Category: Business

  • MIL-Evening Report: 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Dimitrios Salampasis, Associate Professor, Emerging Technologies and FinTech | FinTech Capability Lead, Swinburne University of Technology

    Oleg Golovnev/Shutterstock

    Images of flashy sports cars. Lavish lifestyle shots. These are just some of the red flags consumers should watch out for when they turn to social media for financial advice.

    Consumers should not believe everything they see on Instagram, TikTok or YouTube from the growing numbers of “finfluencers” – content creators who build their audience by giving out financial advice.

    The regulator responsible for financial products and advice, the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), has issued warning notices to 18 social media finfluencers. ASIC said it suspects they have broken the law by promoting high-risk financial products or providing unlicensed financial advice. ASIC did not name them.

    So, why is regulated financial advice important and what are some of the common practices finfluencers use to attract followers and customers?

    Financial advice rules explained

    Australian Financial Services laws are designed to protect consumers and investors, while promoting the integrity of financial markets. It is both unethical and illegal to promote financial products without proper authorisation.

    In Australia, it is an offence under the Corporations Act to provide financial advice without an Australian Financial Services licence. Penalties include up to five years’ imprisonment or fines of A$1 million or more.

    ASIC issued a similar warning to online finfluencers in 2022. Since then, the number of social media posts by unauthorised finfluencers have substantially reduced.

    Many finfluencers became licensed or authorised representatives of a licensee, along with being more diligent about what they were posting online. Natasha Etschmann, with 300,000 Instagram and TikTok followers at @TashInvests, became licensed immediately after the 2022 warning.

    Some other finfluencers were arrested, issued fines or ordered to take down their websites.

    High-risk products

    However, some finfluencers who style themselves as “trading experts” continue to provide unauthorised financial advice, usually for a fee or commission. They promote high-risk, complex investment products that can cause consumers substantial harm.

    These products include contracts-for-difference
    and over-the-counter derivative products that do not trade on an exchange. ASIC says its current concerns lie with these content creators:

    Their social media content is often accompanied by misleading or deceptive representations about the prospects of success from the products or trading strategies they promote, sharing images of lavish lifestyles, sports cars and other luxury goods.

    What to watch on socials

    About 41% of young Australians aged 18 to 30 look online for financial information or advice.

    While budgeting tips can be helpful, it’s important to be extra careful with online financial advice. Consumers should not believe everything they see on social media.

    Conducting due diligence and checking finfluencers’ credentials on ASIC’s Professional Registers search tool is crucial. Choose expert and licensed finfluencers rather than accounts with large followings and exaggerated or misleading claims. Popularity does not always mean credibility.

    There are certain red flags to watch out for. Some finfluencers use pseudonyms. They promote “exclusive” financial advice content and access to “invitation-only” online communities for a fee. In many cases, they lack credible experience or certified financial planning training to provide financial advice.

    Your finfluencer vetting toolkit

    When choosing to follow or acquire the services of a finfluencer, ask:

    1. is this finfluencer licensed or authorised?

    2. how realistic are the promised financial outcomes? Are they too good to be true?

    3. does the finfluencer disclose their personal financial position or investments when discussing financial products or strategies?

    4. are they transparent about? their track record of accuracy or accountability?

    5. do they address publicly a case when their audience lost money from a strategy they recommended?

    6. does the finfluencer tailor content to different investment risk profiles or financial maturity levels in their audiences?

    Are you being sold a dream?

    Social media finfluencer content can often come with misleading or deceptive representations (such as the sports cars and luxury goods that ASIC has warned about). Content may overstate the prospects of success and potential profits.

    Some – usually unlicensed – finfluencers use social media content as “proof” of their financial expertise. One common practice is to try to lure consumers by creating a hyped world around their own personal lifestyle. Many finfluencers often extend invitations to consumers to join closed forums to “learn” their hidden secrets to success or copy their “famous” trading practices.

    These finfluencers usually try to convince consumers they can achieve a similar lifestyle by following their advice.

    Finfluencers are global

    ASIC issued the warnings as part of a recent global week of action. ASIC and eight regulators from the United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Italy, Hong Kong and Canada took coordinated action to disrupt unlawful finfluencer activity.
    The global campaign aims to raise awareness about unlawful finfluencer activity, protect consumers, and prevent them from investing after encountering misleading content.

    Consumers need to distinguish between credible financial advice and self-serving or misleading content before trusting their money to anyone.

    Spotted unlicensed influencer activity? Report this misconduct to ASIC.

    Dimitrios Salampasis is a Fellow of the Financial Services Institute of Australasia (FINSIA), member of the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) and member of the Singapore Institute of Directors (SID).

    ref. 6 simple questions to tell if a ‘finfluencer’ is more flash than cash – https://theconversation.com/6-simple-questions-to-tell-if-a-finfluencer-is-more-flash-than-cash-259906

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ will soon have no real interisland rail-ferry link – why are we so bad at infrastructure planning?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Welch, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

    Another week, another Cook Strait ferry breakdown. As the winter maintenance season approaches and the Aratere prepares for its final months of service, New Zealand faces a self-imposed crisis.

    The government has spent NZ$507.3 million on cancelled iReX ferry plans, the country’s fleet has an average age of 28 years, and the earliest New Zealanders can hope for promised replacements is 2029.

    The Marlborough Chamber of Commerce warns unreliable ferries already shake tourist confidence. Several more years of duct-tape solutions won’t help.

    The recent pattern of breakdowns and cancellations has become so routine that New Zealand risks normalising what should be viewed as a national crisis: a serious infrastructure failure.

    It is also a textbook example of how short-term political cycles, coupled with chronic under-investment, create far more expensive problems than the ones they promise to solve.

    Cost blowouts

    While ministers claim to have spared taxpayers a $4 billion blowout on new ferries, Treasury papers show almost 80% of the cost escalation lay in seismic upgrades for wharves, not in the vessels themselves. Those land-side works will be required no matter what ferries the country eventually orders.

    Justifying the original contract cancellation, Finance Minister Nicola Willis quipped that iReX was a Ferrari when a Toyota Corolla would do. But the cost of finding a suitable Corolla is adding up fast.

    Annual maintenance costs are projected to nearly double to $65 million, just to keep the existing ageing ferries running. Additionally, $300 million had to be earmarked to cover fees for breaking the original ferry replacement contract.

    By retiring the Aratere this year – New Zealand’s only rail-capable ferry – the government is also severing the interisland rail link for almost five years.

    KiwiRail will “road-bridge” rail freight, an expensive workaround that involves loading train cars onto trucks, putting those trucks on ferries, then reversing the process at the other end. This will increase truck traffic, produce more emissions and add more wear to already strained infrastructure.

    Forcing more than $14 billion worth of annual freight from rail to road could also negatively affect New Zealand’s climate change commitments. Freight moved by rail generates only about 25% of the CO₂ per tonne-kilometre of the same load produced when hauled by truck.

    The cancelled hybrid ferries would have also cut emissions by 40%. Instead, New Zealand is locking in higher emissions for another half decade or longer.

    Unrealistic timelines

    The ferry saga reflects New Zealand’s infrastructure problem in a nutshell. The country tends to underestimate costs, create unfeasible timelines, then shows dismay when projects blow up or limp home at double the price.

    Auckland exemplifies the pattern. The city has seen decades of cancelled harbour crossing proposals and a scrapped light rail project, with nothing to show but consultancy fees.

    When New Zealand does build –Transmission Gully, for example – the final bill bears little resemblance to initial quotes. The 27 kilometre motorway north of Wellington was nearly 50% over budget and took eight years to build – two years longer than promised.

    The systematic underestimation of costs reflects a flawed approach to infrastructure planning. Politicians need quick wins within three-year electoral cycles, while infrastructure projects take decades to deliver.

    Projects are approved based on lowball estimates, with the outcome inherited by another administration. This has crossed party lines and created a system that rewards short-term thinking and punishes long-term planning.

    Just consider the second crossing for Auckland Harbour. For 35 years, the government has commissioned study after study – from the 1988 tunnel plans to the 2010 business cases – each time backing away when the price tag appeared, or the government changed.

    The iReX cancellation marks the first time the government has actually signed contracts and then walked away. As with the second Auckland Harbour crossing, each delay has only made the inevitable solution more expensive.

    Other countries have, to a degree, addressed this problem. Infrastructure Australia, for example, provides independent cost assessments and long-term planning that transcends political cycles. New Zealand’s Infrastructure Commission, established in 2019, lacks similar teeth and independence.

    Ultimately this isn’t really about ferries. It’s about how New Zealand consistently fails to deliver, on time and at cost, the infrastructure that keeps its economy moving.

    Timothy Welch 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. NZ will soon have no real interisland rail-ferry link – why are we so bad at infrastructure planning? – https://theconversation.com/nz-will-soon-have-no-real-interisland-rail-ferry-link-why-are-we-so-bad-at-infrastructure-planning-260279

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: NZ will soon have no real interisland rail-ferry link – why are we so bad at infrastructure planning?

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Timothy Welch, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, University of Auckland, Waipapa Taumata Rau

    Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)

    Another week, another Cook Strait ferry breakdown. As the winter maintenance season approaches and the Aratere prepares for its final months of service, New Zealand faces a self-imposed crisis.

    The government has spent NZ$507.3 million on cancelled iReX ferry plans, the country’s fleet has an average age of 28 years, and the earliest New Zealanders can hope for promised replacements is 2029.

    The Marlborough Chamber of Commerce warns unreliable ferries already shake tourist confidence. Several more years of duct-tape solutions won’t help.

    The recent pattern of breakdowns and cancellations has become so routine that New Zealand risks normalising what should be viewed as a national crisis: a serious infrastructure failure.

