas Anskaitis as a new member of the supervisory board of the Baltic Horizon Fund

    According to section 11.2 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund the members of the supervisory board shall be appointed at the general meeting for a period of at least two years. The proposal is to elect Antanas Anskaitis as a new member of the supervisory board.

    Antanas Anskaitis is a partner at Grinvest which is a private investment company with interests in real estate and transportation. Antanas has over 20 years of real estate investment management experience (out of which 16 within Northern Horizon Capital group). Since 2015 until 2020 Antanas managed a successful Baltic-Polish investment portfolio on behalf of Partners Group and lead over 30 commercial property transactions in the Baltics and Poland having experience both on sell and buy side. Antanas has MSc in Management and Economics.

    Grinvest through its subsidiary in Estonia Gene Investments OÜ is the largest unitholder in Baltic Horizon Fund (>25%) at the time of this notice.

    1. Decision to pay remuneration to the chairman of the supervisory board

    According to section 11.11 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund, supervisory board members are entitled to remuneration for their service. The amount of remuneration payable to the chairman and members of the supervisory board shall be decided at the general meeting. According to section 11.4 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund, supervisory board members elect a chairman from among themselves in the first meeting after election of any new member(s).

    The supervisory board in this composition intends working in close liaison with Northern Horizon Capital AS in the subcommittees and meet at least once a month while Baltic Horizon Fund is in the turnaround phase. The proposal is therefore to pay remuneration to the chairman of the supervisory board in the amount of EUR 36,000 per calendar year.

    1. Decision to pay remuneration to supervisory board members

    According to section 11.11 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund, supervisory board members are entitled to remuneration for their service. The amount of remuneration payable to the chairman and members of the supervisory board shall be decided at the general meeting. 

    The proposed remuneration is the same as for the current members of the supervisory board. The unitholder proposes to remunerate each supervisory board member (except the chairman, who shall be remunerated in accordance with point 4 above) in the amount of EUR 11,000 per calendar year.

    1. Decision to recall Reimo Hammerberg, Monica Hammer and David Bergendahl from the position of the supervisory board member of Baltic Horizon Fund

    According to section 10.3.3 of the Rules of Baltic Horizon Fund the members of the supervisory board shall be recalled at the general meeting.

    Annex 1:

    1. Form of power of attorney to appoint a representative for the general meeting (in Estonian)
    2. Form of power of attorney to appoint a representative for the general meeting (in English)

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oportun Comments on Director Nominations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN CARLOS, Calif., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT), a mission-driven financial services company, today confirmed receipt of a notice from Findell Capital Management LLC (“Findell”) nominating two directors to stand for election to the Oportun Board of Directors (the “Board”) at the Company’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Shareholders. The Board issued the following statement in response:

    Over the past three years, the Oportun Board of Directors has overseen decisive and deliberate actions to put the company on a strong path for long-term profitable growth. These actions, which we summarized in our press release on March 20, 2025, have led to improved credit performance, fortified our business economics and driven high-quality originations. Our business momentum and 2025 outlook speak for themselves and are a testament to the opportunity and value we believe we can deliver. The Board and management remain focused on driving strong performance and enhancing shareholder value.

    Oportun is committed to maintaining a strong Board comprised of an independent and high-quality set of directors who bring a range of perspectives, provide effective oversight and represent the interests of all shareholders. Consistent with that commitment, the Board has recently undergone a thoughtful and comprehensive refreshment process, including with input from Findell and resulting in the appointment of four new independent directors over the last 14 months. Our directors have skills and experience in functional areas critical to the successful execution of our strategy, including expertise in credit and risk management, finance, mobile technologies, software, marketing, government relations and regulatory matters, as well as deep leadership, public company, lending and consumer finance industry experience.

    Oportun’s Nominating and Governance Committee will evaluate Findell’s nominees and make a formal recommendation to Oportun shareholders in due course. Oportun shareholders are not required to take any action at this time.

    Wilson Sonsini Goodrich & Rosati is serving as legal advisor and FGS Global is serving as strategic communications advisor to Oportun.

    About Oportun

    Oportun (Nasdaq: OPRT) is a mission-driven financial services company that puts its members’ financial goals within reach. With intelligent borrowing, savings, and budgeting capabilities, Oportun empowers members with the confidence to build a better financial future. Since inception, Oportun has provided more than $19.7 billion in responsible and affordable credit, saved its members more than $2.4 billion in interest and fees, and helped its members save an average of more than $1,800 annually. For more information, visit Oportun.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to the safe harbor provisions under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact contained in this press release, including statements as to our future performance and financial position; the strength of our business model, balance sheet, liquidity and execution of our strategy; expectations regarding our growth for 2025; the composition of our Board of Directors and its impact on our ability to deliver long-term value to our shareholders; and our governance practices, are forward-looking statements. These statements can be generally identified by terms such as “expect,” “plan,” “goal,” “target,” “anticipate,” “assume,” “predict,” “project,” “outlook,” “continue,” “due,” “may,” “believe,” “seek,” or “estimate” and similar expressions or the negative versions of these words or comparable words, as well as future or conditional verbs such as “will,” “should,” “would,” “likely” and “could.” These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements on our current expectations and projections about future events, financial trends and risks and uncertainties that we believe may affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. These risks and uncertainties include those risks described in our filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including our most recent annual report on Form 10-K. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made and, except to the extent required by federal securities laws, we disclaim any obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which the statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. In light of these risks and uncertainties, there is no assurance that the events or results suggested by the forward-looking statements will in fact occur, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

    Additional Information and Where to Find It

    Oportun Financial Corporation (“Oportun”), its directors and certain executive officers are participants in the solicitation of proxies from stockholders in connection with Oportun’s 2025 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “Annual Meeting”). Oportun plans to file a proxy statement (the “2025 Proxy Statement”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in connection with the solicitation of proxies for the Annual Meeting.

    Jo Ann Barefoot, Mohit Daswani, Ginny Lee, Carlos Minetti, Louis Miramontes, Scott Parker, Sandra A. Smith, Richard Tambor, Raul Vazquez and R. Neil Williams, all of whom are members of Oportun’s board of directors, are participants in Oportun’s solicitation. Additional information regarding such participants, including their direct or indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be included in the 2025 Proxy Statement and other relevant documents to be filed with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting. Information relating to the foregoing can also be found in Oportun’s definitive proxy statement for its 2024 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the “2024 Proxy Statement”), which was filed with the SEC on May 13, 2024, and is available here. Particular attention is directed to the sections of the 2024 Proxy Statement captioned “Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance,” “Non-Employee Director Compensation,” “Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters,” “Executive Compensation” and “Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.” To the extent that holdings of such participants in Oportun’s securities have changed since the amounts printed in the 2024 Proxy Statement, such changes have been reflected on the following filings: for Ms. Barefoot, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Daswani, on June 28, 2024 and December 13, 2024; for Ms. Lee, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Minetti, on June 28, 2024 and December 13, 2024; for Mr. Miramontes, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Parker, on April 25, 2024, June 18, 2024, and June 28, 2024; for Ms. Smith, on June 28, 2024; for Mr. Tambor, on June 28, 2024 and June 28, 2024; for Mr. Vazquez, on June 18, 2024, September 12, 2024, December 2, 2024, and March 12, 2025; and for Mr. Williams, on June 28, 2024 and December 11, 2024.

    Promptly after filing its definitive 2025 Proxy Statement with the SEC, Oportun will mail the definitive 2025 Proxy Statement and a GREEN proxy card to each stockholder entitled to vote at the Annual Meeting. STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO READ THE 2025 PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO) AND ANY OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS THAT OPORTUN WILL FILE WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Stockholders may obtain, free of charge, Oportun’s proxy statement (in both preliminary and definitive form), any amendments or supplements thereto, and any other relevant documents filed by Oportun with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting at the SEC’s website, which is located here. Copies of Oportun’s definitive 2025 Proxy Statement, any amendments or supplements thereto, and any other relevant documents filed by Oportun with the SEC in connection with the Annual Meeting will also be available, free of charge, at Oportun’s website, which is located here, or by writing to Investor Relations, Oportun Financial Corporation, 2 Circle Star Way, San Carlos, CA 94070. In addition, copies of these materials may be requested, free of charge, from Oportun’s proxy solicitor, Innisfree M&A Incorporated, by calling toll-free to (877) 800-5195.

    Investor Contact
    Dorian Hare
    (650) 590-4323
    ir@oportun.com

    Media Contact
    John Christiansen / Bryan Locke
    FGS Global
    Oportun@fgsglobal.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Sir Chris Bryant speech at Connected Futures Festival

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Speech

    Sir Chris Bryant speech at Connected Futures Festival

    Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms, Sir Chris Bryant, gave a speech at the Connected Futures Festival on 26 March 2025.

    Hello. My name is Chris Bryant and I’m the telecoms minister. I’m really sorry I can’t be with you. Well, I’m here with you virtually, which I suppose is particularly important for the kind of connectivity that we’re talking about. But I’m afraid that, as you’re meeting, I will be in Parliament for the spring statement, when the Chancellor of the Exchequer will be talking about economic growth and how we get the economy to really springboard into the future.

    I suppose that’s the key part of what I want to say today, which is that connectivity is a vital part of making sure that the UK economy grows, that everybody gets a chance to participate in our economic future, and that we embrace the technological changes that can make so many differences to people’s lives, whether in the delivery of public services or in the delivery of all the services that we rely on, whether it’s ordering a pizza, parking your car, or engaging with our local GP and seeing our latest test results.

    I know that the geopolitical picture looks uncertain at the moment, and many parts of our lives, of course, are uncertain. Sometimes, trying to predict the future is difficult. That’s one of the reasons that, whereas we’ve always talked about “future telecoms” in the past, we’re changing the terminology to something which I think suits much better the situation that we face today. And that’s why instead of referring to “future telecoms”, we’re now going to be referring to “advanced connectivity technologies”, because advanced optics and satellite communications aren’t the ghosts of telecoms futures anymore, but actually telecoms present – let’s face it! Last year, Aston University transmitted data 4.5 million times faster than the average home broadband connection. We have started to send data through visible light. And Vodafone made the first video call via space last year. I’m an MP for a constituency in South Wales in The Valleys, and so I was very happy to see that that call took place from a remote Welsh mountain. The death of “notspots” may just about be in sight for us all!

    The breakthroughs we are seeing mean that the UK could once again be a leader in connectivity over the next ten years, and I’m absolutely determined that we take forward those opportunities.

    But before I take you into the future, let’s just pause briefly in the present. As we shape the next generation of connectivity, we must remember that some people in this country haven’t yet got this generation of technological connectivity. There’s 1.6 million people in the UK who live largely offline. We have to factor them into our future, and our ambition is to have gigabit-capable broadband in every home and in every business, and higher quality 5G to all populated areas by 2030. Through the Digital Inclusion Action Plan, which we’ve recently launched, we’ll make sure people also have the devices and skills to be part of a digital future. We want to tackle digital exclusion so that we can take the whole of our country with us. So, deploying the best technology we have today and taking a leading role in shaping the technologies of tomorrow is vital to our economic success.

    We will shape them, obviously, with global allies – but we will be guided by three central ideas. First of all, do they bring connectivity to everyone, everywhere, whatever your circumstances? Secondly, do they have security and resilience built in from the start? And thirdly, are they built sustainably, so that better connectivity gets us closer to net zero and not further away? These are all equally important, fundamental principles and ideas behind what we’re trying to achieve in this area.

    The UK has the potential to be at the forefront as we develop these technologies. For a start, we build on research from some of the best universities in the world, and the JOINER research and innovation platform gives them a unique test network to prepare for 6G. British firms are getting connectivity to places it hasn’t gone before, like trains, offshore wind farms and space. BT, who nearly two centuries ago set up the world’s first nationwide communications network, are now leading the way with Toshiba in trials of quantum secure comms. And global companies like Ericsson, Nokia and Samsung have all chosen to do R&D work here in this country, in the United Kingdom.

    We will shape them, obviously, with global allies – but we will be guided by three central ideas. First of all, do they bring connectivity to everyone, everywhere, whatever your circumstances? Secondly, do they have security and resilience built in from the start? And thirdly, are they built sustainably, so better connectivity gets us closer to net zero and not further away? These are all equally important, fundamental principles and ideas behind what we’re trying to achieve in this area.

