Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — The China-Russia Student Voice Festival 2025 was held in Shulan City, northeast China’s Jilin Province on Saturday evening.
The festival with the participation of Russian and Chinese youth took place simultaneously at two sites in the city – at Happiness Square and in the village of Nanyang. Numerous young singers from both countries were invited to the event’s stages.
Nanyang Village, a subordinate city of Shulan, is built in the Russian style and is a symbol of Chinese-Russian friendship. There are many themed guest houses and shops selling Russian goods.
As part of the festival, a series of events were held in Nanyang Village on Saturday afternoon, including the opening ceremony of the “Russian People’s Friendly Exchange Village”, a parade of flower floats, etc.
According to Chen Xukun, deputy chairman of the Jilin Provincial General Chamber of Commerce in Russia, most of the villagers in Nanyang had been to Russia to do business, and then some of them returned to develop the traditional tourism and catering industries.
As night fell, citizens and tourists gathered at the Happiness Square to enjoy the delightful performances of the festival. Popular songs such as “The Moon Represents My Heart,” “Return,” and many others were performed on stage.
The Russian performers were very happy to have the opportunity to perform in China and expressed hope that this event would deepen the exchanges and cooperation between China and Russia. They also invited Chinese friends to come to Russia and sing together there.
2024-2025 have been declared the Years of Culture of China and Russia. The main theme of the China-Russia Student Voice Festival 2025 was “Love and Peace”, and the festival has become a real platform for expressing the beautiful voices of the youth of the two countries, who are enthusiastic about the future and strive for deeper mutual acquaintance.
The festival was held under the leadership of the State Administration of Radio and Television of the People’s Republic of China (SART), the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation, and the Propaganda Department of the Party Committee of Jilin Province. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — National-level economic and technological development zones in China will continue to play an important role in developing new productive forces in line with local conditions, a guest speaker said at the latest edition of the China Economic Roundtable organized by Xinhua News Agency.
Efforts will be aimed at strengthening integration and strengthening the relationship between scientific and technological innovation and industrial innovation, said Ji Xiaofeng, a spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Investment of the Ministry of Commerce of China.
According to her, there are currently more than 700 state-level incubators and hackspaces operating in China’s state-level techno-economic development zones, as well as over 18 percent of the country’s total number of high-tech enterprises.
“We will strive to build more industrial innovation platforms, while focusing on building the entire chain of product certification, large-scale production and testing, so as to strive to accelerate the transformation of technological innovation and industrial application of research results in national-level economic and technological development zones,” the official said.
China will support national-level economic and technological development zones to carry out major technological transformation and upgrading, as well as large-scale equipment upgrades, to accelerate the transformation and upgrading of traditional industries, Ji Xiaofeng said.
According to her, state-level economic and technological development zones will also develop emerging industries of strategic importance such as biomedicine, new energy, new materials and aerospace, and carry out long-term planning for future industries.
China earlier this year unveiled a work plan encouraging national-level economic and technological development zones to develop new productive forces tailored to local conditions by building more industrial and scientific and technological innovation platforms and computing power infrastructure.
In 1984, China established its first national-level economic development zone in the northeastern city of Dalian. By 2024, the number of such zones had reached 232, with a gross regional product of 16.9 trillion yuan (about $2.36 trillion). -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — China’s renminbi (yuan) loans increased by 12.92 trillion yuan (about 1.81 trillion U.S. dollars) in the first six months of 2025, data from the People’s Bank of China (PBOC, the central bank) showed Monday. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) — Since their establishment more than 40 years ago, China’s national-level Economic and Technological Development Zones have prioritized opening up and served as the “first tier” in promoting foreign trade and attracting foreign investment, said Ji Xiaofeng, spokesperson for the Foreign Investment Department of the Ministry of Commerce.
For four decades, these zones have made continuous efforts to improve themselves and have been committed to building a high-quality, law-based business environment, Ji Xiaofeng said, speaking at the latest edition of the China Economy Roundtable hosted by Xinhua News Agency.
By the end of 2024, China had established 232 state-level economic and technological development zones, which together housed more than 60,000 foreign-invested companies.
Among them, Japanese electronics giant Panasonic was one of the first foreign investors in the Chinese market. Today, it has three subsidiaries in the Suzhou Industrial Park in East China’s Jiangsu Province.
Suzhou Industrial Park ranks first among all national-level economic and technological development zones in China in terms of development level as of the end of 2024, maintaining the top position for the ninth consecutive year, according to an annual ranking released by the Ministry of Commerce.
“The industrial park’s location, industrial chain and policy support make it very attractive to us and will bring great benefits to our investment and development not only in Suzhou but also in China as a whole,” said Zhao Bindi, president of Panasonic China.
In May, China’s Ministry of Commerce released a work plan to further deepen reform and innovation in state-level economic and technological development zones, marking the latest move by China to strengthen the zones’ role in promoting high-level opening-up.
“We have been witnesses and beneficiaries of China’s reform and opening up. As the country moves toward high-quality development, we remain committed to our continued growth here,” Zhao Bingdi said. -0-
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments
Press release
Largest fund of its kind to support vulnerable kids & families
The world’s largest fund of its kind will support vulnerable children and families across the country.
Chancellor launches new £500m Fund to break down barriers to opportunity for up to 200,000 vulnerable children and young people and deliver Plan for Change.
World’s largest fund of its kind will boost pupil achievement and could fund programmes to reduce reoffending or provide specialist workers for children struggling with exclusion, mental health or crime.
Better Futures Fund will run for ten years, with plans to raise another £500 million from local government, social investors, and philanthropists on top of government’s funding
The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.
Struggling and vulnerable families and children are to be given a better start in life after a new government fund was announced today (Monday 14 July), which will provide them with the support and funding needed to access a better education, a safe home, and the caring supportive environment they need to flourish.
The Better Futures Fund will support up to 200,000 children and their families over the next ten years by bringing together government, local communities, charities, social enterprises, investors, and philanthropists to work together to give children a brighter future.
It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance, behaviour and overall achievement of pupils, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.
The fund, which is the largest of its kind in the world, will be launched by the Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves at a visit to a school today in Wigan, hosted by the charity AllChild. It could fund providing support in schools to improve attendance and behaviour, intervening to free children from a life of crime, and offering employment support to secure their futures.
By investing in early support to tackle challenges like school absence, addiction and re-offending, the fund will help give children the stability and opportunity they need to thrive – delivering on a key part of the Prime Minister’s Plan for Change to give every child the best start in life.
It comes ahead of the government hosting the first Civil Society Summit this week, where the government will set out a comprehensive plan on how this government will partner with experts from outside the traditional corridors of power to create solutions that work for real people – all through the principles of fairness, collaboration and trust.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:
I got into politics to help children facing the toughest challenges. This fund will give hundreds of thousands of children, young people and their families a better chance. For too long, these children have been overlooked. Our Plan for Change will break down barriers to opportunity and give them the best start in life.
Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy said:
This groundbreaking Better Futures Fund represents a major step in partnering with the impact economy, which has long played an important role in strengthening communities and driving inclusive growth.
As part of the Plan for Change, we’re bringing together government, local authorities, charities, social enterprises and philanthropists to create a powerful alliance that will transform the lives of vulnerable children and young people.
We owe them the best start in life. Together we will break down barriers to opportunity, ensuring those who need support most aren’t left behind and have the chance to reach their potential.
Social Outcomes Partnerships have already been used with success across the UK, with over 180 commissioners using the model across the country. The Greater Manchester Better Outcomes Partnership (GMBOP), for example, works with young adults in the Greater Manchester area who are at risk of homelessness.
AllChild’s projects have already halved persistent school absences, and 80% of children have improved emotional wellbeing. Other programmes like the Skill Mill offer paid work experience and qualifications, reducing reconviction rates from 63% typically to 8% and three quarters of those in the programme progress to further employment, education or training.
This fund is a big step in the government’s work with the impact economy – unlocking extra resources from philanthropy, social investors and businesses to tackle urgent social challenges. Today’s announcement comes as the government’s Child Poverty Strategy is to be published in autumn to ensure it delivers fully funded measures that tackle the structural and root causes of child poverty across the UK.
The launch is backed today by groups including Save the Children UK, The King’s Trust and Oxford University’s Blavatnik School of Government.
Today’s announcement is informed by consultation with the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group and other representatives from civil society, purpose-driven business, and local government. Over the coming months Government will build on this and develop a strategic approach to working with the impact economy, who have long played an important role across the UK economy in unlocking innovation, driving inclusive growth and strengthening community resilience.
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Darren Jones said:
Partnering with impact capital to tackle child poverty was a personal priority for me coming into government – which is why I set up the Social Impact Investment Advisory Group to advise on the development of this brilliant fund, which we’ve been delighted to support as a government. I’d like to thank Dame Elizabeth Corley for chairing the group and all the members for their hard work.
I warmly welcome the government’s Better Futures Fund as a pivotal step toward transforming how we support children and families across the country. It’s vital that children engage with the right support and opportunities, at the right time, in the right way. Holistic support that is rooted in each child’s local community, builds on their strengths, and places trust and relationships at the heart of delivery.
I hope this fund will be a catalyst for a new way of working – one which prioritises prevention, shared accountability for locally identified outcomes, and genuine cross-sector partnerships. This is how we can ensure every child no matter where they live has the support and opportunities they need to flourish.
Richard Rigby, Head of UK Government Affairs, The King’s Trust said:
At The King’s Trust, we know that timely support can change the course of a young person’s life. Potential is everywhere but opportunity is not. The Better Futures Fund is an investment in the potential of young people who are too often left behind. We welcome this commitment to early intervention and collaboration with organisations like ours to tackle inequalities and help young people build brighter, more secure futures. By getting behind young people, we can all help to make the UK a healthier, wealthier, more positive and cohesive place.”
Further details on the fund will be set out in due course. It will be delivered by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Veronika Zolotova graduated from the RUDN University Agrarian and Technological Institute in 2020 in the field of “Land Management and Cadastres”. Now she is a project manager for the department for the construction of educational facilities in the autonomous non-profit organization “Development of Social Infrastructure” (ANO “RSI”). This year, Veronika reached the semi-finals of the All-Russian competition of managers “Leaders of the Construction Industry”, organized with the support of the Ministry of Construction of Russia. Veronika talks about who inspired her to go into construction, what the industry is living today and what it means to be a modern leader in an interview.
When you are a child, the field of “Land Management and Cadastre” cannot be called a dream profession. Everyone wants to become astronauts, doctors, teachers. How did you come to the profession?
Since childhood, I imagined myself in different professions. But one thing has always remained unchanged – the desire to be part of something great, significant, to leave a mark on history. Over time, I realized that the best way to make this dream come true is to work in the construction industry. In the field thanks to which cities are created before our eyes, the space of the future is formed. I was inspired by my godfather, who worked as a surveyor. His stories about the profession were filled with passion and meaning. Then, for the first time, I became truly interested in this field – and that is how I came to choose the direction of “Land Management and Cadastre”.
One of the facets of student life is exams and tests, preparation for which often makes students nervous. What was the most difficult subject during your studies?
It’s been a while since I graduated from university. Each exam was exciting and difficult in its own way, especially at the beginning. But one subject from my first year has remained especially vivid in my memory: soil science. At that time, it seemed incredibly difficult, almost incomprehensible. It’s funny, but many subjects have faded from memory over time, but soil science has not. Apparently, it was precisely because of its complexity and depth that it was so firmly imprinted in my mind.
Which teacher are you most grateful to?
I am sincerely grateful to all the teachers of our university — everyone who generously shared their knowledge, experience and warmth with us. All of them are true masters of their craft, devoted to their profession and their students. I would like to express special gratitude to two teachers who played a key role in my professional path. An amazing teacher and expert in his field — Anton Aleksandrovich Poddubsky. He taught geodesy and a number of other disciplines, thanks to which I discovered this science from a completely new, deep and fascinating side.
Mikhail Vyacheslavovich Aleshin not only taught classes on the theory of errors and mathematical processing of geodetic measurements, methods of decoding and other specialized subjects, but also became my scientific supervisor when writing my diploma thesis. His approach, exactingness and support became a real intellectual challenge for me and an important school of professional growth.
Thanks to such teachers, studying became not just a mandatory stage, but a real inspiration and a confident step into a future profession.