    It is also a textbook example of how short-term political cycles, coupled with chronic under-investment, create far more expensive problems than the ones they promise to solve.

    Cost blowouts

    While ministers claim to have spared taxpayers a $4 billion blowout on new ferries, Treasury papers show almost 80% of the cost escalation lay in seismic upgrades for wharves, not in the vessels themselves. Those land-side works will be required no matter what ferries the country eventually orders.

    Justifying the original contract cancellation, Finance Minister Nicola Willis quipped that iReX was a Ferrari when a Toyota Corolla would do. But the cost of finding a suitable Corolla is adding up fast.

    Annual maintenance costs are projected to nearly double to $65 million, just to keep the existing ageing ferries running. Additionally, $300 million had to be earmarked to cover fees for breaking the original ferry replacement contract.

    By retiring the Aratere this year – New Zealand’s only rail-capable ferry – the government is also severing the interisland rail link for almost five years.

    KiwiRail will “road-bridge” rail freight, an expensive workaround that involves loading train cars onto trucks, putting those trucks on ferries, then reversing the process at the other end. This will increase truck traffic, produce more emissions and add more wear to already strained infrastructure.

    Forcing more than $14 billion worth of annual freight from rail to road could also negatively affect New Zealand’s climate change commitments. Freight moved by rail generates only about 25% of the CO₂ per tonne-kilometre of the same load produced when hauled by truck.

    The cancelled hybrid ferries would have also cut emissions by 40%. Instead, New Zealand is locking in higher emissions for another half decade or longer.

    Unrealistic timelines

    The ferry saga reflects New Zealand’s infrastructure problem in a nutshell. The country tends to underestimate costs, create unfeasible timelines, then shows dismay when projects blow up or limp home at double the price.

    Auckland exemplifies the pattern. The city has seen decades of cancelled harbour crossing proposals and a scrapped light rail project, with nothing to show but consultancy fees.

    When New Zealand does build –Transmission Gully, for example – the final bill bears little resemblance to initial quotes. The 27 kilometre motorway north of Wellington was nearly 50% over budget and took eight years to build – two years longer than promised.

    The systematic underestimation of costs reflects a flawed approach to infrastructure planning. Politicians need quick wins within three-year electoral cycles, while infrastructure projects take decades to deliver.

    Projects are approved based on lowball estimates, with the outcome inherited by another administration. This has crossed party lines and created a system that rewards short-term thinking and punishes long-term planning.

    Just consider the second crossing for Auckland Harbour. For 35 years, the government has commissioned study after study – from the 1988 tunnel plans to the 2010 business cases – each time backing away when the price tag appeared, or the government changed.

    The iReX cancellation marks the first time the government has actually signed contracts and then walked away. As with the second Auckland Harbour crossing, each delay has only made the inevitable solution more expensive.

    Other countries have, to a degree, addressed this problem. Infrastructure Australia, for example, provides independent cost assessments and long-term planning that transcends political cycles. New Zealand’s Infrastructure Commission, established in 2019, lacks similar teeth and independence.

    Ultimately this isn’t really about ferries. It’s about how New Zealand consistently fails to deliver, on time and at cost, the infrastructure that keeps its economy moving.

    Timothy Welch 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. NZ will soon have no real interisland rail-ferry link – why are we so bad at infrastructure planning? – https://theconversation.com/nz-will-soon-have-no-real-interisland-rail-ferry-link-why-are-we-so-bad-at-infrastructure-planning-260279

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-Evening Report: I’ve seen the brain damage contact sports can cause – we all need to take concussion and CTE more seriously

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Alan Pearce, Professor, Adjunct Research Fellow, School of Health Science, Swinburne University of Technology

    AAP Image/The Conversation, CC BY

    Concussion in sport continues to make headlines, whether it be class actions, young men flocking to the highly violent “RunIt” activity or debate about whether Australian rules football should remove the “bump” once and for all.

    Bringing this weighty issue to greater prominence are the former athletes who bravely share their long-term health struggles after careers in sport – cognitive impairments, mental health issues or concerns about neurodegenerative disease, specifically chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE).

    Yet for all the progress made by many sports in recent years, it feels like we still have not fully grasped the understanding of CTE – or maybe we don’t want to.

    Remind me again, what is CTE?

    CTE is a neurodegenerative brain disease, just like dementia, motor neurone disease (MND) and Parkinson’s disease.

    Expert groups agree on the links between traumatic brain injury and increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease (and other dementias), and the growing evidence of links to MND and Parkinson’s.

    People who have never had a traumatic brain injury can still regrettably suffer from these diseases. However, while CTE is rare in the general population, those with a history of repetitive impacts to the brain are more at risk.

    These impacts may not be diagnosed brain injuries or concussions, but rather non-concussive impacts (smaller hits that do not produce signs or symptoms of concussion).

    Contrary to anecdotal opinion, an athlete’s concussion history is not the crucial variable in risk and severity of CTE.

    Emerging international evidence, including my own recently published studies, show the risk of developing CTE (and its severity) is linked to exposure: the age a person starts full contact sport and the length of a playing career.

    The grey area of concussion, CTE and mental health

    Currently, CTE cannot be diagnosed in living people.

    However in understanding the progression of the disease in those who have passed away with CTE, families have described signs and symptoms including cognitive impairments such as:

    • Parkinsonism
    • memory loss
    • trouble with planning and organising tasks
    • impulsive behaviours
    • anger and irritability
    • emotional instability
    • substance misuse
    • suicidal thoughts/behaviour.

    While these signs and symptoms can overlap with those we associate with mental health, this does not necessarily mean the affected person had “mental health concerns”.

    The continued awareness in men’s mental health is a good thing broadly but it has sometimes misappropriated CTE as a mental health issue. For example, some fundraising games in the names of athletes who have died with CTE are being channelled to mental health charities and institutes, confusing the wider community.

    Consequently two recent tragic stories, one from the family of deceased former AFL player Shane Tuck and the other from Amanda Green, the widow of the late NRL player and coach Paul Green, needed to be told.

    Their stories contradicted widely held beliefs in the media and among fans that Tuck or Green were suffering with a psychiatric disease prior to their untimely deaths. In fact, they had CTE.

    An uncomfortable conversation

    So, why aren’t we talking about CTE more?

    The answer is, unfortunately it is an inconvenient truth.

    Considering CTE is entirely preventable if we remove exposure risk of repetitive hits to the head, the solution is to further modify many of our most popular sports to make head impacts much rarer.

    There is sizeable opposition to this idea.

    “Now is not the time to discuss such ‘political’ issues,” is the response I usually get from academics and colleagues involved in these sports, and even football loving friends, when I try to raise awareness.

    This continued hesitation only slows the science of CTE further.

    If an athlete’s family has been courageous in donating their brain to the Australian Sports Brain Bank and CTE has been found, the standard response from sports organisations is:

    the (insert sport here) takes athlete health and wellbeing as its greatest priority […] the (insert sport here) has implemented strict concussion protocols and continues research into athletes’ brain health.

    Even a Senate parliamentary inquiry has done little to change the situation.

    In fact, while most sports have tried to become safer through rule changes, progress more broadly has plateaued or even regressed in recent years.

    Take one recent example in the NRL, when some in the rugby league community made light of the multiple concussions suffered by Victor Radley. After playing his 150th game, he posed smiling with a t-shirt detailing the number of concussions he had suffered during his career. His club, the Sydney Roosters, posted the photo on Instagram before it was later removed.

    Even more worrying is a new controversial activity called “RunIt”, which involves two men running full speed at each other with the intention of knocking over (or more aptly knocking out) the opponent.

    A recent death of a New Zealand teenager playing RunIt has highlighted the dangers.




    Read more:
    Head knocks and ultra-violence: viral games Run It Straight and Power Slap put sports safety back centuries


    What more can be done?

    With the help of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, experts around the world, including myself, have produced a CTE prevention protocol. This does not mean banning any sports but rather modifying components that will reduce exposure risk.

    Here are five ideas I believe would make a difference.

    1. Reducing contact loads in training, particularly in pre-season training.

    2. Modify contact sports for children until the age of 14. This potentially removes six to eight years of incidental and unnecessary hits to kids’ heads. They can still play and learn all the fundamental motor skills and enjoy the psychological benefits of sport before graduating to the full version of the game at 14.

    3. Influential media commentators need to upskill themselves around CTE and to not be afraid to mention CTE rather than deferring to “concussion protocols”.

    4. Medical and allied health practitioners do not regularly screen for concussion or contact sport playing history when assessing a patient who is struggling with movement disorders, chronic headaches/fatigue or cognitive/behavioural impairments. Repetitive head impact history should be screened just like alcohol and drug use history.

    5. When an athlete suddenly and tragically dies, we need to include, along with emergency help lines, information for help and support for those unsure about CTE.

    Unfortunately, if we don’t have the political will to acknowledge CTE and act, more families will be grieving tragic deaths of athletes. These families may not even be aware of CTE.

    This does not make me anti-sport, but pro-athlete. Let’s all become pro-athlete for the sake of our sports and the people who play them.

    Alan Pearce is currently unfunded. Alan is a non-executive director for the Concussion Legacy Foundation (unpaid position) and Adjunct research manager for the Australian Sports Brain Bank (unpaid position). He has previously received funding from Erasmus+ strategic partnerships program (2019-1-IE01-KA202-051555), Sports Health Check Charity (Australia), Australian Football League, Impact Technologies Inc., and Samsung Corporation, and is remunerated for expert advice to medico-legal practices.

    ref. I’ve seen the brain damage contact sports can cause – we all need to take concussion and CTE more seriously – https://theconversation.com/ive-seen-the-brain-damage-contact-sports-can-cause-we-all-need-to-take-concussion-and-cte-more-seriously-259785

    MIL OSI AnalysisEveningReport.nz

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Nigerian business leverage African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to grow the country’s intra-African trade opportunities

    Source: APO – Report:

    Nigeria is working towards fast-tracking implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock opportunities for businesses in the country across the continent.