    The UK has the potential to be at the forefront as we develop these technologies. For a start, we build on research from some of the best universities in the world, and the JOINER research and innovation platform gives them a unique test network to prepare for 6G. British firms are getting connectivity to places it hasn’t gone before, like trains, offshore wind farms and space. BT, who nearly two centuries ago set up the world’s first nationwide communications network, are now leading the way with Toshiba in trials of quantum secure comms. And global companies like Ericsson, Nokia and Samsung have all chosen to do R&D work here in this country, in the United Kingdom.

    We can and should go further, though, making the UK a global leader in advanced connectivity. And that’s where the government and industry really must work hand-in-hand. We will strengthen our supply chains – that’s really important. Today we will publish the government’s response to the report from the Telecoms Supply Chain Diversification Advisory Council, outlining how we will support a thriving ecosystem of suppliers for our networks. I’m immensely grateful to all those who took part in the Council’s work.

    We will back your growth in this sector. Advanced connectivity will be one of the growth markets in our Industrial Strategy within the digital and technology sector. That means the backing across Whitehall to help you succeed. As a sign of that commitment, today I can announce that we will invest nearly £60 million over the next year, 2025 to 2026, to support UK leadership in R&D so that more of the technology providing the world’s critical connectivity is developed here in the UK.

    If we get this right, then ten years down the line we will be able to say that this technology has made people’s daily lives better, put more money in people’s pockets and helps to keep the UK and our allies safe in a turbulent world. That’s a connected future we can only build together.

    Thank you and I hope you have a good conference today.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: HMRC late payments interest rates to increase from 6 April 2025

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments 2

    News story

    HMRC late payments interest rates to increase from 6 April 2025

    HMRC interest rates for late payments will be increased by 1.5% for all taxes from 6 April 2025.

    The HMRC interest rates for late payments will be increased by 1.5% for all taxes from 6 April 2025 following a change in legislation.

    This increase was announced at Autumn Budget 2024 and the change will take effect from 6 April 2025.

    Information on the interest rates for payments will be updated shortly.

    How HMRC interest rates are set

    HMRC interest rates are set in legislation and are linked to the Bank of England base rate.

    Late payment interest was set at base rate plus 2.5%. From 6 April 2025 this will increase to base rate plus 4.00% for most taxes.

    Repayment interest is set at base rate minus 1%, with a lower limit – or ‘minimum floor’ – of 0.5% and remains unchanged.

    The differential between late payment interest and repayment interest is in line with the policy of other tax authorities worldwide and compares favourably with commercial practice for interest charged on loans or overdrafts and interest paid on deposits.

    The rate of late payment interest encourages prompt payment and ensures fairness for those who pay their tax on time, while the rate of repayment interest fairly compensates taxpayers for loss of use of their money when they overpay.

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: UNECE to accelerate decarbonization of road transport by developing harmonized provisions for electric vehicle and hydrogen fuel cell retrofit systems

    Source: United Nations Economic Commission for Europe

    As the world shifts towards cleaner and more sustainable mobility, the transport industry plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions. To achieve climate goals and reduce air pollution, public authorities (primarily in Europe but also in Asia) are accelerating projects to restrict the number of vehicles with internal combustion engine (ICE) in circulation and replace them with zero-emission ones.  

    According to OICA, there are 1.9 billion vehicles in use globally. Since it is not possible and economically viable for all of them to be replaced by new electric cars, retrofitting is emerging as a cost-effective solution (esp. retrofitting of heavy-duty vehicles) that could accelerate the energy transition and reduce our carbon footprint. Retrofitting is a mechanical operation where the petrol/diesel engine and fuel tank are removed and replaced with an electric motor and battery, or a hydrogen fuel cell. 

    In recent years, multiple startups and innovative companies have emerged, offering tailored solutions to retrofit existing buses, trucks, and vans. According to North American firm Precedence Research, the global automotive retrofit electric vehicle powertrain market size accounted for USD 65.94 billion in 2024, and is predicted to surpass around USD 144.61 billion by 2034. 

    Substituting a traditional powertrain running on fossil energy with a powertrain with no tailpipe emissions provides immediate benefits in terms of air quality, and long-term benefit for the environment and climate. It extends the service life of the existing fleet, reducing both waste and carbon emissions from the manufacturing of new vehicles. 

    In France, where the national energy and environment agency ADEME estimated that electric retrofitting would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by between 61 and 87% compared with diesel, the government launched a national action plan in aid of retrofitting, providing  approximately 100 million euros to decarbonize transport.  

    Furthermore, retrofitting is mentioned in the European Commission’s industry action plan for the automotive sector and it will be particularly relevant for low- and middle-income countries that are importing ever growing amounts of used ICE vehicles and that need to accelerate the decarbonization of their vehicle fleets. 

    While hydrogen-powered vehicles are still in the early stages of deployment compared to those powered by electric batteries, their future could be promising if green hydrogen (H2) prices decline as projected. A price of 5 to 7 euros per kg of H2 is considered a critical threshold. 

    Against this background, the UNECE World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations (WP.29) and its Working Party on Pollution and Energy (GRPE) has launched a new informal working group to develop globally harmonized provisions for electric vehicle and hydrogen fuel cell retrofit systems. Such harmonized regulatory framework would ensure minimum requirements for retrofit systems, provide robust performance requirements for converted vehicles and support the deployment of retrofit systems that could be installed on many vehicles in the countries that adopt the developed requirements.  

    Activities undertaken by the new informal working group will focus on all vehicle categories, from two- and three-wheelers to heavy duty vehicles, with initial emphasis on technological readiness and economic viability. This work is led by France and Spain, with support from Sweden, Germany, UK, Japan and the European Commission. 

    The new UNECE informal working group is expected to deliver on harmonized requirements for targeted vehicle categories and powertrain types by 2027. 

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CSX Corporation announced agreement with the Boilermakers

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    CSX Corporation announced they’ve reached a tentative five-year collective bargaining agreement with the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers.

    The agreement, which covers 59 union members at CSX, is subject to ratification. CSX has already ratified agreements with 11 labor unions, covering 14 work groups and representing 47% of its unionized employees.

    These agreements provide improvements in wages, healthcare and paid time off. The company said it remains committed to reaching similar agreements with other unions.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Gilat Announces Filing of 2024 Annual Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PETAH TIKVA, Israel, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (Nasdaq: GILT, TASE: GILT), a worldwide leader in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, announced that it has filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission containing audited consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2024.

    The annual report will be available on the Gilat website (www.gilat.com). Shareholders may receive a hard copy of the annual report free of charge upon request.

    About Gilat

    Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd. (NASDAQ: GILT, TASE: GILT) is a leading global provider of satellite-based broadband communications. With over 35 years of experience, we develop and deliver deep technology solutions for satellite, ground, and new space connectivity, offering next-generation solutions and services for critical connectivity across commercial and defense applications. We believe in the right of all people to be connected and are united in our resolution to provide communication solutions to all reaches of the world.

    Together with our wholly-owned subsidiaries—Gilat Wavestream, Gilat DataPath, and Gilat Stellar Blu—we offer integrated, high-value solutions supporting multi-orbit constellations, Very High Throughput Satellites (VHTS), and Software-Defined Satellites (SDS) via our Commercial and Defense Divisions. Our comprehensive portfolio is comprised of a cloud-based platform and modems; high-performance satellite terminals; advanced Satellite On-the-Move (SOTM) antennas and ESAs; highly efficient, high-power Solid State Power Amplifiers (SSPA) and Block Upconverters (BUC) and includes integrated ground systems for commercial and defense markets, field services, network management software, and cybersecurity services.

    Gilat’s products and tailored solutions support multiple applications including government and defense, IFC and mobility, broadband access, cellular backhaul, enterprise, aerospace, broadcast, and critical infrastructure clients all while meeting the most stringent service level requirements. For more information, please visit: http://www.gilat.com

    Certain statements made herein that are not historical are forward-looking within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “estimate”, “project”, “intend”, “expect”, “believe” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Many factors could cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Gilat to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements that may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including, among others, changes in general economic and business conditions, inability to maintain market acceptance to Gilat’s products, inability to timely develop and introduce new technologies, products and applications, rapid changes in the market for Gilat’s products, loss of market share and pressure on prices resulting from competition, introduction of competing products by other companies, inability to manage growth and expansion, loss of key OEM partners, inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, inability to protect the Company’s proprietary technology and risks associated with Gilat’s international operations and its location in Israel, including those related to the terrorist attacks by Hamas, and the hostilities between Israel and Hamas and Israel and Hezbollah. For additional information regarding these and other risks and uncertainties associated with Gilat’s business, reference is made to Gilat’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements for any reason.

    Contact:

    Gilat Satellite Networks
    Hagay Katz, Chief Products and Marketing Officer
    hagayk@gilat.com

    Alliance Advisors:
    GilatIR@allianceadvisors.com
    Phone: +1 212 838 3777

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Portland Investment Counsel Inc. Announces Alternative Fund Risk Rating Changes

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BURLINGTON, Ontario, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Portland Investment Counsel Inc. (“Portland”) announced today a change to the risk rating of Portland 15 of 15 Alternative Fund and Portland Replacement of Fossil Fuels Alternative Fund (the “Funds”). Portland determines the risk rating for the Funds in accordance with the methodology required by the Canadian Securities Administrators. As a result of its annual review of the investment risk level of the Funds, Portland has determined the risk rating for the Funds will be changing as follows:

    Fund Current Risk Rating New Risk Rating
    Portland 15 of 15 Alternative Fund Medium Medium to High
    Portland Replacement of Fossil Fuels Alternative Fund Medium Medium to High
         

    This change will be reflected in the Funds’ Simplified Prospectus and Fund Facts, which will be filed with Canadian Securities Administrators in connection with the Funds’ 2025 annual renewal.

    There are no changes to the investment objectives or strategies of the Funds.

    For further information, on Portland and the Funds, please visit www.portlandic.com or contact Client Services at 1-888-710-4242, option #1, or email at clientservices@portlandic.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on behalf of the Transition Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Statement on behalf of the Transition Board

    The Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board met on 27th March 2025.

    The Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board met on 27th March 2025.

    The Secretary of State for Wales and Chair of the Transition Board, Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP sought endorsement from the Board on a £3.27 million mental health and well-being fund, designed to support affected workers, families, and associated communities. The funding will bolster and expand the current services provided by the local authority and third sector partners. This support will look to provide grants to community groups, school support, and mental health advisory services.

    This has been a challenging time for the communities impacted by Tata Steel UK’s transition. By ensuring the third sector is properly funded, resourced and equipped to deliver essential services within the community, this Board is demonstrating its commitment to securing the right mental health support for those impacted. The Board understands that with this preventative action good mental health and resilience can be safeguarded within the community ensuring a healthy workforce, which in turn steers people away from long term sickness, securing jobs and livelihoods while boosting economic growth for the whole region.

    The Board also received updates on:

    • Tata Steel UK’s decarbonisation programme;
    • The Department of Business and Trade’s plans for a steel strategy;
    • The Transition Board funds that have already been announced, including applications received for the Supply Chain fund, and support being provided from the Employment and Skills fund.

    Those in attendance included: Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, Secretary of State for Wales; Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning in the Welsh Government; Sarah Jones MP, Minister of State in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department of Business and Trade; Cllr Steve K Hunt, Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council; Frances O’Brien, CEO of Neath Port Talbot Council; Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK; Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg; David Rees, MS for Aberavon; Luke Fletcher MS for the region of South Wales West; Sarah Williams-Gardener; independent member of the Board; Alun Davies, National Officer for Steel & Metals, Community Union and Tom Hoyles, Politics, Press and Research Officer, GMB Wales.

    -ends-

    Updates to this page

    Published 27 March 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Rouge Bouillon closure update27 March 2025 The external steel strapping has now been completed, and work is underway to fit the internal ties, which is expected to be finished in the coming days. Once in place, this will enable monitoring of… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    27 March 2025

    The external steel strapping has now been completed, and work is underway to fit the internal ties, which is expected to be finished in the coming days. 

    Once in place, this will enable monitoring of any settling or movement next week. Following this, geotechnical surveys will begin to assess the voids beneath the site. Work remains on schedule. 

    We have now collated all relevant information including a upcoming schedule of works here: gov.je. ​

    Public impact 

    We recognise the disruption the closure continues to cause for commuters and local businesses. 

    Currently, there are only two major road closures in St Helier: Rouge Bouillon, due to the structural issues caused by a burst water main, and Colomberie, where emergency work is being carried out by Island Energy. 