The most vivid memory from my studies at RUDN University…
The defense of my diploma sank deep into my soul. The fear was almost paralyzing, it is impossible to put into words. Tears, sleepless nights, anxiety to the point of trembling… But I coped. I coped largely thanks to the support of the teachers, who believed in us even when we ourselves doubted. And the joy when I heard: “The defense was successful” was truly immeasurable. It was as if I had flown to seventh heaven from happiness. I still keep in my archives videos where my classmates and I are crying from stress, and then, beaming with joy, we leave the defense – winners.
Already in your first year you started working in the construction industry. What projects did you manage to work on?
My career path began as an assistant surveyor in one of the largest construction companies in Moscow. I learned from professionals, gained experience, and gradually moved on to independent work. Over time, I became a full-fledged surveyor, and was involved in both office and field work. At that time, I was lucky enough to be part of large-scale projects, including the Rudnevo electric depot, Zaryadye Park, and the construction of the metro. This experience not only strengthened my professional skills, but also taught me responsibility, discipline, and the ability to work in a team under real production tasks.
When you are an applicant, “Land Management and Cadastres” sounds like something mysterious and enigmatic. In what areas can graduates of this program work today?
This is a multidisciplinary specialty, and you can develop along a variety of tracks.
Firstly, it is geodesy – work on construction sites, support of engineering surveys, creation of digital terrain models. Demand for surveyors is consistently high, especially in large infrastructure projects.
Secondly, cadastral activities – registration of land plots, work in cadastral chambers, preparation of technical documentation. This area requires attention to detail and a good understanding of the legislation.
Thirdly, land and legal relations. Here, specialists who understand the regulatory framework, can support transactions, participate in land use issues and dispute resolution are in demand.
In addition, areas related to the digitalization of the cadastre are developing – GIS systems, work with spatial data, automation of accounting processes. This is an excellent option for those who want to keep up with technology. The specialty provides a broad base and flexibility – you can choose both a technical direction and a legal one, or combine both. The main thing is not to be afraid to study further and look for your niche.
Where did you find yourself?
As a project manager. Today, I supervise objects from the conception stage to the moment of their transfer to the balance sheet — I control all stages: from surveys and design to registration of rights and commissioning. This requires a comprehensive approach, knowledge of several areas at once — and it was Land Management and Cadastres that gave me this foundation. So I am sure: this specialty has broad prospects, and success depends on how you yourself reveal its potential.
What principles do you follow in your work?
First of all, responsibility. If I accept a task, I will definitely bring it to a result, while focusing on the level of quality that I would like to receive. There is no place for negligence in the construction industry – even a small mistake can result in serious technical or financial consequences.
The second important principle is respect for people. Regardless of the position and role – be it a contractor, a customer, a colleague or a subordinate – I believe it is important to build communication on mutual respect. This helps to find a common language and quickly resolve even the most difficult issues.
The third principle is a friendly atmosphere in the team. We have warm, almost family-like relationships in our team: we support each other, we can talk not only about work, but also share personal moments. Such an environment increases trust and makes working together easier and more productive.
It is this foundation that gives a sustainable result. This is not about beautiful words – it is about how to work effectively, especially in conditions of limited time, resources and high responsibility. In our field, the winner is not the one who is louder, but the one who knows how to build a process, hears the team and is responsible for the result.
You are a finalist in the “Leaders of the Construction Industry” competition. What does participation in this competition mean to you?
For me, this is a big and very important stage in my professional development. The competition program is aimed at identifying promising managers who have experience in senior positions in the construction or housing and utilities sector. For the final, we are developing our own projects. I will not reveal all the cards yet. But I will say one thing: my project addresses current challenges in the construction industry and offers solutions aimed at achieving sustainable development goals. Now I am focusing on the final!
Daily work often becomes routine. What inspires you and allows you to maintain energy and move forward?
In any job, especially management, there is a place for routine – documents, meetings, process coordination. But I am always inspired by one thought: the result of your work is something tangible and long-lasting. When an object is completed, put into operation and begins to benefit the city and people – this is a real feeling of satisfaction. The pleasure of understanding that you have invested effort, experience, time and done something really useful for this world. The thought charges even in the most difficult moments.
And to replenish my energy, I have my own “recipe for a perfect weekend”: a trip to the countryside with friends in tents. We have an amazing team of 19 people, and we are all from the construction industry: surveyors, designers, architects, estimators, designers, project managers… In general, the list can go on and on. We met at one of the professional events, and then became real friends – our families are friends, we support each other both at work and in life. We even have our own name – “Go? Go!” This is about the fact that we are always “for” any activity: hiking, climbing, running, lectures, master classes, parties. This team is my source of energy and inspiration. With such people around you, you feel that you can move mountains – both literally and professionally.
Is it difficult to be a girl in the construction industry – a stereotype or prejudice that still exists today?
This stereotype, unfortunately, still exists – although not in such an open form as before. Sometimes you have to prove your competence a little more than a man would have to in the same position. But personally, I don’t make a problem out of it – I do my job well, consistently and for the result. And this is what ultimately builds trust and respect.
Construction is not about gender, but about responsibility, knowledge of processes, the ability to build communication and bring a project to completion. And every year there are more and more women like me in the industry – strong, smart, professional.
If I encounter bias, I try not to waste energy on arguments. It is much more effective to show in action that you are competent and reliable. And when you have more than one successfully completed project under your belt, the opinion of skeptics changes on its own.
If you had the opportunity to go back to your first year, what would you tell yourself then?
I would tell myself: don’t be afraid to be active, ask more questions, try yourself and don’t put off important steps “for later”. University is not only about lectures and tests, it is a time when you can form yourself as a professional, build connections, participate in projects, and most importantly – learn to take initiative. I would advise not to be afraid of mistakes. Because it is through them that a real understanding of the profession and self-confidence comes. A mistake is not a failure, but an experience, if you draw conclusions.
And, probably, the main advice: everything will work out if you do your job with interest and are truly involved.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Hong Kong, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“Click Holdings” or “we” or “us”, NASDAQ: CLIK) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), a leading human resources and senior care solutions provider based in Hong Kong, today announced its senior services sector. By integrating secure cryptocurrency solutions, including building a substantial treasury in Bitcoin and Solana, and developing crypto-enabled payment systems, CLIK aims to revolutionize payment efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for its growing portfolio of senior care services.
CLIK’s exploration focuses on harnessing the power of cryptocurrencies to enhance its core offerings while capitalize on the appreciating value of these assets. CLIK is evaluating the development of a cryptocurrency treasury, with a particular emphasis on Bitcoin and Solana. This treasury could scale up to a value of US$100 million as the first step, and shall escalate further alongside business expansion.
In addition, CLIK is exploring the implementation of cryptocurrency-enabled payment systems to enhance the efficiency and security of salary disbursements for its talent pool of over 20,500 registered professionals. CLIK is also assessing the potential of crypto-enabled payments to streamline billing processes for customers who opt to transact using cryptocurrency.
“This initiative represents a bold step forward for CLIK, merging financial innovation with our mission to empower seniors through reliable, modern services,” said Jeffrey Chan, CEO of Click Holdings. “As the Silver Economy surges—driven by an aging population with significant spending power—we see immense potential in cryptocurrency to streamline operations, attract tech-savvy investors, and unlock new revenue streams. By building a robust Bitcoin and Solana treasury and integrating crypto payments, we’re not just adapting to the future; we’re leading it, delivering enhanced value to our shareholders through innovation and growth.”
CLIK remains committed to regulatory compliance and will conduct thorough feasibility studies, including risk assessments and pilot programs, to ensure these innovations align with global standards and deliver tangible benefits to seniors and their families.
About Click Holdings Limited
Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) is a Hong Kong-based leader in AI-powered human resources and senior care solutions. Through its proprietary platform, CLIK connects clients with a talent pool of over 20,500 professionals, serving nursing, logistics, and professional services sectors.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.
For enquiry, please contact:
Click Holdings Limited Unit 1709-11, 17/F Tower 2, The Gateway Harbour City, Kowloon Hong Kong Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk Phone: +852 2691 8200
Hong Kong, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“Click Holdings” or “we” or “us”, NASDAQ: CLIK) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), a leading human resources and senior care solutions provider based in Hong Kong, today announced its senior services sector. By integrating secure cryptocurrency solutions, including building a substantial treasury in Bitcoin and Solana, and developing crypto-enabled payment systems, CLIK aims to revolutionize payment efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for its growing portfolio of senior care services.
CLIK’s exploration focuses on harnessing the power of cryptocurrencies to enhance its core offerings while capitalize on the appreciating value of these assets. CLIK is evaluating the development of a cryptocurrency treasury, with a particular emphasis on Bitcoin and Solana. This treasury could scale up to a value of US$100 million as the first step, and shall escalate further alongside business expansion.
In addition, CLIK is exploring the implementation of cryptocurrency-enabled payment systems to enhance the efficiency and security of salary disbursements for its talent pool of over 20,500 registered professionals. CLIK is also assessing the potential of crypto-enabled payments to streamline billing processes for customers who opt to transact using cryptocurrency.
“This initiative represents a bold step forward for CLIK, merging financial innovation with our mission to empower seniors through reliable, modern services,” said Jeffrey Chan, CEO of Click Holdings. “As the Silver Economy surges—driven by an aging population with significant spending power—we see immense potential in cryptocurrency to streamline operations, attract tech-savvy investors, and unlock new revenue streams. By building a robust Bitcoin and Solana treasury and integrating crypto payments, we’re not just adapting to the future; we’re leading it, delivering enhanced value to our shareholders through innovation and growth.”
CLIK remains committed to regulatory compliance and will conduct thorough feasibility studies, including risk assessments and pilot programs, to ensure these innovations align with global standards and deliver tangible benefits to seniors and their families.
About Click Holdings Limited
Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) is a Hong Kong-based leader in AI-powered human resources and senior care solutions. Through its proprietary platform, CLIK connects clients with a talent pool of over 20,500 professionals, serving nursing, logistics, and professional services sectors.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.
For enquiry, please contact:
Click Holdings Limited Unit 1709-11, 17/F Tower 2, The Gateway Harbour City, Kowloon Hong Kong Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk Phone: +852 2691 8200
Hong Kong, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“Click Holdings” or “we” or “us”, NASDAQ: CLIK) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), a leading human resources and senior care solutions provider based in Hong Kong, today announced its senior services sector. By integrating secure cryptocurrency solutions, including building a substantial treasury in Bitcoin and Solana, and developing crypto-enabled payment systems, CLIK aims to revolutionize payment efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for its growing portfolio of senior care services.
CLIK’s exploration focuses on harnessing the power of cryptocurrencies to enhance its core offerings while capitalize on the appreciating value of these assets. CLIK is evaluating the development of a cryptocurrency treasury, with a particular emphasis on Bitcoin and Solana. This treasury could scale up to a value of US$100 million as the first step, and shall escalate further alongside business expansion.
In addition, CLIK is exploring the implementation of cryptocurrency-enabled payment systems to enhance the efficiency and security of salary disbursements for its talent pool of over 20,500 registered professionals. CLIK is also assessing the potential of crypto-enabled payments to streamline billing processes for customers who opt to transact using cryptocurrency.
“This initiative represents a bold step forward for CLIK, merging financial innovation with our mission to empower seniors through reliable, modern services,” said Jeffrey Chan, CEO of Click Holdings. “As the Silver Economy surges—driven by an aging population with significant spending power—we see immense potential in cryptocurrency to streamline operations, attract tech-savvy investors, and unlock new revenue streams. By building a robust Bitcoin and Solana treasury and integrating crypto payments, we’re not just adapting to the future; we’re leading it, delivering enhanced value to our shareholders through innovation and growth.”
CLIK remains committed to regulatory compliance and will conduct thorough feasibility studies, including risk assessments and pilot programs, to ensure these innovations align with global standards and deliver tangible benefits to seniors and their families.
About Click Holdings Limited
Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) is a Hong Kong-based leader in AI-powered human resources and senior care solutions. Through its proprietary platform, CLIK connects clients with a talent pool of over 20,500 professionals, serving nursing, logistics, and professional services sectors.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.