    Nigeria’s Minister of the Federal Ministry of Industry, Trade and Investment, Hon. Jumoke Oduwole noted that intra-African trade has been improving.

    “Intra African trade exports grew by over 13% from last year supported by new trade corridors and the initial success of AfCFTA’s guideline initiatives. Nigerian businesses are already key participants, exporting, ceramics, garments, pharmaceuticals and agro products across the continent,” Hon. Jumoke said in a keynote address to government officials, the Nigerian trade community, business leaders and investors attending the Nigeria IATF2025 Business Roadshow.

    “As we talk about expanding and unlocking new trade markets, we must recognize the creative economy as a serious trade frontier. Platforms such as Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX) led by Afreximbank are proving that African culture is bankable not just beautiful.” She added.

    The event that was attended by over 700 people focused on promoting intra-African trade under the theme: ‘Harnessing Regional and Continental Value Chains: Accelerating Africa’s Industrialisation and Global Competitiveness through AfCFTA.’

    The Nigeria IATF2025 roadshow is one of the five in a series of five high-level events in key cities including Nairobi, Accra, Johannesburg, and Algiers ahead of the fourth edition of the biennial Intra-African Trade Fair (IATF) that will be held in Algiers, Algeria from 4 – 10 September 2025 under the theme ‘Gateway to New Opportunities’. IATF is Africa’s premier trade and investment event that serves as a crucial platform for fostering economic growth, collaboration, and innovation across the continent.

    Addressing the forum, Executive Director/CEO of the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC), Nonye Ayeni noted that IATF offers an unparalleled platform for the exchange of trade and investment information and is Africa’s marketplace of ideas, opportunities, and partnerships.

    “With frameworks like AFCFTA and platforms like IATF we now have the tools to bridge the trade gap, boost Intra African trade and tremendously grow our economies in a sustainable and inclusive way. We need to build structured, sustainable and competitive value chains that can power inclusive growth both here in Nigeria and across the continent in Africa. We know that AfCFTA promises to be the largest single market in the world, connecting 1.3 billion people across 54 countries in Africa,” Ms Ayeni said.

    Building on this, Executive Vice President, Intra-African Trade and Export Development at Afreximbank, Mrs. Kanayo Awani highlighted the tangible results borne out of the trade fair across the continent and in Nigeria specifically.

    “In just three editions, IATF has achieved what once felt aspirational: over $100 billion in trade and investment deals, more than 70,000 participants, and 4,500+ exhibitors from across 130 countries. This is not just a conference, it is Africa’s trade engine, designed to connect our producers, unlock demand, and operationalise the promise of the AfCFTA. And in every edition—whether in Cairo, Durban, or beyond, Nigeria has not just participated. Nigeria has led. At IATF2023 alone, Nigerian enterprises generated over $11 billion in signed deals, the highest of any country,” Mrs Awani added.

    IATF is a platform for boosting trade and investment in Africa. The last edition held in Cairo attracted nearly 2,000 exhibitors from 65 countries and generated US$43.7 billion in trade and investment deals.

    Some of the activities lined up for the week-long IATF2025 include a trade exhibition by countries and businesses; the CANEX programme with a dedicated exhibition and summit on fashion, music, film, arts and craft, sports, literature, gastronomy and culinary arts; a four-day Trade and Investment Forum featuring leading African and international speakers; and the Africa Automotive Show for auto manufacturers, assemblers, original equipment manufacturers and component suppliers.

    Special Days will also be held at IATF2025, dedicated for countries as well as public and private entities to showcase trade and investment opportunities, and tourism and cultural attractions, as well as Global Africa Day to highlight commercial and cultural ties between Africa and its diaspora, featuring a Diaspora Summit, market and exhibition, cultural and gastronomic showcase.

    Also planned is a business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-government (B2G) platform for matchmaking and business exchanges; the AU Youth Start-Up programme showcasing innovative ideas and prototypes; the Africa Research and Innovation Hub @ IATF targeting university students, academia and national researchers to exhibit their innovations and research projects; the Trade Exhibition offering large corporations and SME’s the opportunities to showcase their goods and services, the Trade and Investment Forum, a four day conference featuring sessions and training discussing trade opportunities and barriers.

    Others include the Creative Africa Nexus (CANEX), a showcase of African and Diaspora creative talent, the Special Days segment offering countries, private and public sectors the opportunity to sponsor their special event on specific days, the Africa Automotive show, a platform for auto manufacturers to exhibit their products and interact with potential buyers, IATF Virtual, an interactive online platform that will continue after the live event is over, Diaspora Day highlighting the commercial and cultural ties between Africa and its diaspora and the African Sub-Sovereign Governments Network (AfSNET) to promote trade, investment, educational and cultural exchanges at the local level. The IATF Virtual platform is already live, connecting exhibitors and visitors throughout the year.

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

    – on behalf of Afreximbank.

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

    About the Intra-African Trade Fair:

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

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI: Safe Money Report Releases 2025 Strategic Update on Wealth Protection Amid the Age of Chaos

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Miami, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    SECTION 1 – Introduction

    The global investment landscape is undergoing a historic shift, creating an urgent need for action. Amid inflationary pressures, geopolitical disruption, and conflicting signals from financial markets, individual investors are facing mounting uncertainty. In what financial analyst Martin Weiss terms the “Age of Chaos,” the traditional rules of investing are being challenged by rapid technological change, shifting fiscal policies, and evolving global alliances.

    Recent market anomalies underscore this volatility. Breakout earnings reports from leading tech firms have been met with unexpected stock declines. Gold prices are climbing even as investor sentiment wavers. Meanwhile, the U.S. dollar, which has been an extended global stabilizer, is facing pressure from currency realignment and prolonged fiscal imbalances. These conditions have raised urgent questions about how to preserve capital in a climate where risk is no longer easily defined.

    Online search behavior reflects the public’s growing concern. Queries related to “wealth protection,” “safe investments 2025,” and “inflation hedge strategies” have surged in recent months. Investors are actively seeking data-backed, non-promotional insights that go beyond market speculation. They are asking not just whether to buy or sell, but how to realign long-term strategies to weather sustained volatility.

    Against this backdrop, Safe Money Report has issued a 2025 update anchored in historical precedent, analytics-driven methodologies, and principles of liquidity and independence. The practicality of this update, designed to provide a reassuring reference point for investors seeking clarity in an era marked by unpredictability, instills confidence in their investment decisions.

    Further details are available through Weiss Ratings’ official publications.

    SECTION 2 – Company/Product Announcement

    In response to a wave of economic disruption and growing investor uncertainty, Safe Money Report has released a 2025 update outlining its strategic six-step framework for navigating what it terms the “Age of Chaos.” The announcement, developed by financial analyst Martin Weiss and backed by over five decades of market observation, builds on Weiss Ratings’ independent, data-driven model for assessing asset stability across multiple sectors, ensuring the objectivity and security of the analysis.

    The six-part strategy addresses key areas of concern voiced in public discourse and reflected in market behavior, including asset liquidity, portfolio exposure, inflation hedging, digital currency volatility, and the future role of alternative asset classes, such as farmland. Each step is designed to provide a comprehensive approach to wealth protection, emphasizing flexible, research-backed principles that investors can consider when evaluating current holdings or future positions.

    Central to the 2025 release is Weiss Ratings’ algorithmic model — a platform that draws on over 100 years of financial data, tens of thousands of data points per security, and a proprietary ratings system designed to function without external influence. This model, which has historically identified key turning points such as the 2008 financial crisis and the dot-com collapse, provides a non-emotional analytical foundation during periods of extreme volatility, making it a reliable tool for investors.

    According to the update, the new economic environment demands adaptability. The Weiss framework encourages investors to consider criteria such as daily trading volume, institutional-grade liquidity thresholds, and historical resilience under inflationary conditions. For instance, by analyzing the daily trading volume of a stock, investors can gauge its market liquidity and potential for quick sale. The six-step approach, informed by both traditional economic indicators and emerging signals from non-traditional sectors, is intended to serve as an informational resource for those seeking to safeguard long-term wealth in an unstable market.

    While the Safe Money Report refrains from offering personalized investment advice, its publication highlights a growing demand for independent analysis untethered from mainstream market narratives. In 2025, this release marks a structured effort to equip investors with data-driven perspectives, historical context, and systematized risk awareness, tailored to an era where market conditions remain in constant flux.

    SECTION 3 – Trend Analysis / Consumer Interest Overview

    Across public forums, financial news outlets, and digital search trends, one theme dominates the investor landscape in 2025: uncertainty. Search engine data indicates a growing interest in phrases such as “how to protect retirement from inflation,” “market chaos strategy,” and “safe asset classes.” Investors are actively seeking guidance that does not rely on speculative commentary or unverified opinions, but rather on grounded historical analysis and algorithmic insights.

    The term “Age of Chaos,” now gaining visibility among financial audiences, encapsulates this emerging outlook. Rather than focusing solely on individual asset classes or geopolitical events, it suggests a broader, systemic volatility — one marked by unpredictable policy shifts, economic fragmentation, and compressed investment cycles. In this context, traditional long-term assumptions about market recovery and asset correlation are increasingly being questioned.

    The Safe Money Report identifies this shift not as a short-term anomaly but as a structural transformation in how risk is perceived. Evidence from past crises, including the 2008 banking collapse and the 2000–2003 tech correction, supports the premise that periods of instability are often accompanied by brief rallies, followed by deeper contractions. Today’s landscape — with its rising gold prices, fluctuating technology stock valuations, and increasing attention to digital assets — is exhibiting similar characteristics.

