NewzIntel.com

    • Checkout Page
    • Contact Us
    • Default Redirect Page
    • Frontpage
    • Home-2
    • Home-3
    • Lost Password
    • Member Login
    • Member LogOut
    • Member TOS Page
    • My Account
    • NewzIntel Alert Control-Panel
    • NewzIntel Latest Reports
    • Post Views Counter
    • Privacy Policy
    • Public Individual Page
    • Register
    • Subscription Plan
    • Thank You Page

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission on marine contractors’ vital role in securing critical offshore infrastructure

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission on marine contractors’ vital role in securing critical offshore infrastructure



    IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission













    News

    A delegation of senior IMCA representatives briefed Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and senior representatives from the European Commission at a lunchtime briefing on the marine contracting sector’s essential role in securing critical offshore infrastructure. 

    The event, hosted by Walter Beke MEP at the end of June, continued IMCA’s ongoing work to inform elected representatives and civil servants of the offshore contracting sector’s critical role as a strategic enabler of Europe’s energy and climate ambitions. 

    The interest among EU audiences was strong, with 13 MEPs in attendance from the European Parliament’s Security, Energy, and Transport Committees, and from the Seas, Rivers, Islands & Coastal Areas (SEArica) intergroup. They were joined by two senior officials from the European Commission, and two representatives from EU member states, testament to the growing importance of this topic. 

    Submarine communication cables carry 99% of inter-continental internet traffic, while submarine electricity cables are key to energy security, connecting electricity markets and bringing offshore renewable energy to shore.  

    However, Mr Beke welcomed guests to the briefing, held under the title ‘securing critical offshore and underwater infrastructures’, by outlining the growing threat to this marine infrastructure from malicious actors. 

    In his welcome address, IMCA President Luca Gentili, from the global contractor SAIPEM, outlined the essential role of Europe’s marine contractors in delivering a “safe, more sustainable energy mix”, and pledged that IMCA “through its technical work, and as an advisor to regulators and governments” stood ready to “contribute to the security of Europe”. 

    The meeting then heard two presentations, from IMCA CEO Iain Grainger on protecting undersea infrastructure, and from IMCA Director of Strategy and Energy Transition Lee Billingham, who outlined the findings of IMCA’s recent Economic Impact Assessment, authored by PA Consulting. 

    Brussels 2025

    They were supported with insight from IMCA Vice-President Hugo Bouvy from DEME Offshore, Michel Hendriks from IMCA Board member Heerema, Jack Wattel from IMCA Board member N-Sea, and by IMCA Head of Communications Patrick Clift. 

    Iain outlined the scale of Europe’s undersea infrastructure, which includes 1,200 active oil and gas facilities, 20,000km of oil and gas pipelines, and over 10,000km of cables. The EU’s target to generate 300GW of offshore renewable energy by 2050 could necessitate the construction of an additional 20,000 wind turbines, dramatically increasing the amount of infrastructure that could be targeted by saboteurs. 

    The owners of telecoms cables have mature strategies in place to manage repairs – including through cooperative agreements such as ACMA, a non-profit cooperative subsea maintenance agreement of nearly 60 members that has three repair vessels on permanent standby in North America, the Caribbean, the North Sea, and West Africa, and MECMA, a similar body covering the Mediterranean region.  

    However, power cables are much more challenging to repair at speed, Iain said, given the absence of such ‘repair clubs’, and the additional complexity of fixing them. 

    Iain highlighted that Europe’s offshore sector had 61 vessels capable of laying and repairing cables, more than any other country or region in the world. To enable the fleet to invest and play its part in protecting undersea infrastructure, he highlighted:  

    Presenting the results of IMCA’s Economic Impact Assessment, Lee Billingham outlined that the European marine contracting industry was a world leading, highly specialised fleet of vessels that are critical to meeting Europe’s clean energy ambitions. Using the example of Dogger Bank A in the North Sea, he illustrated that it required 49 individual vessels, each including specialised workers and equipment, to install a single 1.2GW wind farm. 

    Citing data from Clarksons, he said that Europe’s fleet comprises around 3,490 vessels, 26% of the 13,372 vessels in the global fleet, and twice the percentage of the next largest regional block, China, which has 13% of the total. 

    As well as enabling the development of all offshore energy infrastructure, including carbon capture and storage, he revealed that the European marine contracting sector is expected to provide over 490,000 skilled jobs and contribute over €80bn in economic value this year, including indirect effects, in the EU, Norway, and the UK, as well as €15bn in taxes. Its wider contribution includes driving investment in port infrastructure, supporting European energy security, and facilitating international data exchange. 

    IMCA finished the meeting by delivering a call for EU institutions to:  

    Offshore sector contribution

    Download our brochure to learn more

    We may use anonymised cookies for some functionality on this site. With your consent, we would also like to use tracking to improve our online offering. Find out more.

    Your cart has been updated

    Course type:

    Format:

    Location:

    Contact:

    Link copied to clipboard!

    MIL OSI Economics –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission on marine contractors’ vital role in securing critical offshore infrastructure

    Source: International Marine Contractors Association – IMCA

    Headline: IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission on marine contractors’ vital role in securing critical offshore infrastructure



    IMCA delegation briefs European Parliament and European Commission













    News

    A delegation of senior IMCA representatives briefed Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) and senior representatives from the European Commission at a lunchtime briefing on the marine contracting sector’s essential role in securing critical offshore infrastructure. 

    The event, hosted by Walter Beke MEP at the end of June, continued IMCA’s ongoing work to inform elected representatives and civil servants of the offshore contracting sector’s critical role as a strategic enabler of Europe’s energy and climate ambitions. 

    The interest among EU audiences was strong, with 13 MEPs in attendance from the European Parliament’s Security, Energy, and Transport Committees, and from the Seas, Rivers, Islands & Coastal Areas (SEArica) intergroup. They were joined by two senior officials from the European Commission, and two representatives from EU member states, testament to the growing importance of this topic. 

    Submarine communication cables carry 99% of inter-continental internet traffic, while submarine electricity cables are key to energy security, connecting electricity markets and bringing offshore renewable energy to shore.  

    However, Mr Beke welcomed guests to the briefing, held under the title ‘securing critical offshore and underwater infrastructures’, by outlining the growing threat to this marine infrastructure from malicious actors. 

    In his welcome address, IMCA President Luca Gentili, from the global contractor SAIPEM, outlined the essential role of Europe’s marine contractors in delivering a “safe, more sustainable energy mix”, and pledged that IMCA “through its technical work, and as an advisor to regulators and governments” stood ready to “contribute to the security of Europe”. 

    The meeting then heard two presentations, from IMCA CEO Iain Grainger on protecting undersea infrastructure, and from IMCA Director of Strategy and Energy Transition Lee Billingham, who outlined the findings of IMCA’s recent Economic Impact Assessment, authored by PA Consulting. 

    Brussels 2025

    They were supported with insight from IMCA Vice-President Hugo Bouvy from DEME Offshore, Michel Hendriks from IMCA Board member Heerema, Jack Wattel from IMCA Board member N-Sea, and by IMCA Head of Communications Patrick Clift. 

    Iain outlined the scale of Europe’s undersea infrastructure, which includes 1,200 active oil and gas facilities, 20,000km of oil and gas pipelines, and over 10,000km of cables. The EU’s target to generate 300GW of offshore renewable energy by 2050 could necessitate the construction of an additional 20,000 wind turbines, dramatically increasing the amount of infrastructure that could be targeted by saboteurs. 

    The owners of telecoms cables have mature strategies in place to manage repairs – including through cooperative agreements such as ACMA, a non-profit cooperative subsea maintenance agreement of nearly 60 members that has three repair vessels on permanent standby in North America, the Caribbean, the North Sea, and West Africa, and MECMA, a similar body covering the Mediterranean region.  

    However, power cables are much more challenging to repair at speed, Iain said, given the absence of such ‘repair clubs’, and the additional complexity of fixing them. 

    Iain highlighted that Europe’s offshore sector had 61 vessels capable of laying and repairing cables, more than any other country or region in the world. To enable the fleet to invest and play its part in protecting undersea infrastructure, he highlighted:  

    Presenting the results of IMCA’s Economic Impact Assessment, Lee Billingham outlined that the European marine contracting industry was a world leading, highly specialised fleet of vessels that are critical to meeting Europe’s clean energy ambitions. Using the example of Dogger Bank A in the North Sea, he illustrated that it required 49 individual vessels, each including specialised workers and equipment, to install a single 1.2GW wind farm. 

    Citing data from Clarksons, he said that Europe’s fleet comprises around 3,490 vessels, 26% of the 13,372 vessels in the global fleet, and twice the percentage of the next largest regional block, China, which has 13% of the total. 

    As well as enabling the development of all offshore energy infrastructure, including carbon capture and storage, he revealed that the European marine contracting sector is expected to provide over 490,000 skilled jobs and contribute over €80bn in economic value this year, including indirect effects, in the EU, Norway, and the UK, as well as €15bn in taxes. Its wider contribution includes driving investment in port infrastructure, supporting European energy security, and facilitating international data exchange. 

    IMCA finished the meeting by delivering a call for EU institutions to:  

    Offshore sector contribution

    Download our brochure to learn more

    We may use anonymised cookies for some functionality on this site. With your consent, we would also like to use tracking to improve our online offering. Find out more.

    Your cart has been updated

    Course type:

    Format:

    Location:

    Contact:

    Link copied to clipboard!

    MIL OSI Economics –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank and State Grid Brazil Holding Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Boost Brazil’s Energy Capacity

    Source: New Development Bank

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – On July 3, 2025, the New Development Bank (NDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with State Grid Brazil Holding (SGBH), with the aim of enhancing electricity transmission capacity in Brazil, to meet the immediate needs of the nation’s power sector.

    The signing of this Memorandum took place on the sidelines of NDB’s 10th Annual Meeting, held on July 4 and 5 in Rio de Janeiro.

    The project, known as the Graca Aranha Silvania Transmissora de Energia (“GATE”), will be implemented by a subsidiary of SGBH.

    The implementation of the GATE Project will address immediate needs of the electricity sector in Brazil – increasing power transmission capacity, decongesting the transmission corridor, reducing curtailment of existing renewable energy projects, and enabling investments in future wind and solar projects in the Northeast region of Brazil, and hence leading to a more diversified electricity mix in the country.

    Out of the total project capex of around BRL 18 billion, more than two-thirds will be sourced from Brazil, thereby significantly promoting economic and social development, by creating more than 10,000 employment opportunities during construction, in the Northeast (Maranhão and Tocantins) and the Center-West (Goiás) regions of the country.

    NDB is considering financing the Project in Chinese renminbi, with an estimated amount of RMB 2,150 million (approximately USD 300 million). The loan demonstrates NDB’s commitment to expanding non-sovereign operations and increasing cross-border use of its member countries’ currencies, as envisaged in NDB’s General Strategy.

    “The GATE project signifies a leap in cooperation among NDB member countries and promotes the use of local currencies. When signed, this will be our second cross-border RMB-denominated loan, which will leverage Brazil’s clean energy potential to address urgent electricity demands and benefit millions or people while generating new jobs,” said H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff, President of NDB. “By expanding investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable development projects, the New Development Bank aims to support Brazil in achieving its climate goals.”

    This strategic partnership marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape in Brazil, aligning with NDB’s commitment to supporting development initiatives that foster economic growth and environmental sustainability.

    Since its inception in 2015, NDB has approved 29 projects in Brazil alone with USD 7 billion in approved financing. These projects are spread across several states and municipalities in Brazil, helping improve clean energy, transport, water and sanitation, and social infrastructure. NDB also has a growing portfolio of private sector loans in the country.

    Background Information

    NDB was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Development Bank and State Grid Brazil Holding Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Boost Brazil’s Energy Capacity

    Source: New Development Bank

    Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – On July 3, 2025, the New Development Bank (NDB) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with State Grid Brazil Holding (SGBH), with the aim of enhancing electricity transmission capacity in Brazil, to meet the immediate needs of the nation’s power sector.

    The signing of this Memorandum took place on the sidelines of NDB’s 10th Annual Meeting, held on July 4 and 5 in Rio de Janeiro.

    The project, known as the Graca Aranha Silvania Transmissora de Energia (“GATE”), will be implemented by a subsidiary of SGBH.

    The implementation of the GATE Project will address immediate needs of the electricity sector in Brazil – increasing power transmission capacity, decongesting the transmission corridor, reducing curtailment of existing renewable energy projects, and enabling investments in future wind and solar projects in the Northeast region of Brazil, and hence leading to a more diversified electricity mix in the country.

    Out of the total project capex of around BRL 18 billion, more than two-thirds will be sourced from Brazil, thereby significantly promoting economic and social development, by creating more than 10,000 employment opportunities during construction, in the Northeast (Maranhão and Tocantins) and the Center-West (Goiás) regions of the country.

    NDB is considering financing the Project in Chinese renminbi, with an estimated amount of RMB 2,150 million (approximately USD 300 million). The loan demonstrates NDB’s commitment to expanding non-sovereign operations and increasing cross-border use of its member countries’ currencies, as envisaged in NDB’s General Strategy.

    “The GATE project signifies a leap in cooperation among NDB member countries and promotes the use of local currencies. When signed, this will be our second cross-border RMB-denominated loan, which will leverage Brazil’s clean energy potential to address urgent electricity demands and benefit millions or people while generating new jobs,” said H.E. Mrs. Dilma Rousseff, President of NDB. “By expanding investments in green infrastructure, renewable energy, and sustainable development projects, the New Development Bank aims to support Brazil in achieving its climate goals.”

    This strategic partnership marks a significant step toward a more sustainable and efficient energy landscape in Brazil, aligning with NDB’s commitment to supporting development initiatives that foster economic growth and environmental sustainability.

    Since its inception in 2015, NDB has approved 29 projects in Brazil alone with USD 7 billion in approved financing. These projects are spread across several states and municipalities in Brazil, helping improve clean energy, transport, water and sanitation, and social infrastructure. NDB also has a growing portfolio of private sector loans in the country.

    Background Information

    NDB was established by Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS and other emerging market economies and developing countries, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with Acting Governor of Sverdlovsk Region Denis Pasler

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Issues of socio-economic development of the region were discussed.

    Meeting of Mikhail Mishustin with the acting governor of the Sverdlovsk region Denis Pasler.