For enquiry, please contact:
Click Holdings Limited Unit 1709-11, 17/F Tower 2, The Gateway Harbour City, Kowloon Hong Kong Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk Phone: +852 2691 8200
Hong Kong, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Click Holdings Limited (“Click Holdings” or “we” or “us”, NASDAQ: CLIK) and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Company”), a leading human resources and senior care solutions provider based in Hong Kong, today announced its senior services sector. By integrating secure cryptocurrency solutions, including building a substantial treasury in Bitcoin and Solana, and developing crypto-enabled payment systems, CLIK aims to revolutionize payment efficiency, transparency, and accessibility for its growing portfolio of senior care services.
CLIK’s exploration focuses on harnessing the power of cryptocurrencies to enhance its core offerings while capitalize on the appreciating value of these assets. CLIK is evaluating the development of a cryptocurrency treasury, with a particular emphasis on Bitcoin and Solana. This treasury could scale up to a value of US$100 million as the first step, and shall escalate further alongside business expansion.
In addition, CLIK is exploring the implementation of cryptocurrency-enabled payment systems to enhance the efficiency and security of salary disbursements for its talent pool of over 20,500 registered professionals. CLIK is also assessing the potential of crypto-enabled payments to streamline billing processes for customers who opt to transact using cryptocurrency.
“This initiative represents a bold step forward for CLIK, merging financial innovation with our mission to empower seniors through reliable, modern services,” said Jeffrey Chan, CEO of Click Holdings. “As the Silver Economy surges—driven by an aging population with significant spending power—we see immense potential in cryptocurrency to streamline operations, attract tech-savvy investors, and unlock new revenue streams. By building a robust Bitcoin and Solana treasury and integrating crypto payments, we’re not just adapting to the future; we’re leading it, delivering enhanced value to our shareholders through innovation and growth.”
CLIK remains committed to regulatory compliance and will conduct thorough feasibility studies, including risk assessments and pilot programs, to ensure these innovations align with global standards and deliver tangible benefits to seniors and their families.
About Click Holdings Limited
Click Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: CLIK) is a Hong Kong-based leader in AI-powered human resources and senior care solutions. Through its proprietary platform, CLIK connects clients with a talent pool of over 20,500 professionals, serving nursing, logistics, and professional services sectors.
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “is/are likely to,” “potential,” “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.
For enquiry, please contact:
Click Holdings Limited Unit 1709-11, 17/F Tower 2, The Gateway Harbour City, Kowloon Hong Kong Email: jack.wong@jfy.hk Phone: +852 2691 8200
MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel – July 14, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/ TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high value analog semiconductor solutions, will issue its second quarter 2025 earnings release on Monday, August 4, 2025. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results and third quarter 2025 guidance on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (09:00 a.m. Central, 08:00 a.m. Mountain, 07:00 a.m. Pacific and 05:00 p.m. Israel time).
The call will be webcast live and accessible via the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at https://ir.towersemi.com/. The pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is available both on the Investor Relations section and the Company’s homepage at https://www.towersemi.com. Upon completing registration, participants will receive dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.
About Tower Semiconductor
Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.
MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel – July 14, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/ TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high value analog semiconductor solutions, will issue its second quarter 2025 earnings release on Monday, August 4, 2025. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results and third quarter 2025 guidance on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (09:00 a.m. Central, 08:00 a.m. Mountain, 07:00 a.m. Pacific and 05:00 p.m. Israel time).
The call will be webcast live and accessible via the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at https://ir.towersemi.com/. The pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is available both on the Investor Relations section and the Company’s homepage at https://www.towersemi.com. Upon completing registration, participants will receive dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.
About Tower Semiconductor
Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.
MIGDAL HAEMEK, Israel – July 14, 2025 – Tower Semiconductor (NASDAQ/ TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high value analog semiconductor solutions, will issue its second quarter 2025 earnings release on Monday, August 4, 2025. The Company will hold a conference call to discuss its second quarter 2025 financial results and third quarter 2025 guidance on Monday, August 4, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (09:00 a.m. Central, 08:00 a.m. Mountain, 07:00 a.m. Pacific and 05:00 p.m. Israel time).
The call will be webcast live and accessible via the Investor Relations section of Tower Semiconductor’s website at https://ir.towersemi.com/. The pre-registration form required for dial-in participation is available both on the Investor Relations section and the Company’s homepage at https://www.towersemi.com. Upon completing registration, participants will receive dial-in details, a unique PIN, and a confirmation email with all necessary information. The teleconference will be available for replay for 90 days.
About Tower Semiconductor
Tower Semiconductor Ltd. (NASDAQ/TASE: TSEM), the leading foundry of high-value analog semiconductor solutions, provides technology, development, and process platforms for its customers in growing markets such as consumer, industrial, automotive, mobile, infrastructure, medical and aerospace and defense. Tower Semiconductor focuses on creating a positive and sustainable impact on the world through long-term partnerships and its advanced and innovative analog technology offering, comprised of a broad range of customizable process platforms such as SiGe, BiCMOS, mixed-signal/CMOS, RF CMOS, CMOS image sensor, non-imaging sensors, displays, integrated power management (BCD and 700V), photonics, and MEMS. Tower Semiconductor also provides world-class design enablement for a quick and accurate design cycle as well as process transfer services including development, transfer, and optimization, to IDMs and fabless companies. To provide multi-fab sourcing and extended capacity for its customers, Tower Semiconductor owns one operating facility in Israel (200mm), two in the U.S. (200mm), two in Japan (200mm and 300mm) which it owns through its 51% holdings in TPSCo, shares a 300mm facility in Agrate, Italy with STMicroelectronics as well as has access to a 300mm capacity corridor in Intel’s New Mexico factory. For more information, please visit: www.towersemi.com.
Jacksonville, Florida, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Everything Blockchain Inc. (OTC: $EBZT), a public company combining a diversified crypto treasury with validator infrastructure income, today announced the formation and planned spin off of MemeStrategy Inc., a new public vehicle designed to bridge the world of internet meme culture with traditional equity markets.
Under the proposed structure, EBZT shareholders will receive one share of MemeStrategy Inc. for every six shares of EBZT held, following the successful completion of the spin off. MemeStrategy will file a registration statement (Form S-1) with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and, upon approval, pursue quotation through FINRA to become a fully independent public company.
What Is MemeStrategy?
MemeStrategy aims to become the first public company focused exclusively on memecoins and viral digital assets, beginning with a concentrated treasury in PEPE, BONK, and SPX6900. Its mission is to become the most memeable stock on the market, with the long term ambition to represent digital culture inside major financial indices.
“We built MemeStrategy to be the most viral stock in the market. The goal is simple, take something like SPX6900 and give it a real shot at the S&P 500.” said Arthur Rozenberg, CEO of Everything Blockchain Inc.
Why the Spin Off Now?
The launch of MemeStrategy strengthens EBZT’s broader mission: to become the market’s leading public crypto yield vehicle. EBZT will continue acquiring high conviction digital assets like SOL, TAO, and XRP while generating cash flow through validator operations and on chain strategies. MemeStrategy adds a complementary exposure to memedriven market cycles, letting EBZT shareholders benefit from both structural blockchain growth and viral retail momentum.
“MemeStrategy captures the upside of market narrative and momentum. Together, they give our shareholders exposure to crypto’s two strongest forces: capital and attention,” said Arthur Rozenberg, CEO of Everything Blockchain Inc.
Next Steps for Shareholders
Dividend ratio: 1 share of MemeStrategy for every 6 shares of EBZT held
Distribution timeline: Once the S-1 is filed and approved by the SEC, MemeStrategy will seek FINRA clearance for public trading
Official record and payable dates will be announced following regulatory approvals
MemeStrategy will operate independently with its own roadmap, leadership team, and capital strategy.
Check out the official launch site for MemeStrategy updates, filings, and dividend details: www.memestrategy.lol
About Everything Blockchain Inc.
Everything Blockchain Inc. (OTC: EBZT) is a public company focused on identifying and capitalizing on opportunities within the rapidly evolving blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. The company’s strategy centers on building a diversified portfolio of leading crypto networks, with primary focus on Solana infrastructure, while pioneering innovative approaches to public company operations through blockchain technology. EBZT is positioned to become the first U.S. OTC-listed company to fully tokenize its equity. For more information, visit: www.everythingblockchain.io
Contact Information
Arthur Rozenberg
CEO, Everything Blockchain, Inc.
arthur.rozenberg@everythingblockchain.io
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including but not limited to plans related to tokenization, treasury strategy, market opportunities, capital raises, and anticipated benefits of proposed initiatives. These statements are based on current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: the completion of necessary financing, regulatory approval, technical execution, market acceptance, competitive factors, and general economic conditions. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements. Everything Blockchain Inc. undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise, except as required by applicable securities laws.
New York, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (“MFH” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: MFH), a blockchain-powered fintech group, today announced the launch of its $500 million “DeFi Basket” Treasury — marking a significant expansion of the company’s on-chain strategy and treasury diversification roadmap.
This plan represents a strategic evolution in MFH’s decentralized finance (DeFi) treasury strategy, signaling an entry into institutional-grade, high-utility, yield-generating DeFi ecosystems. By allocating capital to a broader selection of established digital assets, MFH aims to deepen its participation in on-chain financial infrastructure while enhancing balance sheet diversification and potential returns.
Strategic Objectives and Execution Plan The DeFi treasury will initially focus on building a diversified portfolio of high-utility digital assets with established market positions and institutional adoption. MFH intends to acquire these assets through a combination of existing cash reserves and future fundraising proceeds, subject to market conditions and regulatory compliance.
In the first phase, MFH will prioritize building a long-term position in Solana, reflecting the Company’s assessment of the network’s scalability, institutional adoption potential, and ecosystem growth. The Company plans to systematically accumulate SOL and operate validator nodes to support the network while generating on-chain staking rewards. This marks the beginning of MFH’s deeper integration into the Solana ecosystem.
“As a blockchain-powered technology company, MFH’s culture and DNA are rooted in innovation and forward-thinking,” said Wilfred Daye, CSO of MFH. “This expanded treasury strategy, alongside our evolution toward blockchain-based business models, demonstrates our ambition to become a category leader in the digital asset industry while delivering long-term value to our shareholders.”
Risk Management and Compliance Framework All digital asset acquisitions and deployment strategies will be subject to risk management protocols, regulatory compliance requirements, and investment guidelines. The Company will establish institutional-grade operational procedures to ensure asset security and regulatory adherence.
About Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (NASDAQ: MFH) is a fintech group powered by blockchain infrastructure, offering technology and financial services. Through its subsidiaries, including Chaince Securities, LLC, MFH aims to bridge traditional finance and digital innovation across digital asset management, financial advisory, and capital markets solutions.
Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.
Contacts: International Elite Capital Inc. Annabelle Zhang Tel: +1(646) 866-7928 Email: mfhfintech@iecapitalusa.com
New York, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (“MFH” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: MFH), a blockchain-powered fintech group, today announced the launch of its $500 million “DeFi Basket” Treasury — marking a significant expansion of the company’s on-chain strategy and treasury diversification roadmap.
This plan represents a strategic evolution in MFH’s decentralized finance (DeFi) treasury strategy, signaling an entry into institutional-grade, high-utility, yield-generating DeFi ecosystems. By allocating capital to a broader selection of established digital assets, MFH aims to deepen its participation in on-chain financial infrastructure while enhancing balance sheet diversification and potential returns.
Strategic Objectives and Execution Plan The DeFi treasury will initially focus on building a diversified portfolio of high-utility digital assets with established market positions and institutional adoption. MFH intends to acquire these assets through a combination of existing cash reserves and future fundraising proceeds, subject to market conditions and regulatory compliance.
In the first phase, MFH will prioritize building a long-term position in Solana, reflecting the Company’s assessment of the network’s scalability, institutional adoption potential, and ecosystem growth. The Company plans to systematically accumulate SOL and operate validator nodes to support the network while generating on-chain staking rewards. This marks the beginning of MFH’s deeper integration into the Solana ecosystem.
“As a blockchain-powered technology company, MFH’s culture and DNA are rooted in innovation and forward-thinking,” said Wilfred Daye, CSO of MFH. “This expanded treasury strategy, alongside our evolution toward blockchain-based business models, demonstrates our ambition to become a category leader in the digital asset industry while delivering long-term value to our shareholders.”