    The road will only reopen once the buildings are stabilised and all risks of structural collapse have been mitigated. 

    Routes and safety assurance 

    We urge both pedestrians and drivers to follow the designated public diversions and avoid cutting through private land, particularly College Gardens. 

    These measures are in place to ensure the safety of all road users and residents. 

    Rouge Bouillon continues to remain closed between Clarendon Road and Palmyra Road as investigations continue into the stability of an adjacent building wall, affected by a burst water main. 

    We have considered other options to manage the traffic around the closure however, the decision to retain the current traffic arrangement is based on the following factors: 

    • reversing Clarendon Road poses additional safety risks for residents and pedestrians
    • allowing right-turn access onto Clarendon Road from Val Plaisant could cause severe traffic congestion, particularly near the Gyratory
    • reversing Midvale Road, while potentially useful, would necessitate signal junction changes, creating confusion, complications, and further safety concerns. 

    We advise the traveling public to continue to avoid the area and use alternative routes to access town where possible. 

    Background and plan 

    The situation is highly complex with several adjacent walls & buildings that are severely cracked and have been subject to significant movement following a burst watermain. The property and external walls were rendered unsafe with voids created under the structures. Multiple parties are involved, including Infrastructure and Environment (I&E), Jersey Water, structural engineers, building surveyors, loss adjustors, and insurance companies. 

    The team of professionals, working on behalf of the property owners and their insurance companies, has devised a plan to stabilise the property and then demolish the external walls.

    Step 1: a Contractor working on behalf of the owner of 28 Clarendon Road will install steel strapping around the building. 

    Step 2: the structural engineers, assisted by geotechnical engineers will investigate soil conditions under the foundations. 

    Step 3: the external structures and boundary walls will be demolished. 

    Step 4: re-open Rouge Bouillon once it has been determined that it is safe to do so.

    The project remains under constant review to ensure the best and safest outcome. 

    Next steps 

    A further update on the situation will be provided in seven days.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Vegreville — RCMP Central Alberta Crime Reduction Unit arrest three individuals after a pursuit and carjack attempt

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On Jan. 30, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., a Peterbilt semi-truck was stolen from Edmonton. When it was discovered stolen at roughly 8 a.m., it was immediately reported to Edmonton Police Service, and the truck was subsequently tracked with an installed GPS device by the company. Members of the Vegreville RCMP were dispatched to the area, where they located the semi-truck and attempted to stop it, but it fled from police. No pursuit was initiated.

    With the help of the RCMP helicopter, RCMP were able to observe the semi as it drove through the towns of Lamont, Alta., Chipman, Alta., and Bruderheim Alta., before officers were able to successfully deploy a tire deflation device, and after traveling a short distance, the semi stopped. The driver of the semi exited the truck and immediately attempted to carjack another vehicle before being subdued by responding officers. Two other occupants attempted to flee on foot but were also apprehended.

    A search of the semi incidental to the arrest as well as a bag tossed by the occupants revealed:

    • Government ID cards and cheques belonging to at least 6 individuals;
    • tools commonly used for property crime;
    • Approximately 13 grams of Crystal Meth.

    The driver, a 46-years-old male resident of Edmonton, was taken to hospital where he received medical treatment, he is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments;

    · Possession of Identity Documents (x6);

    · Fail to Comply with Release Order;

    · Criminal Flight;

    · Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle;

    · Possession a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose;

    · Theft of Motor Vehicle;

    · Mischief over $5000; and

    · Possession of a Controlled Substance (Methamphetamine).

    The 46-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded with their next court date set for Feb. 10, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    A 49-years-old individual, a resident of Sturgeon County, Alta., is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments; and

    · Six counts of Possession of Identity Documents.

    The 49-year-old individual was taken before a justice of the peace and remanded in custody with their next court date set for Feb. 10, 2025, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    A 37-years-old individual, a resident of Sturgeon County, is facing the following charges:

    · Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5000;

    · Possession of Break & Enter instruments; and

    · Six counts of Possession of Identity Documents.

    The 37-year-old individual was released on a $2,000.00 Promise to Pay Release Order with a next appearance date set for Feb. 24, 2025, to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vegreville.

    “Offenders such as these commit crime almost continuously until they are caught.,” says Cpl. Troy Savinkoff,” arrests like this is protects the public from being their next victim.”

    The RCMP continue to investigate and anyone with information regarding this crime is asked to contact the Vegreville RCMP at (780) 631-2750. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1‐800‐222‐8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.

    RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to police. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: Hakimo secures $10.5M to transform physical security with human-like autonomous security agent

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Menlo Park, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With surging crime rates, acute security staffing shortages, and mounting false alarms, organizations are desperately seeking smarter ways to strengthen their security while reducing costs. Today, Hakimo, a leader in AI-powered physical security monitoring, announced a $10.5 million funding round and the launch of AI Operator, a breakthrough autonomous security agent that monitors existing security hardware, detects threats in real time, and executes response protocols just like a human security professional. 

    The Series A funding round was led by Vertex Ventures and Zigg Capital with participation from RXR Arden Digital Ventures and existing investors Defy.vc and Gokul Rajaram. Hakimo has now raised a total of $20.5 million, including prior funding rounds led by Neotribe Ventures and Rocketship.vc.

    Hakimo founders: Sam Joseph and Sagar Honnungar.

    Hakimo’s AI Operator combines computer vision and generative AI to monitor existing security hardware such as cameras and badge readers. Unlike conventional systems, it can detect any anomaly or potential threat that can be described in words – a breakthrough in physical security monitoring. Beyond detection, the system issues real-time speaker warnings and executes standard operating procedures (SOPs) to respond to incidents, with human operators providing intervention only when necessary. This AI-human collaboration delivers superior protection at a fraction of the cost of traditional security approaches.

    “Hakimo has pioneered a new era of AI-driven security by creating an intelligent AI agent that understands and responds to threats like never before. We’re not just automating security—we’re redefining it with AI that can recognize and act on any security event and deliver unmatched protection for businesses worldwide.” said Sam Joseph, Co-Founder & CEO of Hakimo. 

    Hakimo was founded in early 2020 by Sam Joseph and Sagar Honnungar, Stanford-trained AI experts with backgrounds in building enterprise-grade software as a service (SaaS). The duo launched Hakimo after identifying converging trends: exploding camera deployments, plummeting hardware costs, and rapid advancements in computer vision. The founders recognized the potential for AI to reinvent physical security and have since assembled a talented, growing team of engineers and industry professionals to execute their vision of autonomous security monitoring.

    Hakimo’s solution comes at a critical inflection point for physical security. The traditional manned guarding industry struggles with severe hiring and quality challenges, while alarm monitoring services face growing issues with false alarms and police departments increasingly refusing to respond to unverified alerts. By leveraging existing cameras, AI capabilities, and remote operators, Hakimo eliminates these challenges while offering the advantages of both on-site guards and traditional alarm systems.

    Hakimo technology has a vast range of use cases including detecting tailgating.

    The company has experienced explosive growth over the past year, tripling its customer base and securing more than a hundred clients across diverse industries including multifamily apartments, car dealerships, construction sites, and Fortune 500 enterprises. In 2024 alone, Hakimo’s technology prevented thousands of security incidents, assisted law enforcement in multiple arrests, and even saved a life. “We got a drastic reduction in trespassing right after deploying Hakimo, and I now sleep better at night with the peace-of-mind provided by Hakimo’s AI agent,” said Rodrigo Duran, General Manager at Kia Santa Maria, one of those customers. 

    The technology’s impact extends beyond the scope of traditional security applications. Its ability to monitor multiple sites simultaneously while maintaining human-level reasoning has proven transformative for businesses seeking comprehensive security without the escalating costs and reliability issues of conventional approaches.

    Commenting on the investment, Piyush Kharbanda, General Partner of Vertex Ventures SEA & India said, “We are very excited to partner with the Hakimo team, who are bringing ground-up technological innovation to the large but antiquated physical security industry. There is a dire need for innovation, as current solutions lack the speed or accuracy to offer affordable real-time protection for offline businesses. Hakimo bridges this gap with an AI + Services approach, coupling the speed of cutting-edge vision AI algorithms with the reliability of humans-in-the-loop, thus delivering a 10x better service at more affordable rates.”

    Ryan Orley, Managing Partner at Zigg Capital added: “After studying the security monitoring ecosystem, our team concluded that Hakimo’s AI + Services solution is more robust and offers better value than any other technology we have encountered. Hakimo’s capabilities at its accessible price point are without peer. In fact, I became a Hakimo customer before our firm’s investment”.

    “Hakimo is transforming physical security with AI, delivering real-time threat detection and smarter operations,” said Neil Sequeira, Founder & Partner, Defy.vc. At Defy, we back bold teams tackling big challenges, and Sam and Sagar’s vision aligns perfectly with that mission. We’re excited to support Hakimo as they scale and set a new standard for AI-powered security.” 

    Ends

    Media images can be found here 

    About Hakimo
    Hakimo is a technology company that builds AI agents for physical security monitoring. The company provides state-of-the-art, AI-driven, human-in-the-loop security software solutions that work with existing security hardware to enhance real-time threat detection, optimize resources, and proactively deter security breaches. Hakimo was founded by AI researchers from Stanford University and is funded by top venture capital firms. For more information, please visit https://www.hakimo.ai/ or follow Hakimo on LinkedIn.

    About Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia and India (VVSEAI)
    Vertex Ventures Southeast Asia & India is a leading early-stage venture capital firm focused on partnering with high-growth startups across Southeast Asia and India. With a strong network and strategic expertise, they have invested in successful companies such as Grab, FirstCry, Nium, Licious, Kuku FM, and PatSnap, driving innovation and scaling businesses across various sectors. For more information, please visit: https://www.vertexventures.sg  

    About Zigg Capital
    Zigg Capital is a venture capital firm based in New York City that invests globally in technology companies that touch the real estate, construction, or retail industries. Over the last decade, the partners in Zigg have made early-stage investments in leading companies such as Procore, Matterport, OpenSpace, Steadily, and Crusoe. For more information, please visit www.ziggcap.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: WISeSat Prepares for June Launch of Its Second-Generation Satellite and Expands Global Footprint

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WISeSat Prepares for June Launch of Its Second-Generation Satellite and Expands Global Footprint

    WISeSAT.space will be attending the 40thSpace Symposium in Colorado Springs from April 6-10, 2025 (booth #808 located in the South Hall)

    Geneva, Switzerland – March 27, 2025 – WISeKey International Holding (“WISeKey” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: WKEY; SIX: WIHN), a leading global cybersecurity, AI, and IoT company, alongside its subsidiary WISeSat.Space (“WISeSat”) today announces that the launch of its second-generation satellite is scheduled for June 2025. This follows the successful deployment of WISeSat’s first NDR-generation satellite in January 2025 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Spaceport in California. The satellite launched in January is currently in orbit and its location can be tracked via https://wisesat.wisekey.com/?tags=WISeSat.

    This second-generation launch marks an important milestone in WISeSat’s vision to build a European constellation of Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, designed to provide secure communications for the Internet of Things (IoT), 5G (in progress), RSSI, SIGINT, SEALCOIN for transactional IoT (tIoT) and post-quantum cybersecurity capabilities across the globe.

    The 2025 satellite launches build on the earlier success of WISeSat in collaboration with FOSSA Systems, which saw the launch of 17 picosatellites to test the resilience and performance of its core technologies. These tests laid the foundations for the current generation of satellites, which as of June will be equipped with more robust security protocols and a post-quantum cryptographic infrastructure developed by SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) (“SEALSQ”), a WISeKey subsidiary.

    WISeSat also announced a new strategic partnership with Skyroot Aerospace in India. This collaboration will diversify launch operations by enabling satellites to be deployed on alternative orbital trajectories, optimizing constellation coverage and efficiency. The partnership also includes the possibility of manufacturing satellites on Indian soil, to Indian specifications, thereby strengthening WISeSat’s global production and launch capabilities.

    By the end of 2025, WISeSat satellites will be able to carry out transactions in SEALCOIN tokens with each other and with connected objects on Earth, forming a secure, autonomous mesh for machine-to-machine (M2M) transactions. This innovation will create a financial and data exchange infrastructure in space, where connected machines will be digitally certified via a “Know Your Object” (KYO) protocol. The KYO process integrates Wecan’s technology and WISeID’s WISeKey platform, guaranteeing reliable identity and accountability throughout the ecosystem.