    From the transcript:

    M. Mishustin: Dear Denis Vladimirovich!

    This week Yekaterinburg is hosting Innoprom, the leading exhibition of domestic industry. I would like to thank in your person everyone who worked hard and prepared, because this is a very important event for industries and for federal executive bodies. A lot of people, thousands, from all over the country have gathered here.

    I would also like to wish you success in your work in your position. In March, the President appointed you acting. You worked as the Chairman of the Government here in the Sverdlovsk Region for many years before that. You led the Orenburg Region. I want you to succeed. Good luck to you in all your endeavors and endeavors.

    Tell us what the general situation is in the economy today, what is happening with industry.

    D. Pasler: Dear Mikhail Vladimirovich!

    Thank you very much for your constant support of the Innoprom exhibition, for your personal presence. Of course, this is important for all industrialists. When you, Denis Valentinovich (Manturov), the leadership of the Ministry of Industry are at the exhibition, the most pressing issues are resolved. This is very important for us. Thank you very much again.

    Regarding the economic situation. According to the results of five months, the growth of the industrial index is 102%, for shipped products – 108.9%. Investments, despite all the difficulties, sanctions, restrictions, are more than 104.5%. The construction market – we have a 3 million plan. According to the results of the first half of the year, we have fulfilled the plan, about 1.5 million have already been introduced.

    To be continued…

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Over €3 billion from EU emissions trading revenues to be invested in cleaner energy systems

    Source: European Union 2

    The European Commission and the European Investment Bank will jointly support 34 energy-related projects in nine EU countries. Funded by revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System, the €3.66 billion investment will help modernise energy systems in the EU to cut greenhouse gas emissions.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: ICC announces new leadership of Global Marketing and Advertising body

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: ICC announces new leadership of Global Marketing and Advertising body

    Share this:

    Following a robust response to a call for nominations leveraging input from ICC’s global network of national committees, the commission’s new leadership has been confirmed for a three-year mandate, reflecting ICC’s commitment to expertise and effective governance.

    The new leaders are:

    Chair:

    • Alice Himsworth, Senior Counsel, Google (United Kingdom)

    Vice-Chairs:

    • Ludovic Basset, Director General, European Advertising Standards Alliance (Belgium)
    • Jeffrey A. Greenbaum, Managing Partner, Frankfurt Kurnit Klein and Selz PC (United States)
    • Alexander Montgomery, Principal Corporate Counsel, Microsoft (United States)
    • Gabriel Peeradon, Founder and Regional Managing Director, Yell International (Thailand)
    • Victoria N. Uwadoka, Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability Lead, Nestlé (Nigeria)

    Fayola Ferdinand, Director, Global Policy and Sustainability, Coca-Cola (United States) and Karolina Gutiez, Corporate Communications Senior Manager, Schneider Electric (Brazil) also continue in their roles as commission Vice-chairs.

    “This new team brings a wealth of experience across sectors and regions, ensuring that the commission remains at the forefront of shaping responsible marketing practices globally. We are confident that this dynamic leadership will drive ICC’s strategic priorities and further strengthen trust in marketing and advertising standards worldwide.”

    ICC Global Marketing and Advertising Commission Manager Georgiana Degeratu

    Learn more about ICC’s work marketing and advertising or how to get involved.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today held a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria, Ahmed Attaf, on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (AMM) and Related Meetings in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. They discussed ways to promote ASEAN-Algeria cooperation, following Algeria’s accession to the Treaty of Amity and cooperation in Southeast Asia.

    The post Secretary-General of ASEAN Meets with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs of Algeria appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Major boost for Sizewell C nuclear plan as French energy giant EDF confirms investment

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Major boost for Sizewell C nuclear plan as French energy giant EDF confirms investment

    Thousands of UK jobs will be created as French energy firm EDF confirms today it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security.

    • French company EDF confirms it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C nuclear plant, supporting thousands of UK jobs and boosting UK’s energy security.
    • Follows £14.5 billion funding confirmed by UK government last month and takes Britain closer to ‘golden age’ of nuclear power.
    • Prime Minister Keir Starmer to welcome French President Emmanuel Macron to Downing Steet tomorrow to make progress on shared priorities and deliver for British people.

    Thousands of UK jobs will be created as French energy firm EDF confirms today it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security.  

    EDF is the first shareholder to announce its backing for the nuclear plant alongside the UK government, who confirmed £14.2 billion of funding into the project in last month’s Spending Review.  

    Today’s announcement takes Sizewell C one step closer to being given the green light, when it will help to deliver the UK’s ‘golden age’ of nuclear and see clean power supplied to millions of homes. 

    Further investors and details on the project’s financing will be confirmed at the point of the Final Investment Decision, targeted for this summer. 

    Nuclear energy is crucial to a mixed power supply – providing a backbone of low-carbon power alongside renewables, which is the only way to bring down bills for good by ending the UK’s dependence on fossil fuel markets.

    At peak construction, Sizewell C will support 10,000 jobs, and thousands more in the nationwide supply chain, and create 1,500 apprenticeships. 

    It comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomes French President Emmanuel Macron to the UK ahead of the UK-France Summit on Thursday, which will drive forward co-operation with one of our closest neighbours on shared priorities – energy, growth, defence and security, and migration.  

    Since taking office last year, the Prime Minister has been determined to bolster the UK’s position on the world stage and improve our relationship with our closest partners in order to deliver for the British people.  

    Today’s announcement marks another vote of confidence in that approach, cementing the UK as an increasingly attractive investment destination and a reliable partner.  

    Previous governments had shied away from making real progress on Sizewell C – leaving the UK exposed when Putin’s illegal invasion into Ukraine created major shocks in the international oil and gas market.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: 

    I’ve been clear there will be no more dithering and delay on Sizewell C – and this investment takes us a step closer to the benefits it will bring to the British people. 

    Lower energy bills, thousands more jobs and apprenticeships, and better energy security – this is not only a vote of confidence in the UK as an investment destination, it is our Plan for Change in action.

    Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said:

    This investment goes hand in hand with the £14.2 billion set aside at last month’s Spending Review to deliver the biggest nuclear building programme in a generation.

    It is part of the new confidence we’re seeing in the UK as an investment destination and will create thousands of high-skilled, high-paid jobs to help deliver on our Plan for Change.

    Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said:  

    Thousands of jobs and clean power for millions of homes are one step closer today as we welcome this investment into Sizewell C – delivering a golden age of new nuclear to protect family finances and boost energy security. 

    This agreement is a landmark moment in the UK and France’s long-standing partnership in civil nuclear, and a testament to our countries’ strong relationship.

    In addition, Bpifrance, France’s export credit agency, is set to provide a £5 billion debt guarantee to the power station.  

    This supports lending to the project from a number of leading commercial banks and is enabled by Sizewell C’s innovative funding model that spreads costs between consumers, taxpayers and private investors.  

    The UK Government will remain a significant shareholder in the project – ensuring we have oversight of the progress and limiting delays.  

    The government’s nuclear programme is now the most ambitious for a generation – once small modular reactors and Sizewell C come online in the 2030s, combined with Hinkley Point C, this will deliver more new nuclear power to the grid than over the previous half century combined. 

    In another important step forward for UK–France energy collaboration, UK company Urenco have signed a 15-year deal with EDF to produce fuel for nuclear power stations, helping to deliver clean power and enhanced energy security in Europe.

    This multi-billion euro contract, with significant value for the UK, will support Urenco UK’s workforce of more than 1,400 people and support the company’s important contribution to UK economic growth, which represented more than £256 million in 2023. 

    French engineering company Assystem has also announced plans to double its nuclear workforce in the UK, creating 1,000 new engineering, digital and management jobs by 2030 across 10 UK sites, including in Sunderland, Blackburn, Derby, Bristol and London.

    Share this page

    The following links open in a new tab

    • Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
    • Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

    Updates to this page

    Published 8 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Aid cuts threaten to roll back progress in ending maternal mortality

    Source: United Nations MIL OSI b

    Furthermore, unprecedented aid cuts are putting global progress to end maternal deaths at risk, UN agencies have warned in a new report that calls for greater investment in midwives and other health workers.

    The Trends in maternal mortality report was published by the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO) and UN sexual and reproductive health agency UNFPA, in observance of World Health Day on 7 April.

    It shows that maternal deaths declined by 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, largely due to improved access to essential health services.

    However, the pace of improvement has slowed significantly since 2016, and an estimated 260,000 women died in 2023 due to complications during pregnancy and childbirth, or roughly one death every two minutes.

    Deadly peril in Sudan

    Frontline health workers have long raised alarms about the perils of giving birth in conflict settings.

    In Sudan’s Al Jazirah State, a midwife named Awatef told UNFPA that she helped four women deliver babies while fleeing violence: “I delivered them in the bush, with only very basic sterilization – I had nothing but water and soap.”

    One woman, Amina, had to give birth by Caesarean section – on the floor of a stranger’s home where a local doctor was assisting deliveries – while listening to the drum of gunfire just outside. “I had to start walking again just six hours later, carrying my baby while my wounds were still fresh and painful,” she said.

    Urgent action needed

    As aid funding cuts force countries to roll back vital services for maternal, newborn and child health, the UN agencies appeal for urgent action to prevent maternal deaths, particularly in humanitarian settings where numbers are already alarmingly high.

    “While this report shows glimmers of hope, the data also highlights how dangerous pregnancy still is in much of the world today – despite the fact that solutions exist to prevent and treat the complications that cause the vast majority of maternal deaths,” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

    “In addition to ensuring access to quality maternity care, it will be critical to strengthen the underlying health and reproductive rights of women and girls – factors that underpin their prospects of healthy outcomes during pregnancy and beyond.”

    Pregnancy and the pandemic

    The report also provides the first global account of the coronavirus“>COVID-19 pandemic’s impact on maternal survival.

    An estimated 40,000 more women died due to pregnancy or childbirth in 2021, rising to 282,000 in 2022, and to 322,000 the following year.

    This increase was linked not only to direct complications caused by COVID-19 but also widespread interruptions to maternity services, highlighting the importance of ensuring that this care is available during pandemics and other emergencies.

    Invest in midwives

    “When a mother dies in pregnancy or childbirth, her baby’s life is also at risk. Too often, both are lost to causes we know how to prevent,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.

    With global funding cuts putting more mums-to-be at risk, especially in the most fragile settings, “the world must urgently invest in midwives, nurses, and community health workers to ensure every mother and baby has a chance to survive and thrive,” she added.

    Inequalities and slowdowns

    The report also highlights persistent inequalities between regions and countries, as well as uneven progress.

    With maternal mortality declining by around 40 per cent between 2000 and 2023, sub-Saharan Africa achieved significant gains. It was also among just three UN regions to see significant drops after 2015, with the others being Australia and New Zealand, and Central and Southern Asia.

    Yet, sub-Saharan Africa still accounted for approximately 70 per cent of the global burden of maternal deaths in 2023 due to high rates of poverty and multiple conflicts.

    Meanwhile, five regions saw progress stagnate after 2015: Northern Africa and Western Asia, Eastern and South-Eastern Asia, Oceania (excluding Australia and New Zealand), Europe and North America, and Latin America and the Caribbean.

    UNFPA Sudan

    A midwife visiting pregnant women in a shelter for internally displaced persons in Sudan.

    A global responsibility

    Dr. Natalia Kanem, UNFPA’s Executive Director, upheld that access to quality maternal health services is a right, not a privilege.

    She stressed the urgent responsibility to build well-resourced health systems that safeguard the lives of pregnant women and newborns.

    “By boosting supply chains, the midwifery workforce, and the disaggregated data needed to pinpoint those most at risk, we can and must end the tragedy of preventable maternal deaths and their enormous toll on families and societies,” she said.

    Childbirth in crisis settings

    The report also highlighted the plight of pregnant women living in humanitarian emergencies, who face some of the highest risks globally.  Nearly two-thirds of global maternal deaths now occur in countries affected by fragility or conflict.

    Beyond ensuring critical services during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period, the report emphasized the importance of efforts to enhance women’s overall health by improving access to family planning services, as well as preventing underlying health conditions that increase risks, such as anaemia, malaria and noncommunicable diseases.

    Furthermore, it is also vital to ensure that girls stay in school, and that they and women have the knowledge and resources to protect their health.

    Source: WHO/UNICEF/UNFPA/World Bank/UN Population Division

    Maternal mortality ratio (MMR) trends by region.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Acquisitions Booming as Companies Tap into Coinbase Credit Facilities Opportunity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Several institutional clients have recently utilized Coinbase’s credit facilities to strategically acquire Bitcoin, underscoring growing corporate confidence in digital assets as part of long-term treasury management and diversification strategies. According to recent reports in macrotrends and other industry sources, Coinbase Global revenue for the quarter ending March 31, 2025 was $2.034B, a 24.23% increase year-over-year and Coinbase’s total revenue for the twelve months ending March 31, 2025, was $6.961 billion, showing a 75.18% increase year-over-year.  Coinbase uses credit facilities to extend loans to other companies, including Bitcoin mining firms, utilizing Bitcoin as collateral. For example, Hut 8 recently secured a $130 million Bitcoin-backed credit facility from Coinbase, which they intend to use to fund growth opportunities. Similarly, Riot Platforms entered into a $100 million credit facility with Coinbase. This strategy allows companies like Hut 8 and Riot Platforms to access capital without selling their Bitcoin holdings.  Overall, Coinbase’s strategic use of credit facilities to finance external acquisitions of Bitcoin-related businesses, coupled with their own strategic Bitcoin acquisitions and strong market performance in Q1 2025, positions them to capitalize on the growing crypto market. However, it is important to note that the market for Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, in general, is subject to volatility and regulatory uncertainties. Coinbase’s strategic decisions reflect a balance between pursuing growth opportunities and maintaining financial stability in this dynamic environment.   Active companies in news today include: KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE American: KULR), Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN), Hut 8 Corp. (NASDAQ: HUT), Riot Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT), Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD).

    Through Coinbase’s tailored lending solutions, companies can access secure, short-term credit lines to fund timely Bitcoin purchases without needing to liquidate other assets or disrupt existing capital structures. This development reflects the broader institutional adoption of digital assets and highlights the role Coinbase plays in enabling secure and compliant access to the crypto economy. While some individual company names remain confidential at this time, Coinbase confirmed that clients span industries such as fintech, digital infrastructure, and alternative investment management and include the likes of Hut8 and Riot Platforms. These firms are leveraging the platform’s lending solutions alongside Coinbase Prime’s execution and custody services for a seamless experience. Coinbase’s institutional-grade offerings continue to attract a wide range of corporate treasuries and asset managers seeking robust security, liquidity, and integrated services in one trusted platform. The credit facility product complements Coinbase’s broader mission to increase economic freedom and redefine how businesses interact with financial infrastructure.

    KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE American: KULR) Group Announces $20 Million Credit Facility with Coinbase – KULR Technology Group, Inc. (the “Company” or “KULR”) ($KULR), a Bitcoin First Company and global leader in sustainable energy management, announced today that it has secured a $20 million credit facility with Coinbase Credit, Inc., a subsidiary of Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN).

    The agreement establishes a multi-draw loan facility initially totaling up to $20 million, which will be available to KULR upon execution of the credit facility (“Effective Date”). The Company intends to use the net proceeds to fund its strategic Bitcoin accumulation goals.

    “This marks KULR’s first bitcoin-backed credit facility, giving us access to non-dilutive capital at a competitive financing rate,” said Michael Mo, CEO of KULR. “It reflects our commitment to diversifying our funding sources as we continue to execute on long-term growth strategies to drive shareholder value.”

    In 2024, KULR selected Coinbase’s Prime platform to provide custody, USDC, and self-custodial wallet services for its Bitcoin holdings. At present, eight of the ten largest publicly traded companies with bitcoin on their balance sheets utilize Coinbase Prime for similar services.

    Amounts borrowed under the credit facility will be secured by a portion of the Company’s total bitcoin holdings. CONTINUED…   Read this entire press release and more news for KULR at: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-kulr/

    In other developments in the markets of note:

    Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN) recently announced it is acquiring Liquifi, the leading token management platform for early-stage teams building onchain. Acquiring Liquifi gives us best-in-class capabilities in token cap table management, vesting, and compliance, and positions Coinbase to support builders earlier in their journey. This strategic move propels us in our journey to deliver a truly integrated one-stop-shop experience for businesses building onchain.

    Today, we’re taking a big step towards offering an end-to-end solution for onchain builders by acquiring Liquifi, the go-to platform for managing token ownership, vesting schedules, and compliance workflows. Teams like Uniswap Foundation, OP Labs (Optimism), Ethena, Zora, and 0x already rely on Liquifi to launch and manage their tokens, and we’re excited to help scale these operations even further.

    Hut 8 Corp. (NASDAQ: HUT) recently announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.   The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline; Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    Riot Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT) recently announced the hiring of Jonathan Gibbs as Chief Data Center Officer (“CDCO”) to lead the development of Riot’s data center platform. In this role, Jonathan will lead the strategic development and operations of this new platform, which will focus on building and operating state-of-the-art data centers specifically tailored to serve hyperscale and enterprise tenants.

    The creation of this new data center platform furthers Riot’s strategy to maximize the value of its assets by expanding into the development of non-bitcoin-related data centers, which diversifies the Company’s revenues, enhances Riot’s ability to generate long-term cash returns for investors and strengthens its capabilities to contract with the world’s leading technology companies. This additional platform will build on the success of Riot’s vertically-integrated strategy of utilizing bitcoin mining at scale to create significant value across its land and power portfolio and positions the Company to capitalize on the upsurge in demand for digital infrastructure driven by the growing need for cloud computing, AI and other compute-intensive applications.

    Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD) recently reported select monthly operating data for May 2025. Funded Customers at the end of May were 25.9 million (up about 5 thousand from April 2025, up 1.8 million year-over-year). In May, Funded Customers grew by approximately 5 thousand after the impact of required escheatment of approximately 100 thousand low-balance accounts.

    Total Platform Assets at the end of May were $255 billion (up 10% from April 2025, up 89% year-over-year). Net Deposits were $3.5 billion in May, or a 18% annualized growth rate relative to April 2025 Total Platform Assets. Over the last twelve months, Net Deposits were $59.1 billion, or an annual growth rate of 44% relative to May 2024 Total Platform Assets.

    Equity Notional Trading Volumes were $180.5 billion (up 14% from April 2025, up 108% year-over-year). Options Contracts Traded were 179.8 million (up 7% from April 2025, up 36% year-over-year). Crypto Notional Trading Volumes were $11.7 billion (up 36% from April 2025, up 65% year-over-year).   Margin balances at the end of May were $9.0 billion (up 7% from the end of April 2025, up 100% year-over-year).   Total Cash Sweep balances at the end of May were $30.8 billion (up 7% from the end of April 2025, up 52% year-over-year).   Total Securities Lending Revenue in May was $33 million (up 32% from April 2025, up 43% year-over-year).

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM was compensated forty two hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by KULR Technology Group, Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Acquisitions Booming as Companies Tap into Coinbase Credit Facilities Opportunity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Several institutional clients have recently utilized Coinbase’s credit facilities to strategically acquire Bitcoin, underscoring growing corporate confidence in digital assets as part of long-term treasury management and diversification strategies. According to recent reports in macrotrends and other industry sources, Coinbase Global revenue for the quarter ending March 31, 2025 was $2.034B, a 24.23% increase year-over-year and Coinbase’s total revenue for the twelve months ending March 31, 2025, was $6.961 billion, showing a 75.18% increase year-over-year.  Coinbase uses credit facilities to extend loans to other companies, including Bitcoin mining firms, utilizing Bitcoin as collateral. For example, Hut 8 recently secured a $130 million Bitcoin-backed credit facility from Coinbase, which they intend to use to fund growth opportunities. Similarly, Riot Platforms entered into a $100 million credit facility with Coinbase. This strategy allows companies like Hut 8 and Riot Platforms to access capital without selling their Bitcoin holdings.  Overall, Coinbase’s strategic use of credit facilities to finance external acquisitions of Bitcoin-related businesses, coupled with their own strategic Bitcoin acquisitions and strong market performance in Q1 2025, positions them to capitalize on the growing crypto market. However, it is important to note that the market for Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies, in general, is subject to volatility and regulatory uncertainties. Coinbase’s strategic decisions reflect a balance between pursuing growth opportunities and maintaining financial stability in this dynamic environment.   Active companies in news today include: KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE American: KULR), Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN), Hut 8 Corp. (NASDAQ: HUT), Riot Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT), Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD).

    Through Coinbase’s tailored lending solutions, companies can access secure, short-term credit lines to fund timely Bitcoin purchases without needing to liquidate other assets or disrupt existing capital structures. This development reflects the broader institutional adoption of digital assets and highlights the role Coinbase plays in enabling secure and compliant access to the crypto economy. While some individual company names remain confidential at this time, Coinbase confirmed that clients span industries such as fintech, digital infrastructure, and alternative investment management and include the likes of Hut8 and Riot Platforms. These firms are leveraging the platform’s lending solutions alongside Coinbase Prime’s execution and custody services for a seamless experience. Coinbase’s institutional-grade offerings continue to attract a wide range of corporate treasuries and asset managers seeking robust security, liquidity, and integrated services in one trusted platform. The credit facility product complements Coinbase’s broader mission to increase economic freedom and redefine how businesses interact with financial infrastructure.

    KULR Technology Group, Inc. (NYSE American: KULR) Group Announces $20 Million Credit Facility with Coinbase – KULR Technology Group, Inc. (the “Company” or “KULR”) ($KULR), a Bitcoin First Company and global leader in sustainable energy management, announced today that it has secured a $20 million credit facility with Coinbase Credit, Inc., a subsidiary of Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN).

    The agreement establishes a multi-draw loan facility initially totaling up to $20 million, which will be available to KULR upon execution of the credit facility (“Effective Date”). The Company intends to use the net proceeds to fund its strategic Bitcoin accumulation goals.

    “This marks KULR’s first bitcoin-backed credit facility, giving us access to non-dilutive capital at a competitive financing rate,” said Michael Mo, CEO of KULR. “It reflects our commitment to diversifying our funding sources as we continue to execute on long-term growth strategies to drive shareholder value.”

    In 2024, KULR selected Coinbase’s Prime platform to provide custody, USDC, and self-custodial wallet services for its Bitcoin holdings. At present, eight of the ten largest publicly traded companies with bitcoin on their balance sheets utilize Coinbase Prime for similar services.

    Amounts borrowed under the credit facility will be secured by a portion of the Company’s total bitcoin holdings. CONTINUED…   Read this entire press release and more news for KULR at: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-kulr/

    In other developments in the markets of note:

    Coinbase Global, Inc. (NASDAQ: COIN) recently announced it is acquiring Liquifi, the leading token management platform for early-stage teams building onchain. Acquiring Liquifi gives us best-in-class capabilities in token cap table management, vesting, and compliance, and positions Coinbase to support builders earlier in their journey. This strategic move propels us in our journey to deliver a truly integrated one-stop-shop experience for businesses building onchain.

    Today, we’re taking a big step towards offering an end-to-end solution for onchain builders by acquiring Liquifi, the go-to platform for managing token ownership, vesting schedules, and compliance workflows. Teams like Uniswap Foundation, OP Labs (Optimism), Ethena, Zora, and 0x already rely on Liquifi to launch and manage their tokens, and we’re excited to help scale these operations even further.

    Hut 8 Corp. (NASDAQ: HUT) recently announced that its subsidiary has entered into a Third Amended and Restated Credit Agreement with Coinbase Credit, Inc. (“Coinbase”) to amend and expand its Bitcoin-backed credit facility from $65 million to up to $130 million and extend the maturity date to July 16, 2026.   The amended facility reflects significant improvements in both economic and structural terms, including:

    Up to $65 million in incremental, non-dilutive capital that positions Hut 8 to deploy capital against near-term opportunities advancing through its growth pipeline; Conversion from a floating-rate structure to a fixed interest rate of 9.0% designed to improve Hut 8’s overall cost of capital as it scales, compared to a stated interest rate ranging from 10.5% to 11.5% between the quarter ended December 31, 2023 and the quarter ended March 31, 2025; and Collateral and borrower protections including an improved limited recourse structure and continued application of a no-rehypothecation covenant on pledged Bitcoin.

    Riot Platforms, Inc. (NASDAQ: RIOT) recently announced the hiring of Jonathan Gibbs as Chief Data Center Officer (“CDCO”) to lead the development of Riot’s data center platform. In this role, Jonathan will lead the strategic development and operations of this new platform, which will focus on building and operating state-of-the-art data centers specifically tailored to serve hyperscale and enterprise tenants.

    The creation of this new data center platform furthers Riot’s strategy to maximize the value of its assets by expanding into the development of non-bitcoin-related data centers, which diversifies the Company’s revenues, enhances Riot’s ability to generate long-term cash returns for investors and strengthens its capabilities to contract with the world’s leading technology companies. This additional platform will build on the success of Riot’s vertically-integrated strategy of utilizing bitcoin mining at scale to create significant value across its land and power portfolio and positions the Company to capitalize on the upsurge in demand for digital infrastructure driven by the growing need for cloud computing, AI and other compute-intensive applications.

    Robinhood Markets, Inc. (NASDAQ: HOOD) recently reported select monthly operating data for May 2025. Funded Customers at the end of May were 25.9 million (up about 5 thousand from April 2025, up 1.8 million year-over-year). In May, Funded Customers grew by approximately 5 thousand after the impact of required escheatment of approximately 100 thousand low-balance accounts.

    Total Platform Assets at the end of May were $255 billion (up 10% from April 2025, up 89% year-over-year). Net Deposits were $3.5 billion in May, or a 18% annualized growth rate relative to April 2025 Total Platform Assets. Over the last twelve months, Net Deposits were $59.1 billion, or an annual growth rate of 44% relative to May 2024 Total Platform Assets.

    Equity Notional Trading Volumes were $180.5 billion (up 14% from April 2025, up 108% year-over-year). Options Contracts Traded were 179.8 million (up 7% from April 2025, up 36% year-over-year). Crypto Notional Trading Volumes were $11.7 billion (up 36% from April 2025, up 65% year-over-year).   Margin balances at the end of May were $9.0 billion (up 7% from the end of April 2025, up 100% year-over-year).   Total Cash Sweep balances at the end of May were $30.8 billion (up 7% from the end of April 2025, up 52% year-over-year).   Total Securities Lending Revenue in May was $33 million (up 32% from April 2025, up 43% year-over-year).

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates Financialnewsmedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM was compensated forty two hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by KULR Technology Group, Inc. by a non-affiliated third party. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757 

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Ali Mamouri, Research Fellow, Middle East Studies, Deakin University

    US President Donald Trump has hosted Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for dinner at the White House, where he has declared talks to end the war in Gaza are “going along very well”.

    In turn, Netanyahu revealed he has nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, saying:

    he is forging peace as we speak, in one country, in one region, after the other.

    Despite all the talk of peace, negotiations in Qatar between Israeli and Palestinian delegations have broken up without a breakthrough. The talks are expected to resume later this week.

    If an agreement is reached, it will likely be hailed as a crucial opportunity to end nearly two years of humanitarian crisis in Gaza, following the October 7 attacks in which 1,200 Israelis were killed by Hamas-led militants.

    However, there is growing scepticism about the durability of any truce. A previous ceasefire agreement reached in January led to the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

    But it collapsed by March, when Israel resumed military operations in Gaza.

    This breakdown in trust on both sides, combined with ongoing Israeli military operations and political instability, suggests the new deal may prove to be another temporary pause rather than a lasting resolution.

    Details of the deal

    The proposed agreement outlines a 60-day ceasefire aimed at de-escalating hostilities in Gaza and creating space for negotiations toward a more lasting resolution.

    Hamas would release ten surviving Israeli hostages and return the remains of 18 others. In exchange, Israel is expected to withdraw its military forces to a designated buffer zone along Gaza’s borders with both Israel and Egypt.

    The agreement being thrashed out in Doha includes the release of Israeli hostages, held in Gaza for the past 22 months.
    Anas-Mohammed/Shutterstock

    While the specific terms of a prisoner exchange remain under negotiation, the release of Palestinian detainees held in Israeli prisons is a central component of the proposal.

    Humanitarian aid is also a key focus of the agreement. Relief would be delivered through international organisations, primarily UN agencies and the Palestinian Red Crescent.

    However, the agreement does not specify the future role of the US-backed Gaza Humanitarian Fund, which has been distributing food aid since May.

    The urgency of humanitarian access is underscored by the scale of destruction in Gaza. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, Israel’s military campaign has killed more than 57,000 Palestinians. The offensive has triggered a hunger crisis, displaced much of the population internally, and left vast areas of the territory in ruins.