Risk Management and Compliance Framework All digital asset acquisitions and deployment strategies will be subject to risk management protocols, regulatory compliance requirements, and investment guidelines. The Company will establish institutional-grade operational procedures to ensure asset security and regulatory adherence.
About Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (NASDAQ: MFH) is a fintech group powered by blockchain infrastructure, offering technology and financial services. Through its subsidiaries, including Chaince Securities, LLC, MFH aims to bridge traditional finance and digital innovation across digital asset management, financial advisory, and capital markets solutions.
Forward-Looking Statements This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.
Contacts: International Elite Capital Inc. Annabelle Zhang Tel: +1(646) 866-7928 Email: mfhfintech@iecapitalusa.com
All amounts presented in this release are in U.S. Dollar (“USD”) unless otherwise stated.
CALGARY, Alberta, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) (“Enerflex” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into an amended and restated credit agreement dated July 11, 2025 with respect to its syndicated secured revolving credit facility (the “RCF”). The maturity date of the RCF has been extended by three years to July 11, 2028 and availability is unchanged at $800 million. As at March 31, 2025, the Company had drawn $117 million on its RCF. Led by the Royal Bank of Canada as agent, Enerflex received renewed lending commitments from all current syndicate members.
The Company also continues to maintain a $70 million unsecured credit facility (the “LC Facility”) with one of the lenders in its RCF syndicate. The LC Facility is supported by performance security guarantees provided by Export Development Canada.
Joe Ladouceur, Enerflex’s CFO (Interim), commented, “We appreciate the strong support and continued partnership from our lending syndicate. The renewal of the RCF provides Enerflex with strong liquidity and improved terms, supporting efforts to deliver long-term growth and value creation for Enerflex shareholders.
Enerflex’s near-term priorities remain unchanged and include: (1) enhancing the profitability of core operations; (2) leveraging the Company’s leading position in core operating countries to capitalize on expected increases in natural gas and produced water volumes; and (3) maximizing free cash flow to further strengthen Enerflex’s financial position, provide direct shareholder returns, and invest in selective customer supported growth opportunities.”
Q2 Earnings Release
Enerflex plans to release its financial results and operating highlights for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, prior to the markets opening on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Results will be communicated by news release and will be available on the Company’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.
Investors, analysts, members of the media, and other interested parties, are invited to listen to or participate in a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. (MDT), where members of senior management will discuss the Company’s results. A question-and-answer period will follow.
This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and “forward-looking statements” (and together with “forward-looking information”, “FLI”) within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are FLI. The use of any of the words “efforts”, “expected”, “may”, “plan”, “will”, and similar expressions, are intended to identify FLI. In particular, this news release includes (without limitation) FLI pertaining to the Company’s (i) continuing efforts to deliver long-term growth and value creation for Enerflex shareholders and the nature and success of such efforts, if at all; (ii) expectations for increases in natural gas and produced water volumes and the ability of the Company to capitalize on these increases; (iii) ability to continue to deliver direct shareholder returns; and (iv) expectation to release its financial results and operating highlights for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, prior to the markets opening on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
FLI reflects management’s current beliefs and assumptions with respect to such things as the impact of general economic conditions; commodity prices; the markets in which Enerflex’s products and services are used; general industry conditions, forecasts, and trends; changes to, and introduction of new, governmental regulations, laws, and income taxes; increased competition; availability of qualified personnel; political unrest and geopolitical conditions; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Enerflex. More specifically, Enerflex’s expectations in respect of its FLI are based on a number of assumptions, estimates and projections developed based on past experience and anticipated trends and, in respect of increases in natural gas and produced water volumes, industry third party data. As a result of the foregoing, actual results, performance, or achievements of Enerflex could differ and such differences could be material from those expressed in, or implied by, the FLI. The principal risks, uncertainties and other factors affecting Enerflex and its business are identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in: (i) Enerflex’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, dated February 27, 2025; and (ii) Enerflex’s Annual Report dated February 26, 2025, copies of which are available under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The FLI included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are based on the information available to the Company at such time and, other than as required by law, Enerflex disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FLI, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. This news release and its contents should not be construed, under any circumstances, as investment, tax, or legal advice.
ABOUT ENERFLEX
Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions – from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,600 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.
Enerflex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFX” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFXT”. For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com.
For investor and media enquiries, contact:
Preet S. Dhindsa President and Chief Executive Officer (Interim) E-mail: PDhindsa@enerflex.com
Joe Ladouceur Chief Financial Officer (Interim) E-mail: JLadouceur@enerflex.com
Jeff Fetterly Vice President, Corporate Development and Capital Markets E-mail: JFetterly@enerflex.com
All amounts presented in this release are in U.S. Dollar (“USD”) unless otherwise stated.
CALGARY, Alberta, July 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Enerflex Ltd. (TSX: EFX) (NYSE: EFXT) (“Enerflex” or the “Company”) is pleased to announce that the Company has entered into an amended and restated credit agreement dated July 11, 2025 with respect to its syndicated secured revolving credit facility (the “RCF”). The maturity date of the RCF has been extended by three years to July 11, 2028 and availability is unchanged at $800 million. As at March 31, 2025, the Company had drawn $117 million on its RCF. Led by the Royal Bank of Canada as agent, Enerflex received renewed lending commitments from all current syndicate members.
The Company also continues to maintain a $70 million unsecured credit facility (the “LC Facility”) with one of the lenders in its RCF syndicate. The LC Facility is supported by performance security guarantees provided by Export Development Canada.
Joe Ladouceur, Enerflex’s CFO (Interim), commented, “We appreciate the strong support and continued partnership from our lending syndicate. The renewal of the RCF provides Enerflex with strong liquidity and improved terms, supporting efforts to deliver long-term growth and value creation for Enerflex shareholders.
Enerflex’s near-term priorities remain unchanged and include: (1) enhancing the profitability of core operations; (2) leveraging the Company’s leading position in core operating countries to capitalize on expected increases in natural gas and produced water volumes; and (3) maximizing free cash flow to further strengthen Enerflex’s financial position, provide direct shareholder returns, and invest in selective customer supported growth opportunities.”
Q2 Earnings Release
Enerflex plans to release its financial results and operating highlights for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, prior to the markets opening on Thursday, August 7, 2025. Results will be communicated by news release and will be available on the Company’s website at www.enerflex.com and under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.
Investors, analysts, members of the media, and other interested parties, are invited to listen to or participate in a conference call and audio webcast on Thursday, August 7, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. (MDT), where members of senior management will discuss the Company’s results. A question-and-answer period will follow.
This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws and “forward-looking statements” (and together with “forward-looking information”, “FLI”) within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact are FLI. The use of any of the words “efforts”, “expected”, “may”, “plan”, “will”, and similar expressions, are intended to identify FLI. In particular, this news release includes (without limitation) FLI pertaining to the Company’s (i) continuing efforts to deliver long-term growth and value creation for Enerflex shareholders and the nature and success of such efforts, if at all; (ii) expectations for increases in natural gas and produced water volumes and the ability of the Company to capitalize on these increases; (iii) ability to continue to deliver direct shareholder returns; and (iv) expectation to release its financial results and operating highlights for the three and six months ended June 30, 2025, prior to the markets opening on Thursday, August 7, 2025.
FLI reflects management’s current beliefs and assumptions with respect to such things as the impact of general economic conditions; commodity prices; the markets in which Enerflex’s products and services are used; general industry conditions, forecasts, and trends; changes to, and introduction of new, governmental regulations, laws, and income taxes; increased competition; availability of qualified personnel; political unrest and geopolitical conditions; and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of Enerflex. More specifically, Enerflex’s expectations in respect of its FLI are based on a number of assumptions, estimates and projections developed based on past experience and anticipated trends and, in respect of increases in natural gas and produced water volumes, industry third party data. As a result of the foregoing, actual results, performance, or achievements of Enerflex could differ and such differences could be material from those expressed in, or implied by, the FLI. The principal risks, uncertainties and other factors affecting Enerflex and its business are identified under the heading “Risk Factors” in: (i) Enerflex’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, dated February 27, 2025; and (ii) Enerflex’s Annual Report dated February 26, 2025, copies of which are available under the electronic profile of the Company on SEDAR+ and EDGAR at www.sedarplus.ca and www.sec.gov/edgar, respectively.
Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of assumptions and risk factors should not be construed as exhaustive. The FLI included in this news release are made as of the date of this news release and are based on the information available to the Company at such time and, other than as required by law, Enerflex disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any FLI, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. This news release and its contents should not be construed, under any circumstances, as investment, tax, or legal advice.
ABOUT ENERFLEX
Enerflex is a premier integrated global provider of energy infrastructure and energy transition solutions, deploying natural gas, low-carbon, and treated water solutions – from individual, modularized products and services to integrated custom solutions. With over 4,600 engineers, manufacturers, technicians, and innovators, Enerflex is bound together by a shared vision: Transforming Energy for a Sustainable Future. The Company remains committed to the future of natural gas and the critical role it plays, while focused on sustainability offerings to support the energy transition and growing decarbonization efforts.
Enerflex’s common shares trade on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFX” and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “EFXT”. For more information about Enerflex, visit www.enerflex.com.
For investor and media enquiries, contact:
Preet S. Dhindsa President and Chief Executive Officer (Interim) E-mail: PDhindsa@enerflex.com
Joe Ladouceur Chief Financial Officer (Interim) E-mail: JLadouceur@enerflex.com
Jeff Fetterly Vice President, Corporate Development and Capital Markets E-mail: JFetterly@enerflex.com
The Galaxy Z series has set the standard for foldable phones from its very first launch, with a new release every year. Now in its seventh chapter, the latest design revisits where it all started. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are the result of refinements made over each year of innovation. Samsung Newsroom spoke with Hubert Lee, Head of the Design Team and Huichul Yang, Head of the UX (User eXperience) Team, both part of the Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, to discover the story behind the products and the designers’ persistent pursuit of incredible design.
* Content images simulated for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. Product specifications may vary by country, region, model and carrier.
Hubert Lee
Executive Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics
Since joining as Head of the MX Design Team in late 2022, Lee has overseen the design direction for all MX product launches. With the launch of the new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, Lee showcases Galaxy’s ultimate pursuit of ultra-sleek and modern design.
Huichul Yang
Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics
Since joining Samsung in 2005, Yang has played a pivotal role in advancing mobile UX innovation as an HCI (Human Computer Interaction) expert. Since late 2023, Yang has led the UX Team in the MX Business, crafting the mobile experiences powered by Galaxy AI.
The Essence of Foldable Design
Q. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 have finally been unveiled. As the heads of the Design and UX teams, it must mean a lot to both of you.
Lee: Among the products I’ve designed at Samsung, the Galaxy Z Fold7 stands out as the one I am most proud of. Most people said, “Wow!” as soon as they saw it. It’s the thinnest, lightest Galaxy Z Fold series model yet. I believe it captures the essence of what a foldable phone can be. It’s only just been unveiled at Galaxy Unpacked 2025 in New York, but I’m confident that customers will understand its true value as they see it up close and get a feel for it in their hands.
Yang: Alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, we also introduced One UI 8, an interface optimized for the AI experience. I believe that a sleek, modern design — paired with an intuitive interface — can really resonate with users seeking a more elevated mobile experience in this age of AI.
“The Galaxy Z series isn’t just well-made — it reaffirms our position as a pioneer and benchmark in the foldable phone market.”
— Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics
Q. It’s clear you’re both really proud of the products. It must have taken a lot of work to get it out into the world.
Lee: The Galaxy Z series marked the very beginning of foldable phones. To solidify that symbolism, we knew we had to create a product that felt truly impressive to anyone who saw it. There was a shared understanding within the team that simply repeating what we had done in the past wouldn’t be enough to meet customer expectations. Change wasn’t a choice; it was a must. That’s why with the seventh models of the Galaxy Z series, we didn’t approach it as a refinement — we approached it as a redesign from the ground up. We approached it as if we were starting completely from scratch.
We design lifestyle products. To be part of people’s daily lives, portability is essential and reducing weight was key to achieving that. Our mobile R&D office put in a huge amount of effort in that respect. The nature of the hardware meant there was a certain weight we had to carry, but we kept wondering if we could make it just a little bit lighter. That led to a lot of research and testing. As it became lighter, it became thinner and the display larger, until we arrived at the sleek, modern form we had envisioned. The product you see is the result of countless hours of deliberation, passion and engineering.