    Each WISeSat satellite is built with:

    • Post-quantum cryptographic chips from SEALSQ.
    • WISeKey root of trust and WISeID digital identity infrastructure.
    • Hedera’s Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) for decentralized, forgery-proof data integrity.

    This technological foundation positions WISeSat as a global leader in secure satellite-based IoT infrastructure.

    “Our vision is to become the first low-orbit satellite constellation enabling secure Internet of Things connectivity and trusted communications anywhere in the world,” said Carlos Moreira, founder and CEO of WISeKey. “With upcoming launches, new international partnerships and post-quantum capabilities, we offer the next frontier in decentralized and secure space infrastructure.”

    About WISeSat.Space
    WISeSat.Space AG is pioneering a transformative approach to IoT connectivity and climate change monitoring through its innovative satellite constellation. By providing cost-effective, secure, and global IoT connectivity, WISeSat is enabling a wide range of applications that support environmental monitoring, disaster management, and sustainable practices. The integration of satellite data with advanced climate models holds great promise for enhancing our understanding of climate change and developing effective strategies to combat its impacts. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, initiatives like WISeSat’s IoT satellite constellation are essential for creating a more resilient and sustainable future.

    About WISeKey

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions, and (v) SEALCOIN AG which focuses on decentralized physical internet with DePIN technology and house the development of the SEALCOIN platform.

    Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

    Disclaimer
    This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of the Swiss Financial Services Act (“FinSA”), the FinSa’s predecessor legislation or advertising within the meaning of the FinSA. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.

    Press and Investor Contacts

    WISeKey International Holding Ltd
    Company Contact: Carlos Moreira
    Chairman & CEO
    Tel: +41 22 594 3000
    info@wisekey.com
    media@wisekey.com    		 WISeKey Investor Relations (US) 
    The Equity Group Inc.
    Lena Cati
    Tel: +1 212 836-9611
    lcati@equityny.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Defiance’s XMAG ETF Outshines S&P 500 Amid “Magnificent 7” Crash, Proving Its Value as a Diversification Powerhouse

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Defiance ETFs, a trailblazer in innovative exchange-traded funds, is proud to spotlight the strong performance of the Defiance Large Cap Ex-Magnificent Seven ETF (XMAG), which has outpaced the S&P 500 in 2025 as the so-called “Magnificent 7” tech giants—Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta, and Tesla—face a significant downturn. Launched in October 2024, XMAG has quickly emerged as a game-changing tool for investors seeking to diversify and manage concentration risk in a market rattled by the Mag 7 crash.

    Unlike traditional S&P 500 funds, XMAG tracks the BITA US 500 ex-Magnificent 7 Index, offering exposure to the largest 500 U.S. equities while deliberately excluding the Mag 7. This strategic design has paid off handsomely this year, delivering robust returns and stability at a time when overexposure to these tech titans has dragged down broader market performance. As the S&P 500 struggles under the weight of the Mag 7’s decline, XMAG stands out as a core replacement for large-cap exposure—a direct, smarter alternative to the S&P 500.

    “Investors and advisors have long been overexposed to the Magnificent 7 through mutual funds, ETFs, and individual stock portfolios,” said Sylvia Jablonski, CEO and CIO of Defiance ETFs. “This year’s market dynamics have exposed the risks of that concentration, and XMAG has proven its worth as a powerful solution. It’s not just about dodging the Mag 7 crash—it’s about delivering diversified, resilient returns that redefine large-cap investing.”

    With the Mag 7’s dominance waning, XMAG offers a timely and effective way to rebalance portfolios, reduce risk, and capture the strength of the broader U.S. equity market. Its performance in 2025 underscores its role as an essential tool for advisors and investors looking to pivot away from tech-heavy strategies and embrace a more balanced approach to growth.

    “XMAG isn’t a niche play—it’s a core holding,” Jablonski added. “It’s the diversification investors have been craving, and the results speak for themselves. As the market evolves, XMAG is setting a new standard for large-cap exposure.”

    For more information on XMAG and how it can transform your portfolio, visit www.defianceetfs.com or contact Defiance ETFs at info@defianceetfs.com.

    About Defiance ETFs
Founded with a mission to empower investors with cutting-edge tools, Defiance ETFs is a leader in thematic and innovative ETF solutions. Based in Miami, Defiance is committed to delivering strategies that meet the evolving needs of the modern investor

    Contact Information

    David Hanono

    info@defianceetfs.com

    833.333.9383

    Important Disclosures

    Defiance ETFs LLC is the ETF sponsor. The Fund’s investment adviser is Tidal Investments, LLC (“Tidal” or the “Adviser”).

    The Fund’s investment objectives, risks, charges, and expenses must be considered carefully before investing. The prospectus and summary prospectus contain this and other important information about the investment company. Please read the prospectus and / or summary prospectus carefully before investing. Hard copies can be requested by calling 833.333.9383.

    Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. As an ETF, the funds may trade at a premium or discount to NAV. Shares of any ETF are bought and sold at market price (not NAV) and are not individually redeemed from the Fund. A portfolio concentrated in a single industry or country, may be subject to a higher degree of risk.

    Tracking Error Risk. As with all index funds, the performance of the Fund and the Index may differ from each other for a variety of reasons.

    Large-Capitalization Investing. The securities of large-capitalization companies may be relatively mature compared to smaller companies and therefore subject to slower growth during times of economic expansion. Large-capitalization companies may also be unable to respond quickly to new competitive challenges, such as changes in technology and consumer tastes.

    Market Events Risk. The Fund’s investments are subject to changes in general economic conditions, general market fluctuations and the risks inherent in investment in securities and other financial instruments. Investment markets can be volatile and prices of investments can change substantially due to various factors.

    Passive Investment Risk. The Fund is not actively managed and does not attempt to outperform the Index or take defensive positions in declining markets. As a result, the Fund’s performance may be adversely affected by a general decline in the market segments relating to the Index.

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

    Diversification does not ensure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

    Brokerage Commissions may be charged on trades.

    The Fund holds 0% in Apple, Microsoft, Alphabet, Amazon, Nvidia, Meta, and Tesla.

    Distributed by Foreside Fund Services, LLC

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1578c4c6-57a2-4dc4-b82f-5a180fbc8052

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Sagtec Global Enters Indonesia with Master Dealership for Cloud-Based Smart Ordering System, Targeting US$30 Million in Revenue

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Sagtec Global Limited (NASDAQ: SAGT) (“Sagtec” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customizable software solutions, proudly announced its expansion to Indonesia through a Master Dealership Agreement with PT Kiwari Asih Solusi (“Kiwari”), appointing Kiwari as the exclusive master dealer for Sagtec’s Speed+ Could Base Smart Ordering System (“Speed+”).

    Kiwari has committed to a minimum annual purchase of 10,000 licenses, generating an estimated revenue of at least US$30 million over the next five years. This strategic partnership is designed to accelerate the adoption of Speed+ in Indonesia, driving digital transformation and enabling local businesses to modernize their operations to meet the growing demand for innovative digital solutions.

    According to Mordor Intelligence, Indonesia’s digital transformation market is projected to reach approximately US$60 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of nearly 20% from 2025 to 2030. This growth is driven by increasing technology adoption across various sectors, including food and beverage (F&B), which is expected to exceed US$250 billion by 2030, fueled by rising consumer spending and a growing middle class, as supported by Market Research. As consumer preferences evolve, Indonesian businesses are turning to digital solutions to streamline operations, enhance customer experience, and improve efficiency.

    In line with this trend, according to Grand View Research, the Asia Pacific cloud-based Point of Sale (POS) market is expected to expand at a CAGR of almost 20% from 2024 to 2030, driven by the region’s booming retail sector and increasing mobile and internet adoption. This presents a significant opportunity for Speed+ to tap into a tech-savvy market that is primed for digital ordering solutions.

    “Securing this Master Dealership Agreement with PT Kiwari Asih Solusi represents a significant milestone in our expansion strategy for Southeast Asia. Indonesia offers a unique growth opportunity, fueled by its rapidly developing digital economy and increasing demand for innovative cloud-based solutions. With Speed+, we are excited to empower local businesses to optimize their operations and stay ahead in an increasingly competitive market,” said Kevin Ng, Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sagtec.

    About Sagtec Global Limited

    Sagtec is a leading provider of customizable software solutions, primarily serving the Food & Beverage (F&B) sector. The Company also offers software development, data management, and social media management to enhance operational efficiency across various industries, including Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs). Additionally, Sagtec operates power-bank charging stations at 300 locations across Malaysia through its subsidiary, CL Technology (International) Sdn Bhd.

    For more information on the Company, please log on to https://www.sagtec-global.com/.

    About PT Kiwari Asih Solusi

    Kiwari is a leading provider of IoT and general trading solutions, specializing in industrial efficiency and business growth across various sectors. Founded by industry professionals, the company integrates advanced technology with a personalized approach to deliver tailored solutions that enhance productivity and operational performance. Committed to innovation and client success, Kiwari empowers businesses with scalable, technology-driven strategies to navigate the evolving digital landscape.

    For more details, please log on to https://www.kasolusi.com/.

    Contact Information:

    Sagtec Global Limited Contact:
    Ng Chen Lok
    Chairman, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer
    Telephone +6011-6217 3661  
    Email: info@sagtec-global.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp announces timing for filing its 2024 10K and gives historic and forward-looking revenue guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atlanta, GA, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp announces that:

    1. It plans to file its 10-K report for the 2024 Financial Year after the Nasdaq market closes on March 31st, 2025.
    1. Q4 2024 Revenue will be reported at $1.497m (up from $0.575m for Q4 of 2023) versus recent analysts’ forecasts of $0.51m.
    2. Current estimates of anticipated revenue from existing customers for the full year 2025 is believed to exceed $5.0m.

    Inquiries:
    Trust Stamp                                                   Email: Shareholders@truststamp.ai 

    About Trust Stamp

    Trust Stamp, is a global provider of AI-powered services for use in multiple sectors including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, healthcare, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations via advanced solutions that reduce fraud, tokenize and secure data, securely authenticate users while protecting personal privacy, reduce friction in digital transactions, and increase operational efficiency, enabling customers to accelerate secure financial inclusion and reach and serve a broader base of users worldwide.

    Located in eight countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI).

    Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks 

    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Empowers Traders with 100x Leverage, Double Deposit Bonus, and No KYC — Join the New Era of Crypto Futures

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As crypto markets heat up once again, traders around the world are looking for faster, smarter, and more powerful ways to profit. Enter BexBack, a next-generation cryptocurrency futures exchange offering up to 100x leverage, no KYC requirements, and generous bonuses for new users — making it one of the most accessible and rewarding platforms for both beginner and experienced traders.

    What Makes BexBack Stand Out?

    • 100x Leverage on 50+ Cryptos
      Trade Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Solana (SOL), XRP, Cardano (ADA), and more with up to 100x leverage — amplify your trades with less capital.
    • No KYC Required
      Instant access without identity verification. BexBack removes the barriers — sign up and start trading in minutes, not days.
    • Double Deposit Bonus
      Get a 100% deposit bonus every time you fund your account with over 0.001 BTC or 100 USDT. It’s not just for your first deposit — it’s ongoing.
    • $50 Welcome Bonus
      Complete one trade (open and close a position) and you’ll receive $50 in USDT, directly credited to your trading account.
    • Demo Account for Beginners
      Practice without risk using a demo account preloaded with 10 BTC in virtual funds — perfect for building strategies before going live.
    • Zero Deposit Fees
      Enjoy zero fees on all deposits and real-time, fee-free BTC ↔ USDT conversions.
    • Global Access and 24/7 Support
      BexBack is available in over 200 countries with dedicated 24/7 multilingual support and fast manual withdrawal review, backed by cold wallet protection.

    Built for Security and Performance

    All user funds on BexBack are stored in secure multi-signature cold wallets. Even in the case of a cyberattack, your funds are protected. Withdrawals are processed with multiple layers of manual review to ensure security, typically completed within 30–60 minutes.

    Start Trading Now — No Delays, No Limits

    Whether you’re just starting your crypto journey or already trading with size, BexBack gives you the tools, leverage, and bonuses to grow faster. With no KYC, instant deposit rewards, and high-speed execution, the platform makes it easy to trade profitably from anywhere.