    Crucially, the agreement does not represent an end to the war, one of Hamas’s core demands. Instead, it commits both sides to continue negotiations throughout the 60-day period, with the hope of reaching a more durable and comprehensive ceasefire.

    Obstacles to a lasting peace

    Despite the apparent opportunity to reach a final ceasefire, especially after Israel has inflicted severe damage on Hamas, Netanyahu’s government appears reluctant to fully end the military campaign.

    There is scepticism a temporary ceasefire would lead to permanent peace.
    Anas-Mohammed/Shutterstock

    A central reason is political: Netanyahu’s ruling coalition heavily relies on far-right parties that insist on continuing the war. Any serious attempt at a ceasefire could lead to the collapse of his government.

    Militarily, Israel has achieved several of its tactical objectives.

    It has significantly weakened Hamas and other Palestinian factions and caused widespread devastation across Gaza. This is alongside the mass arrests, home demolitions, and killing of hundreds of Palestinians in the West Bank.

    And it has forced Hezbollah in Lebanon to scale back its operations after sustaining major losses.

    Perhaps most notably, Israel struck deep into Iran’s military infrastructure, killing dozens of high-ranking commanders and damaging its missile and nuclear capabilities.

    Reshaping the map

    Yet Netanyahu’s ambitions may go beyond tactical victories. There are signs he is aiming for two broader strategic outcomes.

    First, by making Gaza increasingly uninhabitable, his government could push Palestinians to flee. This would effectively pave the way for Israel to annex the territory in the long term – a scenario advocated by many of his far-right allies.

    Speaking at the White House, Netanyahu says he is working with the US on finding countries that will take Palestinians from Gaza:

    if people want to stay, they can stay, but if they want to leave, they should be able to leave.

    Second, prolonging the war allows Netanyahu to delay his ongoing corruption trial and extend his political survival.

    True intentions

    At the heart of the impasse is the far-right’s vision for total Palestinian defeat, with no concession and no recognition of a future Palestinian state. This ideology has consistently blocked peace efforts for three decades.

    Israeli leaders have repeatedly described any potential Palestinian entity as “less than a state” or a “state-minus”, a formulation that falls short of Palestinian aspirations and international legal standards.

    Today, even that limited vision appears to be off the table, as Israeli policy moves towards complete rejection of Palestinian statehood.

    With Palestinian resistance movements significantly weakened and no immediate threat facing Israel, this moment presents a crucial test of Israel’s intentions.

    Is Israel genuinely pursuing peace, or seeking to cement its dominance in the region while permanently denying Palestinians their right to statehood?

    Following its military successes and the normalisation of relations with several Arab states under the Abraham Accords, Israeli political discourse has grown increasingly bold.

    Some voices in the Israeli establishment are openly advocating for the permanent displacement of Palestinians to neighbouring Arab countries such as Jordan, Egypt and Saudi Arabia. This would effectively erase the prospect of a future Palestinian state.

    This suggests that for certain factions within Israel, the end goal is not a negotiated settlement, but a one-sided resolution that reshapes the map and the people of the region on Israel’s terms.

    The coming weeks will reveal whether Israel chooses the path of compromise and coexistence, or continues down a road that forecloses the possibility of lasting peace.

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

    – ref. The US has high hopes for a new Gaza ceasefire, but Israel’s long-term aims seem far less peaceful – https://theconversation.com/the-us-has-high-hopes-for-a-new-gaza-ceasefire-but-israels-long-term-aims-seem-far-less-peaceful-260286

    MIL OSI Analysis –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: President Trump’s tug-of-war with the courts, explained

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Paul M. Collins Jr., Professor of Legal Studies and Political Science, UMass Amherst

    The U.S. Supreme Court in Washington, D.C. Stefani Reynolds/Bloomberg

    The Supreme Court handed President Donald Trump a big win on June 27, 2025, by limiting the ability of judges to block Trump administration policies across the nation.

    But Trump has not fared nearly as well in the lower courts, where he has lost a series of cases through different levels of the federal court system. On June 5, a single judge temporarily stopped the administration from preventing Harvard University from enrolling international students.

    And a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Trump on May 28 from imposing tariffs on China and other nations. The Trump administration has appealed this decision. It will be taken up in July by all 11 judges on the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

    After that, the case can be appealed to the Supreme Court.

    I’m a scholar of the federal courts. The reasons why some courts have multiple judges and others have a single judge can be confusing. Here’s a guide to help understand what’s going on in the federal courts.

    Federal District Courts

    The U.S. District Courts are the trial courts in the federal system and hear about 400,000 cases per year. A single judge almost always presides over cases.

    This makes sense for a jury trial, since a judge might make dozens of spur-of-the-moment decisions during the course of a trial, such as ruling on a lawyer’s objection to a question asked of a witness. If a panel of, say, three judges performed this task, it would prolong proceedings because the three judges would have to deliberate over every ruling.

    A more controversial role of District Courts involves setting nationwide injunctions. This happens when a single judge temporarily stops the government from enforcing a policy throughout the nation.

    There have been more than two dozen nationwide injunctions during Trump’s second term. These involve policy areas as diverse as ending birthright citizenship, firing federal employees and banning transgender people from serving in the military.

    President Donald Trump speaks at the White House on June 27, 2025, after the Supreme Court curbed the power of lone federal judges to block executive actions.
    Andrew Caballero-Reynolds/AFP via Getty Images

    Trump and Republicans in Congress argue that the ability to issue nationwide injunctions gives too much power to a single judge. Instead, they believe injunctions should apply only to the parties involved in the case.

    On June 27, the Supreme Court agreed with the Trump administration and severely limited the ability of District Court judges to issue nationwide injunctions. This means that judges can generally stop policies from being enforced only against the parties to a lawsuit, instead of everyone in the nation.

    In rare instances, a panel of three District Court judges hears a case. Congress decides what cases these special three-judge panels hear, reserving them for especially important issues. For example, these panels have heard cases involving reapportionment, which is how votes are translated into legislative seats in Congress and state legislatures, and allegations that a voter’s rights have been violated.

    The logic behind having three judges hear such important cases is that they will give more careful consideration to the dispute. This may lend legitimacy to a controversial decision and prevents a single judge from exercising too much power.

    There are also specialized courts that hear cases involving particular policies, sometimes in panels of three judges. For instance, three-judge panels on the U.S. Court of International Trade decide cases involving executive orders related to international trade.

    The federal Court of Appeals

    The U.S. Court of Appeals hears appeals from the District Courts and specialized courts.

    The 13 federal circuit courts that make up the U.S. Court of Appeals are arranged throughout the country and handle about 40,000 cases per year. Each circuit court has six to 29 judges. Cases are decided primarily by three-judge panels.

    Having multiple judges decide cases on the Court of Appeals is seen as worthwhile, since these courts are policymaking institutions. This means they set precedents for the judicial circuit in which they operate, which covers three to nine states.

    Supporters of this system argue that by having multiple judges on appellate courts, the panel will consider a variety of perspectives on the case and collaborate with one another. This can lead to better decision-making. Additionally, having multiple judges check one another can boost public confidence in the judiciary.

    The party that loses a case before a three-judge panel can request that the entire circuit rehear the case. This is known as sitting en banc.

    Because judges on a circuit can decline to hear cases en banc, this procedure is usually reserved for especially significant cases. For instance, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit has agreed to an en banc hearing to review the Court of International Trade’s decision to temporarily halt Trump’s sweeping tariff program. It also allowed the tariffs to remain in effect until the appeal plays out, likely in August.

    The exception to having the entire circuit sit together en banc is the 9th Circuit, based in San Francisco, which has 29 judges, far more than other circuit courts. It uses an 11-judge en banc process, since having 29 judges hear cases together would be logistically challenging.

    Cargo ships are seen at a container terminal in the Port of Shanghai, China, in May 2025. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of International Trade blocked Trump from imposing tariffs on China and other nations.
    CFOTO/Future Publishing via Getty Images

    The US Supreme Court

    The U.S. Supreme Court sits atop the American legal system and decides about 60 cases per year.

    Cases are decided by all nine justices, unless a justice declines to participate because of a conflict of interest. As with other multimember courts, advocates of the nine-member makeup argue that the quality of decision-making is improved by having many justices participate in a case’s deliberation.

    Each Supreme Court justice is charged with overseeing one or more of the 13 federal circuits. In this role, a single justice reviews emergency appeals from the District Courts and an appellate court within a circuit. This authorizes them to put a temporary hold on the implementation of policies within that circuit or refer the matter to the entire Supreme Court.

    In February, for example, Chief Justice John Roberts blocked a Court of Appeals order that would have compelled the Trump administration to pay nearly US$2 billion in reimbursements for already completed foreign aid work.

    In March, a 5-4 majority of the high court sent the case back to U.S. District Judge Amir Ali, who subsequently ordered the Trump administration to release some of the funds.

    The federal judicial system is complex. The flurry of executive orders from the Trump administration means that cases are being decided on a nearly daily basis by a variety of courts.

    A single judge will decide some of these cases, and others are considered by full courts. Though the nine justices of the Supreme Court technically have the final say, the sheer volume of legal challenges means that America’s District Courts and Court of Appeals will resolve many of the disputes.

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

    – ref. President Trump’s tug-of-war with the courts, explained – https://theconversation.com/president-trumps-tug-of-war-with-the-courts-explained-258234

    MIL OSI –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Jeffrey A. Lee, Professor of Geography and the Environment, Texas Tech University

    Mentors model the ethical pursuit of scientific knowledge. sanjeri/E+ via Getty Images

    Over the past 400 years or so, a set of mostly unwritten guidelines has evolved for how science should be properly done. The assumption in the research community is that science advances most effectively when scientists conduct themselves in certain ways.

    The first person to write down these attitudes and behaviors was Robert Merton, in 1942. The founder of the sociology of science laid out what he called the “ethos of science,” a set of “values and norms which is held to be binding on the man of science.” (Yes, it’s sexist wording. Yes, it was the 1940s.) These now are referred to as scientific norms.

    The point of these norms is that scientists should behave in ways that improve the collective advancement of knowledge. If you’re a cynic, you might be rolling your eyes at such a Pollyannaish ideal. But corny expectations keep the world functioning. Think: Be kind, clean up your mess, return the shopping cart to the cart corral.

    I’m a physical geographer who realized long ago that students are taught biology in biology classes and chemistry in chemistry classes, but rarely are they taught about the overarching concepts of science itself. So I wrote a book called “The Scientific Endeavor,” laying out what scientists and other educated people should know about science itself.

    Scientists in training are expected to learn the big picture of science after years of observing their mentors, but that doesn’t always happen. And understanding what drives scientists can help nonscientists better understand research findings. These scientific norms are a big part of the scientific endeavor. Here are Merton’s original four, along with a couple I think are worth adding to the list:

    Universalism

    Scientific knowledge is for everyone – it’s universal – and not the domain of an individual or group. In other words, a scientific claim must be judged on its merits, not the person making it. Characteristics like a scientist’s nationality, gender or favorite sports team should not affect how their work is judged.

    Also, the past record of a scientist shouldn’t influence how you judge whatever claim they’re currently making. For instance, Nobel Prize-winning chemist Linus Pauling was not able to convince most scientists that large doses of vitamin C are medically beneficial; his evidence didn’t sufficiently support his claim.

    In practice, it’s hard to judge contradictory claims fairly when they come from a “big name” in the field versus an unknown researcher without a reputation. It is, however, easy to point out such breaches of universalism when others let scientific fame sway their opinion one way or another about new work.

    When asked about patenting his polio vaccine, Jonas Salk replied, ‘There is no patent. Could you patent the sun?’
    Bettmann via Getty Images

    Communism

    Communism in science is the idea that scientific knowledge is the property of everyone and must be shared.

    Jonas Salk, who led the research that resulted in the polio vaccine, provides a classic example of this scientific norm. He published the work and did not patent the vaccine so that it could be freely produced at low cost.

    When scientific research doesn’t have direct commercial application, communism is easy to practice. When money is involved, however, things get complicated. Many scientists work for corporations, and they might not publish their findings in order to keep them away from competitors. The same goes for military research and cybersecurity, where publishing findings could help the bad guys.

    Disinterestedness

    Disinterestedness refers to the expectation that scientists pursue their work mainly for the advancement of knowledge, not to advance an agenda or get rich. The expectation is that a researcher will share the results of their work, regardless of a finding’s implications for their career or economic bottom line.

    Research on politically hot topics, like vaccine safety, is where it can be tricky to remain disinterested. Imagine a scientist who is strongly pro-vaccine. If their vaccine research results suggest serious danger to children, the scientist is still obligated to share these findings.

    Likewise, if a scientist has invested in a company selling a drug, and the scientist’s research shows that the drug is dangerous, they are morally compelled to publish the work even if that would hurt their income.

    In addition, when publishing research, scientists are required to disclose any conflicts of interest related to the work. This step informs others that they may want to be more skeptical in evaluating the work, in case self-interest won out over disinterest.

    Disinterestedness also applies to journal editors, who are obligated to decide whether to publish research based on the science, not the political or economic implications.

    Organized skepticism

    Merton’s last norm is organized skepticism. Skepticism does not mean rejecting ideas because you don’t like them. To be skeptical in science is to be highly critical and look for weaknesses in a piece of research.

    By the time new research is published in a reputable journal, it’ has made it past several sets of skeptical eyes.
    gorsh13/iStock via Getty Images Plus

    This concept is formalized in the peer review process. When a scientist submits an article to a journal, the editor sends it to two or three scientists familiar with the topic and methods used. They read it carefully and point out any problems they find.

    The editor then uses the reviewer reports to decide whether to accept as is, reject outright or request revisions. If the decision is revise, the author then makes each change or tries to convince the editor that the reviewer is wrong.

    Peer review is not perfect and doesn’t always catch bad research, but in most cases it improves the work, and science benefits. Traditionally, results weren’t made public until after peer review, but that practice has weakened in recent years with the rise of preprints, reducing the reliability of information for nonscientists.

    Integrity and humility

    I’m adding two norms to Merton’s list.

    The first is integrity. It’s so fundamental to good science that it almost seems unnecessary to mention. But I think it’s justified since cheating, stealing and lazy scientists are getting plenty of attention these days.