    In response, public commentary has begun to focus more on portfolio positioning strategies that account for non-linear risks. Liquidity has become a key topic of discussion. Investors are increasingly skeptical of hard-to-exit assets or overly complex instruments, and instead are seeking investments that are simple to understand, transparent in structure, and easily adjusted.

    The current environment has also sparked a broader reevaluation of what constitutes “safe” investment behavior. As interest in central bank policy, dollar stability, and alternative currencies grows, so too does demand for analytical tools that can decode macroeconomic volatility without bias. This is where platforms like Weiss Ratings, which avoid promotional partnerships or external incentives, are seeing increased engagement. Rather than promise outcomes, these tools aim to provide frameworks for understanding the evolving nature of economic risk and market fragility.

    The full research update is accessible via Weiss Ratings’ publicly released materials.

    SECTION 4 – Spotlight on Strategic Components: Six Data-Driven Focus Areas

    The Safe Money Report 2025 framework is built on six primary focus areas that reflect long-standing economic signals and current shifts in asset behavior. Each has been selected not as a prediction vehicle, but as a lens through which to assess investment resilience amid ongoing volatility.

    1. Liquidity and Flexibility Screening

    At the foundation of the report’s framework is the principle of asset liquidity. Investments that can be easily entered or exited are central to maintaining financial agility in uncertain markets. Metrics such as average daily trading volume and minimum market capitalization thresholds are used as filters — not guarantees — to evaluate accessibility under rapidly changing conditions.

    2. Risk-Based Stock Ratings

    The Weiss Ratings model evaluates thousands of publicly traded companies against a range of stability and performance indicators. Stocks with consistently low ratings have been highlighted in recent communications as potentially vulnerable during periods of macroeconomic strain. These assessments are driven entirely by data inputs and proprietary scoring algorithms, without promotional intent.

    3. Historical Inflation Hedges: Gold

    Gold’s historical role as a hedge against currency devaluation and inflation has positioned it as a recurring area of interest in times of fiscal pressure. The report outlines this trend in neutral terms, citing past monetary shifts, such as the end of the gold standard in 1971, and their correlation with gold’s upward movement, without speculating on future pricing or returns.

    4. Market Signal Volatility and Emerging Asset Modeling

    As part of its broader modeling approach, Weiss Ratings includes observational data sets related to non-traditional asset classes, particularly those exhibiting high volatility cycles and inconsistent correlation with legacy financial indices. These asset categories, while not universally defined or adopted across institutions, have gained visibility in academic and research environments due to their periodic divergence from traditional investment patterns.

    The Safe Money Report includes this segment solely to acknowledge the role of high-variance instruments within volatility forecasting models. No investment recommendations or endorsements are provided. All data references are based on cyclical trends and historical behavior patterns without forward-looking claims or speculative commentary.

    5. Farmland and Alternative Real Estate

    Global agricultural land, particularly regions with low natural disaster risk and high food production capacity, is discussed as a long-term value store. Rather than promoting real estate purchases, the update highlights macroeconomic data suggesting increasing institutional interest in land-based assets during trade disruptions or currency weakness.

    6. Data-Guided Diversification Principles

    The sixth focus area emphasizes neutrality and independence in asset selection. Rather than relying on prevailing narratives or media sentiment, the report advocates for a systematic approach to evaluating diversification strategies through unbiased, long-term data modeling.

    These six pillars are not presented as guarantees or recommendations, but rather as analytical categories shaped by historical precedent and current volatility. Their inclusion reflects Safe Money Report’s effort to provide investors with structured context in the absence of certainty.

    SECTION 5 – Public Interest and Market Tone

    Recent shifts in online investor communities indicate a growing interest in frameworks that prioritize objectivity over speculation. While social media and financial forums remain saturated with short-term forecasts and high-frequency commentary, a parallel conversation has emerged: one centered on navigating prolonged uncertainty with data-first tools and historically grounded insights.

    Within this context, Safe Money Report has seen renewed interest from readers seeking clarity in what many now label an “unreadable” or “irrational” market. The term “Age of Chaos” itself has become a focal point in these discussions — a metaphor not only for economic conditions, but also for the perceived breakdown of traditional investing norms. Observers note that price action often diverges from fundamentals, with events such as strong earnings reports followed by market declines, or bullish policy moves met with retreat in equity indices. This disconnect has led many to seek out alternative interpretive models that are rooted in quantitative research rather than commentary.

    Feedback trends suggest that investors are especially drawn to the idea of rules-based frameworks, not as a way to predict market movements, but as a method for insulating decision-making from emotional swings. Terms like “bias-free ratings,” “independent signals,” and “data over headlines” are increasingly cited in discussions about financial preparedness. This echoes a wider public concern: how to plan responsibly when both optimism and pessimism seem unreliable as guiding principles.

    Additionally, the public narrative is shifting from short-term return maximization to long-term asset preservation. As attention to inflation rises and skepticism grows about centralized financial messaging, more investors are expressing interest in strategies that emphasize structural safety: liquid equities, tangible assets, and diversified exposure to sectors less correlated with traditional stock indices.

    While the Safe Money Report does not offer personalized advice, its model portfolio and analytical reports are gaining traction among those who view historical modeling and independent oversight as preferable alternatives to market-timed trading or sentiment-driven speculation. The ongoing reception appears to reflect a growing consensus that durable frameworks — even those without guarantees — may be the most practical tools available in navigating a market that no longer adheres to familiar rules.

    A comprehensive overview of the six-part methodology is featured in Weiss Ratings’ latest release.

    SECTION 6 – Availability and Transparency Statement

    The full 2025 strategic update from Safe Money Report, including its six-part framework for navigating market volatility, is now available to the public through Weiss Ratings. The content is designed for informational purposes only and is based entirely on independently developed research methodologies. It does not represent personalized investment advice, financial guarantees, or any form of promotional solicitation.

    Weiss Ratings remains privately held and operates without advertising sponsorships, ensuring that no outside party influences the analysis or ratings it provides. All insights contained within the Safe Money Report are driven by proprietary algorithms and long-range historical data, not market trends or promotional partnerships.

    Readers seeking further context can consult Weiss Ratings’ published materials, which detail the firm’s algorithmic modeling practices, asset evaluation methodologies, and archived forecasting studies. These resources are designed to support informed investor decision-making in environments where traditional predictive models may no longer be applicable.

    The current update reflects an ongoing commitment to data transparency, neutral positioning, and accessibility in financial analysis. It is one of several recurring informational releases Weiss Ratings makes available to the investing public.

    SECTION 7 – Final Observations & Industry Context

    The release of the Safe Money Report 2025 update arrives during a period when investor expectations are being reshaped by prolonged volatility and skepticism toward traditional market narratives. From institutional investors to retail market participants, the demand for data-backed, transparent, and independent frameworks continues to accelerate. The appetite for actionable intelligence has not disappeared, but the threshold for credibility has evolved.

    A defining trend across the financial industry is the growing rejection of opaque product offerings and media-driven investment cycles. In their place, clean-label strategies — rooted in historical precedent, accessible metrics, and conflict-free evaluation — have gained ground. The Safe Money Report, developed under the Weiss Ratings system, reflects this trend by prioritizing algorithmic transparency and long-term analysis over opinion-based guidance.

    In the broader ecosystem of financial research, independent ratings firms have become more relevant to both institutional and private investors seeking to avoid exposure to promotional conflicts of interest. The events of the past two decades — including multiple financial crises, asset bubbles, and regulatory failures — have underscored the importance of analytical models that operate outside the sphere of influence held by banks, brokers, and fund managers.

    As 2025 progresses, the challenges facing investors appear less likely to be resolved by short-term optimism and more likely to demand frameworks grounded in realism and historical literacy. The Safe Money Report release, while not prescriptive, contributes to this shift by presenting a systematic view of market behavior and economic fragility — one shaped by data, tested by precedent, and delivered with complete transparency.

    SECTION 8 – Public Commentary Theme Summary

    As conversations surrounding the “Age of Chaos” accelerate across financial forums, publications, and informal investor networks, several recurring themes have emerged — many reflecting heightened uncertainty. In contrast, others suggest cautious optimism rooted in historical precedent.

    Some observers have noted a growing disconnect between market fundamentals and short-term price behavior. This has led to broader discussions around the value of tools that prioritize data objectivity over media-driven sentiment. In particular, public interest is shifting toward ratings frameworks and risk models that operate without promotional sponsorship or institutional bias.

    Others have expressed concern about the reliability of traditional guidance in the current environment. With central banks pursuing varied monetary responses, geopolitical tensions disrupting supply chains, and asset correlations shifting unpredictably, many investors are raising questions about the long-term viability of conventional portfolio allocations.

    At the same time, a recurring discussion point involves the search for inflation hedges and value preservation strategies outside of traditional equities. Farmland, digital assets, and precious metals are increasingly appearing in public discourse, not as speculative investments, but as part of broader diversification conversations.

    Still, skepticism remains. Some have raised valid concerns about the feasibility of applying historical frameworks to modern market structures, which are shaped by artificial intelligence, algorithmic trading, and global interdependence. While historical case studies can offer context, not all investors agree on their applicability in an age of technological acceleration.

    A consensus has emerged, recognizing uncertainty as the default condition, rather than the exception. As a result, discussions continue to explore the potential of frameworks — such as those presented in the Safe Money Report — to help make sense of a market where volatility is not temporary, but structural.