    Sign up and claim your 100% deposit bonus and $50 welcome reward today. Don’t miss out on the next bull run — trade smarter with BexBack.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

    Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/74a33ef3-9e93-4d7a-b89d-4208d9f02e5a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/760ef62f-0fbf-421a-b30e-5907f517d1f1

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/92a8af54-e797-4724-b98e-c7e002e15972

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0754b5b6-5f4e-4e03-9915-8bfc0ae0f031

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Women are reclaiming their place in baseball

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Callie Maddox, Associate Professor of Sport Leadership and Management, Miami University

    For most baseball fans, hope springs eternal on Opening Day.

    Many of those fans – more than you might think – are women.

    A 2024 survey found that women made up 39% of those who attended or watched Major League Baseball games, and franchises have taken notice. The Philadelphia Phillies offer behind-the-scenes tours and clinics for their female fans, while the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees offer fantasy camps that are geared to women.

    The number of women working professionally in baseball has also grown. Kim Ng made history in 2020 when she became the first woman general manager of an MLB team, the Miami Marlins. As of 2023, women made up 30% of central office professional staff and 27% of team senior administration jobs. In addition, 43 women held coaching and managerial jobs across the major and minor league levels – a 95% increase in just two years.

    As a fan and scholar of the game, I’m happy to see more women watching baseball and working in the industry. But it still nags at me that the girls and women who play baseball don’t get much recognition, particularly in the U.S.

    Women take the field

    In the U.S., baseball is seen as a sport for boys and men. Girls and women, on the other hand, are supposed to play softball, which uses a bigger ball and has a smaller field.

    It wasn’t always this way.

    Women have been playing baseball in the U.S. since at least the 1860s. At women’s colleges such as Smith and Vassar, students organized baseball teams as early as 1866. The first professional women’s baseball team was known as the Dolly Vardens, a team of Black players formed in Philadelphia in 1867. Barnstorming teams, known as Bloomer Girls, traveled across the country to play against men’s teams from the 1890s to the 1930s, providing the players with independence and the means to make a living.

    American women have been playing baseball since at least the 1860s.
    Ullstein Bild/Getty Images

    The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, founded by Philip K. Wrigley in 1943, also offered women the chance to play professionally. The league, which inspired the 1992 film “A League of Their Own,” enforced rigid norms of femininity expected at the time. Players were required to wear skirts and makeup while playing and were fined if they engaged in any behavior deemed “unladylike.” Teams were open only to white women and light-skinned Latinas. Black women were not allowed to play, a policy that reflected the segregation of the Jim Crow era.

    Three Black women – Connie Morgan, Mamie “Peanut” Johnson and Toni Stone – did play in the otherwise male Negro Leagues in the early 1950s. However, their skills were often downplayed by claims that they’d been signed to generate ticket sales and boost interest in the struggling league.

    The All-American Girls Professional Baseball League folded in 1954, and by the late-1950s women’s participation in baseball had dwindled.

    Girls funneled into softball

    Softball was invented in Chicago in 1887 as an indoor alternative to baseball.

    Originally aimed at both men and women, it eventually became the accepted sport for girls and women due to its smaller field, larger ball and underhand pitching style – aspects deemed suitable for the supposedly weaker and more delicate female body.

    The passage of Title IX in 1972 further pushed the popularization of fast-pitch softball, as participation in high school and college increased markedly. In 1974, the National Organization for Women filed a lawsuit against Little League Baseball because the league’s charter excluded girls from playing. The lawsuit was successful, and girls were permitted to join teams.

    In response, Little League created Little League Softball as a way to funnel girls into softball instead of baseball. As political scientist Jennifer Ring has pointed out, this decision reinforced the gendered division of each sport and “cemented the post-Title IX segregated masculinity of baseball.”

    Girls can still play baseball, but most are encouraged to eventually switch to softball if they want to pursue college scholarships. If they want to keep playing baseball, they have to constantly confront stubborn cultural beliefs and assumptions that they should be playing softball instead.

    Instead of encouraging girls to play baseball, Little League launched Little League Softball to direct girls away from the sport.
    Chris Ryan/Corbis via Getty Images

    A global game

    You might be surprised to learn that the U.S. fields a national women’s baseball team that competes in the Women’s Baseball World Cup. But they receive scant media attention and remain unknown to most baseball fans.

    In a 2019 article published in the Journal of Sport and Social Issues, I argued that the U.S. has experienced inconsistent success on the global stage because of a lack of infrastructure, limited resources and persistent gendered assumptions that hamper the development of women’s baseball. Other countries such as Japan, Canada and Australia have established solid pathways that allow girls and women to pursue baseball from the youth level through high school and beyond.

    That being said, opportunities for girls to play baseball are increasing in the U.S. thanks to the efforts of organizations such as Baseball for All and DC Girls Baseball.

    Approximately 1,300 girls play high school baseball, and a handful of young women play on men’s college baseball teams each year. In recent years, numerous women’s collegiate club baseball teams have been established; there’s even an annual tournament to crown a national champion.

    Japanese pitcher Yukari Isozaki competes during the 2010 Women’s Baseball World Cup in Venezuela.
    AP Photo/Fernando Llano

    Pro league in the works

    Momentum continues to build.

    MLB recently appointed Veronica Alvarez as its first girls baseball ambassador, who will oversee development programs such as the Trailblazers Series and the Elite Development Invitational. A new documentary film, “See Her Be Her,” is touring the country to celebrate the growth of women’s baseball and raise awareness of the challenges these athletes face.

    Perhaps most significantly, the Women’s Pro Baseball League announced that it is planning to start play in summer 2026 with six teams located in the northeastern U.S. Over 500 players from 11 countries have registered with the league, with a scouting camp and player draft scheduled for later this year.

    Should the league have success, it will mark a revitalization of women’s professional baseball in the U.S., a nod to the rich history of the women’s game and a commitment to securing opportunities for the girls and women who continue to defy cultural norms to play the game they love.

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

    – ref. Women are reclaiming their place in baseball – https://theconversation.com/women-are-reclaiming-their-place-in-baseball-252590

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Losing your job is bad for your health, but there are things you can do to minimize the harm

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeffrey Anvari-Clark, Assistant Professor of Social Work, University of North Dakota

    Losing your job can hurt you in many ways. Maskot/Getty Images

    The Trump administration’s firing and furloughing of tens of thousands of federal workers and contractors have obviously caused economic hardship for Americans employed in national parks, research labs and dozens of government agencies.

    As a professor of social work who studies how people’s finances affect their physical and mental well-being, I’m concerned about the health hazards they’ll face too.

    My research shows that losing your job can seriously harm your physical and mental health, especially when you see the situation as a catastrophe rather than a temporary setback.

    Power of financial perception

    When people lose their jobs, they do have real problems. Typically, for example, their income and savings decline. They might struggle to keep up on their rent or mortgage payments and might not be able to afford to maintain the same standard of living they had beforehand.

    However, research shows that your perspective regarding your financial situation can do more harm to your health than your actual financial circumstances – even as your savings dwindle.

    Someone might view losing their job as a temporary setback and remain relatively calm, while another person might experience the same circumstances as a disaster, triggering intense stress that cascades into serious health problems, such as depression and substance abuse. This difference in perspective often determines whether somebody will suffer significant health problems when they lose their job or experience a similar financial setback.

    In a study I published in 2023 with social work scholar Theda Rose, we found that how a person felt about a decline in income mattered 20 times more than the actual financial change itself.

    This finding comes from our analysis of data from the 2018 National Financial Capability Study, which surveyed more than 27,000 American adults. We used advanced statistical methods to examine how different financial factors affected people’s health and financial decision-making, looking specifically at financial strain, confidence in managing money and overall financial satisfaction.

    The study confirmed earlier work about the vastly different psychological and physical responses two people can have when their income falls by the same amount, based on how they perceive this change.

    Pathway to illness

    Previous research has typically viewed what’s known as “financial precarity” – not having enough money to get by – in either purely technical terms, such as being able to come up with US$400 in an emergency, or in terms related to your feelings about that situation, such as persistent worrying about your finances.

    However, we found that both aspects of financial precarity can influence health and behavior.

    Among the many variables we explored, a decline in income surprisingly contributed much more in terms of worry than just not being able to pay the bills.

    This distress caused by economic hardship isn’t just a psychological problem – it can produce physical changes that may have long-term health implications, such as high blood pressure.

    A fired IRS employee, right, talks to a recruiter during a jobs fair for laid-off federal workers on March 15, 2025, in Kansas City, Mo.
    AP Photo/Charlie Riedel

    Mental health suffers

    There’s also a toll on your mental health.

    Losing a job can lead to anxiety, depression and lower self-esteem.

    Interestingly, people who face ongoing financial challenges but don’t get stressed about their situation aren’t more likely to develop depression symptoms than people without any financial stress.

    A systematic review of 65 studies found clear connections between debt and mental health problems, depression and even suicide attempts.

    Physical health troubles

    Losing your job can harm your body in two main ways.

    First, the stress from financial worries can affect people’s bodies directly – for example, by increasing blood pressure. Being in debt is associated with other ailments, including back pain and obesity.

    Second, when money is tight, people often try to save money by skipping doctor visits or forgoing prescription drugs. Even with health insurance, high deductibles can mean paying thousands of dollars out of pocket before insurance helps. When choosing between paying for rent, food and health care, people often put their medical needs last.

    Unhealthy coping methods

    Some people turn to alcohol, tobacco or other substances to cope with the loss of their jobs. These habits are bad for your health and may empty your wallet, adding to the financial strain.

    Others turn to gambling or excessive shopping to cope, which can also make money problems even worse.

    Marriage and other relationships may fray amid financial stress too. Borrowing money excessively from friends and family or snapping at your loved ones when you feel stressed out can weaken ties with those closest to you.

    Moving on in healthy ways

    To be sure, some people become more resilient after losing their job by adopting positive coping strategies.

    Whenever you lose a job, try reaching out. Your friends and loved ones can help protect your health while you move on.

    In addition to applying for new positions, spend time networking. Reach out to former colleagues, join professional groups and attend events related to your career.

    Try to volunteer. It will help you sharpen or expand your skills while expanding your networks and perhaps lead you to a new job.

    And consider starting or expanding a side hustle. It will generate some income, give you a greater sense of control over your life and keep you feeling productive during the monotony of sending out applications.

    It’s also essential to stick to self-care basics: Regular exercise reduces stress hormones. Getting enough sleep improves cognitive function, and maintaining a busy social life provides emotional support.

    Keeping healthy habits is always important. But they could protect your mental and physical health during challenging times. Losing a paycheck is hard enough. Losing your health over it is even worse.

    Jeffrey Anvari-Clark received nominal funding from Bank Roll’d in support of his forthcoming book: “Financial and Behavioral Health for Helping Professionals.”

    – ref. Losing your job is bad for your health, but there are things you can do to minimize the harm – https://theconversation.com/losing-your-job-is-bad-for-your-health-but-there-are-things-you-can-do-to-minimize-the-harm-252270

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ecological disruptions are a risk to national security

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Bradley J. Cardinale, Professor, Ecosystem Science and Management, Penn State

    Illegal deforestation is one way terrorist groups fund their activities. Amaury Falt-Brown/AFP via Getty Images

    When the natural environment is stretched beyond its ability to meet basic human needs for food, clean air, drinkable water and shelter, it is not just a humanitarian concern for the world community. Research shows that these crises are a matter of national security for the U.S. and other countries.

    The Pentagon and the U.S. intelligence community have long paid close attention to the influence of climate change on national security. Although recent intelligence reports of the Trump administration have omitted any mention of climate change, prior intelligence reports have shown how climate change can generate flash points for global conflict, affect how troops and equipment work, and influence which defense locations are vulnerable.

    The effects of ecological disruptions on national security get less attention. But they, too, can cause social and political instability, economic strife and strained international relations. Ecological disruptions occur when ecosystems that provide natural resources are compromised and can no longer meet basic human needs. Examples include overfishing, human disease and environmental crime.

    Protecting access to fish

    Some 3.2 billion people worldwide rely on fisheries as a major source of protein. Overexploitation of ocean fisheries is a common root of international conflict.

    From the 1950s to the 1970s, intermittent conflict broke out between British and Icelandic fishermen over the Icelandic cod fisheries, which had been depleted by overfishing. The Icelandic government sought to ban British trawlers from a broader area around the country’s coast, but the British continued to fish. The result was standoffs between fishing boats and Icelandic gunboats, and even the intervention of the British Royal Navy.