Q. How did changes to the design of products affect the user interface?
Yang: Since One UI 6, we’ve been introducing a range of AI features as an AI companion. With One UI 8, we focused on meaningful productivity. We took advantage of the Galaxy Z Fold7’s large-screen form factor to enable users to easily compare original and AI-generated content side by side and move it seamlessly between apps.
Q. What are the changes to the Galaxy Z Flip7 UX?
Yang: One of the standout features of the Z Flip7 is its full-front FlexWindow. Gemini is now optimized for the FlexWindow, enabling quick and seamless interaction with AI — anytime you need it. It’s our new take on an AI companion — one that unfolds right in the palm of your hand. Notably, the form factor is such that the main camera faces you when folded, so now you can launch Gemini Live from the FlexWindow and ask about everyday things, like if your outfit is appropriate for the weather or your schedule for the day.
“We envisioned a new future with One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Flip7 as an AI companion in your hand.”
— Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics
* This background image has been created by generative AI (Macnific AI, Midjourney).
Q. The products come in a range of colors. Which one is your favorite?
Lee: I love them all but if I had to choose one, it would have to be Silver Shadow. It’s the most straightforward and simple one, but I think it represents Galaxy’s “Ultra Sleek, Ultra Modern” concept really well.
When customers buy premium products like the Galaxy Z Fold7, they tend to prefer values that feel timeless, so we really took that into consideration when choosing the colors for this series. We leveraged the metallic material to bring the colors to life in a way that expresses our design intent and complements the foldable form factor. One of the standout colors of this series is Blue Shadow. As you move the product around, the shine and sophistication are noticeable from all angles.
Let’s Design Together!
Q. Even though you’re on different teams, you’ve been working on the same product. How did the Design and UX teams get connected?
Yang: Wallpaper design is where we really tend to collaborate closely. We work together to make sure the message the Design team wants to convey is properly communicated through the wallpaper, the face of the product. For One UI 7, we aligned the product’s corner radius with the One UI icon geometry. We’ll continue to align the GUI (Graphic user interface) with the underlying style of the product for future releases, too.
“Designing with the authentic mindset that we are all one team — this, I believe, is the most important attitude we need to break silos and grow together.”
— Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics
Q. How do the team members collaborate?
Lee: The Design team holds a session called Design Clinic. Group leaders and managers come together to share ongoing projects and insights. It’s not a formal meeting, but rather a relaxed gathering to share ideas over coffee and dessert. It’s an open discussion where even criticism is seen as a way to make our products better and support each other. In the MX Business’s Design team, we cover everything from smartphones and wearables to PCs, tablets, CMF (Color, material and finish) and packaging, each item with its own functions. The Design Clinic helps us gain insights from other fields or discover early-stage ideas.
Q. How do you encourage synergy between designers on the team?
Lee: I often emphasize the phrase, “Let’s Design Together.” Rather than just holding onto what they’ve been assigned, I encourage the team to think collectively about what we’re making and how we can improve it. If feedback or advice isn’t sincere, it just leads to silos between teams. Designing together as one team with an authentic, shared mindset is what I emphasize most within the organization.
Reframing the Future
Q. Aside from designers’ intuition, sensibilities and qualitative insights, do you also incorporate user testing or quantitative validation during the design planning phase?
Lee: The Design team has established a Galaxy Design principle called “Essential Design,” aimed at focusing on core value and removing unnecessary elements. It’s based on three key elements: Simple, Impactful and Emotive. We believe that when these three elements come together in harmony, they create a truly aspirational product. We use the principle and its key elements as evaluation tools during the design planning stage; through a process we call Design Analytics. We conduct evaluations with internal employees to make sure our design intent is being communicated to users effectively. We use the data and insights from this to refine current designs and even identify future products. It’s how we strengthen our design identity, and it’s an integral part of the Galaxy design process.
Q. Do you use AI in your work?
Yang: We refer to AI tools during the testing process. We’ve observed that results from AI-based virtual user testing are fairly close to tests done by recruiting actual users. This leads us to expect that AI can play a significant role in UX evaluation going forward. We’re also experimenting with AI in other ways, like testing multiple versions of motion or animation effects, or turning 2D assets into 3D or animated formats. In this way, we’re continuously learning more about how to enhance our designs with AI.
“Amid the momentum of AI, the ability to direct design will become one of the most valuable assets in making your work truly meaningful.”
— Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics
Q. The age we live in is constantly changing. What kind of mindset and vision should guide designers today?
Yang: AI is a new momentum for designers. There are more and more of us thinking about how to use AI to make our work more meaningful. I believe those who show interest in how the world is changing and make new tools their own will be the ones leading in the age of AI. Some say designers will fade away as AI advances, but I see it differently. Design direction, the ability to guide AI creations and enrich them, is bound to become even more essential.
Lee: When it comes to new devices like foldable products, we’re not designing features. We’re designing the entire experience. I believe it’s our role as designers to deeply consider why a device folds, why it unfolds and what kind of value and convenience those actions should provide. That’s because we’re not just product designers, we’re lifestyle designers, and in the end, the user is the most important part of all. We have to read the trends constantly and keep asking ourselves what users truly need. To me, design that makes their lives better is design that’s truly meaningful.
For more information about Samsung Electronics’ design, please visit the Samsung Design website.
The Galaxy Z series has set the standard for foldable phones from its very first launch, with a new release every year. Now in its seventh chapter, the latest design revisits where it all started. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are the result of refinements made over each year of innovation. Samsung Newsroom spoke with Hubert Lee, Head of the Design Team and Huichul Yang, Head of the UX (User eXperience) Team, both part of the Mobile eXperience (MX) Business at Samsung Electronics, to discover the story behind the products and the designers’ persistent pursuit of incredible design.
* Content images simulated for illustrative purposes only and may differ from the actual product. Product specifications may vary by country, region, model and carrier.
Hubert Lee
Executive Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics
Since joining as Head of the MX Design Team in late 2022, Lee has overseen the design direction for all MX product launches. With the launch of the new Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, Lee showcases Galaxy’s ultimate pursuit of ultra-sleek and modern design.
Huichul Yang
Vice President, MX Business, Samsung Electronics
Since joining Samsung in 2005, Yang has played a pivotal role in advancing mobile UX innovation as an HCI (Human Computer Interaction) expert. Since late 2023, Yang has led the UX Team in the MX Business, crafting the mobile experiences powered by Galaxy AI.
The Essence of Foldable Design
Q. The Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 have finally been unveiled. As the heads of the Design and UX teams, it must mean a lot to both of you.
Lee: Among the products I’ve designed at Samsung, the Galaxy Z Fold7 stands out as the one I am most proud of. Most people said, “Wow!” as soon as they saw it. It’s the thinnest, lightest Galaxy Z Fold series model yet. I believe it captures the essence of what a foldable phone can be. It’s only just been unveiled at Galaxy Unpacked 2025 in New York, but I’m confident that customers will understand its true value as they see it up close and get a feel for it in their hands.
Yang: Alongside the Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7, we also introduced One UI 8, an interface optimized for the AI experience. I believe that a sleek, modern design — paired with an intuitive interface — can really resonate with users seeking a more elevated mobile experience in this age of AI.
“The Galaxy Z series isn’t just well-made — it reaffirms our position as a pioneer and benchmark in the foldable phone market.”
— Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics
Q. It’s clear you’re both really proud of the products. It must have taken a lot of work to get it out into the world.
Lee: The Galaxy Z series marked the very beginning of foldable phones. To solidify that symbolism, we knew we had to create a product that felt truly impressive to anyone who saw it. There was a shared understanding within the team that simply repeating what we had done in the past wouldn’t be enough to meet customer expectations. Change wasn’t a choice; it was a must. That’s why with the seventh models of the Galaxy Z series, we didn’t approach it as a refinement — we approached it as a redesign from the ground up. We approached it as if we were starting completely from scratch.
We design lifestyle products. To be part of people’s daily lives, portability is essential and reducing weight was key to achieving that. Our mobile R&D office put in a huge amount of effort in that respect. The nature of the hardware meant there was a certain weight we had to carry, but we kept wondering if we could make it just a little bit lighter. That led to a lot of research and testing. As it became lighter, it became thinner and the display larger, until we arrived at the sleek, modern form we had envisioned. The product you see is the result of countless hours of deliberation, passion and engineering.
Q. How did changes to the design of products affect the user interface?
Yang: Since One UI 6, we’ve been introducing a range of AI features as an AI companion. With One UI 8, we focused on meaningful productivity. We took advantage of the Galaxy Z Fold7’s large-screen form factor to enable users to easily compare original and AI-generated content side by side and move it seamlessly between apps.
Q. What are the changes to the Galaxy Z Flip7 UX?
Yang: One of the standout features of the Z Flip7 is its full-front FlexWindow. Gemini is now optimized for the FlexWindow, enabling quick and seamless interaction with AI — anytime you need it. It’s our new take on an AI companion — one that unfolds right in the palm of your hand. Notably, the form factor is such that the main camera faces you when folded, so now you can launch Gemini Live from the FlexWindow and ask about everyday things, like if your outfit is appropriate for the weather or your schedule for the day.
“We envisioned a new future with One UI 8 on the Galaxy Z Flip7 as an AI companion in your hand.”
— Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics
* This background image has been created by generative AI (Macnific AI, Midjourney).
Q. The products come in a range of colors. Which one is your favorite?
Lee: I love them all but if I had to choose one, it would have to be Silver Shadow. It’s the most straightforward and simple one, but I think it represents Galaxy’s “Ultra Sleek, Ultra Modern” concept really well.
When customers buy premium products like the Galaxy Z Fold7, they tend to prefer values that feel timeless, so we really took that into consideration when choosing the colors for this series. We leveraged the metallic material to bring the colors to life in a way that expresses our design intent and complements the foldable form factor. One of the standout colors of this series is Blue Shadow. As you move the product around, the shine and sophistication are noticeable from all angles.
Let’s Design Together!
Q. Even though you’re on different teams, you’ve been working on the same product. How did the Design and UX teams get connected?
Yang: Wallpaper design is where we really tend to collaborate closely. We work together to make sure the message the Design team wants to convey is properly communicated through the wallpaper, the face of the product. For One UI 7, we aligned the product’s corner radius with the One UI icon geometry. We’ll continue to align the GUI (Graphic user interface) with the underlying style of the product for future releases, too.
“Designing with the authentic mindset that we are all one team — this, I believe, is the most important attitude we need to break silos and grow together.”
— Hubert Lee, EVP, Samsung Electronics
Q. How do the team members collaborate?
Lee: The Design team holds a session called Design Clinic. Group leaders and managers come together to share ongoing projects and insights. It’s not a formal meeting, but rather a relaxed gathering to share ideas over coffee and dessert. It’s an open discussion where even criticism is seen as a way to make our products better and support each other. In the MX Business’s Design team, we cover everything from smartphones and wearables to PCs, tablets, CMF (Color, material and finish) and packaging, each item with its own functions. The Design Clinic helps us gain insights from other fields or discover early-stage ideas.
Q. How do you encourage synergy between designers on the team?
Lee: I often emphasize the phrase, “Let’s Design Together.” Rather than just holding onto what they’ve been assigned, I encourage the team to think collectively about what we’re making and how we can improve it. If feedback or advice isn’t sincere, it just leads to silos between teams. Designing together as one team with an authentic, shared mindset is what I emphasize most within the organization.
Reframing the Future
Q. Aside from designers’ intuition, sensibilities and qualitative insights, do you also incorporate user testing or quantitative validation during the design planning phase?
Lee: The Design team has established a Galaxy Design principle called “Essential Design,” aimed at focusing on core value and removing unnecessary elements. It’s based on three key elements: Simple, Impactful and Emotive. We believe that when these three elements come together in harmony, they create a truly aspirational product. We use the principle and its key elements as evaluation tools during the design planning stage; through a process we call Design Analytics. We conduct evaluations with internal employees to make sure our design intent is being communicated to users effectively. We use the data and insights from this to refine current designs and even identify future products. It’s how we strengthen our design identity, and it’s an integral part of the Galaxy design process.