    The second is humility. You may have made a contribution to our understanding of cell division, but don’t tell us that you cured cancer. You may be a leader in quantum mechanics research, but that doesn’t make you an authority on climate change.

    Scientific norms are guidelines for how scientists are expected to behave. A researcher who violates one of these norms won’t be carted off to jail or fined an exorbitant fee. But when a norm is not followed, scientists must be prepared to justify their reasons, both to themselves and to others.

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

    – ref. Scientific norms shape the behavior of researchers working for the greater good – https://theconversation.com/scientific-norms-shape-the-behavior-of-researchers-working-for-the-greater-good-255159

    MIL OSI –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Your data privacy is slipping away – here’s why, and what you can do about it

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mike Chapple, Teaching Professor of IT, Analytics, and Operations, University of Notre Dame

    Cybersecurity and data privacy are constantly in the news. Governments are passing new cybersecurity laws. Companies are investing in cybersecurity controls such as firewalls, encryption and awareness training at record levels.

    And yet, people are losing ground on data privacy.

    In 2024, the Identity Theft Resource Center reported that companies sent out 1.3 billion notifications to the victims of data breaches. That’s more than triple the notices sent out the year before. It’s clear that despite growing efforts, personal data breaches are not only continuing, but accelerating.

    What can you do about this situation? Many people think of the cybersecurity issue as a technical problem. They’re right: Technical controls are an important part of protecting personal information, but they are not enough.

    As a professor of information technology, analytics and operations at the University of Notre Dame, I study ways to protect personal privacy.

    Solid personal privacy protection is made up of three pillars: accessible technical controls, public awareness of the need for privacy, and public policies that prioritize personal privacy. Each plays a crucial role in protecting personal privacy. A weakness in any one puts the entire system at risk.

    The first line of defense

    Technology is the first line of defense, guarding access to computers that store data and encrypting information as it travels between computers to keep intruders from gaining access. But even the best security tools can fail when misused, misconfigured or ignored.

    Two technical controls are especially important: encryption and multifactor authentication. These are the backbone of digital privacy – and they work best when widely adopted and properly implemented.



    Read more:
    The hidden cost of convenience: How your data pulls in hundreds of billions of dollars for app and social media companies

    Encryption uses complex math to put sensitive data in an unreadable format that can only be unlocked with the right key. For example, your web browser uses HTTPS encryption to protect your information when you visit a secure webpage. This prevents anyone on your network – or any network between you and the website – from eavesdropping on your communications. Today, nearly all web traffic is encrypted in this way.

    But if we’re so good at encrypting data on networks, why are we still suffering all of these data breaches? The reality is that encrypting data in transit is only part of the challenge.

    Securing stored data

    We also need to protect data wherever it’s stored – on phones, laptops and the servers that make up cloud storage. Unfortunately, this is where security often falls short. Encrypting stored data, or data at rest, isn’t as widespread as encrypting data that is moving from one place to another.

    While modern smartphones typically encrypt files by default, the same can’t be said for cloud storage or company databases. Only 10% of organizations report that at least 80% of the information they have stored in the cloud is encrypted, according to a 2024 industry survey. This leaves a huge amount of unencrypted personal information potentially exposed if attackers manage to break in. Without encryption, breaking into a database is like opening an unlocked filing cabinet – everything inside is accessible to the attacker.

    Multifactor authentication is a security measure that requires you to provide more than one form of verification before accessing sensitive information. This type of authentication is more difficult to crack than a password alone because it requires a combination of different types of information. It often combines something you know, such as a password, with something you have, such as a smartphone app that can generate a verification code or with something that’s part of what you are, like a fingerprint. Proper use of multifactor authentication reduces the risk of compromise by 99.22%.

    While 83% of organizations require that their employees use multifactor authentication, according to another industry survey, this still leaves millions of accounts protected by nothing more than a password. As attackers grow more sophisticated and credential theft remains rampant, closing that 17% gap isn’t just a best practice – it’s a necessity.

    Multifactor authentication is one of the simplest, most effective steps organizations can take to prevent data breaches, but it remains underused. Expanding its adoption could dramatically reduce the number of successful attacks each year.

    Awareness gives people the knowledge they need

    Even the best technology falls short when people make mistakes. Human error played a role in 68% of 2024 data breaches, according to a Verizon report. Organizations can mitigate this risk through employee training, data minimization – meaning collecting only the information necessary for a task, then deleting it when it’s no longer needed – and strict access controls.

    Policies, audits and incident response plans can help organizations prepare for a possible data breach so they can stem the damage, see who is responsible and learn from the experience. It’s also important to guard against insider threats and physical intrusion using physical safeguards such as locking down server rooms.

    Public policy holds organizations accountable

    Legal protections help hold organizations accountable in keeping data protected and giving people control over their data. The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation is one of the most comprehensive privacy laws in the world. It mandates strong data protection practices and gives people the right to access, correct and delete their personal data. And the General Data Protection Regulation has teeth: In 2023, Meta was fined €1.2 billion (US$1.4 billion) when Facebook was found in violation.

    Despite years of discussion, the U.S. still has no comprehensive federal privacy law. Several proposals have been introduced in Congress, but none have made it across the finish line. In its place, a mix of state regulations and industry-specific rules – such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for health data and the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act for financial institutions – fill the gaps.

    Some states have passed their own privacy laws, but this patchwork leaves Americans with uneven protections and creates compliance headaches for businesses operating across jurisdictions.

    The tools, policies and knowledge to protect personal data exist – but people’s and institutions’ use of them still falls short. Stronger encryption, more widespread use of multifactor authentication, better training and clearer legal standards could prevent many breaches. It’s clear that these tools work. What’s needed now is the collective will – and a unified federal mandate – to put those protections in place.

    This article is part of a series on data privacy that explores who collects your data, what and how they collect, who sells and buys your data, what they all do with it, and what you can do about it.

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

    – ref. Your data privacy is slipping away – here’s why, and what you can do about it – https://theconversation.com/your-data-privacy-is-slipping-away-heres-why-and-what-you-can-do-about-it-251768

    MIL OSI –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: What “Haute Couture” Really Means in French Law

    Source: US Global Legal Monitor

    Today’s post is a guest post by a foreign law specialist at the Law Library of Congress, Louis Gilbert. Louis previously wrote “Wait, It Is Not About Wigs?” – The Story of Faso Dan Fani Court Robes in Burkina Faso for In Custodia Legis. 

    We throw around the term “haute couture” a lot these days: on runways, in fashion blogs, and in brand campaigns, but in France, it is not just a fancy way to say “high fashion.” It is a legally protected label with very specific rules, history, and meaning.

    Haute Couture: More Than Just Clothes

    At its core, haute couture is the art of creating luxurious, made-to-measure clothing for a private and very exclusive clientele. But it is more than that, it is also a creative playground where designers push boundaries, take risks, and influence the future of fashion far beyond the small circle of people who actually wear these clothes.

    Even though only a few clients ever purchase couture, its impact is global. The media attention surrounding haute couture shows means that ideas born in couture houses trickle down into ready-to-wear collections and even pop culture.

    A Wartime Origin Story

    The story begins during World War II. With fabric shortages affecting the entire country, the French government needed a way to support the couture industry. Until the outbreak of the second World War, haute couture professionals operated independently. With the onset of the war and resulting shortages in the textile industry, Parisian couture unions requested an official designation from the government granting haute couture houses privileged access to the raw materials needed for production.

    So, in 1945, the government officially stepped in. First, the Comité Général d’Organisation de l’Habillement et du Travail des Étoffes (the General Committee for the Organization of Clothing and Fabric Work) under the authority of the Ministry of Industry, issued a decision on January 23, 1945, distinguishing “couture” companies from mass-market producers. Then, on April 6, 1945, a ministerial order laid out the exact legally enforceable criteria a fashion house had to meet to qualify as haute couture. Those rules are still the foundation of the system today.

    Since then, only a select group of fashion houses, approved each year by a special commission under the Ministry of Industry, can legally use the title. The process is overseen by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, which sets the standards and reviews applications. They can even conduct audits and investigations before granting the prestigious status.

    Christian Dior – Couturier de Rêve. Exhibition at the Musée des Arts Decoratifs, Paris, 2017. Photo by Flickr user Claudia Schillinger. Used under Creative Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0.

    What Really Makes a Brand “Haute Couture”

    So what exactly makes a house “haute couture”? According to the order of April 6, 1945, to earn and keep the title, a fashion house must:

    • design and create custom garments made to a client’s exact measurements, entirely in-house, with multiple fittings,
    • present two collections a year in Paris, one in January for spring-summer, and one in July for autumn-winter, each featuring at least 25 original looks,
    • produce only original work, no buying designs from outside sources, and
    • be approved by a special commission under the Ministry of Industry, overseen by the Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne (now part of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode).

    Once a house is approved, it gets added to an official list updated annually. And only those on that list can legally call themselves haute couture. The presentations showing off the spring-summer and autumn-winter collections are elaborate productions, comparable to theatrical performances, and are central to the identity and visibility of haute couture.

    Prestige Over Perks

    Back in the 1940s, being on the haute couture list came with real perks: easier access to materials, more pricing freedom, and prestige. As postwar shortages faded in the early 1950s, the practical advantages disappeared. What remained, and still holds incredible power, is the status. Haute couture became less about economic benefit and more about cultural prestige. It was, and still is, a mark of excellence, craftsmanship, and artistry.

    Historically, couture houses have also used high-profile figures for promotional purposes. In the 1930s, for example, Chanel dressed the Countess de Montgomery, while Lanvin dressed the Countess Jean de Polignac, both free of charge.

    CHANEL – 215 [1938]. Black lace strapless dress with faille ribbon outlining the décolletage and ruffle of the same lace above it. 1938. Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division. https://hdl.loc.gov/loc.pnp/cph.3b46035.

    The Shrinking World of Couture

    While the prestige has held steady, the number of official haute couture houses has dropped sharply. There were 106 accredited houses in 1946. By 1967, that number was down to 19. As of 2020, only 16 remained.

    That decline mirrors a shrinking client base. In 1943, it was estimated that 20,000 people regularly bought haute couture. By 1990, that number had fallen to just 200. Why? The rise of luxury ready-to-wear collections gave clients more options and fewer reasons to wait weeks or months for one-of-a-kind garments.

    Still, haute couture is not going anywhere. It remains the pinnacle of fashion, a world where imagination, skill, and tradition come together in pieces that are as much art as clothing.

    A 2020 decision by the Ministry of the Economy, which was extended until July 31, 2025, by another decision, designates the following 16 houses that hold the haute couture label:

    • Adeline André,
    • Alexandre Vauthier,
    • Alexis Mabille,
    • Bouchra Jarrar,
    • Chanel,
    • Christian Dior,
    • Franck Sorbier,
    • Giambattista Valli,
    • Givenchy,
    • Jean Paul Gaultier,
    • Julien Fournié,
    • Maison Margiela,
    • Miason Rabih Kayrouz,
    • Maurizio Galante,
    • Schiaparelli, and
    • Stéphane Rolland.

    For more on clothing and fabric rationing in the 1940s, see this

    Subscribe to In Custodia Legis – it’s free! – to receive interesting posts drawn from the Law Library of Congress’s vast collections and our staff’s expertise in U.S., foreign, and international law.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Disaster Relief Still Available to Michigan Residents, Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses, private nonprofit (PNP) organizations, homeowners and renters in Michigan of the Aug. 8 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset losses from physical damage caused by affected by the severe winter storms occurring March 28-30, 2025.

    The disaster declaration covers the Michigan counties of Charlevoix, Cheboygan, Emmet, Mackinac, Montmorency, Otsego and Presque Isle.

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s mitigation loans.”

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for PNPs, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    Disaster survivors should not wait to settle with their insurance company before applying for a disaster loan. If a survivor does not know how much of their loss will be covered by insurance or other sources, SBA can make a low-interest disaster loan for the total loss up to its loan limits, provided the borrower agrees to use insurance proceeds to reduce or repay the loan.

    To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is Aug. 8, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is March 9, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

    The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow or expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: SEC, Quidax Bring Together Top Banks, Asset Managers to Drive Digital Assets Adoption in Nigeria

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    L-R: Anya Edmund Duroha Chairman, African Founders Launchpad; Buchi Okoro, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quidax; Pascal Maguire, Sales Director for Africa at Fireblocks; Ajibade Laolu Adewale, Chairman of the Committee of E-Business Heads in Nigerian Banks and Chief Partnership Officer at Wema Bank; Ugodre Obi-Chukwu, Founder and CEO at Nairametrics; Abdulrasheed Dan Abu, Head of FinTech and Innovation at the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

    LAGOS, Nigeria, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, in collaboration with leading digital assets exchange Quidax, hosted an educational series aimed at equipping Nigerian finance professionals with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate the evolving digital assets ecosystem.

    The exclusive two-day event, held at the prestigious Capital Club in Victoria Island, Lagos, convened representatives from commercial banks, asset management firms, pension fund administrators, and securities traders. Some of the participants at the event were from Zenith Bank, ARM, Investment One, FBNQuest, Interswitch, Ecobank, Africa Prudential, Meristem, Wema Bank, Capitafield, Sterling Bank, and several other companies.

    Driving Adoption Through Education and Regulation

    Speaking at the event, Abdulrasheed Dan Abu, Head of FinTech and Innovation at the Securities and Exchange Commission, underscored the programme’s significance. He stated that the initiative reflects the commission’s statutory responsibility not only to regulate the capital market but also to actively develop it.

    Dan Abu emphasized the integral role of traditional financial institutions in the growth of the digital asset ecosystem. “The banks hold fiat currency. If they don’t understand what is going on, it creates a disconnect in the value chain. The more banks that understand digital assets, the better the playing field for users,” he explained.

    This educational series builds on a series of significant regulatory milestones in Nigeria’s digital finance space. On 29 March 2025, President Bola Tinubu signed into law the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025, which formally classifies cryptocurrencies and other virtual assets as securities, thereby placing them under the SEC’s purview. Prior to this, in June 2024, the commission issued rules for Virtual Asset Service Providers, providing crucial regulatory backing to exchanges and other entities operating in the space.

    Quidax’s Pan-African Mission and the Importance of Collaboration

    Buchi Okoro, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Quidax, highlighted the event’s core purpose: supporting adoption by educating both beginners and advanced participants within the financial industry. “Adoption starts with education. This session caters to people at different knowledge levels, from total beginners to those who have conducted blockchain pilots,” he said.