    SECTION 9 – About the Company

    Founded in 1971 by Martin D. Weiss, Weiss Ratings is an independent financial research and ratings organization that delivers data-driven analysis of stocks, mutual funds, ETFs, banks, and insurance companies. The firm maintains a conflict-free model, accepting no advertising or compensation from the companies it evaluates. Its proprietary ratings system is based on more than a century of market history and thousands of performance indicators.

    Weiss Ratings aims to provide investors with transparent, algorithm-based tools that support informed financial decisions in uncertain market environments. Its methodologies are designed to operate independently of institutional influence, emphasizing data integrity and long-term historical context.

    Weiss Ratings does not provide treatment, personalized investment advice, or diagnostic financial services. All published material is for informational purposes only and intended for a general audience.

    Contact:

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Banzai Announces Reverse Split

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Banzai International, Inc. (NASDAQ: BNZI) (“Banzai” or the “Company”), a leading marketing technology company that provides essential marketing and sales solutions, today announced that effective at market open on July 8, 2025, the Company will effect a one-for-ten (1 for 10) reverse stock split of its outstanding Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock (together with the Class A Common Stock, the “Common Stock”).

    The reverse stock split is primarily intended to increase the per share price of Banzai’s Class A Common Stock and maintain compliance with the Nasdaq Minimum Bid Price Requirement. The Company’s Class A Common Stock will continue to trade under the symbol “BNZI”. Upon the effectiveness of the reverse stock split, every ten shares of issued and outstanding Common Stock before the open of business on July 8, 2025, will be combined into one issued and outstanding share of common stock, with no change in par value per share. The Company’s Class A Common Stock will open for trading on Nasdaq on July 8, 2025, on a post-split basis but will trade under a new CUSIP Number, 06682J407.

    Prior to the reverse stock split, there were 22,374,739 shares of Class A Common Stock and 2,311,134 shares of Class B Common Stock outstanding. The number of issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock after the reverse stock split would be approximately 2,237,474 and 231,113 shares of Class A Common Stock and Class B Common Stock, respectively. No fractional shares will be issued as a result of the reverse stock split. Any fractional shares that would result from the reverse stock split will be rounded up to the nearest whole share.

    The reverse stock split will affect all issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s Common Stock, as well as the number of shares of Common Stock available for issuance under the Company’s stock options and warrants. In addition, the reverse stock split will reduce the number of shares of Common Stock issuable upon the exercise of stock options and warrants outstanding immediately prior to the reverse split and correspondingly increase the respective aggregate exercise prices. The reverse stock split will affect all holders of Common Stock uniformly and will not alter any shareholder’s percentage interest in the Company’s Common Stock, except to the extent that the reverse stock split results in some shareholders experiencing an adjustment of a fractional share as described above.

    Shareholders holding share certificates will receive information from Continental Stock Transfer & Trust Company, the Company’s transfer agent, regarding the process for exchanging their shares of common stock. Shareholders with questions may contact our transfer agent by calling 800-509-5586.

    About Banzai

    Banzai is a marketing technology company that provides AI-enabled marketing and sales solutions for businesses of all sizes. On a mission to help their customers grow, Banzai enables companies of all sizes to target, engage, and measure both new and existing customers more effectively. Banzai has over 90,000 customers including RBC, Dell Technologies, New York Life, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Thinkific, and ActiveCampaign. Learn more at www.banzai.io. For investors, please visit https://ir.banzai.io.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often use words such as “believe,” “may,” “will,” “estimate,” “target,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “would,” “propose,” “plan,” “project,” “forecast,” “predict,” “potential,” “seek,” “future,” “outlook,” and similar variations and expressions. Forward-looking statements are those that do not relate strictly to historical or current facts. Examples of forward-looking statements may include, among others, statements regarding Banzai International, Inc.’s (the “Company’s”): future financial, business and operating performance and goals; annualized recurring revenue and customer retention; ongoing, future or ability to maintain or improve its financial position, cash flows, and liquidity and its expected financial needs; potential financing and ability to obtain financing; acquisition strategy and proposed acquisitions and, if completed, their potential success and financial contributions; strategy and strategic goals, including being able to capitalize on opportunities; expectations relating to the Company’s industry, outlook and market trends; total addressable market and serviceable addressable market and related projections; plans, strategies and expectations for retaining existing or acquiring new customers, increasing revenue and executing growth initiatives; and product areas of focus and additional products that may be sold in the future. 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. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and our actual results of operations, financial condition and liquidity and development of the industry in which the Company operates may differ materially from those made in or suggested by the forward-looking statements. Therefore, investors should not rely on any of these forward-looking statements. Factors that may cause actual results to differ materially include changes in the markets in which the Company operates, customer demand, the financial markets, economic, business and regulatory and other factors, such as the Company’s ability to execute on its strategy. More detailed information about risk factors can be found in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q under the heading “Risk Factors,” and in other reports filed by the Company, including reports on Form 8-K. The Company does not undertake any duty to update forward-looking statements after the date of this press release.

    Investor Relations
    Chris Tyson
    Executive Vice President
    MZ Group – MZ North America
    949-491-8235
    BNZI@mzgroup.us
    www.mzgroup.us

    Media
    Nancy Norton
    Chief Legal Officer, Banzai
    media@banzai.io

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Security: Canton Man Charged in National Health Care Fraud Takedown

    Source: US FBI

    Over 300 defendants charged nationwide in connection with more than $14.6 billion in alleged fraud, making it the largest health care fraud takedown in history

    BOSTON – Today, as part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, a Canton, Mass. man has been charged and has agreed to plead guilty in connection with an alleged fraud scheme to defraud Medicare of over $4 million by submitting claims for durable medical equipment (DME) that was medically unnecessary, not wanted by the Medicare beneficiaries, and  tainted by kickbacks.

    Krishna Gidwani, 55, of Canton, Mass., was charged by an Information with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. The Court has scheduled a plea hearing for July 30, 2025.  

    According to the charging documents, Gidwani allegedly worked with Raju Sharma, and other co-conspirators to own and operate a DME company that paid telemarketing companies for DME orders for orthotics such as ankle, wrist, knee and back braces. Often, the Medicare beneficiaries did not need or want the braces the defendants shipped them and, as further alleged in the information, the doctors whose signatures appeared on these DME orders often did not treat these beneficiaries and did not prescribe the DME. In May 2025, Sharma, agreed to plead guilty to health care fraud conspiracy for his alleged role in the scheme. His plea hearing is scheduled for July 8, 2025.

    The charge of conspiracy to commit health care fraud provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, supervised release for up to three years and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    “Mr. Gidwani is accused of manipulating Medicare to enrich himself – misusing the names of unwitting doctors to push unwanted and unnecessary medical equipment onto elderly patients. Health care fraud is not a victimless crime. It drives up costs, exploits vulnerable patients and undermines public trust in our medical system,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “Today’s charges are part of a historic, nationwide effort to hold accountable those who abuse federal health care programs for personal gain. Our office will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to root out fraud and ensure that Medicare dollars support genuine patient care, not criminal profit.”

    “This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

    “The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

    “Health care fraud affects everyone. Not only does it put a strain on our country’s vital health care system, but it costs taxpayers billions of dollars every year,” said Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Boston Division. “FBI Boston will continue to work with our law enforcement and private sector partners to identify and investigate individuals like Krishna Gidwani who are accused of submitting claims that are medically unnecessary and tainted by kickbacks.”

    U.S. Attorney Foley; AG Bondi; HHS-OIG Acting IG Hodgkins; and FBI SAC Docks made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren A. Graber and Sarah B. Hoefle of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

    Today’s announcement is part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in intended loss and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets. The United States has seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles and other assets in connection with the takedown.

    The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team. Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.

    The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.  

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Nine Charged with Alleged Scheme to Generate Revenue for North Korean Government and Its Weapons of Mass Destruction Program

    Source: US FBI

    Overseas operatives allegedly used stolen identities of American citizens to obtain remote jobs with U.S. companies, including Fortune 500 companies

    UPDATE: This press release was revised on July 3, 2025 to reflect that a 10th individual was charged in a separate charging document that was unsealed on July 2, 2025. 


    BOSTON – Nine individuals have been indicted in Boston, Mass. including one New Jersey man and eight overseas actors from China and Taiwan in connection with an alleged scheme to generate revenue for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) weapons of mass destruction (WMD) programs. The alleged scheme involved the dispatchment of skilled information technology (IT) workers who, using stolen identities of U.S. persons, posed as domestic workers to obtain remote IT jobs with U.S. companies, including several Fortune 500 companies and a defense contractor.

    The following defendants have been indicted for their roles in the scheme, which generated at least $5 million in revenue for North Korea:  

    1. U.S. national Zhenxing “Danny” Wang of New Jersey;
    2. Chinese national Jing Bin Huang (靖斌 黄);
    3. Chinese national Baoyu Zhou (周宝玉);
    4. Chinese national Tong Yuze (佟雨泽);
    5. Chinese national Yongzhe Xu (徐勇哲 andيونجزهي أكسو), currently residing in the United Arab Emirates;
    6. Chinese national Ziyou Yuan (زيو), currently residing in the United Arab Emirates;
    7. Chinese national Zhenbang Zhou (周震邦);
    8. Taiwanese national Mengting Liu (劉 孟婷); and
    9. Taiwanese national Enchia Liu (刘恩)

    Zhenxing Wang was arrested earlier today in New Jersey. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. A second U.S. national, Kejia “Tony” Wang of New Jersey, has also been charged in a separate charging document for his role in the scheme and has agreed to plead guilty.