Q. Do you use AI in your work?
Yang: We refer to AI tools during the testing process. We’ve observed that results from AI-based virtual user testing are fairly close to tests done by recruiting actual users. This leads us to expect that AI can play a significant role in UX evaluation going forward. We’re also experimenting with AI in other ways, like testing multiple versions of motion or animation effects, or turning 2D assets into 3D or animated formats. In this way, we’re continuously learning more about how to enhance our designs with AI.
“Amid the momentum of AI, the ability to direct design will become one of the most valuable assets in making your work truly meaningful.”
— Huichul Yang, VP, Samsung Electronics
Q. The age we live in is constantly changing. What kind of mindset and vision should guide designers today?
Yang: AI is a new momentum for designers. There are more and more of us thinking about how to use AI to make our work more meaningful. I believe those who show interest in how the world is changing and make new tools their own will be the ones leading in the age of AI. Some say designers will fade away as AI advances, but I see it differently. Design direction, the ability to guide AI creations and enrich them, is bound to become even more essential.
Lee: When it comes to new devices like foldable products, we’re not designing features. We’re designing the entire experience. I believe it’s our role as designers to deeply consider why a device folds, why it unfolds and what kind of value and convenience those actions should provide. That’s because we’re not just product designers, we’re lifestyle designers, and in the end, the user is the most important part of all. We have to read the trends constantly and keep asking ourselves what users truly need. To me, design that makes their lives better is design that’s truly meaningful.
For more information about Samsung Electronics’ design, please visit the Samsung Design website.
Headline: Scott County Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 18
Scott County Disaster Recovery Center to Close July 18
SIKESTON, Mo
– The Disaster Recovery Center in Scott County is scheduled to close permanently on Friday, July 18 at 7 p
m
Scott County Disaster Recovery Center LOCATIONHOURS OF OPERATIONTanner Street Church of God619 Tanner St
Sikeston, MO 63801Saturday, July 12: 8 a
m
– 7 p
m
Sunday: Closed Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8 a
m
– 7 p
m
Wednesday: 8 a
m
-5:30 p
m
At this center, FEMA and the U
S
Small Business Administration will help impacted residents with their disaster assistance applications, answer questions, and upload required documents
To save time, please apply for FEMA assistance before coming to the Disaster Recovery Center
Apply online at DisasterAssistance
gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362
If you are unable to apply online or by phone, someone at the Disaster Recovery Center can assist you
You may visit any location, no matter where you are staying now
For locations, visit: FEMA
gov/DRC
The FEMA application deadline for the May 16 disaster is August 11, 2025
If your home or personal property sustained damage not covered by insurance, FEMA may be able to provide money to help you pay for home repairs, a temporary place to live, and replace essential personal property that was destroyed
strong>ST. LOUIS – Disaster Recovery Centers in St. Louis City and St. Louis County will have new operating hours beginning this Sunday, July 13 to assist residents and businesses affected by the May 16 disaster. All locations will be closed on Sundays. St. Louis City Locations
LOCATIONS HOURS OF OPERATION
Urban League Entrepreneurship and Women’s Business Center 4401 Natural Bridge Ave.St. Louis, MO 63115 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: Closed
Sumner High School — Parking Lot4248 Cottage Ave.St. Louis, MO 63113 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: Closed
Union Tabernacle M.B. Church626 N. Newstead Ave.St. Louis, MO 63108 Monday-Friday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday: Closed
St. Louis County Locations
LOCATIONS HOURS OF OPERATION
St. Louis County LibraryMid-County Branch7821 Maryland Ave.Clayton, MO 63105 Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.Sunday: Closed
St. Louis County LibraryPrairie Commons Branch915 Utz Ln.Hazelwood, MO 63042 Monday-Thursday: 8 a.m.-7 p.m.Friday: 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m.-4 p.m.Sunday: Closed
You can visit any Disaster Recovery Center, no matter where you are staying now.At all locations, FEMA and the U.S. Small Business Administration will help impacted residents with their disaster assistance applications, answer questions, and upload required documents. To save time, please apply for FEMA assistance before coming to a Disaster Recovery Center. Apply online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621-3362. If you are unable to apply online or by phone, someone at the Disaster Recovery Center can assist you. The FEMA application deadline for the May 16 disaster is August 11, 2025. If your home or personal property sustained damage not covered by insurance, FEMA may be able to provide money to help you pay for home repairs, a temporary place to live, and replace essential personal property that was destroyed.
DBEDT NEWS RELEASE: Hawai’i Tourism Authority Advisory Board Applications Open
Posted on Jul 11, 2025 in Latest Department News, Newsroom
STATE OF HAWAIʻI
KA MOKU ʻĀINA O HAWAIʻI
JOSH GREEN, M.D. GOVERNOR
KE KIAʻĀINA
DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ANDTOURISM
KA ʻOIHANA HOʻOMOHALA PĀʻOIHANA, ʻIMI WAIWAI A HOʻOMĀKAʻIKAʻI
JAMES KUNANE TOKIOKA
DIRECTOR
KA LUNA HOʻOKELE
HAWAI‘I TOURISM AUTHORITY ADVISORY BOARD APPLICATIONS OPEN
State Boards and Commissions Seeking Applicants
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 11, 2025
HONOLULU – The state of Hawai‘i Office of Boards and Commissions is seeking individuals interested in serving on the advisory board for the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority (HTA), a state agency administratively attached to the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT).
Per Act 132, the HTA shall be headed by an advisory board of directors that shall consist of 12 members including at least one representative each from the city and county of Honolulu and the counties of Hawai‘i, Kaua‘i and Maui. At least six members shall have knowledge, experience and expertise in the area of accommodations, transportation, retail, entertainment, or attractions, and at least one member shall represent a tourism-impacted entity. At least one member appointed by the Governor shall have knowledge, experience and expertise in the area of Hawaiian cultural practices. Members appointed by the Governor are subject to advice and consent of the state Senate.
Interested applicants are invited to apply online through the Governor’s boards and commissions portal (https://boards.hawaii.gov/apply/apply-for-a-board/).
About the Hawai‘i Tourism Authority The Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority is the state agency responsible for representing the Hawaiian Islands around the world — and for holistically managing tourism in a sustainable manner consistent with community desires, economic goals, cultural values, preservation of natural resources and visitor industry needs. HTA works with the community and industry to mālama Hawaiʻi — care for our beloved home. For more information about HTA, visit hawaiitourismauthority.org or follow @HawaiiHTA on Facebook, Instagram, Threads, and X.
About the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
DBEDT is Hawai‘i’s resource center for economic and statistical data, business development opportunities, energy and conservation information, as well as foreign trade advantages. DBEDT’s mission is to achieve a Hawai‘i economy that embraces innovation and is globally competitive, dynamic and productive, providing opportunities for all Hawai‘i’s citizens. Through its attached agencies, the department fosters planned community development, creates affordable workforce housing units in high-quality living environments and promotes innovation-sector job growth.
# # #
Media Contacts:
Laci Goshi
Communications Officer
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, State of Hawai‘i
Over the past six months, the headlines have been dominated by stories of fear, division and hatred.However, activists around the world are working away to ensure hope prevails. Here are some of the human rights wins we can be proud of from January to June 2025.
January
Afghanistan
In 2023, Amnesty International released a report on the Taliban’s war on women. Following its findings, the International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor filed a request for arrest warrants against the Taliban’s Supreme Leader and their Chief Justice, citing crimes against humanity.
The request charges the Taliban’s Supreme Leader and their Chief Justice for gender persecution against women, girls, and LGBTI people since their return to power in August 2021. Although the warrants are still subject to the approval of ICC judges these are the first public arrest warrants sought by the ICC in Afghanistan since the country became a member of the court in 2003.
Cameroon
Dorgelesse Nguessan was released on 16 January after spending more than four years in prison for participating in a protest. The hairdresser and single mother had never been politically active yet joined a protest after growing concerned about the high cost of living. She was charged with insurrection, tried by a military court and sentenced to five years in prison on 7 December 2021.
I thank those who directly or indirectly work for your organization and contributed to my release.
Dorgelesse Nguessan
Dorgelesse was part of Amnesty International’s 2022 Write for Rights campaign, where thousands of supporters called for her release. Amnesty also provided short-term relief support to assist Dorgelesse and her family through the difficult moments of her detention. On 16 January, the Court of Appeal reduced her sentence.
“I thank you for all the efforts you have devoted as I was arbitrarily detained,” said Dorgelesse. “I thank those who directly or indirectly work for your organization and contributed to my release.”
Chile
On 2 January, two police [Carabineros] officers were sentenced to prison for shooting activist Renzo Inostroza and blinding him in one eye. The court concluded that their actions violated both Chile’s national regulations and international obligations. This conviction set a judicial precedent in the struggle to ensure the Chilean justice system pursues criminal responsibility for the unlawful actions of the Carabineros. This conviction follows Amnesty’s landmark Eyes on Chile report, which analyzed patterns and individual cases of police violence during the social unrest that broke out in Chile in October 2019. Renzo’s case was part of the report.
Saudi Arabia
From January to February, Amnesty successfully campaigned for the release of several human rights defenders in Saudi Arabia. On 7 January, human rights defender and former prisoner of conscience, Mohammed al-Qahtani, was conditionally released after spending 12 years in prison for his human rights work. On 13 February, 47-year-old teacher Asaad bin Nasser al-Ghamdi was released from prison following an unfair trial before the notorious Specialized Criminal Court (SCC). Asaad was arrested in 2022 and initially sentenced to 20 years in prison for social media posts criticizing the government’s Vision 2030 programme. On 10 February 2025, Leeds University PhD student and mother of two, Salma al-Shehab, was released from prison after completing a four-year prison term following an unfair trial before the SCC. Following a grossly unfair trial, the SCC had convicted Salma al-Shehab of terrorism-related offences for publishing tweets in support of women’s rights.
USA
The United States sanctioned a number of companies involved in the transfer of weapons into Sudan and Darfur. These sanctions follow Amnesty’s innovative briefing, published in July 2024, that combined business trade data and video analysis to show how the constant import of foreign-manufactured arms into Sudan was fuelling relentless civilian suffering.
Amnesty International members long campaigned for the release of Native American activist Leonard Peltier and most recently called on President Biden to grant Leonard Peltier clemency on humanitarian grounds and as a matter of justice.
USA
Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist, was imprisoned for nearly 50 years in the USA for a crime he maintains he did not commit. There were serious concerns about the fairness of his trial and conviction. Tribal Nations, Nobel Peace Laureates, former FBI agents, numerous others, and even the former U.S. Attorney, James Reynolds, whose office handled the prosecution, have called for Leonard Peltier’s release. Amnesty International members had long campaigned for his release, and most recently called on President Biden to grant Leonard Peltier clemency on humanitarian grounds and as a matter of justice. In the final hour of his presidency, former President Biden commuted Peltier’s life sentence to home confinement. Amnesty recently offered him short-term relief support as he works to rebuild his life after his release.
February
Algeria
Thanks to sustained advocacy work from Amnesty International Algeria and several national women’s rights organizations, Algeria’s president Abdelmadjid Tebboune announced a series of concrete measures to combat violence against women – moving from commitment to action.
The Ministry of Solidarity has since launched a national toll-free helpline, available 24/7 across the country, enabling victims to report abuse, be referred to appropriate support services, and receive emergency assistance when in danger. It is already proving effective. A Guide for Women Victims of Violence has been published in Arabic and English and is currently being distributed nationwide. New legal measures, including the possibility of issuing an immediate restraining order against perpetrators of violence, have also been announced.
Benin
Thousands of Beninese families living in coastal areas have been living an endless nightmare, victims of forced evictions orchestrated in the name of tourism development. However, in February the authorities issued a public call for people awaiting proper compensation to come forward so their case can be followed up. The National Agency for Land and Property’s direct also asked Amnesty International for a list of people who have not received appropriate reparations.
The move follows the release of an Amnesty International report on forced evictions in Benin in December 2023 and a subsequent campaign calling for proper compensation for those who have been unfairly evicted, which proved vital in securing this positive outcome.
Thank you all very much. Without your help, we could not have saved my husband.
Zaynura Hasan
Amnesty International had been campaigning for his freedom since he was initially detained in July 2021. Zaynura Hasan, Idris’ wife, thanked the organization for the relentless support.