    Okoro reiterated Quidax’s ambitious Pan-African mission, noting that the exchange already operates in nine countries and plans to expand to all 54 African nations. “We’re solving African problems for Africans, and this event partnership with the SEC helps us do that within regulatory guardrails,” he added.

    Industry Leaders Endorse the Initiative

    The event garnered strong support from other key industry players, reinforcing the collaborative spirit essential for digital asset integration.

    Pascal Maguire, Sales Director for Africa at Fireblocks, stressed the need for such forums: “We need more finance and payments experts and decision makers to attend such forums as this enables them to see that they have trusted partners in firms like Quidax, Fireblocks, and the SEC who can both educate them and guide them on their adoption and innovation journey.”

    Ajibade Laolu Adewale, Chairman of the Committee of E-Business Heads in Nigerian Banks and Chief Partnership Officer at Wema Bank, a panelist at the event, highlighted the pressing need for digital assets due to inefficiencies in traditional banking. “Today, moving money internationally still takes days and depends on informal channels. With blockchain, you can transfer value instantly and securely,” he stated.

    Attendees also expressed their positive reception. Sunday Joseph Olaniyan, Head of E-Business at Sun Trust Bank, remarked, “Events like these bring such awareness even closer to us as institutions here in Nigeria and presents us with the opportunity to not be left out of this wave of change. People like myself who have been aware of digital assets are now even more sensitized to the global trend and I sure do not want to be left behind at all.”

    Adding to the sentiment, Bukola James-Cole, Director of Capital Market at Africa Prudential PLC, spoke about the natural evolution of money. She emphasized, “Whether we like it or not it will happen so the earlier we start getting educated about digital assets the better for the industry.”

    About Quidax

    Quidax is an African-founded cryptocurrency exchange that makes it easy for anyone to buy, sell, store and transfer cryptocurrencies. Quidax additionally enables OTC trading and gives fintechs the tools to offer cryptocurrency services to customers through a dedicated crypto API.

    Quidax was officially launched in 2018 and has customers in over 70 countries.

    Contact:
    Pearl
    pearl@quidax.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ea4400e-9377-4b98-b4be-b7fb6531a1d5

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Almond FinTech Expands Its Transfer Network in APAC through Ample Transfers Partnership

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Almond FinTech, the two-time CrossTech Innovation Award winner for “Crypto Payments Solution in Cross-Border Payments,” announced today that Ample Transfers, a 27-year-old remittance provider based in Singapore, has partnered with Almond’s proprietary technology to optimize its internal treasury and settlement operations for transfers from Singapore to Indonesia.

    This partnership marks a key milestone in Almond FinTech’s strategic expansion into Southeast Asia’s cross-border money flows.

    Award-Winning Technology Expands Across APAC with New Singapore—Indonesia Corridor

    The Singapore—Indonesia payment corridor represents a significant remittance route for Singapore’s Indonesian migrant community. Since launching in late May, Almond’s blockchain-based optimization technology has powered over $2 million SGD in transfers through this corridor—delivering exchange rates consistently better than mid-market FX rates and unavailable elsewhere in the industry. These results reflect the same transformative impact that earned Almond consecutive industry recognition in 2023 and 2024.

    “This partnership represents a natural evolution in our mission to remove barriers in global financial transfers,” said Adam Swartzbaugh, CEO and Co-Founder of Almond FinTech. “We’ve always believed true innovation comes from deeply understanding customers’ needs and building solutions that not only solve today’s problems but anticipate tomorrow’s. In a crowded and commoditized space, Ample stands out for its commitment to leveraging technology to deliver meaningful value to its customers—making them an ideal partner for our expansion across Asia.”

    Proven Performance Meets Regulatory Excellence

    Ample has been licensed as a Major Payment Institution by the Monetary Authority of Singapore for over 25 years, establishing its credibility as a trusted financial services provider. The partnership validates Almond’s ability to deliver superior performance while meeting Singapore’s regulatory requirements. Almond leverages a multitude of stablecoins as bridge assets to optimize cross-border treasury transfers between fiat currencies. Almond’s technology aggregates real-time market data to identify the most cost-effective and efficient transfer routes. This same breakthrough infrastructure is active across 10 countries and supports over 100 digital currencies.

    For Ample, this enables:

    • Better than mid-market FX rates through intelligent routing
    • Near real-time settlement for treasury transfers
    • Redundancy and reliability through multi-asset routing
    • Lower transaction costs compared to traditional rails

    Innovation Leadership Drives Market Expansion

    This partnership demonstrates Almond’s continued technology leadership in cross-border payments. The company’s consecutive CrossTech Innovation Awards underscore its role as an industry pioneer, consistently delivering solutions that address critical financial challenges globally.

    “Receiving this award is a testament to our team’s relentless commitment to pushing the boundaries of financial technology,” said Swartzbaugh, referencing Almond’s recent recognition. “This partnership with Ample shows how award-winning innovation translates directly into enhanced services for financial institutions and their customers. One of our strongest value propositions is helping clients optimize across multiple stablecoins, not just one, enabling better liquidity, tighter spreads, and more flexibility without complicating onboarding.”

    Embedded within Ample’s technology stack that powers their customer-facing and internal treasury operations, Almond’s technology enhances backend efficiency—delivering the same optimization capabilities that have positioned Almond as a leader in B2B cross-border payments.

    Strategic Growth in Southeast Asia

    The partnership with Ample positions Almond FinTech for continued growth across Southeast Asian markets, where digital payment adoption creates opportunities for technological enhancement. This expansion reflects Almond’s strategy of partnering with established, regulated institutions to deliver cutting-edge payment solutions.

    “We believe that stablecoins are the future, and powering remittances with them is the way forward. Partnering with Almond has allowed us to harness that future safely, through a treasury layer that delivers faster, cheaper, and more reliable settlement. For our customers, nothing changes on the surface—but under the hood, we’re moving with the times.” — Matthew Yap, CEO, Ample Transfers.

    About Almond FinTech

    Almond FinTech is a B2B fintech company transforming cross-border payments by empowering financial institutions and their customers with optimal FX Rates and near-instant settlements across all corridors globally.

    Visit www.almondfintech.com for more information.

    About Ample Transfers

    Founded in 1998, Ample Transfers is Singapore’s leading cross-border remittance provider, licensed as a Major Payment Institution by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. The company provides reliable, affordable remittance services to over 200 countries and territories through both physical locations and their remit.ai online platform, serving Singapore’s diverse communities for over 25 years. Visit www.ampletransfers.com for more information.

    Media Contact:

    Howard Davidson
    howard@almondfintech.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Titan Network Launches IP Leasing Browser Extension to Turn Idle IPs into Passive Income

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Titan Network has unveiled a browser-based IP leasing extension designed to turn everyday internet connections into secure, enterprise-ready infrastructure. This product marks a significant step in Titan’s broader mission to decentralize the cloud by mobilizing the untapped potential of user-owned digital resources.

    Developed in response to rising enterprise demand for trusted, distributed IP access, the extension allows individuals to contribute their unused residential IPs to real-world applications in AI, cybersecurity, and e-commerce – all with just a lightweight browser install.

    Unlike conventional Web3 projects, Titan’s infrastructure is built around commercial utility. The IP leasing extension lowers the barrier for users to participate while meeting the stringent requirements of enterprise clients, positioning Titan as a pioneer in practical, real-world adoption of DePIN architecture.

    Addressing the Demand for Reliable IP Resources

    In today’s digital landscape, enterprises face increasing challenges in sourcing trustworthy, geographically diverse IP addresses essential for operations like AI model training, e-commerce analytics, and fraud prevention. Traditional solutions often involve opaque methods, posing risks to both users and clients. Titan’s new browser extension offers a transparent and secure alternative, aligning with enterprise standards and ensuring user privacy.

    How It Works: Secure and User-Friendly Integration

    The lightweight extension is designed for ease of use. Once installed, it securely connects the user’s device to the Titan Network, securely enabling IP sharing without compromising privacy. Titan’s unique container architecture ensures each task is sandboxed, isolating network activity from a user’s local environment.

    Ready to join? Get started with the Titan IP extension here.

    Key features include:

    • Container-based isolation for secure task execution
    • On-chain contribution tracking for transparency and accountability
    • Automated task routing driven by verified enterprise needs

    Real-World Applications and Adoption

    Titan’s infrastructure is already live, supporting commercial clients such as TikTok, Tencent, iQIYI, and emerging AI platforms. Example applications include:

    • AI and data services: Facilitating region-specific IP access for training data collection
    • E-commerce monitoring: Enabling dynamic price tracking and ad verification
    • Security operations: Assisting in defense against DDoS and other threats

    Technological Innovation for Scalability

    Titan’s dual-layer container system reduces reliance on centralized relays, lowering risk and supporting secure, high-performance workloads. This architecture also enables direct communication between clients and contributors, minimizing the need for costly data rerouting and enhancing overall system security. As a result, more value can be retained within the network and distributed to node operators. This design allows Titan to deliver stable, enterprise-grade infrastructure that scales across diverse use cases. By addressing real-world demand through accessible, browser-native infrastructure, Titan is helping redefine how internet infrastructure is sourced, shared, and monetized.

    About Titan Network

    Titan Network builds decentralized cloud infrastructure by aggregating idle resources from global users. By aligning infrastructure growth with enterprise demand, Titan aims to deliver a resilient, equitable, and user-powered digital future.

    For more information, visit Titan Network’s official website.

    Media Contact Name: Neo Ge
    Email: media@titannet.io
    Website: https://titannet.io/

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/47756f1b-1b88-4077-adae-5b4b5591e614

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36795b47-3d78-47dc-8f23-a028d7de160e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/da6ae21f-e93e-4efe-9dbb-ae117aa06a3c

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Wearable Devices Partners with Japanese E-Commerce Platform to Expand Distribution and Market Reach for Mudra Band and Mudra Link

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Yokneam Illit, Israel, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Wearable Devices Ltd. (the “Company” or “Wearable Devices”) (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW), a technology growth company specializing in artificial intelligence (“AI”)-powered touchless sensing wearables, today announced a collaboration with Media Exceed Co., Ltd. (“Media Exceed”), a leading e-commerce company in Japan. Under this agreement, Media Exceed will serve as a non-exclusive reseller of Wearable Devices’ innovative Mudra Band and Mudra Link products in the Japanese market, expanding the reach of its cutting-edge neural input solutions to one of the world’s most tech-savvy consumer bases.

    This collaboration aims to enhance the availability of Wearable Devices’ neural interface products in Japan, leveraging Media Exceed’s robust e-commerce platform and market expertise. The collaboration supports both drop shipping and wholesale models, ensuring streamlined order fulfillment and localized customer support for Japanese buyers.

    “We are excited to collaborate with Media Exceed to bring our cutting-edge gesture control technology to a broader audience in Japan,” said Asher Dahan, Chief Executive Officer of Wearable Devices. “This collaboration aligns with our strategic goal of expanding our global footprint and making our products more accessible to users worldwide.”

    Mr. Shinya Kasuga, Chief Executive Officer of Media Exceed commented on the collaboration, “We are eager to start working with Wearable Devices and bring the innovative Mudra products to the Japanese market. Their neural interface technology aligns perfectly with our vision to introduce cutting-edge solutions that enhance the way people interact with digital devices.”

    The Mudra Band, designed for Apple Watch users, and the Mudra Link, compatible with Android and Windows devices, utilize proprietary Surface Nerve Conductance sensors to detect neural signals from subtle finger movements. These signals are translated into intuitive commands, enabling touchless control of digital devices. The Mudra Link was recently showcased at CES® 2025, where it received an Innovation Award in the XR Technologies and Accessories category.

    Media Exceed will offer these products through its online platforms, providing Japanese consumers with direct access to Wearable Devices’ innovative technology. The collaboration is expected to enhance user experience and satisfaction by combining advanced wearable technology with Media Exceed’s customer-centric approach.

    About Wearable Devices

    Wearable Devices Ltd. (Nasdaq: WLDS, WLDSW) is a growth company pioneering human-computer interaction through its AI-powered neural input touchless technology. Leveraging proprietary sensors, software, and advanced AI algorithms, the Company’s consumer products – the Mudra Band and Mudra Link – are defining the neural input category both for wrist-worn devices and for brain-computer interfaces. These products enable touch-free, intuitive control of digital devices using gestures across multiple operating systems.

    Operating through a dual-channel model of direct-to-consumer sales and enterprise licensing and collaborations, Wearable Devices empowers consumers with stylish, functional wearables for enhanced experiences in gaming, productivity, and extended reality (XR). In the business sector, the Company provides enterprise partners with advanced input solutions for immersive and interactive environments, from AR/VR/XR to smart environments.

    By setting the standard for neural input in the XR ecosystem, Wearable Devices is shaping the future of seamless, natural user experiences across some of the world’s fastest-growing tech markets. Wearable Devices’ ordinary shares and warrants trade on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbols “WLDS” and “WLDSW,” respectively.

    Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimer

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, that are intended to be covered by the “safe harbor” created by those sections. Forward-looking statements, which are based on certain assumptions and describe our future plans, strategies and expectations, can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking terms such as “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “should,” “could,” “seek,” “intend,” “plan,” “goal,” “estimate,” “anticipate” or other comparable terms. For example, we are using forward-looking statements when we discuss the aim of our collaboration with Media Exceed, benefits and advantages of our products and technology, our strategic goal of expanding our global footprint and making our products more accessible to users worldwide and that the collaboration is expected to enhance user experience and satisfaction. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release regarding our strategies, prospects, financial condition, operations, costs, plans and objectives are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are neither historical facts nor assurances of future performance. Instead, they are based only on our current beliefs, expectations and assumptions regarding the future of our business, future plans and strategies, projections, anticipated events and trends, the economy and other future conditions. Because forward-looking statements relate to the future, they are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and changes in circumstances that are difficult to predict and many of which are outside of our control. Our actual results and financial condition may differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Therefore, you should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements include, among others, the following: the trading of our ordinary shares or warrants and the development of a liquid trading market; our ability to successfully market our products and services; the acceptance of our products and services by customers; our continued ability to pay operating costs and ability to meet demand for our products and services; the amount and nature of competition from other security and telecom products and services; the effects of changes in the cybersecurity and telecom markets; our ability to successfully develop new products and services; our success establishing and maintaining collaborative, strategic alliance agreements, licensing and supplier arrangements; our ability to comply with applicable regulations; and the other risks and uncertainties described in our annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2024, filed on March 20, 2025 and our other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise.