    These “Cod Wars” broke diplomatic relations between Iceland and the United Kingdom for a time. Iceland even threatened to withdraw from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization and close a U.S. military base in Iceland. The U.K. ultimately agreed to abide by a 200-mile territorial limit on fishing around Iceland. Decades later, in 2012, the British government issued an apology and offered £1,000 each in compensation to 2,500 British fishermen for the loss of jobs and livelihoods that resulted from abiding by the 200-mile limit.

    More recently, China’s rampant overfishing of its own coastal waters has meant expanding fishing in the South China Sea and using fishing fleets to assert new territorial claims. Indonesia has responded by blowing up more than 40 Chinese vessels accused of fishing illegally in its waters and stealing more than US$4 billion per year in Indonesian profits.

    The United States, Australia, New Zealand and Britain have stepped up naval patrols against illegal fishing in the waters of Pacific island nations. Conflicts have arisen with Chinese coast guard vessels that routinely escort fishing fleets entering other countries’ waters without permission.

    China’s fishing fleets have also expanded their activities off the coasts of Africa and South America, depleting fish stocks and creating political instability in those regions, too. In 2024, the U.S. Coast Guard and Argentine navy began joint exercises to combat illegal Chinese fishing in the Atlantic Ocean.

    Public health crises

    The best-known examples of ecologically related public health crises that jeopardize national security involve what are called zoonotic diseases, which spread from animals to humans as a result of close contact between people and wildlife. More than 70% of the world’s emerging infectious diseases – uncommon or newly identified infectious diseases – stem from contact with wild animals.

    The risks of animal-to-human disease transmission are especially high for those who handle or eat wild meat.

    A recent example is the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus responsible for the COVID-19 global pandemic. Epidemiological and genetic studies suggest that SARS-CoV-2 first spilled over to humans from wild animals sold in the Huanan live animal market in Wuhan, China. Although the specific animal that served as the original host is still under investigation, bats and other mammals are considered likely natural reservoirs of SARS-CoV-2 because they harbor other coronaviruses with closely related genomes.

    Following the zoonotic spillover event, the pathogen spread rapidly across the globe, killing more than 7 million people and causing acute disruptions not only to global markets and supply chains but also to social cohesion and political stability. Countries with high COVID-19 mortality rates had elevated levels of civil disorder and fatalities caused by political violence as the trust of citizens in the ability of governments to protect them eroded.

    Many other zoonotic diseases caused by human-wildlife contact, such as Zika, Ebola, SARS and West Nile virus, have similarly generated international political and economic crises that have activated security measures within the U.S. government.

    Environmental crime

    International Anti-Poaching Foundation rangers, seen here demonstrating a patrol in Zimbabwe, seek to protect natural resources from criminals.
    Gianluigi Guercia/AFP via Getty Images

    Illegal poaching and trade of wildlife and forest products is valued at $91 billion to $258 billion per year. That makes environmental crime one of the world’s largest crime sectors, comparable with drug trafficking, at $344 billion, and human trafficking, at $157 billion.

    Exorbitant black market prices for rare wildlife specimens and body parts provide funding for terrorist groups, drug cartels and criminal organizations.

    Illegal logging helps finance terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab in Somalia, where trade in charcoal has become a critical revenue source. Money from illegally cut trees turned into charcoal and sold to markets in the Middle East has funded al-Shabab-linked suicide bombings in Mogadishu, the 2013 Westgate mall attack in Nairobi that killed 67 Kenyan and non-Kenyan nationals, and the 2015 massacre of 147 university students in Garissa, Kenya.

    Those and other terrorist activities funded through environmental crime have contributed to the destabilization of countries throughout the Horn of Africa.

    These examples make clear how ecological disruptions to nature increase national security risks.

    National security is not just a matter of military strength. It also depends on the ability of a nation to maintain productive and stable ecosystems, resilient biological communities and sustainable access to natural resources. Sovereign nations already develop and protect physical infrastructure that is essential to security, such as roads, communication networks and power grids. The natural world plays an equally vital role in social and political stability and, we believe, deserves more attention in planning for national security.

    Bradley J. Cardinale has received funding from the US National Science Foundation, US Department of Energy, US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and US Department of Agriculture.

    Emmett Duffy has received funding from the US National Science Foundation, US Environmental Protection Agency, and the Lenfest Ocean Program.

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

    – ref. Ecological disruptions are a risk to national security – https://theconversation.com/ecological-disruptions-are-a-risk-to-national-security-248754

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: What ‘The White Lotus’ gets wrong about the meaning and goals of common Buddhist practices

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Brooke Schedneck, Associate Professor of Religious Studies, Rhodes College

    Thai men can be ordained from a few days to the rest of their lives. Pakin Songmor/Moment via Getty Images

    The new season of “The White Lotus” is set on a luxury resort on the Thai island of Koh Samui. This comedy-drama series, which critiques wealthy tourists, focuses one plotline on foreigners who arrive in Thailand with an interest in engaging with its Buddhist traditions.

    It depicts a young American woman who is interested in joining a yearlong meditation program at a Buddhist temple, even though Thai temples do not offer such programs. It also portrays a temple environment with many foreigners staying there long term, not dressed in typical clothing for residents of a temple – unusual in Thailand – and inaccurately describes the Buddhist view of the afterlife.

    I have studied Buddhism in Thailand for over a decade, including the diverse ways in which Thai Buddhists practice their religion. While the Thai Buddhism depicted in The White Lotus is not completely realistic, there are several authentic ways to engage deeply with Buddhism, ranging from offering donations to short meditation retreats to ordination as a monastic.

    Generosity and Buddhist laity

    Without donations, Buddhist temples and monastic institutions could not exist.

    The lay community provides for monks and temples, in exchange for the spiritual currency of merit, which is believed to turn into good karma. This good karma is believed to produce favorable conditions in this life and the next life, such as attaining wealth or being reborn into a privileged family.

    Some laypeople might give food to monks as they walk on their alms rounds every morning, while others may visit the temple only on most Buddhist holidays. The main intention behind interacting with a monk or visiting a temple is to make merit. Each temple has donation boxes for specific funds it needs, such as paying the electricity bill, completing renovation projects, providing education for young monks and funding the monastic community’s health care.

    People can take home blessed objects such as a lucky candle or small amulet in exchange for a small donation. In some temples, a monk’s duty is to sit inside one of the main halls and wait until the laity comes to receive offerings and give blessings.

    Meditation retreats

    Temples with meditation centers generally offer meditation retreats for a short period of time. Many offer 10-day retreats; participants can also sign up for a 21-day program in the north of Thailand, where they will aim to spend their days in 10-15 hours of meditation and minimize any other activity, including sleep.

    Participants in the 21-day program aim to reach the first of the four stages of enlightenment within Thai Theravada Buddhism. Buddhists believe that those who attain the first stage have “entered the stream” of enlightenment and are guaranteed to attain it within seven lifetimes.

    Contrary to popular Western beliefs about Buddhist meditation, it is not viewed as a secular practice. Thai Buddhists believe that meditation is a meritorious activity, helping them not only to ultimately leave the cycle of rebirth but also to accumulate merit and good karma along the way – in this life and future ones.

    At a meditation center, every moment is spent in mindfulness of every action, along with periods of formal walking or sitting meditation. All meditation centers have a structured program and schedule that practitioners, typically dressed in white pants and top, must follow individually or in group periods of meditation.

    Ordination of men and women

    Ordination is an important part of the Buddhist life course. Thai Buddhists often enter a monastery for a short period of time, temporarily being ordained as a monk or nun. Even for those who intended to enter for life but choose to leave the monastic life, the process is simple; it usually carries no shame or disappointment. However, if a monk was well known for his teaching, his followers would likely feel upset.

    In Theravada Buddhism, the kind of Buddhism practiced in Thailand, there are two levels of ordination: novice and full “bhikkhu” – the term for a fully ordained male. Males under the age of 20 may pursue only novice ordination, while those over 20 can become fully ordained monks.

    It is often considered a rite of passage, or at least a sign of discipline and maturity, for a male to have been ordained at some point in his life. Temporary ordination is seen as a way for men to make merit for their parents, especially their mothers, who sacrificed so much for their existence.

    Women are generally not allowed to be ordained in Thai Buddhism, but some have received ordination in Sri Lanka, where they are allowed to be monks, and set up communities in Thailand, which are gaining in popularity. These female monastic practice centers have initiated temporary ordination programs for female monks, or “bhikkhuni.”

    These centers host special programs once or twice a year, where up to 100 women, including international visitors, can ordain as novice female monks for a short period. During this time, they learn what it is like to wear the robes, receive offerings and study the Buddhist texts.

    Many women find this opportunity meaningful because they can offer merit to their parents, which was previously only available to a male.

    Thai women fighting to be ordained.

    Women can also ordain temporarily or long term as a “mae chi” in Thailand, or a precept nun. They usually follow Eight Precepts, including celibacy, wearing white robes and shaving their head. Although more accepted today in Thailand as a role for Buddhist women than bhikkhuni, this category of ordination was not initiated by the Buddha. Precept nuns are believed to have existed for centuries, but without a clear origin.

    These are some common ways in which Thai Buddhists practice Buddhism, often with the goal of achieving prosperity in this life and a better rebirth. Such practices, Buddhists believe, may also get them closer to the ultimate aspiration of enlightenment.

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

    – ref. What ‘The White Lotus’ gets wrong about the meaning and goals of common Buddhist practices – https://theconversation.com/what-the-white-lotus-gets-wrong-about-the-meaning-and-goals-of-common-buddhist-practices-251769

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Signal is not the place for top secret communications, but it might be the right choice for you – a cybersecurity expert on what to look for in a secure messaging app

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Frederick Scholl, Associate Teaching Professor of Cybersecurity, Quinnipiac University

    Signal is in the news because of a security failure, but the app itself is quite secure. AP Photo/Kiichiro Sato

    When top White House defense and national security leaders discussed plans for an attack on targets in Yemen over the messaging app Signal, it raised many questions about operational security and recordkeeping and national security laws. It also puts Signal in the spotlight.

    Why do so many government officials, activists and journalists use Signal for secure messaging? The short answer is that it uses end-to-end encryption, meaning no one in position to eavesdrop on the communication – including Signal itself – can read messages they intercept.

    But Signal isn’t the only messaging app that uses end-to-end encryption, and end-to-end encryption isn’t the only consideration in choosing a secure messaging app. In addition, secure messaging apps are only part of the picture when it comes to keeping your communications private, and there is no such thing as perfect security.

    I’m a cybersecurity professor who worked for several decades advising companies on cybersecurity. Here are some of the factors I recommend considering when looking for a secure messaging app:

    Secure app choices

    The most common messaging protocol, SMS, is built into every smartphone and is easy to use, but does not encrypt messages. Since there is no encryption, carriers or government agents with a warrant, which are typically submitted by law enforcement and issued by a judge, can read the message content. They can also view the message metadata, which includes information about you and your recipient, like an internet address, name or both.

    Truly secure messaging is based on cryptography, a mathematical method to scramble data and make it unreadable. Most secure messaging apps handle the scrambling and unscrambling process for you. The gold standard for secure messaging is end-to-end encryption. End-to-end encryption means your message is fully encrypted while in transit, including while transiting the communications provider’s networks. Only the recipient can see the message. The communication provider does not have any encryption key.

    How end-to-end encryption works.

    Apple iMessage and Google Messages use end-to-end encryption, and both are widely used, so many of your contacts are likely already using one of them. The downsides are the end-to-end encryption is only iPhone to iPhone and Android to Android, respectively, and Apple and Google can access your metadata – who you communicated with and when. If a company has access to your metadata, it can be compelled to share it with a government entity.

    WhatsApp, owned by Meta, is another widely used messaging app. Its end-to-end encryption works across iOS and Android. But Meta has access to your metadata.

    There are a number of independent secure messaging apps to choose from, including Briar, Session, Signal, SimpleX, Telegram, Threema, Viber and Wire. You can use more than one to adapt to your individual needs.

    Default end-to-end encryption is only the first factor to consider when thinking about message security. Depending on your needs, you should also consider whether the app includes group chats and calls, self-destructing messages, cross-device data syncing, and photo and video editing tools. Ease of use is another factor.

    You can also consider whether the app uses an open-source encryption protocol, open-source code and a decentralized server network. And you can weigh whether the app company collects user data, what personal information is required on sign-up, and generally how transparent the company is.