    As alleged in court documents, in response to U.S. and U.N. sanctions, the DPRK government has dispatched thousands of skilled IT workers around the world, who stole identities of U.S. persons and posed as domestic workers to obtain remote IT jobs with U.S. companies and generate revenue for DPRK weapons of mass destruction WMD programs. The DPRK IT workers’ scheme involved the use of pseudonymous email, social media, payment platform and online job site accounts, as well as false websites, proxy computers, and third-party enablers in the United States and abroad. According to the court documents the IT workers employed under this scheme also gained access to sensitive employer data and source code, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations data from a California-based defense contractor that develops artificial intelligence-powered equipment and technologies

    “The threat posed by DPRK operatives is both real and immediate. Thousands of North Korean cyber operatives have been trained and deployed by the regime to blend into the global digital workforce and systematically target U.S. companies,” said United States Attorney Leah B. Foley. “We will continue to work relentlessly to protect U.S. businesses and ensure they are not inadvertently fueling the DPRK’s unlawful and dangerous ambitions.”

    “These schemes target and steal from U.S. companies and are designed to evade sanctions and fund the North Korean regime’s illicit programs, including its weapons programs,” said John A. Eisenberg, Assistant Attorney General for the Department’s National Security Division. “The Justice Department, along with our law enforcement, private sector, and international partners, will persistently pursue and dismantle these cyber-enabled revenue generation networks.”

    “The FBI will continue to work with our partners to expose and mitigate these fraudulent IT schemes and provide unwavering support to victims of North Korean cyber actors. While we have disrupted this group, this is merely the initial phase of the problem. The government of North Korea has trained and deployed thousands of IT workers to carry out similar schemes against U.S. companies daily. Protect your business by thoroughly vetting fully remote workers. The FBI strongly advises organizations to closely monitor their data, strengthen their remote hiring processes, and report any suspicious activity or fraud to the FBI,” said Rafik Mattar, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Las Vegas Division.

    “These Indictments should act as a deterrent for individuals and foreign entities attempting to illegally export critical defense information,” said John E. Helsing, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Western Field Office. “DCIS will continue to work aggressively with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to investigate and prosecute those who threaten our National Security and America’s Warfighters.”

    “This multiagency case demonstrates the power of law enforcement agencies collaborating to dismantle international fraudulent schemes involving technology,” said Shawn Gibson, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in San Diego. “Let this investigation prove that HSI will aggressively identify and bring to justice those who seek to steal intellectual property through illegal access to computer networks in order to financially profit and jeopardize U.S.-based businesses who have fallen victim to these actors.”

    According to the indictment, from approximately 2021 through October 2024, the defendants and other co-conspirators perpetuated a massive fraud scheme resulting in the transmission of false and misleading information to dozens of U.S. companies, financial institutions, and government agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), and the Social Security Administration (SSA). Specifically, these defendants and their co-conspirators allegedly compromised the identities of more than 80 U.S. persons; fraudulently obtained remote jobs at more than 100 U.S. companies, including several Fortune 500 companies and a cleared defense contractor; received laptops and other hardware from U.S. companies; accessed, without authorization, the internal systems of these U.S. companies, including sensitive employer data and source code; generated at least $5 million in revenue for the overseas IT workers; and caused U.S. victim companies to incur legal fees, computer network remediation costs, and other damages and losses of at least $3 million.  

    The overseas IT workers were allegedly assisted in this scheme by Kejia Wang, Zhenxing Wang, and at least four other identified U.S. facilitators. These facilitators allegedly received and/or hosted laptops belonging to U.S. victim companies at their residences to deceive the U.S. companies into believing the IT workers were in the United States. It is further alleged that they facilitated remote access to the computers for the overseas IT workers through illicit means, including downloading software to the computers without authorization from the U.S. companies, connecting the U.S. companies’ computers to internet-connected KVM switches, and creating shell companies with corresponding websites and financial accounts, including Hopana Tech LLC, Tony WKJ LLC and Independent Lab LLC to make it appear as though the overseas IT workers were affiliated with legitimate U.S. businesses. These facilitators also allegedly established accounts at U.S. financial institutions and online money transfer services to receive money from victimized U.S. companies, much of which was subsequently transferred to overseas co-conspirators. In exchange for their services, it is alleged that Kejia Wang, Zhenxing Wang, and the other U.S. facilitators collected at least $696,000 in fees.  

    According to court documents, in October 2024, seven locations in New York, New Jersey and California were searched and voluntary interviews at so-called “laptop farms” were conducted (that is, premises used to host U.S company laptop computers used in furtherance of the scheme), resulting in the recovery of more than 70 victim company devices. Additionally, 21 fraudulent web domains used to facilitate North Korean IT work have been seized, and 29 financial accounts, holding tens of thousands of dollars in funds, used to launder revenue for the North Korean regime through remote IT work.

    Also today, the Northern District of Georgia unsealed an indictment charging four North Korean nationals with a scheme to steal virtual currency held by two victim companies valued at over $750,000 and laundering the proceeds overseas. Unlike traditional North Korean IT workers, who usually seek employment with the goal of remitting their salaries back to North Korea, the defendants charged by the Northern District of Georgia allegedly sought employment with virtual currency-related businesses to earn the trust of those businesses and then stole those businesses’ virtual assets.

    Today’s announcement is the culmination of a multi-year investigation by federal law enforcement agencies and is one of several announced today as part of the Justice Department’s initiative, DPRK: Domestic Enabler. Under the initiative, Department prosecutors and agents continue to prioritize high-impact, strategic, and unified enforcement and disruption operations targeting DPRK’s illicit revenue generation efforts through remote IT workers, and the U.S.-based individuals who enable them.

    The U.S. Department of State has offered potential rewards for up to $5 million in support of international efforts to disrupt North Korea’s illicit financial activities, including for certain information related to individuals who are sent outside of North Korea to work to generate money for the North Korean government or who facilitate the activities of such North Korean nationals.

    The charges of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of conspiracy to cause damage to a protected computer provides for a sentence of up to 15 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. The charge of conspiracy to commit identity theft provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.

    U.S. Attorney Foley; AAG Eisenberg; FBI Las Vegas Acting SAC Mattar; DCIS San Diego Acting SAC Helsing; and HSI San Diego SAC Shawn Gibson made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Casey of the National Security Unit is prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorney Gregory J. Nicosia, Jr. of the National Security Division’s National Security Cyber Section. Valuable assistance was provided by FBI New York, Newark and San Diego Field Offices; HSI Newark Field Office; United States Postal Inspection Service’s San Diego Field Office; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the District of New Jersey, the Eastern District of New York and the Southern District of California.

    The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.  

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Celebrates 12th Anniversary with Grand Launch of Million-Dollar HTTC S1 Trading Competition

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PANAMA CITY, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is celebrating its upcoming 12th anniversary by launching the “HTX Team Trading Competition (HTTC) Season 1: Blades Out” spot trading event. Recruitment for Team Leaders is now open. Featuring a total prize pool of over one million USDT, the competition offers a unique opportunity for traders worldwide to showcase their skills. As an added incentive, all participants will have a chance to win the highly coveted Xiaomi SU7 MAX SUV through a special lucky draw.

    Million-Dollar Prize Pool Ignites Trading Passion

    HTTC S1 is designed to provide users with a premier platform to showcase their trading skills, foster team collaboration, and leverage community influence. The event offers a total prize pool exceeding one million dollars, with $70,000 allocated to the Team Trading Volume Challenge and $30,000 to the Team PnL Challenge. All rewards will be distributed in $HTX tokens. Participants who complete level 3 KYC verification can claim a 10 USDT Cashback Voucher upon successful event registration.

    Additionally, throughout the event, all participants will have a chance to win the grand lucky prize — one of three Xiaomi SU7 MAX SUVs.

    Team Leader Recruitment Underway

    HTX is currently recruiting team leaders globally. The registration period runs from 10:00 (UTC) on July 2, 2025, to 10:00 (UTC) on July 9, 2025. Users can register by submitting their UID, preferred team name, and a brief team description. Ultimately, 10 team leaders will be selected based on their influence, spot trading volume, and other key factors. Selected team leaders will receive a trading volume multiplier to enhance their share of the prize pool, along with a 200 USDT Cashback Voucher as a bonus.

    Users not chosen as team leaders are invited to join any team and participate in the competition for a share of the prize pool. The team formation period will run from 10:00 (UTC) on July 10 to 10:00 (UTC) on July 22. The trading competition itself will take place from 10:00 (UTC) on July 10 to 10:00 (UTC) on July 25. Further details regarding the rules and rewards will be provided in an upcoming announcement.

    HTX: Leading the Future of Crypto Trading

    Since its inception in 2013, HTX has maintained its commitment to providing secure, stable, and efficient crypto trading services for users worldwide. The “HTTC S1” serves as a significant highlight for HTX’s 12th-anniversary celebration, aiming to create value and share wealth with global users through an innovative team competition model.

    Going forward, HTX will continue to enhance the user trading experience and expand its range of financial products and services. This will offer users safer and more convenient investment options and inject fresh momentum into the broader industry’s development.

    About HTX

    Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

    As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

    To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

    Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. 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/75037eb4-a165-427a-99c5-03411c351c44

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Helping manufacturers thrive in Alberta

    Alberta’s government is focused on growing the economy by creating a business-friendly climate where companies want to invest. This focus has led to more jobs and economic prosperity, making Alberta the best place in Canada to do business. Alberta is already home to one of Canada’s largest manufacturing industries, and with low corporate taxes and regulatory burden, Alberta’s government is helping more businesses succeed.

    In collaboration with Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, Alberta’s government is investing more than $4 million to support small- and medium-sized manufacturing businesses through the Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant. This two-year pilot program offers businesses access to advice, expertise and up to $30,000 in matching funding for technology upgrades along with new machinery and equipment. The pilot program is expected to support approximately 130 small- and medium-sized businesses.