    Investor Relations Contact
    Michal Efraty
    IR@wearabledevices.co.il

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear Signs a Memorandum of Understanding with UrAmerica Ltd. to Help Modernize and Develop Argentina’s Nuclear Fuel Supply Chain

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or “the Company”), a leading advanced nuclear energy and technology company focused on developing clean energy solutions, today announced that it has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with UrAmerica Ltd., a private exploration company with a package of uranium and other critical metals licenses primarily in Chubut Province, Argentina.

    The newly signed MOU formalizes the discussions that NANO Nuclear initiated with UrAmerica to explore strategic development across Argentina’s uranium-fuel supply chain. Both companies are now working to evaluate specific opportunities, ranging from mining and conversion to UF₆ feedstock supply, that could aid NANO Nuclear in securing a dependable source of material for future supply chain options. Such evaluations may lead to the signing of definitive agreements between NANO Nuclear and UrAmerica related to particular projects.

    Argentina has one of the largest uranium repositories in the world and its government is currently looking into the privatization of their nuclear energy sector, enabling innovators like NANO Nuclear to invest and support the development of the nuclear energy infrastructure in the country. Through this MOU, NANO Nuclear and UrAmerica aim to build the mining and milling capacities of the uranium supply chain in Argentina with the intention to be a part of the uranium fuel cycle exports into the U.S.

    Under the MOU, the companies will pursue (i) favorable uranium offtake agreements, (ii) potential investments in mineral production and (iii) fuel-cycle infrastructure, and (iv) future joint ventures or related collaboration. One of NANO Nuclear’s goals in entering into the MOU is to help modernize Argentina’s nuclear sector while strengthening U.S. energy security by sourcing materials for nuclear fuel from a reliable partner.

    Figure 1 – NANO Nuclear Signs Memorandum of Understanding with UrAmerica Ltd., to explore strategic development across the uranium-fuel supply chain in Argentina

    “We are pleased to formalize our discussions with UrAmerica through this MOU as we seek to further extend NANO Nuclear’s international footprint,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “By collaborating with UrAmerica, we aim to position Argentina as a regional center for nuclear technology and a reliable supply-chain partner for the United States, strengthening the country’s existing infrastructure while advancing our shared goals.”

    “Argentina holds substantial deposits of strategic metals, like uranium, that could be a strategic supplier to us in the future,” said James Walker, Chief Executive Officer of NANO Nuclear. “The timing is also favorable, as the Argentine government is actively looking to reform its nuclear sector to attract international investment. We look forward to advancing our discussions and exploring future opportunities in South America.”

    “This Memorandum of Understanding with NANO Nuclear marks a pivotal step forward in unlocking the vast potential of Argentina’s uranium resources, aligning perfectly with UrAmerica’s mission to drive sustainable and secure critical mineral supply chains,” said Omar Adra, Executive Director & CEO of UrAmerica Ltd. and President of UrAmerica Argentina S.A. “Our extensive licenses package in the San Jorge Basin holds world-class uranium deposits, and through this collaboration, we aim to not only meet the growing global demand for nuclear fuel but also position Argentina as a key strategic partner for the United States in energy security. By leveraging UrAmerica’s expertise in mineral exploration and NANO Nuclear’s advanced nuclear technology and expertise, we are hopeful that this collaboration will catalyze investments in mining, milling, and fuel cycle development, delivering long-term economic benefits for Argentina while supporting the U.S. in diversifying its nuclear supply chain away from geopolitical risks.”

    About UrAmerica Ltd.

    UrAmerica is a private critical metals exploration company with a focus on uranium and other critical metals (e.g., lithium, rare earths, molybdenum, and vanadium) operating primarily in Chubut Province, Argentina. UrAmerica, through its subsidiary UrAmerica Argentina S.A., fully owns licenses of uranium repositories in the San Jorge Basin.

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “future,” “seek,” “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “goal,” “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of the MOU described herein, as well as the future plans and goals of NANO Nuclear and UrAmerica as described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other nuclear technology or capabilities in the timelines we anticipate, if ever (including in collaboration with UrAmerica as described herein), (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act and the May 23, 2025 Executive Orders seeking to streamline nuclear regulation, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    Attachment

    • NANO Nuclear Energy Inc.

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: SuRo Capital Corp. Second Quarter 2025 Preliminary Investment Portfolio Update

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Net Asset Value Anticipated to be $9.00 to $9.50 Per Share

    Board of Directors Declares $0.25 Per Share Cash Dividend

    NEW YORK, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SuRo Capital Corp. (“SuRo Capital”, the “Company”, “we”, “us”, and “our”) (Nasdaq: SSSS) today provided the following preliminary update on its investment portfolio for the second quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    “The second quarter was SuRo Capital’s best quarter since inception, as measured by the appreciation in NAV per share,” said Mark Klein, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SuRo Capital. “Our performance was largely driven by the public and private markets recognizing the value proposition of AI infrastructure companies. CoreWeave’s IPO, coupled with its post-IPO performance, led the way. Additionally, OpenAI announced a landmark $40.0 billion financing round at a $300.0 billion post-money valuation, the largest private capital raise ever by a technology company. It has been reported that Canva is preparing for a secondary tender at a $37.0 billion valuation and Colombier Acquisition Corp. II is nearing completion of a proposed merger with GrabAGun, further building on SuRo Capital’s SPAC sponsor strategy success. These developments resulted in an NAV per share uplift of over 35% for the quarter,” Klein added.

    Mr. Klein further emphasized, “Beyond these high-profile capital raises, we remain committed to backing some of the world’s most innovative and sought-after private companies ahead of their public market debuts. In April, we completed a new $5.0 million investment in Plaid (through a wholly owned SPV), a market-leading fintech platform that enables secure, seamless connectivity between financial applications and consumers, with an estimated reach of 1 in every 2 adults in the U.S.”

    “As a result of this strong performance and momentum across our portfolio, we are pleased to announce that our Board of Directors has declared an initial dividend of $0.25 per share. This dividend is driven by successful monetizations of SuRo Capital’s public securities. Based on ongoing portfolio activity, we anticipate declaring additional dividends throughout the year. As always, we will keep you informed about our dividend strategy as we gain more clarity on the timing and magnitude,” Mr. Klein concluded.

    As previously reported, SuRo Capital’s net assets totaled approximately $156.8 million, or $6.66 per share, at March 31, 2025, and approximately $162.3 million, or $6.94 per share at June 30, 2024. As of June 30, 2025, SuRo Capital’s net asset value is estimated to be between $9.00 and $9.50 per share.

    Investment Portfolio Update

    As of June 30, 2025, SuRo Capital held positions in 36 portfolio companies – 33 privately held and 3 publicly held.

    During the three months ended June 30, 2025, SuRo Capital made the following investment:

    Portfolio Company Investment Transaction Date Amount(1)
    Plaid Inc.(2) Class A Common Shares 4/4/2025 $5.0 million

    ___________________
    (1)   Amount invested does not include capitalized costs, origination fees, or prepaid expenses.
    (2)   SuRo Capital’s investment in the Class A Common Shares of Plaid Inc. was made through 1789 Capital Nirvana II LP, an SPV in which SuRo Capital is the Sole Limited Partner. SuRo Capital paid a 7% origination fee at the time of investment.

    During the three months ended June 30, 2025, SuRo Capital exited and received proceeds from the following investments:

    Portfolio Company Transaction
    Date    		 Quantity Average Net
    Share Price    (1)    		 Net
    Proceeds    		 Realized
    Gain
    CoreWeave, Inc.(2) Various 222,240 $113.99 $25.3 million $15.3 million
    ServiceTitan, Inc.(3) Various 151,515 $105.07 $15.9 million $5.9 million

    __________________
    (1)   The average net share price is the net share price realized after deducting all commissions and fees on the sale(s), if applicable.
    (2)   As of June 20, 2025, SuRo Capital had sold the entirety of its directly held CoreWeave, Inc. public common shares. As of June 30, 2025 SuRo Capital continues to hold the entirety of its interest in CW Opportunity 2 LP.
    (3)   As of June 27, 2025, SuRo Capital had sold its entire position in ServiceTitan, Inc. public common shares.

    SuRo Capital’s liquid assets were approximately $52.4 million as of June 30, 2025, consisting of cash and directly-held securities of publicly traded portfolio companies.

    As of June 30, 2025, there were 23,888,107 shares of the Company’s common stock outstanding.

    Recent Dividend Declarations and Certain Information Regarding the Dividends

    On July 3, 2025, SuRo Capital’s Board of Directors declared a dividend of $0.25 per share payable on July 31, 2025 to the Company’s common stockholders of record as of the close of business on July 21, 2025. The dividend will be paid in cash.

    The date of declaration and amount of any dividends, including any future dividends, are subject to the sole discretion of SuRo Capital’s Board of Directors.

    The aggregate amount of the dividends declared and paid by SuRo Capital will be fully taxable to stockholders. The tax character of SuRo Capital’s dividends cannot be finally determined until the close of SuRo Capital’s taxable year (December 31). SuRo Capital will report the actual tax characteristics of each year’s dividends annually to stockholders and the IRS on Form 1099-DIV subsequent to year-end.

    Registered stockholders with questions regarding declared dividends may call Equiniti Trust Company, LLC at 800-937-5449.

    Preliminary Estimates and Guidance

    The preliminary financial estimates provided herein are unaudited and have been prepared by, and are the responsibility of, the management of SuRo Capital. Neither our independent registered public accounting firm, nor any other independent accountants, have audited, reviewed, compiled, or performed any procedures with respect to the preliminary financial data included herein. Actual results may differ materially.

    The Company expects to announce its second quarter ended June 30, 2025 results in August 2025.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Statements included herein, including statements regarding SuRo Capital’s beliefs, expectations, intentions, or strategies for the future, may constitute “forward-looking statements”. SuRo Capital cautions you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these statements. All forward-looking statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties, including the impact of any market volatility that may be detrimental to our business, our portfolio companies, our industry, and the global economy, that could cause actual results to differ materially from the plans, intentions, and expectations reflected in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Risk factors, cautionary statements, and other conditions which could cause SuRo Capital’s actual results to differ from management’s current expectations are contained in SuRo Capital’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. SuRo Capital undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this press release.

    About SuRo Capital Corp.

    SuRo Capital Corp. (Nasdaq: SSSS) is a publicly traded investment fund that seeks to invest in high-growth, venture-backed private companies. The fund seeks to create a portfolio of high-growth emerging private companies via a repeatable and disciplined investment approach, as well as to provide investors with access to such companies through its publicly traded common stock. Since inception, SuRo Capital has served as the public’s gateway to venture capital, offering unique access to some of the world’s most innovative and sought-after private companies before they become publicly traded. SuRo Capital’s diverse portfolio encompasses high-growth sectors including AI infrastructure, emerging consumer brands, and cutting-edge software solutions for both consumer and enterprise markets, among others. SuRo Capital is headquartered in New York, NY and has an office in San Francisco, CA. Connect with the company on X, LinkedIn, and at www.surocap.com.

    Contact
    SuRo Capital Corp.
    (212) 931-6331
    IR@surocap.com

    Media Contact
    Deborah Kostroun
    Zito Partners
    SuRoCapitalPR@zitopartners.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Reliance Global Group Closes Sale of Fortman Insurance for $5 Million in Cash

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAKEWOOD, NJ, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reliance Global Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: RELI) (“Reliance,” “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company”) today announced it has completed an asset sale of Fortman Insurance Services (“Fortman”), a wholly owned subsidiary, for $5 million in cash. The transaction marks the successful execution of a strategic initiative to monetize a non-core asset and further strengthen the Company’s financial position.

    Following its acquisition by Reliance, Fortman continued to enhance its operational efficiency, financial stability, and market competitiveness. The finalized sale, at a value above the initial purchase price Reliance purchased Fortman for in 2019, reflects Reliance’s commitment to prudent capital deployment and its continued focus on maximizing shareholder returns.

    The Company also reaffirmed its expectation that the acquisition of Spetner Associates, Inc. (“Spetner”) will be completed. Spetner has built significant momentum in recent years, with consistent growth and healthy cash flow contributions across its operations. The transaction is expected to complement Reliance’s existing business model and align with its OneFirm strategy, creating opportunities to expand operational scale and drive long-term value.

    “Closing the Fortman transaction marks a key milestone in our strategic roadmap and reflects the disciplined approach we take to identifying, enhancing, and monetizing value within our portfolio,” commented Ezra Beyman, CEO of Reliance. “From the outset, Fortman was a compelling acquisition, and through targeted operational improvements, we positioned the business for long-term success. Selling the asset at a premium demonstrates the strength of our execution and adds meaningful capital to our balance sheet, increasing our flexibility to advance strategic priorities. This transaction reinforces our commitment to executing initiatives that strengthen our platform, support sustainable growth, and accelerate our transformation into a streamlined, tech-enabled insurance organization. I remain confident in our ability to deliver lasting value to our shareholders.”

    About Reliance Global Group, Inc.

    Reliance Global Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RELI) is an InsurTech pioneer, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud-based technologies, to transform and improve efficiencies in the insurance agency/brokerage industry. The Company’s business-to-business InsurTech platform, RELI Exchange, provides independent insurance agencies an entire suite of business development tools, enabling them to effectively compete with large-scale national insurance agencies, whilst reducing back-office cost and burden. The Company’s business-to-consumer platform, 5minuteinsure.com, utilizes AI and data mining, to provide competitive online insurance quotes within minutes to everyday consumers seeking to purchase auto, home, and life insurance.  In addition, the Company operates its own portfolio of select retail “brick and mortar” insurance agencies which are leaders and pioneers in their respective regions throughout the United States, offering a wide variety of insurance products. Further information about the Company can be found at https://www.relianceglobalgroup.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “continue,” “potential,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding:

    • Our ability to successfully deploy the $5 million in proceeds from the Fortman sale to support our strategic and financial objectives;
    • Our expectation that the acquisition of Spetner Associates, Inc. will be completed on commercially reasonable terms, including obtaining any necessary regulatory or shareholder approvals;
    • The anticipated benefits of the Spetner acquisition to our business model, operational scale, and long-term value creation strategy;
    • Our continued execution of initiatives to streamline operations, enhance financial flexibility, and pursue accretive growth opportunities in the InsurTech and insurance agency sectors; and
    • Other statements of our plans, intentions, and expectations regarding future financial performance, operations, and strategic initiatives.