“Thank you all very much. Without your help, we could not have saved my husband.”
Serbia
Recent research by Amnesty International’s Security Lab and European Regional Office documented how Serbian police and intelligence authorities are using advanced phone spyware alongside mobile phone forensic products to unlawfully target journalists, environmental activists and other individuals in a covert surveillance campaign.
In a significant human rights win, Cellebrite (a company specialising in digital intelligence and forensics) announced it will stop the use of its digital forensic equipment for some of its customers in Serbia as a direct result of Amnesty’s research. Simultaneously, Serbia’s Prosecutor for High Technological Crime, the Ombudsman and Data Protection Commissioner started separate investigations based on the research findings.
Senegal
In a positive step forward, the Senegalese government invited Amnesty International to provide support and assistance for people who have been arrested for participating in protests, as well as former detainees.
Since 2021, Amnesty International has denounced the unlawful use of force by security forces during protests, compiled a list of those who have been killed, and condemned the arbitrary detention of hundreds of people for having called for or participated in protests. According to figures gathered by Amnesty International and other civil society organizations, at least 65 people were killed, the majority by firearms, with at least 1,000 wounded. A further 2,000 people were arrested.
Amnesty International continues to call for the repeal of the amnesty law adopted by the former government, for justice and reparation for the victims and their family members.
Taner Kılıç, a refugee rights lawyer and former Chair of Amnesty International’s Türkiye section, was finally acquitted after nearly eight years of judicial proceedings.
Türkiye
Taner Kılıç, a refugee rights lawyer and former Chair of Amnesty International’s Türkiye section, was finally acquitted after nearly eight years of judicial proceedings.
Arrested in June 2017 and imprisoned for over 14 months, he was unjustly convicted in 2020 despite no credible evidence. He faced more than six years in prison for “membership of a terrorist organization”. Amnesty provided relief support to him and his family as they navigated the difficulty of his imprisonment.
Reflecting on the case, Taner said: “This nightmare that has gone on for almost eight years is finally over… The only thing I was sure of throughout this process was that I was right and innocent, and the support from all over the world gave me strength. I thank each and every one who stood up for me.”
In a landmark ruling, Brazilian actor Juan Darthés was found guilty for the rape of Argentinian actress Thelma Fardin. Amnesty provided legal and psychosocial support to Thelma.
Latin America
In a landmark ruling for women’s rights in Latin America, a Brazilian court convicted actor Juan Darthés of sexual violence against Argentine actress Thelma Fardin, who accused him in 2018 of abusing her when she was 16. Amnesty provided support for transport related costs, and psychosocial support for Thelma throughout her case. The sentence sets an important precedent for sexual violence cases in the region.
After a five-year legal battle across three countries, Thelma stated: “Today I can look my 16-year-old self in the eye and say we did it.”
Philippines
Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested by police on the basis of an arrest warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for crimes against humanity.
Thousands of people, mostly from poor and marginalized communities, were unlawfully killed by the police – or by armed individuals suspected to have links to the police – during Duterte’s so-called “war on drugs”. Amnesty has been calling for his arrest for a number of years and described it as “a long-awaited and monumental step for justice”. He is now due to stand trial at the ICC.
Sierra Leone
Hawa Hunt, a reality TV star, was freed from detention on 4 March and cleared of all the cybercrime related charges against her. She was arrested on live television in December 2024 and charged with insulting the President and First Lady in a social media video.
Amnesty International called on authorities to release her and to ensure her rights were upheld.
Her daughter Alicia said: “In one of the very few phone calls I was able to have with my mother as she was in jail, I told her how Amnesty International spoke up for her. She and our whole family were very touched by the support. We believe it played a very key role in her being released.”
Since May 1995, the Saturday Mothers have held peaceful weekly protests demanding justice for relatives forcibly disappeared in the eighties and nineties.
Türkiye
Since May 1995, the Saturday Mothers have held regular peaceful protests at Galatasaray Square every Saturday, demanding justice for relatives forcibly disappeared in the eighties and nineties. Their 700th vigil on 25 August 2018 was banned and violently dispersed by police using tear gas and water cannons.
Forty-six people were detained and later released, but in 2020, they were prosecuted for “attending illegal meetings and marches without weapons and not dispersing despite warnings”.
Thanks to the determination of the Saturday Mothers and their supporters – including Amnesty International who provided legal aid – all were acquitted in March 2025.
USA
On March 17, US immigration authorities detained Alberto, the father of a Venezuelan family of four, separating him from his wife and two children. Despite the family having pending asylum applications, he was charged with “illegal” entry to the United States. His case was an example of the Trump administration’s use of a provision of immigration law to target individuals and families that have been in the United States for years, rather than recent arrivals at the US-Mexico border. On April 21, 2025, Alberto was granted bond and released from ICE detention, following calls from Amnesty International and reunited with his wife and two children.
May
Chile
Romario Veloz was shot and killed by an army captain during social unrest in La Serena, Chile, in 2019. The police officer who shot Romario Veloz was imprisoned in May 2025 – setting a precedent in cases of human rights violations committed by state agents. Despite the victory, widespread impunity for police violence continues. Romario was also part of Amnesty’s Eyes on Chile investigation (2020). Amnesty provided support to Romario’s young child, helping her access education as well as covering the legal expenses for the family’s quest to seek justice.
Alongside the report, Amnesty was part of the Advisory Unit for Police Reform, wrote letters to the Chilean president and gave numerous media interviews on police violence. Amnesty Chile’s relentless campaigning paid off and helped to stop the implementation of the use of tasers by Chilean police forces.
Côte d’Ivoire
On 7 May, Ghislain Duggary Assy, Communications Secretary of the Movement of Teachers for the Dignity Dynamic union, was provisionally released pending his trial, due to international pressure from Amnesty International. A month earlier, he had been sentenced to two years’ imprisonment solely for having called for strike action in primary and secondary schools.
Amnesty International condemned the flagrant violation of workers’ rights, in particular the right to strike and freedom of association and will continue to call for his unconditional release.
Greece
Two years ago, the Pylos shipwreck led to the death of more than 600 people. Now, 17 Greek coastguard officers face charges in connection with it, including causing a shipwreck, exposure to danger and failure to provide assistance. These developments may pave the way towards accountability for the worst shipwreck in the Mediterranean in recent years.
Amnesty has been calling for justice through sustained advocacy and campaigning.
Türkiye
Afghan asylum seeker Tabriz Saifi is blind due to chronic diabetes and relies on dialysis three times a week. However, his international protection application was rejected by the Turkish authorities on 28 February, which meant he no longer had access to life-saving healthcare. Amnesty International immediately launched an urgent action, calling for the decision to be reversed.
On 2 May, his family was informed that the decision had been reversed and that his asylum seeker status had been reinstated, along with full access to free healthcare.
Girls and women support the right to abortion in Argentina.
Argentina
An Argentine private health insurer was fined over $4,000 USD for denying a legal abortion to a woman whose pregnancy posed serious health risks — a clear violation of the country’s reproductive rights law.
Amnesty International Argentina provided legal advice and stressed that rulings like this reinforce the need to guarantee access to legal abortion as a right, not an exception subject to individual or institutional discretion.
Council of Europe
Following sustained advocacy by Amnesty International and the Omega Research Foundation, the Council of Europe’s Steering Committee for Human Rights (CDDH) adopted a report on measures against the trade in goods used for death penalty, torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
Georgia
After months of public pressure, protests and legal action, the Georgian Ministry of Justice announced it would end the humiliating practice of fully stripping detainees during body searches.
The decision followed a lawsuit from the Public Defender in February, a report from Amnesty International condemning the practice as degrading and unlawful, as well as a video featuring Georgian artist and activist Kristina Botkoveli, who was subjected to a forced strip search, harassment, and threats after participating in protests.
Following calls from Amnesty International and other organizations, the revised Sámi Parliament Act has now been approved by the Finnish parliament.
Finland
The Sámi are a group of Indigenous people that come from the region of Sápmi, which stretches across the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland and the Kola peninsula in Russia.
For a number of years, they have been subjected to human rights violations. However, following calls from Amnesty International and other organizations, the revised Sámi Parliament Act has now been approved by the Finnish parliament.
The amended Act strengthens Indigenous Sámi people’s right to self-determination and improves the way in which the Sámi Parliament operates. It also corrects human rights violations highlighted by international human rights treaty bodies.
Hungary
On 28 June, Budapest Pride proceeded despite restrictive anti-Pride laws and police targeting the march. Around 200,000 people, including over 280 Amnesty International activists and staff from Hungary and 22 other countries, peacefully demanded equality and assembly rights. This was Budapest’s largest Pride in 30 years, symbolizing strong public resistance to discrimination and highlighting the resilience of Hungary’s LGBTI community. Amnesty’s Let Pride March campaign helped raise awareness, mobilize activists, and urged police to respect peaceful protest. With over 120,000 global actions supporting the event – it demonstrated that solidarity can overcome oppression, though challenges for LGBTI rights in Hungary persist.
Activists and speakers – including King Okabi of the Ogale community – call for an end to Shell’s pollution of the Niger Delta and compensation outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, on day one of the Ogale and Bille communities vs Shell trial, 13 February 2025.
Nigeria/UK
After a decade-long fight for justice, a UK court ruled that Shell can be held liable for the oil spills and leaks it has failed to clean up in the Niger Delta – regardless of how long ago they happened.
The judgement is an important step towards justice for communities in the Niger Delta and a vital opportunity to make Shell pay for the devastating pollution it has caused to the Ogale and Bille communities’ lands.
In parallel with this decision, the Nigerian government also pardoned the Ogoni Nine. The group of activists, led by Ken Saro-Wiwa, Nigerian author and campaigner, were executed 30 years ago by a government that wanted to hide the crimes of Shell and other oil companies that were destroying the lives and livelihoods of tens of thousands of people across the Niger Delta.
Amnesty has been supporting and campaigning for justice for the Ogoni Nine for years and documenting the destruction Shell has left behind through a series of powerful reports. While these are positive outcomes, much more needs to be done to ensure justice is achieved for communities in the Niger Delta, including holding Shell and other oil companies to account for the damage they have done and continue to do – and Amnesty will be there every step of the way!
Ukraine
On 24 June, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset signed an agreement establishing a Special Tribunal for the Crime of Aggression Against Ukraine in Strasbourg, following calls from Amnesty International and others. It is hoped this will help hold perpetrators of the crime of aggression accountable.
Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist and student organizer who recently graduated from Columbia University, was targeted for his role in student protests at Columbia University.
USA
On March 9, US immigration authorities unlawfully arrested and arbitrarily detained Mahmoud Khalil, a Palestinian activist, lawful permanent resident of the USA, and student organizer who recently graduated from Columbia University. Mahmoud was targeted for his role in student protests at Columbia University, where he was exercising his rights to freedom of expression and peaceful assembly. He was not charged with a crime yet was held in a detention centre, told that his permanent residency status was “revoked”, and placed in deportation proceedings. Amnesty International demanded that authorities release Mahmoud immediately and respect his rights to freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, and due process. After 104 days in a Louisiana immigration detention centre, Mahmoud Khalil was released on bail in June 21, however he’s still facing threats of deportation by US authorities. He has since filed a $20 million USD lawsuit against the Trump administration.
India’s wholesale inflation slipped into negative territory for the first time in 2025, with the Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation falling to -0.13% in June, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry on Monday. The decline was primarily driven by a drop in food and fuel prices.
Food prices, which account for 24.38% of the WPI basket, fell 0.26% year-on-year, while fuel and power prices, comprising 13.15% of the index, dropped by 2.65% compared to June 2024.
On the other hand, manufactured products, which represent the largest share of the index at 64.23%, rose by 1.97% year-on-year. However, the pace of increase moderated, down from 2.04% in May and 2.62% in April.
This wholesale disinflation aligns with the recent moderation in retail inflation. Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based inflation cooled to 2.82% in May, its lowest level since February 2019.
Responding to the softer inflation outlook, the RBI in its monetary policy review last month cut the repo rate by 50 basis points, from 6.0% to 5.5%, in a bid to stimulate economic growth.
Additionally, the central bank announced a phased reduction in the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR), from 4% to 3%, to be implemented in four tranches of 25 basis points each.