    Human factors

    Beyond the messaging app, it’s important to practice safe security hygiene, like using two-factor authentication and a password manager. There’s no point in sending and receiving messages securely and then leaking the information via another vulnerability, including having your phone itself compromised.

    People can be lured into compromising their apps and devices by unintentionally giving access to an attacker. For example, Russian operatives reportedly tricked Ukrainian troops into giving access to their Signal accounts.

    Also, if you use Signal, you should probably use its nicknames feature to avoid adding the wrong person to a group chat – like National Security Adviser Michael Waltz apparently did in the Signalgate scandal.

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

    – ref. Signal is not the place for top secret communications, but it might be the right choice for you – a cybersecurity expert on what to look for in a secure messaging app – https://theconversation.com/signal-is-not-the-place-for-top-secret-communications-but-it-might-be-the-right-choice-for-you-a-cybersecurity-expert-on-what-to-look-for-in-a-secure-messaging-app-250906

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Energy Bank Gears Up for H1 2025 Launch

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    BRAZZAVILLE, Congo (Republic of the), March 27, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Ahead of its H1 2025 launch, the Africa Energy Bank – developed jointly by Afreximbank and the African Petroleum Producers Organization (APPO) – is positioning itself to tackle major challenges in financing, technology and market reliability to accelerate Africa’s oil and gas sector development.

    Speaking at the Congo Energy & Investment Forum in Brazzaville, Dr. Omar Farouk Ibrahim, Secretary General of APPO, reaffirmed the launch timeframe and underscored the urgency of establishing the bank to address the continent’s energy needs.

    “​We should not rest and wait for other countries to develop our own projects,” he said, adding, “​At APPO, we have noted three specific challenges for the African continent: finance, technology and reliable markets.”

    With an initial capital of $5 billion, the bank has allocated $1.5 billion for APPO member countries. It will primarily finance oil and gas projects, engage in trading and manage risks. Countries such as Ghana, Nigeria and Angola have already expressed support for the bank’s objectives. The Republic of Congo has acquired $83.33 million in shares, reinforcing its commitment to the bank’s mission.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: WRAP Bolsters Leadership with Top 1MDB Investigators and FBI Veteran Rob Heuchling to Drive Technology Commercialization for Transnational Crime Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)


    WRAP Expands Capabilities: Leveraging Investigative Expertise in Financial Crimes, Crypto and Cybersecurity to Commercialize Managed Services Offering

    MIAMI, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wrap Technologies, Inc, (NASDAQ: WRAP) (“Wrap” or, the “Company”), a global leader in innovative public safety technologies and non-lethal tools, today announced the appointment of Robert Heuchling as Managing Director of the Company, bringing over 15 years of experience from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) and providing advisory services to the Company’s executive team.

    Wrap plans to expand its managed service business lines, with Mr. Heuchling expected to play a key role in commercializing an offering that combines his investigative expertise with his deep familiarity with a wide range of investigative data sets, tools and technologies. Wrap also plans to develop unique technology solutions that integrate advanced investigative capabilities, empowering agencies to address complex financial crimes, cyber threats and transnational law enforcement challenges with greater efficiency and precision.

    While at the FBI, Mr. Heuchling supervised a squad based in New York City responsible for foreign corruption, international money laundering and antitrust investigations. In that role, Mr. Heuchling forged relationships with law enforcement agencies across the globe and developed strategies to collaborate with foreign counterparts to solve complex transnational crime cases.

    Mr. Heuchling will once again be working with his former FBI supervisor, Bill McMurry, Chief Executive Officer of Managed Services. Together, Mr. McMurry and Mr. Heuchling led the U.S. investigation into 1Malaysia Development Berhad, or 1MDB, a Malaysian sovereign wealth fund from which more than $4.5 billion was stolen through a complex fraud and corruption scheme involving individuals from multiple countries. The investigation resulted in the largest asset recovery in U.S. Department of Justice history and is considered a model for success in international investigations.

    Jared Novick, President of Wrap, stated: “The addition of Rob Heuchling, joining his former colleague Bill McMurry at Wrap, provides our global clients and the agencies we support with a unique opportunity to leverage their unparalleled expertise alongside our advanced technologies. We believe their deep investigative experience in financial crimes, cyber threats and transnational law enforcement, combined with Wrap’s cutting-edge solutions, will allow us to deliver unmatched support for the most pressing challenges facing law enforcement and security professionals worldwide. We are thrilled to have them on board as we expand our managed services and drive innovation in public safety.”

    Background

    Prior to joining the FBI, Mr. Heuchling served as an engineer and communications officer in the United States Navy. He is a graduate of the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University and has received numerous accolades from both the FBI and the military. His honors include:

    • the Assistant Attorney General’s Exceptional Service Award;
    • the Federal Law Enforcement Foundation’s “Investigator of the Year” Award;
    • the FBI Medal of Excellence; and
    • the Naval Commendation Medal.

    About Wrap Technologies, Inc.

    Wrap Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: WRAP) is a global leader in public safety solutions, bringing together cutting-edge technology with exceptional people to address the complex, modern day challenges facing public safety organizations.

    Wrap’s BolaWrap® solution is a safer way to gain compliance—without pain.

    This innovative, patented device deploys light, sound, and a Kevlar® tether to safely restrain individuals from a distance, giving officers critical time and space to manage non-compliant situations before resorting to higher-force options. The BolaWrap 150 does not shoot, strike, shock, or incapacitate—instead, it helps officers operate lower on the force continuum, reducing the risk of injury to both officers and subjects. Used by over 1,000 agencies across the U.S. and in 60 countries, BolaWrap® is backed by training certified by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST), reinforcing Wrap’s commitment to public safety through cutting-edge technology and expert training.

    Wrap Reality™ VR is a fully immersive training simulator to enhance decision-making under pressure.

    As a comprehensive public safety training platform, it provides first responders with realistic, interactive scenarios that reflect the evolving challenges of modern law enforcement. By offering a growing library of real-world situations, Wrap Reality™ equips officers with the skills and confidence to navigate high stakes encounters effectively, leading to safer outcomes for both responders and the communities they serve.

    Wrap Intrensic is an advanced body-worn camera and evidence management system built for efficiency.

    Designed for efficiency, security, and transparency to meet the rigorous demands of modern law enforcement, Intrensic seamlessly captures, stores, and manages digital evidence, ensuring integrity and full chain-of-custody compliance. With automated workflows, secure cloud storage, and intuitive case management tools, it streamlines operations, reduces administrative burden, and enhances courtroom credibility.

    Trademark Information Wrap, the Wrap logo, BolaWrap®, Wrap Reality™ and Wrap Training Academy are trademarks of Wrap Technologies, Inc., some of which are registered in the U.S. and abroad. All other trade names used herein are either trademarks or registered trademarks of the respective holders. Cautionary Note on Forward-Looking Statements – Safe Harbor Statement This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “should”, “believe”, “target”, “project”, “goals”, “estimate”, “potential”, “predict”, “may”, “will”, “could”, “intend”, and variations of these terms or the negative of these terms and similar expressions are intended to identify these forward-looking statements. Moreover, forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which involve factors or circumstances that are beyond the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results could differ materially from those stated or implied in forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including but not limited to: the expected benefits of the acquisition of W1 Global, LLC, the Company’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Capital Market’s listing standards; the Company’s ability to successfully implement training programs for the use of its products; the Company’s ability to manufacture and produce products for its customers; the Company’s ability to develop sales for its products; the market acceptance of existing and future products; the availability of funding to continue to finance operations; the complexity, expense and time associated with sales to law enforcement and government entities; the lengthy evaluation and sales cycle for the Company’s product solutions; product defects; litigation risks from alleged product-related injuries; risks of government regulations; the business impact of health crises or outbreaks of disease, such as epidemics or pandemics; the impact resulting from geopolitical conflicts and any resulting sanctions; the ability to obtain export licenses for counties outside of the United States; the ability to obtain patents and defend intellectual property against competitors; the impact of competitive products and solutions; and the Company’s ability to maintain and enhance its brand, as well as other risk factors mentioned in the Company’s most recent annual report on Form 10-K, subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and were based on current expectations, estimates, forecasts, and projections as well as the beliefs and assumptions of management. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in its expectations. Investor Relations Contact: (800) 583-2652 ir@wrap.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9f9f323f-41be-4b9e-8c86-0cc26de2ab82

    This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified individual.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. Closes Merger with Carlyle Secured Lending III

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. (“CGBD”) (NASDAQ: CGBD) announced today the closing of its previously announced merger with Carlyle Secured Lending III (“CSL III”) with CGBD as the surviving company. Based on March 25, 2025 financial data, the combined company has more than $2.8 billion of assets.

    In connection with the closing of the merger, CSL III shareholders received 18,935,108 shares of CGBD common stock for each common share of CSL III based on the final exchange ratio and payment of cash in lieu of fractional shares.

    Prior to the closing of the merger, Carlyle Investment Management L.L.C. (“CIM”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Carlyle, exchanged its shares of CGBD convertible preferred stock for CGBD common stock at current NAV, eliminating the risk of dilution from the potential conversion of the shares at the December 31, 2024 conversion price of $8.87. CIM exchanged all shares of CGBD preferred stock into 3,004,808 shares of common stock and entered into a tiered lock-up agreement, further demonstrating Carlyle’s commitment to supporting the vehicle. In addition, Carlyle incurred $5.0 million in transaction costs on behalf of CGBD to mitigate the expense impact of the merger.

    Justin Plouffe, Chief Executive Officer of CGBD, said, “We are pleased to announce the closing of the merger transaction and thank our shareholders for their support of this strategic initiative. Building on CGBD’s momentum in 2024, we look forward to continuing to execute CGBD’s strategy with greater scale and seamless integration to deliver consistent income and returns for shareholders of the combined company.”

    Sullivan & Cromwell LLP served as legal counsel to CGBD and CSL III. Raymond James & Associates, Inc. served as financial advisor and Sidley Austin LLP served as legal counsel to the special committee of the independent directors of CGBD. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company, served as financial advisor and Sullivan & Worcester LLP served as legal counsel to the special committee of the independent trustees of CSL III.

    About Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc.    

    Carlyle Secured Lending, Inc. is a publicly traded (NASDAQ: CGBD) business development company (“BDC”) which began investing in 2013. The Company focuses on providing directly originated, financing solutions across the capital structure, with a focus on senior secured lending to middle-market companies primarily located in the United States. Carlyle Secured Lending is externally managed by Carlyle Global Credit Investment Management L.L.C., an SEC-registered investment adviser and wholly owned subsidiary of Carlyle. Further information is available at carlylesecuredlending.com.

    About Carlyle   

    Carlyle (NASDAQ: CG) is a global investment firm with deep industry expertise that deploys private capital across three business segments: Global Private Equity, Global Credit and Global Investment Solutions. With $441 billion of assets under management as of December 31, 2024, Carlyle’s purpose is to invest wisely and create value on behalf of its investors, portfolio companies and the communities in which we live and invest. Carlyle employs more than 2,300 people in 29 offices across four continents. Further information is available at www.carlyle.com. Follow Carlyle on X @OneCarlyle and LinkedIn at The Carlyle Group.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. Some of the statements in this press release constitute forward-looking statements because they are not historical facts, but instead relate to future events, future performance or financial condition or the merger of CSL III with and into CGBD. The forward-looking statements may include statements as to: future operating results of CGBD and distribution projections; business prospects of CGBD; and the impact of the investments that CGBD expects to make. You can identify these statements by the use of forward-looking terminology such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “expects,” “intends,” “will,” “should,” “may,” “plans,” “continue,” “believes,” “seeks,” “estimates,” “would,” “could,” “targets,” “projects,” “outlook,” “potential,” “predicts” and variations of these words and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements include these words. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release involve risks and uncertainties. Certain factors could cause actual results and conditions to differ materially from those projected, including the uncertainties associated with (i) changes in the economy, financial markets and political environment; (ii) risks associated with possible disruption in the operations of CGBD or the economy generally due to terrorism, war or other geopolitical conflict; (iii) future changes in laws or regulations (including the interpretation of these laws and regulations by regulatory authorities); (iv) conditions in CGBD’s operating areas, particularly with respect to business development companies or regulated investment companies; and (v) other considerations that may be disclosed from time to time in CGBD’s publicly disseminated documents and filings. CGBD has based the forward-looking statements included in this press release on information available to it on the date hereof, and CGBD assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements. You should read statements that contain these words carefully because they discuss our plans, strategies, prospects and expectations concerning our business, operating results, financial condition and other similar matters. We believe that it is important to communicate our future expectations to our investors. There may be events in the future, however, that we are not able to predict accurately or control. You should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which we make it. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ, possibly materially from our expectations, include, but are not limited to, the risks, uncertainties and other factors we identify in the sections entitled “Risk Factors” and “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements” in filings we make with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and it is not possible for us to predict or identify all of them. Although CGBD undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, you are advised to consult any additional disclosures that CGBD may make directly to you or through reports that CGBD has filed or in the future may file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and current reports on Form 8-K.