    “Alberta’s government is committed to making sure small- and medium-sized businesses have the resources they need to grow. The Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant is empowering local business owners to invest in new technologies, machinery and equipment that will allow them to take their business to the next level – while also driving job creation and growth in Alberta’s manufacturing sector.”

    Joseph Schow, Minister of Jobs, Economy, Trade and Immigration

    Manufacturing companies from any sector are eligible to apply to the pilot program if they have a physical location in Alberta which makes, refines, refurbishes or processes a product or material, uses the equipment or technology from the grant in Alberta and employs between five and 750 employees.

    “As a measure we’ve strongly advocated for, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters applauds the Government of Alberta for this measure that will help derisk investment for small- and medium-sized manufacturers during uncertain economic times. This program will be pivotal in supporting Alberta manufacturers to make investments that will help them grow.”

    Dennis Darby, president and chief executive officer, Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters

    Manufacturing plays a vital role in driving Alberta’s economic strength and supporting its diverse industries. As of May 2025, the sector employed 144,800 people – 5.6 per cent of the province’s total workforce. In 2024, Alberta’s manufacturing GDP reached $25 billion, and investment in the sector totalled $4.8 billion, marking a 41.9 per cent increase over 2023. The manufacturing sector has impacts across the economy, in areas including wood product manufacturing, machinery and equipment manufacturing, food processing, chemical production and fabricated metal production.

    “Manufacturing is a critical link in Canada’s energy supply chain – from precision components to large-scale equipment, every piece matters. This support for technology and equipment upgrades will directly enhance the productivity and competitiveness of Alberta’s energy manufacturers, who are essential to meeting growing energy demands at this pivotal moment for the Canadian economy.”

    Gurpreet Lail, president and chief executive officer, Enserva

    “Technology drives innovation, sustainability and global competitiveness in the chemistry and plastics sector. Support for investment in advanced technologies will help companies decarbonize, reduce waste and deliver the next generation of low-carbon, high-performance materials. This is why the Chemistry Industry Association of Canada is proud to support the Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant, which is providing over $4 million to help small- and medium-sized enterprises across the province – of particular importance to the plastics industry – modernize their equipment, enhance operational efficiency and advance sustainability.”

    Christa Seaman, vice-president, plastics division, Chemistry Industry Association of Canada

    “The Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant is a strategic investment in the future of Alberta’s economy. By helping manufacturers upgrade technology and equipment, this initiative empowers businesses to enhance productivity, drive innovation and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global market.”

    Shauna Feth, president and chief executive officer, Alberta Chambers of Commerce

    Amid ongoing economic uncertainty around the world, investments aimed at improving productivity have never been more important. The Alberta Manufacturing Productivity Grant will help build manufacturing capacity and efficiency, enhancing the province’s manufacturing competitiveness while also making Alberta’s manufacturing sector more resilient to future external shocks.

    Quick facts

    • The manufacturing sector spans different industries, including the production of chemical, food, beverage, wood, machinery and petroleum products.
      • In 2024, the top six manufacturing subsectors (chemical manufacturing, petroleum and coal product manufacturing, food manufacturing, machinery manufacturing, fabricated metal product manufacturing and wood product manufacturing) made up about four-fifths of Alberta’s manufacturing GDP.
    • Manufacturing is an integral part of Alberta’s economic prosperity.
      • In 2024, manufacturing contributed seven per cent to Alberta’s GDP, the fourth-largest sector contribution.
      • In 2024, manufacturing accounted for 24 per cent of Alberta’s exports, at $43 billion.
      • In May 2025, manufacturing employed 144,800 people in Alberta, representing 5.6 per cent of total Alberta employment.
        • Three subsectors (food manufacturing, fabricated metal product manufacturing and machinery manufacturing) account for roughly half of Alberta’s manufacturing jobs.
    • Canadian Manufacturers and Exporters (CME) represents more than 10,000 companies nationwide and works closely with various governments to promote growth within Canada’s manufacturing sector. CME also provides industry intelligence on the opportunities and challenges faced by manufacturers in Alberta and across Canada.

    Related information

    MIL OSI Canada News

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Perenco’s $2 Billion Cap Lopez Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project Signals Gas-Led Growth in Central Africa

    Source: APO

    Positioning natural gas at the center of its growth strategy, independent oil and gas company Perenco is driving one of Central Africa’s most ambitious energy developments through the Cap Lopez LNG terminal in Gabon – a flagship project set to come online in 2026. Situated at the existing Cap Lopez oil terminal, the $2 billion initiative will introduce a floating LNG (FLNG) vessel designed to monetize the country’s offshore gas reserves and reduce gas flaring. Following completion, the project is expected to serve as a catalyst for energy diversification and broader economic growth in the country.

    Marking Gabon’s first large-scale gas development following a final investment decision in 2024, the project signals a major step forward for regional energy security and industrialization. Currently under construction in Dubai, the FLNG unit will boast a production capacity of 700,000 tons of LNG and 25,000 tons of LPG annually, supported by storage infrastructure capable of holding 137,000 cubic meters. In support of this venture, engineering and construction company Technomak recently signed an agreement with Dixstone – a Perenco affiliate – for the integration of the offshore FLNG barge. Perenco is a Gold Partner at this year’s African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies in Cape Town.

    AEW: Invest in African Energies is the platform of choice for project operators, financiers, technology providers and government, and has emerged as the official place to sign deals in African energy. Visit www.AECWeek.com for more information about this exciting event.

    The project forms part of a broader energy strategy being implemented by Perenco in Africa. In the Republic of Congo, the company continues to expand its upstream footprint with the commissioning of the Kombi 2 platform on the Kombi-Likalala-Libondo II permit. Currently under construction by Dixstone at the Nieuwdorp shipyard in the Netherlands, the platform is scheduled to depart in October and enter into operation offshore Pointe-Noire by early next year. With an estimated investment exceeding $200 million – and forming part of broader developments nearing $900 million – the project includes new drilling phases, infrastructure upgrades and the optimization of existing wells. The Kombi 2 platform will feature an integrated wellbay module to accommodate new wells, aiming to unlock an additional 10 million barrels of oil equivalent, with targeted output gains of 4 million cubic feet per day. Power generation for the platform will be supported by dual gas turbined linked to a 33-kV electrical hub, reinforcing Perenco’s commitment to operational efficiency and sustainable resource development in Congo.

    On the exploration front, Perenco continues to cement its role as a premier independent in Africa’s energy landscape through a robust portfolio of upstream and gas infrastructure developments across the continent. In early 2024 an appraisal well in Gabon spudded near the Hylia South West discovery revealed substantial oil-bearing columns in the Ntchengue Ocean reservoir and reinforcing the potential of the lower Madiela carbonate formation. In Cameroon, the company launched its inaugural gas-to-industry project in July 2024, supplying 3.5-6.5 million cubic feet per day of natural gas from the Sanaga South field to the Keda tile factory via a 6-km pipeline – a milestone following its 9.9% equity acquisition in offshore operatory Golar LNG a month earlier.

    These initiatives underscore Perenco’s integrated energy strategy, with the company’s participation as a Gold Partner at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 set to showcase their strategic role in shaping Africa’s energy future through large-scale gas monetization, infrastructure expansion and frontier exploration. Taking place in Cape Town from September 29 to October 3, 2025, the event promises to shine a light on these transformative projects and drive high-level dialogue on investment, innovation and sustainable development in Africa’s oil and gas sector.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ghana: Statement on the Payment of US$349.52 Million Eurobond Debt Service

    Source: APO


    .

    The Ministry of Finance wishes to officially inform the public that the Government of Ghana has, through the Bank of Ghana, successfully effected a payment of US$349,523,674.56 in respect of Eurobond debt service obligations today, Thursday, 3rd July 2025.

     Since the conclusion of Ghana’s Eurobond debt restructuring in October 2024, the Government of Ghana has cumulatively serviced US$1,174.64 million in Eurobond debt payments as follows:

    • In October 2024, the government made an initial payment of US$475.60 million, covering obligations due under the restructuring agreement, including the first post-restructuring debt service.
    • In January 2025, the government paid US$349.52 million.
    • And now, in July 2025, a further US$349.52 million has been paid

    This brings Ghana fully up to date on all scheduled Eurobond debt service obligations for 2025.

    Looking ahead to 2026, a total debt service of US$1,409.06 million is scheduled.

    This timely payment reaffirms Ghana’s commitment to macroeconomic stability, prudent debt management, and constructive engagement with external creditors.

    It is expected to:

    • Positively influence Ghana’s credit ratings trajectory in the months ahead, as it demonstrates continued discipline in debt servicing post-restructuring.
    • Boost investor confidence in Ghana’s sovereign credit profile and economic recovery programme.
    • Support foreign exchange market stability, as it has been incorporated into the Bank of Ghana’s reserves and liquidity management strategy.

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

    MIL OSI Africa

  • MIL-OSI USA: Transformed $25M Lincoln Park Pool in Albany Completed

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today celebrated the completion of the $25 million rehabilitation of the historic Lincoln Park Pool in Albany, made possible through $10 million in support from the Governor’s innovative New York Statewide Investment In More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative that expands access to safe swimming, addresses equity gaps by providing recreational opportunities and supports communities across the state with resources to combat extreme heat. This newly transformed facility restores a vital community asset in Albany’s South End that has served families since 1930, bringing modern amenities and full accessibility to the neighborhood. Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative awarded $150 million in 2024 to 37 pool projects across New York State, including more than $28 million to five pools in the Capital Region. NY SWIMS is the largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal.

    “For nearly a century, Lincoln Park Pool has been a cornerstone of summer in Albany’s South End and today, we are giving it new life for the next generation to enjoy,” Governor Hochul said. “Through our NY SWIMS initiative, we’re investing in accessible and affordable places where families and communities can beat the heat and come together. Our NY SWIMS program ensures that all New Yorkers can get offline, get outside and thrive.”