With headline CPI well below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4%, the central bank also revised its inflation forecast for 2025–26 down from 4.0% to 3.7%.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi distributed over 51,000 appointment letters to newly appointed youth during the 16th Rozgar Mela held on Saturday. The event was conducted at 47 locations across the country, marking yet another milestone in the government’s commitment to generate employment opportunities for the nation’s youth.
Addressing the new recruits, Prime Minister Modi congratulated them and highlighted the importance of their role in shaping a stronger, more self-reliant India. The newly inducted employees have joined various Central Government Ministries and Departments, including the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Home Affairs, Department of Posts, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Department of Financial Services, and Ministry of Labour and Employment, among others. The Rozgar Mela continues to reflect the government’s vision of equitable and inclusive development by bringing employment closer to the youth across the nation.
Organised under the aegis of the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC), an initiative of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE), the Rozgar Mela aims to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, particularly in the private sector. NSDC works in close coordination with Sector Skill Councils (SSCs) and Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras (PMKKs) to source reputable private companies for participation in the Melas, ensuring a wide array of employment opportunities for youth.
A Rozgar Mela typically functions as a half-day employment fair, where employers and job seekers interact directly. Targeting youth aged between 18 and 35 years, the initiative accommodates a wide spectrum of educational qualifications—ranging from candidates with 8th, 10th, and 12th-grade certifications to those holding ITI, diploma, and graduate degrees. It also includes trained and certified individuals who meet the standards of the National Skills Qualifications Framework (NSQF).
To ensure the broadest possible outreach, job seekers are informed about the events through print advertisements, SMS campaigns, social media, and workshops at educational institutions. Besides job interviews and recruitments, the Rozgar Melas also offer career counseling sessions for youth and their families, Kaushal Melas to register for new skill development programs under PMKVY and PMKK, Mudra Loan Facilitation Counters, and skill exhibitions showcasing training modules and job roles.
Rozgar Melas are not limited to NSDC-led events alone. Affiliated organisations like SSCs, PMKKs, and training partners under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) also organise these events on various scales throughout the year, extending the benefits of job matchmaking and skill awareness across multiple districts.
The Rozgar Mela initiative, launched nationally on 22nd October 2022, has seen consistent expansion. The inaugural edition saw over 75,000 appointment letters distributed. Subsequent editions have continued to strengthen the momentum, with appointment letters ranging from 51,000 to over 1 lakh being distributed in each event. Notably, the 12th edition in February 2024 marked a record, with the Prime Minister distributing over one lakh appointment letters and laying the foundation stone for Phase I of the Integrated Complex “Karmayogi Bhavan” in New Delhi.
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Today, the Yandex Education student camp on NLP (Natural Language Processing) started at the Novosibirsk State University. It is attended by 100 students from IT departments of universities from all over the country. In two weeks, the participants will master key approaches to text processing, as well as work with large language models BERT, GPT and YandexGPT (used for content analysis and generation) in practice. At the end of the student camp, students will defend team projects that they can add to their own portfolios. Participants will teach artificial intelligence to structure information, find contradictions in texts, search for data in complex documents where text, tables and graphs are mixed, and also improve the reasoning skills of language models.
Minister of Digital Development and Communications of the Novosibirsk Region Sergey Tsukar emphasized: The Novosibirsk Region, as the capital of IT personnel, always supports the holding of various educational events on digital topics and is happy to host IT students from all over the country.
— In the Novosibirsk Region, 10 universities and 14 colleges train IT specialists. NSU is our reliable partner. The guys had a chance to study at one of the best universities — world-class and at one of the leading scientific centers of Russia — Akademgorodok. This is a unique opportunity — to get concentrated, fundamental knowledge in the field of artificial intelligence in two weeks, which usually takes months to study. Artificial intelligence is no longer just a trend, it is our reality today. I thank Yandex for such relevant, interesting, free educational projects, — noted Sergey Tsukar.
NSU has been cooperating with Yandex for many years. Based on Faculty of Mechanics and Mathematics of NSU A master’s program was opened with the support of the School of Data Analysis – “Applied Machine Learning and Big Data”. Many graduates of the program work in large IT companies.
— It is an honor for us that such an event is held at Novosibirsk University. The student camp is an intensive course in IT areas, which is held by Yandex Education together with the leading universities of our country. Of course, our university, which is located in the very center of Akademgorodok, is one of such universities. I hope that these two weeks will be truly intensive for you, there will be intense work. There was a very big competition for the student camp, the best were selected. You will leave here not only with new acquaintances, friends, new impressions, but also with new knowledge. You will be taught by experts from Yandex and our university. I think this will help you in your professional career, and in some time, I am sure, we will be proud of many of you, — said the rector of NSU, academician of the Russian Academy of Sciences Mikhail Fedoruk.
The first week of the student camp is devoted to getting acquainted with key approaches to NLP. Participants will understand the architecture of transformers (models that use the attention mechanism for fast learning), study methods of adaptation and interpretation of models, and master the tasks of classification, generation and error tolerance. They will also study advanced technologies: attention mechanisms, autoregressive models, multimodality and RAG (Retrieval Augmented Generation). In the second week, students will focus on practice: they will work with data analysis and the final defense of a project that solves real problems at the intersection of science and industry.
Kirill Barannikov, Head of Strategic Development of Higher Education at Yandex Education, notes:
— We focus on new formats of education, and student camps are one of them. Full-time intensive programs are open to students from all over Russia. They provide not only relevant knowledge, access to big tech technologies, but also the opportunity to meet practicing industry experts and teachers from the country’s strongest universities. In addition, in two weeks, participants have time to put together a full-fledged project for their portfolio and immerse themselves in a new socio-cultural environment – the city and university where the student camp is taking place. Almost 1,200 students from 200 universities applied for the NLP program at NSU – the competition was about 12 people per place. The selected participants will study natural language processing technologies, which are used today in various fields: from developing voice assistants to analyzing big data.
Yandex Education student camps are two-week intensive courses in mathematics, IT and artificial intelligence, which are held at leading Russian universities in a face-to-face format. Participating students come to the university for two weeks to immerse themselves in an educational program on a specific topic and create a team project for their own portfolio.
Experts from Yandex, SHAD and the host university participate in creating content for student camps. The creators of the program include both practicing specialists and theorists with experience in teaching.
The project is designed for 3rd-4th year undergraduate students who are already studying computer science at the university and have a base in programming and mathematics. Junior students can also participate in the selection if their knowledge allows them to master the program.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
The 3rd Meeting of Gazprom’s target students took place in the shift settlement of Yamburg (YaNAO). It was attended by 150 students from the company’s specialized universities from all over the country. The meeting was held for the first time at an operating gas production facility.
The program of the meeting included lectures on the development of gas production at the Kara Sea shelf fields, trainings, team-building events and a team case championship. The students saw Gazprom production facilities at the Yamburg oil and gas condensate field, visited social and household facilities of the rotational village, and got acquainted with the culture and traditions of the indigenous peoples of the North.
Two students from the Institute of Power Engineering, in the Electrical Power Engineering and Electrical Engineering program, participated in the meeting from the Polytechnic University: Leonid Golubev (3rd year bachelor’s degree student) and Vladimir Sergeev (1st year master’s degree student), target students of Gazprom Transgaz Saint Petersburg.
“The gathering included interesting training sessions on soft skills development. It was interesting to solve cases, learn new things, improve communication and teamwork skills. The organizers also tried to fill the program with excursions, events “at the edge of the earth”. This gathering will be remembered for the knowledge acquired, friends and emotions,” Vladimir shared.
“Surrounded by one and a half hundred talented students from all over Russia, I solved current problems of developing new deposits. All this together helped me to start believing in myself more, not to be afraid to move forward, to learn to look for new non-standard solutions,” Leonid said.
Polytechnic employees also participated in the event as experts on the case championship jury: Elvira Tuktamysheva, Head of the Employment Assistance Sector, and Janis Olekhnovich, Curator of the “PAO Gazprom Flagship University” project.
“Immersion in the corporate culture, production and business processes of the company shows students their immediate future after graduation,” Elvira Tuktamysheva noted. “Thanks to this, the likelihood of stress during the transition from studying at a university to working in a company is reduced. Such a system helps the guys more easily adapt to a new stage in their professional career.”
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
A €100 million loan has been granted by the EIB to Mediobanca to improve access to finance for Italian small businesses
The agreement aims to mobilise up to €200 million in new finance for the real economy
60% of the funding will be earmarked for microenterprises and 20% for gender equality and women’s economic empowerment, with also a focus on regions in central and southern Italy
The European Investment Bank (EIB) and Mediobanca have signed a new €100 million agreement designed to improve access to credit for Italian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), with a particular focus on microenterprises, female-led entrepreneurs and businesses operating in cohesion regions.
This €100 million contract was signed by EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Group Chief Financial Officer of Mediobanca Emanuele Flappini. This is the first agreement between the EIB and Mediobanca in which the funds will be primarily intermediated by Mediobanca’s subsidiary, Compass Banca. It is estimated that the EIB’s funding will help unlock up to €200 million of new finance for the real economy.
The funds made available by the EIB will be deployed by Mediobanca in the form of new loans on favourable terms, aimed at boosting the competitiveness of beneficiary companies and fostering new investments. Of the total financing for Italian small businesses, 60% of the funds will be reserved for microenterprises (companies with fewer than 10 employees), while 20% will be allocated to companies led by women or to projects that contributes to promote gender equality. Special attention will be paid also to companies operating in cohesion regions in central and southern Italy.
EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti said: “Supporting access to credit for microenterprises, female-led entrepreneurs and businesses operating in less developed regions of Italy means investing in the future of the country. Inclusion and territorial development are two key pillars of the EIB’s investment strategy: no real growth can prosper unless it is equally distributed, and no innovation exists if whole regions or segments of the working population are excluded. With this agreement, we aim to make the Italian economy more cohesive, dynamic and sustainable.”
Group Chief Financial Officer of Mediobanca Emanuele Flappini said: “Promoting the growth of Italian companies has always been our goal, a commitment that has gradually adapted to the changing needs of today’s economy, which now mostly comprises small and medium-sized businesses. We are therefore delighted to begin this collaboration with the European Investment Bank. We aim to commit more funds to microenterprises, paying particular attention to female entrepreneurs and areas of the country facing major difficulties, and in this way develop a plan enabling us to express ‘responsible banking’ values, a distinctive factor of our DNA, which will help create a more cohesive, dynamic and sustainable Italian economy.”
Background information
The European Investment Bank (ElB) is the long-term lending institution of the European Union, owned by its Member States. It finances investments that contribute to EU policy objectives. EIB projects bolster competitiveness, drive innovation, promote sustainable development, enhance social and territorial cohesion, and support a just and swift transition to climate neutrality. In the last five years, the EIB Group has provided more than €58 billion in financing for projects in Italy. All projects financed by the EIB Group are in line with the Paris Climate Agreement. The EIB Group does not fund investments in fossil fuels. We are on track to deliver on our commitment to support €1 trillion in climate and environmental sustainability investment in the decade to 2030 as pledged in our Climate Bank Roadmap. Over half of the EIB Group’s annual financing supports projects directly contributing to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and a healthier environment. Around half of the EIB’s financing within the European Union is directed towards cohesion regions, where per capita income is lower.
Question for written answer E-002743/2025 to the Commission Rule 144 Fulvio Martusciello (PPE)
The Commission has updated the list of high-risk jurisdictions whose anti-money-laundering and anti-terrorism-financing schemes (AML/CFT) have strategic deficiencies, adding a number of countries and removing others, including Gibraltar.
Gibraltar has the second-highest GDP per capita in the world, even though it has no natural resources and is home to only 34 000 people. The sale of alcohol, tobacco and oil (goods that are subject to taxation in the EU), along with Gibraltar’s online gambling market (which accounts for 25 % of national GDP) and its policy of not taxing resident businesses for income generated abroad have resulted in the country boasting more than 14 000 active companies – one for every 2.4 inhabitants.
In the light of the above, and given both Gibraltar’s economic make-up and the fact that the aforementioned businesses are widely recognised at international level as being particularly exposed to the risk of money laundering and/or terrorist financing, what justification can the Commission give for a decision which poses a high risk to the integrity of the internal market?