    Contacts:

    Investors: Media:
    Nishil Mehta Kristen Ashton
    +1-212-813-4900 +1-212-813-4763
    publicinvestor@carlylesecuredlending.com kristen.ashton@carlyle.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Maris-Tech Secures a $4 Million Line of Credit from a Leading Israeli Commercial Bank

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The line of credit will allow the Company flexibility in taking advantage of strategic opportunities

    Rehovot, Israel, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Maris-Tech Ltd. (Nasdaq: MTEK, MTEKW) (“Maris-Tech” or the “Company”), a global leader in video and artificial intelligence (“AI”) based edge computing technology, today announced that it has secured a $4 million line of credit from a leading Israeli commercial bank for a period of 12 months from the date of the agreement. 

    The line of credit is on accepted commercial terms for similarly-sized companies and includes fixed and floating liens on the Company’s assets, customary economic and restrictive covenants by the Company, its U.S. subsidiary and agreement by two shareholders of the Company to certain subordination restrictions concerning loans they have provided to the Company.

    The line of credit will allow the Company the ability to take advantage of strategic opportunities and increase its commercial activity, without diluting the Company’s shareholders.

    The Company believes that the entry into the line of credit agreement indicates the trust of a leading Israeli commercial bank towards the Company.

    “We are proud that a leading Israeli commercial bank has chosen to support the Company’s growth. This line of credit will give us the flexibility to achieve our growth potential, without relying on market conditions or sales of our equity. We will continue to do everything to justify the trust given to us,” said Israel Bar, Chief Executive Officer of Maris-Tech. 

    About Maris-Tech Ltd.

    Maris-Tech is a global leader in video and AI-based edge computing technology, pioneering intelligent video transmission solutions that conquer complex encoding-decoding challenges. Our miniature, lightweight, and low-power products deliver high-performance capabilities, including raw data processing, seamless transfer, advanced image processing, and AI-driven analytics. Founded by Israeli technology sector veterans, Maris-Tech serves leading manufacturers worldwide in defense, aerospace, Intelligence gathering, homeland security (HLS), and communication industries. We’re pushing the boundaries of video transmission and edge computing, driving innovation in mission-critical applications across commercial and defense sectors.

    For more information, visit https://www.maris-tech.com/

    Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe the Company’s future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect”,” “may”, “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, the Company is using forward-looking statements when it is discussing: that the line of credit will allow the Company the ability to take advantage of strategic opportunities and to increase its business activity and will give the Company the flexibility to achieve its growth potential, without relying on market conditions or sales of the Company’s equity; the Company’s belief that the entry into the line of credit agreement indicates the trust of a leading Israeli commercial bank towards the Company and that the signing of the line of credit agreement indicates the trust of a leading Israeli commercial bank towards the Company. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of the Company’s control. The Company’s actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause the Company’s actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: its ability to successfully market its products and services, including in the United States; the acceptance of its products and services by customers; its continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for its products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; its ability to successfully develop new products and services; its success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; its ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in the Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2023, filed with the SEC on March 21, 2024, and its other filings with the SEC. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations:

    Nir Bussy, CFO
    Tel: +972-72-2424022
    Nir@maris-tech.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MissionSquare Retirement welcomes Joshua Hsu as vice president and head of firm strategy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Washington, D.C., March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MissionSquare Retirement is pleased to announce the appointment of Joshua Hsu as the firm’s new vice president and head of firm strategy. Hsu joined the team on Feb. 18, bringing a broad range of experience from his tenure at McKinsey & Company, where he previously served as an associate partner in the Wealth and Asset Management Practice.

    “We are excited to welcome Joshua to MissionSquare Retirement,” said Andre Robinson, chief executive officer and president of MissionSquare Retirement. “Joshua’s extensive experience in strategy design and execution, coupled with his innovative approach to growth and transformation, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our offerings and expand our impact in the retirement services industry.”

    In his newly created role as vice president and head of firm strategy, Hsu will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of MissionSquare. He reports directly to Drue Holloway, chief strategy officer, helping to support efforts to drive strategic development and ensure alignment with the organization’s goals.

    “Joshua’s leadership will be crucial as we navigate the evolving landscape of retirement services,” added Holloway. “His focus on operational excellence and ability to drive innovation aligns perfectly with our mission to provide exceptional retirement solutions to our customers.”

    During his time at McKinsey, Hsu led numerous growth transformations and bottom-line impact initiatives for financial services clients, resulting in significant revenue increases and operational efficiencies. He spearheaded McKinsey’s consumer research around the latest shifts in pre-retiree and retiree needs to shape innovation in the retirement ecosystem. His expertise in customer experience, capability building, and digital transformations was instrumental in driving sustainable growth for his clients.

    Hsu holds a Master of Business Administration from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and a bachelor’s degree in economics from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

    About MissionSquare Retirement

    Since its founding in 1972, MissionSquare Retirement has been dedicated to simplifying the path to retirement security for public service employees. As a mission-based, nonstock, nonprofit financial services company, we manage and administer over $72.0 billion in assets.* Our commitment to delivering results-oriented retirement plans, education, investments, and personalized advice sets us apart. Explore how we enable public service workers to build a secure financial future. For more information, visit www.missionsq.org or follow the company on Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.

    *As of December 31, 2024. Includes 457(b), 401(a), 403(b), Retirement Health Savings (RHS) plans, Employer Investment Program (EIP) plans, affiliated IRAs, and investment-only assets.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AMERICAN REBEL UPDATE: 1-FOR-25 REVERSE STOCK SPLIT UPDATED EFFECTIVE DATE IS MARCH 31, 2025, AS PER NASDAQ PROCESSING ROUND LOT (100 SHARE) SHAREHOLDER PROTECTION FRACTIONAL SHARE ROUND UP TO NEAREST WHOLE SHARE

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nashville, TN, March 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) — America’s Patriotic Brand (the “Company”), today announced that it will effect a reverse stock split of its outstanding shares of common stock, par value $0.001 per share (the “Common Stock”), at a ratio of 1-for-25, to be effective as of 12:00 a.m. Eastern Time on March 31, 2025 as per NASDAQ.

    The Company’s Common Stock will begin trading on a reverse stock split-adjusted basis at the opening of The Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”) on Monday, March 31, 2025. Following the reverse stock split, the Common Stock will continue to trade on Nasdaq under the symbol “AREB” with the new CUSIP number, 02919L604. The reverse stock split is intended for the Company to:

    • Enhance Deposit (Ability) and Marketability: By increasing the share price, a reverse split can make the stock more eligible for trading on certain platforms
    • Continue to ensure compliance with the minimum bid price requirement of $1.00 per share of common stock for continued listing on Nasdaq.

    Important information:

    The reverse stock split will not change the authorized number of shares of the Company’s Common Stock. No fractional shares will be issued in connection with the reverse stock split and all such fractional interests will be rounded up to the nearest whole number of shares of Common Stock. Further, no current owner of 100 or more shares will be reduced to less than 100 shares. In addition, the reverse stock split will apply to the Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of the Company’s outstanding derivative securities, with proportionate adjustments to be made to the exercise prices and number of derivates thereof and under the Company’s equity incentive plans.

    • Round Lot Shareholder Protection to ensure that shareholders holding a “round lot” (typically 100 shares) are not adversely affected by the split.
        Example #1: If a shareholder holds 100 shares on the effective date, due to the Round Lot Shareholder Protection they will own 100 shares post-split after DTC/CEDE additional share issuance.
         
        The 100 shares pre-reverse would be adjusted via the 1:25 Ratio to one (1) share of common stock. An Additional 99 shares of common stock will be issued as per the Round Lot Shareholder Protection bringing the total to 100 shares of common stock.
         
        Example #2: If a shareholder holds 1,250 shares on the effective date, due to the Round Lot Shareholder Protection they will own 100 shares post-split after DTC/CEDE additional share issuance.
         
        The 1,250 shares pre-reverse would be adjusted via the 1:25 Ratio to fifty (50) shares of common stock. An Additional 50 shares of common stock will be issued as per the Round Lot Shareholder Protection bringing the total to 100 shares of common stock.
         
    • All Fractional Shares Rounded to nearest whole number. As a result of the reverse stock split all fractional interests will be rounded up to the nearest whole number
        Example #1: If a shareholder holds 40 shares on the effective date, due to the Fractional Share Rounding, they will own two (2) shares post-split after DTC/CEDE additional share issuance including fractional shares.
         
        The 40 shares pre-reverse would be adjusted via the 1:25 Ratio to 1.6 share of common stock. An Additional 0.6 share of common stock will be issued as per the Fractional Share Rounding bringing the total to 2 shares of common stock.
         

    The Company is committed to pro-actively protecting the interests of its stockholders, particularly those owning round lots of 100 or more shares. Stockholders holding at least 100 shares prior to the reverse stock split will retain a minimum of 100 shares post-split. This protection ensures that no stockholder who currently qualifies as a round lot holder will lose their status. Additionally, fractional shares resulting from the reverse stock split will be rounded up to the nearest whole share to maintain liquidity and shareholder equity.

    The reverse stock split will reduce the number of issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock from approximately 15.0 million to approximately 600 thousand, which does not include shares to be issued pursuant to the round lot rounding set forth above.

    On February 24, 2025, the stockholders of the Company approved a Certificate of Amendment to the Company’s Second Amended and Restated Articles of Incorporation to effect a reverse stock split of the Common Stock, at a ratio of up to 1-for-25, with such ratio to be determined in the sole discretion of the Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) and with the reverse stock split to be effected at such time and date, if at all, as determined by the Board in its sole discretion at any time within twelve (12) months of such stockholder approval. The Board approved the reverse stock split at a ratio of 1-for-25 on March 12, 2025.

    Securities Transfer Corporation is acting as the exchange agent and paying agent for the reverse stock split. Stockholders holding their shares in book-entry form or in brokerage accounts need not take any action in connection with the reverse stock split.

    The standard procedure is that DTC gathers all round up share requests from each participant within their system. After about 4 business DTC will send a request for the total amount of round up shares needed to cover all participants/beneficial holders. At that time, our transfer agent will make one issuance/deposit to CEDE (DTC).

    • Round up shares should populate in participant/beneficial holder accounts approximately on or before ten (10) trading days post the Reverse Stock Split.

    Securities Transfer Corporation will provide instructions to any stockholders with certificates regarding the process in connection with the exchange of pre-reverse stock split stock certificates for ownership in book-entry form or stock certificates on a post-reverse stock split basis. Stockholders are encouraged to contact their bank, broker or custodian with any procedural questions.

    As of March 26, 2025, the Company had 14,964,566 shares of common stock issued and outstanding.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit www.americanrebel.com and www.americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit www.americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include our ability to raise adequate working and expansion capital, our ability to efficiently incorporate acquisitions into our operations, the use of non-GAAP based pro forma financial estimates, our ability to introduce new products, our ability to meet production demands, our ability to expand our sales organization to address existing and new markets that we intend to target, our ability to meet or exceed financial and reporting estimates, any effects of the reverse stock split, our ability to continue to meet Nasdaq listing requirements, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    SOURCE: American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

    Company Contact:

    info@americanrebel.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: WMA Limit for Government of India for April – September 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    It has been decided, in consultation with the Government of India, that the limit for Ways and Means Advances (WMA) for the first half of the financial year 2025-26 (April to September 2025) will be ₹1,50,000 crore.

    The Reserve Bank of India may trigger fresh floatation of market loans when the Government of India utilises 75 per cent of the WMA limit.

    The Reserve Bank of India, in consultation with the Government of India, retains the flexibility to revise the limit at any time taking into consideration the prevailing circumstances.

    The interest rate on WMA/Overdraft will be as under:

    1. WMA: Repo Rate

    2. Overdraft: Two percent above the Repo Rate

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2024-2025/2482

    MIL OSI Economics –