    These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions, including that the Spetner acquisition will proceed as expected; that projected revenue and EBITDA contributions from Spetner are achievable; that integration risks can be effectively managed; and that there will be no material adverse developments in market, economic, or regulatory conditions impacting our business. There can be no assurance that these assumptions will prove correct.

    Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to various risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: delays or failure to complete the Spetner acquisition; unanticipated integration challenges or liabilities associated with the acquisition; our inability to achieve expected financial results or operational synergies; increased competition in the InsurTech and agency brokerage industries; adverse regulatory or market developments; and other risks described in the “Risk Factors” section of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 and our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    You should carefully review our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, as amended, and our other SEC filings for a more complete discussion of these and other risks. Except as required by law, Reliance Global Group, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    Tel: +1 (212) 671-1020
    Email: RELI@crescendo-ir.com 

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Reliance Global Group Closes Sale of Fortman Insurance for $5 Million in Cash

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAKEWOOD, NJ, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Reliance Global Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: RELI) (“Reliance,” “we,” “us,” “our” or the “Company”) today announced it has completed an asset sale of Fortman Insurance Services (“Fortman”), a wholly owned subsidiary, for $5 million in cash. The transaction marks the successful execution of a strategic initiative to monetize a non-core asset and further strengthen the Company’s financial position.

    Following its acquisition by Reliance, Fortman continued to enhance its operational efficiency, financial stability, and market competitiveness. The finalized sale, at a value above the initial purchase price Reliance purchased Fortman for in 2019, reflects Reliance’s commitment to prudent capital deployment and its continued focus on maximizing shareholder returns.

    The Company also reaffirmed its expectation that the acquisition of Spetner Associates, Inc. (“Spetner”) will be completed. Spetner has built significant momentum in recent years, with consistent growth and healthy cash flow contributions across its operations. The transaction is expected to complement Reliance’s existing business model and align with its OneFirm strategy, creating opportunities to expand operational scale and drive long-term value.

    “Closing the Fortman transaction marks a key milestone in our strategic roadmap and reflects the disciplined approach we take to identifying, enhancing, and monetizing value within our portfolio,” commented Ezra Beyman, CEO of Reliance. “From the outset, Fortman was a compelling acquisition, and through targeted operational improvements, we positioned the business for long-term success. Selling the asset at a premium demonstrates the strength of our execution and adds meaningful capital to our balance sheet, increasing our flexibility to advance strategic priorities. This transaction reinforces our commitment to executing initiatives that strengthen our platform, support sustainable growth, and accelerate our transformation into a streamlined, tech-enabled insurance organization. I remain confident in our ability to deliver lasting value to our shareholders.”

    About Reliance Global Group, Inc.

    Reliance Global Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: RELI) is an InsurTech pioneer, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud-based technologies, to transform and improve efficiencies in the insurance agency/brokerage industry. The Company’s business-to-business InsurTech platform, RELI Exchange, provides independent insurance agencies an entire suite of business development tools, enabling them to effectively compete with large-scale national insurance agencies, whilst reducing back-office cost and burden. The Company’s business-to-consumer platform, 5minuteinsure.com, utilizes AI and data mining, to provide competitive online insurance quotes within minutes to everyday consumers seeking to purchase auto, home, and life insurance.  In addition, the Company operates its own portfolio of select retail “brick and mortar” insurance agencies which are leaders and pioneers in their respective regions throughout the United States, offering a wide variety of insurance products. Further information about the Company can be found at https://www.relianceglobalgroup.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You can identify these statements by terminology such as “may,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “estimate,” “continue,” “potential,” and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements in this press release include, without limitation, statements regarding:

    • Our ability to successfully deploy the $5 million in proceeds from the Fortman sale to support our strategic and financial objectives;
    • Our expectation that the acquisition of Spetner Associates, Inc. will be completed on commercially reasonable terms, including obtaining any necessary regulatory or shareholder approvals;
    • The anticipated benefits of the Spetner acquisition to our business model, operational scale, and long-term value creation strategy;
    • Our continued execution of initiatives to streamline operations, enhance financial flexibility, and pursue accretive growth opportunities in the InsurTech and insurance agency sectors; and
    • Other statements of our plans, intentions, and expectations regarding future financial performance, operations, and strategic initiatives.

    These forward-looking statements are based on numerous assumptions, including that the Spetner acquisition will proceed as expected; that projected revenue and EBITDA contributions from Spetner are achievable; that integration risks can be effectively managed; and that there will be no material adverse developments in market, economic, or regulatory conditions impacting our business. There can be no assurance that these assumptions will prove correct.

    Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements due to various risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to: delays or failure to complete the Spetner acquisition; unanticipated integration challenges or liabilities associated with the acquisition; our inability to achieve expected financial results or operational synergies; increased competition in the InsurTech and agency brokerage industries; adverse regulatory or market developments; and other risks described in the “Risk Factors” section of our Registration Statement on Form S-1 and our periodic reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

    You should carefully review our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024, as amended, and our other SEC filings for a more complete discussion of these and other risks. Except as required by law, Reliance Global Group, Inc. undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

    Contact:
    Crescendo Communications, LLC
    Tel: +1 (212) 671-1020
    Email: RELI@crescendo-ir.com 

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Thrive Acquires GRC-Focused Abacode

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thrive, a global technology outsourcing provider for cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT managed services, today announced the acquisition of Abacode, a leading Managed Cybersecurity & Compliance Provider (MCCP) based in Tampa, Florida. Abacode specializes in holistic, outcome-driven cybersecurity solutions and governance programs that help businesses transform their cyber risk management strategies and turn compliance challenges into competitive advantages. This acquisition further strengthens Thrive’s compliance solutions and adds to its growing footprint in the Southeast U.S.

    As compliance mandates and cyber threats grow in complexity—including updates to standards like CMMC, changing AI legislation on the international stage, and proposed changes to industry standards like HIPAA—businesses require more strategic and scalable solutions to meet governance and risk requirements. Thrive has always been on the front lines of navigating customers through these challenges. With the acquisition of Abacode, the company is doubling its commitment to enhancing its governance, risk, and compliance offerings to empower mid-market businesses to meet evolving regulatory requirements. Abacode’s unique approach, which integrates cybersecurity and compliance into a single comprehensive program, aligns with Thrive’s mission of providing simplified, yet holistic, security and IT to their customers, eliminating headaches and allowing businesses to focus on what matters most to them.

    “Compliance is a hurdle for many small and mid-sized enterprises, because they simply don’t have the time or resources dedicated to tracking every change that could impact their business,” said Bill McLaughlin, CEO of Thrive. “Abacode’s strong leadership, robust offerings, and MCCP model align with our high-touch, customer-first approach, making them a natural fit for us. With the team at Abacode, Thrive is strongly positioned to help clients manage increasingly stringent cybersecurity regulations.”

    This acquisition—the second of the year for Thrive— builds on the company’s growing focus on its compliance services. Thrive has long supported organizations across various industries— including financial services, healthcare, and government operations— that want to maintain compliance in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The company recently launched its new Compliance Center, filled with unrivaled resources and expertise that educates mid-market businesses on international, federal, state and industry-specific regulations.

    “Joining forces with Thrive allows us to take our mission of delivering measurable business outcomes through cybersecurity and compliance to the next level,” said Michael Ferris, CEO of Abacode. “Thrive has an established reputation for having enterprise-grade infrastructure and global support, offering clients unmatched expertise and scalability. We’re looking forward to being part of this expert delivery and further helping our clients as part of the Thrive team.”

    Stephens served as exclusive financial advisor to Thrive in the transaction. To learn more about Thrive and its offerings, visit www.thrivenextgen.com.

    About Thrive
    Thrive delivers global technology outsourcing for cybersecurity, Cloud, networking, and other complex IT requirements. Thrive’s NextGen platform enables customers to increase business efficiencies through AI, standardization, scalability, and automation, delivering oversized technology returns on investment (ROI). They accomplish this with advisory services, vCISO, vCIO, consulting, project implementation, solution architects, and a best-in-class subscription-based technology platform. Thrive delivers exceptional high-touch service through its POD approach of subject matter experts and global 24x7x365 SOC, NOC, and centralized services teams. Learn more at www.thrivenextgen.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    Contacts
    Hannah Johnston
    thrive@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Thrive Acquires GRC-Focused Abacode

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thrive, a global technology outsourcing provider for cybersecurity, Cloud, and IT managed services, today announced the acquisition of Abacode, a leading Managed Cybersecurity & Compliance Provider (MCCP) based in Tampa, Florida. Abacode specializes in holistic, outcome-driven cybersecurity solutions and governance programs that help businesses transform their cyber risk management strategies and turn compliance challenges into competitive advantages. This acquisition further strengthens Thrive’s compliance solutions and adds to its growing footprint in the Southeast U.S.

    As compliance mandates and cyber threats grow in complexity—including updates to standards like CMMC, changing AI legislation on the international stage, and proposed changes to industry standards like HIPAA—businesses require more strategic and scalable solutions to meet governance and risk requirements. Thrive has always been on the front lines of navigating customers through these challenges. With the acquisition of Abacode, the company is doubling its commitment to enhancing its governance, risk, and compliance offerings to empower mid-market businesses to meet evolving regulatory requirements. Abacode’s unique approach, which integrates cybersecurity and compliance into a single comprehensive program, aligns with Thrive’s mission of providing simplified, yet holistic, security and IT to their customers, eliminating headaches and allowing businesses to focus on what matters most to them.

    “Compliance is a hurdle for many small and mid-sized enterprises, because they simply don’t have the time or resources dedicated to tracking every change that could impact their business,” said Bill McLaughlin, CEO of Thrive. “Abacode’s strong leadership, robust offerings, and MCCP model align with our high-touch, customer-first approach, making them a natural fit for us. With the team at Abacode, Thrive is strongly positioned to help clients manage increasingly stringent cybersecurity regulations.”

    This acquisition—the second of the year for Thrive— builds on the company’s growing focus on its compliance services. Thrive has long supported organizations across various industries— including financial services, healthcare, and government operations— that want to maintain compliance in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada. The company recently launched its new Compliance Center, filled with unrivaled resources and expertise that educates mid-market businesses on international, federal, state and industry-specific regulations.

    “Joining forces with Thrive allows us to take our mission of delivering measurable business outcomes through cybersecurity and compliance to the next level,” said Michael Ferris, CEO of Abacode. “Thrive has an established reputation for having enterprise-grade infrastructure and global support, offering clients unmatched expertise and scalability. We’re looking forward to being part of this expert delivery and further helping our clients as part of the Thrive team.”

    Stephens served as exclusive financial advisor to Thrive in the transaction. To learn more about Thrive and its offerings, visit www.thrivenextgen.com.

    About Thrive
    Thrive delivers global technology outsourcing for cybersecurity, Cloud, networking, and other complex IT requirements. Thrive’s NextGen platform enables customers to increase business efficiencies through AI, standardization, scalability, and automation, delivering oversized technology returns on investment (ROI). They accomplish this with advisory services, vCISO, vCIO, consulting, project implementation, solution architects, and a best-in-class subscription-based technology platform. Thrive delivers exceptional high-touch service through its POD approach of subject matter experts and global 24x7x365 SOC, NOC, and centralized services teams. Learn more at www.thrivenextgen.com or follow us on LinkedIn.

    Contacts
    Hannah Johnston
    thrive@v2comms.com

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Hanmi Financial Corporation Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings and Conference Call Date

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hanmi Financial Corporation (Nasdaq: HAFC) (“Hanmi”), the holding company for Hanmi Bank, today announced that it will report second quarter 2025 financial results after the market close on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Management will host a conference call that same day, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) to discuss the results.

    Investment professionals and all current and prospective shareholders are invited to access the live call on July 22 by dialing 1-877-407-9039 before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, using access code “Hanmi Bank”. To listen to the call online visit the investor relations page of Hanmi’s website at www.hanmi.com. The webcast will also be available for replay approximately one hour following the call.

    About Hanmi Financial Corporation
    Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Hanmi Financial Corporation owns Hanmi Bank, which serves multi-ethnic communities through its network of 32 full-service branches, five loan production offices and three loan centers in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Hanmi Bank specializes in real estate, commercial, SBA and trade finance lending to small and middle market businesses. Additional information is available at www.hanmi.com.

    Contact
    Romolo (Ron) Santarosa
    Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
    213-427-5636

    Lisa Fortuna
    Investor Relations
    Financial Profiles, Inc.
    310-622-8251

    Source: Hanmi Bank

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Hanmi Financial Corporation Announces Second Quarter 2025 Earnings and Conference Call Date

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 08, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hanmi Financial Corporation (Nasdaq: HAFC) (“Hanmi”), the holding company for Hanmi Bank, today announced that it will report second quarter 2025 financial results after the market close on Tuesday, July 22, 2025. Management will host a conference call that same day, at 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time (5:00 p.m. Eastern Time) to discuss the results.

    Investment professionals and all current and prospective shareholders are invited to access the live call on July 22 by dialing 1-877-407-9039 before 2:00 p.m. Pacific Time, using access code “Hanmi Bank”. To listen to the call online visit the investor relations page of Hanmi’s website at www.hanmi.com. The webcast will also be available for replay approximately one hour following the call.

    About Hanmi Financial Corporation
    Headquartered in Los Angeles, California, Hanmi Financial Corporation owns Hanmi Bank, which serves multi-ethnic communities through its network of 32 full-service branches, five loan production offices and three loan centers in California, Colorado, Georgia, Illinois, New Jersey, New York, Texas, Virginia and Washington. Hanmi Bank specializes in real estate, commercial, SBA and trade finance lending to small and middle market businesses. Additional information is available at www.hanmi.com.

    Contact
    Romolo (Ron) Santarosa
    Senior Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
    213-427-5636

    Lisa Fortuna
    Investor Relations
    Financial Profiles, Inc.
    310-622-8251

    Source: Hanmi Bank

    The MIL Network –

    July 9, 2025
←Previous Page
1 … 227 228 229 230 231 … 2,041
Next Page→
NewzIntel.com

NewzIntel.com

MIL Open Source Intelligence

  • Blog
  • About
  • FAQs
  • Authors
  • Events
  • Shop
  • Patterns
  • Themes

Twenty Twenty-Five

Designed with WordPress