    The Lincoln Park Pool rehabilitation represents a complete transformation of the nearly century-old facility, featuring a zero-entry pool for accessibility, a half Olympic-style lap pool for competitive swimming, a splash pad for family recreation, and upgraded restrooms with modern amenities. Through NY SWIMS the state is specifically targeting underserved communities that have long needed improved recreational facilities. This $10 million investment in Lincoln Park Pool builds on previous support, including a $262,500 Environmental Protection Fund grant awarded by New York State Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation in 2018 for the planning and design of the project.

    With today’s ribbon cutting, Albany celebrates the restoration of a beloved community gathering place that will serve families throughout the City. The Lincoln Park pool rehabilitation is among the projects specifically targeting underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming facilities. The project exemplifies the “Get Offline, Get Outside” initiative’s mission to provide healthy outdoor recreation alternatives for young people and families. As communities nationwide grapple with the mental health impacts of excessive screen time, facilities like this rehabilitated pool offer safe spaces for physical activity and social connection.

    Drowning remains the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, making facilities like Lincoln Park Pool crucial for water safety education. The pool will provide space for learn-to-swim programming, helping address swimming disparities while offering a safe place for families to cool off during increasingly hot summers due to climate change

    The ribbon cutting comes as NY SWIMS continues to expand, with an additional $90 million allocated in 2025. The increased funding reflects strong legislative support for expanding swimming access across New York State and demonstrates bipartisan recognition of the program’s success and community impact.

    The NY SWIMS Lifeguard Grant Program offers an additional $5 million for reimbursable grants from the Department of State to eligible municipalities to incentivize lifeguard recruitment and retention and is designed to help counties, cities, towns, and villages to increase swimming access through growing their ranks of lifeguards, providing additional opportunities, and expanding their open hours at municipal swimming locations. Albany is using $50,000 in grant funding to invest in training resources and hire three new lifeguard managers at a higher wage, who will oversee daily operations, manage schedules, and serve as direct mentors and additional support for the lifeguard team. These efforts are expected to help the City handle increased demand and extend the swimming season at Lincoln Park Pool.

    Additional State support for projects improving overall Lincoln Park and Albany infrastructure include a $5 million Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) grant provided through the Water Quality Improvement Project (WQIP) program to implement screening and disinfection of combined sewage from the Beaver Creek Sewer District. The project improved water quality by providing treatment for the Albany Pool’s largest combined sewer overflow and will serve to further reduce bacteria and improve water quality in the Hudson River. DEC also provided $1 million in funding through WQIP in 2021 to the Albany Water Board for the Lincoln Park Reflection and Learning Garden to construct green infrastructure elements in the park, diverse ecological and biohabitat, and implement native plantings to mitigate combined sewer surface discharges and odor issues within Lincoln Park.

    Dormitory Authority of the State of New York President & CEO Robert J. Rodriguez said, “Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative exemplifies the power of state-local collaboration at its best. Albany’s significant local investment, combined with NY SWIMS funding, has transformed a nearly century-old facility into a modern, accessible community hub that honors its historic roots while meeting today’s needs. This partnership approach is how we maximize public resources and build on existing community assets to create even greater opportunities for families. When state and local governments work together with a shared vision, we can preserve what matters most to neighborhoods while ensuring these vital spaces serve New Yorkers for another generation.”

    New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has long been a cornerstone of summer in Albany, and thanks to Governor Hochul’s NY SWIMS grants, we’re thrilled to bring this vital resource back to life. This historic investment provides a modern, inclusive space for the community to cool off, swim safely, and gather with friends and family this summer. We’re excited to build off this pool’s cherished legacy and continue helping New Yorkers enjoy the outdoors and make lasting memories.”

    New York Secretary of State Walter T. Mosley said, “The revitalization of the Lincoln Park Pool through the NY SWIMS initiative is a powerful example of how strategic investment can restore cherished public spaces and ensure they serve the next generation. The Department of State is proud to support Governor Hochul’s vision by providing grants to help communities recruit and retain qualified lifeguards for these recreational facilities, an essential part of expanding access to safe swimming. By investing in this critical workforce, we are working to keep our state’s pools and kids safe.”

    Department of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Amanda Lefton said, “As summers continue to get hotter, and the impacts of climate change create ongoing threats to public health, it is important to ensure that critical community resources like the Lincoln Park Pool and surrounding park spaces are fully supported. DEC is proud to continue our partnership with the City of Albany to support Lincoln Park improvements and we thank Governor Hochul and our state agency partners for helping families cool off safely and keep kids offline to enjoy the outdoors this summer.”

    State Senator Pat Fahy said, “Access to pools and swimming opportunities isn’t a luxury reserved for a few, it’s a lifelong skill that opens doors for our young people. That’s why the Lincoln Park Pool was built during the height of the Great Depression; to provide hope, opportunity, and a safe place to swim and recreate outdoors here in the City of Albany for families and New Yorkers. I’m proud to have been able to secure state funding to support the Lincoln Park Pool’s renovation, and I cannot wait to see our community take advantage of it this summer. I want to thank Mayor Sheehan, Governor Hochul, and so many more who made this project and today’s reopening a reality.”

    Assemblymember Gabriella Romero said, “This aquatic center, located in our Lincoln Park community, is an incredible investment and provides state of the art facilities for our youth to enjoy throughout this summer. It is more important than ever for children to spend time outdoors and connect with their local community. Thank you to Governor Hochul, Mayor Sheehan and others who made this project possible.”

    Assemblymember John T. McDonald III, RPh said, “The rehabilitation of Lincoln Park Pool is a perfect example of what happens when we invest in our communities. As a former Mayor, I know all too well the importance of having a safe and modernized space for New Yorkers, especially our youth, to not only cool off, but to learn the importance of water safety. I was proud to support funding for NY SWIMS in the Legislature, and I thank Governor Hochul for her continued commitment to expanding access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation across New York State.”

    Albany County Executive Daniel P. McCoy said, “The Lincoln Park Pool has been part of our city’s fabric for almost 100 years, and today, it’s finally getting the second life it deserves. I’d like to thank Governor Hochul for her significant contribution to its restoration through the NY SWIMS grant program. This is a win for public health and equity and I can’t wait to see New Yorkers get back to enjoying the water.”

    Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan said, “The new Lincoln Park Pool is yet another transformative investment in the South End. Since taking office, my administration has invested more than $65 million in our South End neighborhood. We are preventing raw sewage from percolating in Upper Lincoln Park while also cleaning the Hudson River. We renovated the Lincoln Park Basketball Courts, we revitalized the Lincoln Park Bowl, we built the South End Connector, and we are helping the Albany Housing Authority rebuild Steamboat Square. With the new Lincoln Park Pool, my administration continues to send a message to our South End neighbors that we are working tirelessly to reverse decades of historic disinvestment and we will continue to deliver on the promises we make to this community. I am so proud today has finally arrived, and I am so excited our residents have the opportunity to enjoy this state-of-the-art facility.”

    NY SWIMS builds on Governor Hochul’s broader commitment to youth wellness, including the signing of first-in-the-nation legislation protecting children from addictive social media feeds and shielding their personal data from online platforms. The initiative is a key component of the “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign, which also includes the $56.5 million Summer Youth Employment Program supporting 21,000 young people from low-income families across the state.

    The New York Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative represents New York’s largest investment in swimming infrastructure since the New Deal. The program provides grants between $50,000 and $10 million to help municipalities design, construct, rehabilitate, or modernize public swimming facilities, with a focus on supporting disadvantaged and underserved communities that lack access to safe swimming and outdoor recreation opportunities.

    MIL OSI USA News

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hayward Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Bankruptcy Fraud and Contempt of Court

    Source: US FBI

    Bernard Seidling Hid Approximately $20 Million in Assets During Bankruptcy, Including More Than One Million in Cash That He Stashed Under His House

    MADISON, WIS. – Bernard Seidling, 74, Hayward, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to seven years in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud and criminal contempt of court. He was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine. A jury convicted Seidling of these crimes after a four-day trial in federal court in Madison.

    “Seidling was a recurring and shameless financial predator,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “I am grateful to our tireless prosecutors and the many partners who worked to hold him accountable: the U.S. Trustee’s Office, the FBI, the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspectors.”

    “Mr. Seidling’s sentence reflects the FBI’s commitment to ensuring public trust by pursuing individuals who defraud others for personal gain,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “The FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to pursue justice and combat any fraud which negatively impacts financial institutions and the American people.”

    Seidling filed for bankruptcy in 2022. On the schedules he filed at the beginning of the case, Seidling falsely stated he had no real estate, retirement accounts, trusts, partnerships, or business-related property, and that he had only one bank account with a balance of $195. In reality, Seidling had approximately $20 million in assets hidden behind dozens of sham trusts and partnerships. Seidling’s schedules also stated he had not sold real estate in the past two years, when in fact he sold a waterfront home in Key West, Florida, for more than $3 million in 2021.

    Over Seidling’s objection, the bankruptcy court converted the case from a reorganization to a liquidation. At that point, Seidling began falsely representing that he could not meaningfully participate in the bankruptcy due to his physical and mental health, and Seidling argued the bankruptcy court should indefinitely pause the proceeding. During the period of Seidling’s alleged incapacitation, he continued to manage his businesses, conduct banking activity, and play tennis at a club in Key West, where he lived during the winter months. Seidling also represented himself and participated in state court litigation during this time.

    Regarding the contempt conviction, Seidling violated an order issued by the bankruptcy court. That order prohibited Seidling from transferring assets held by 37 of Seidling’s businesses, plus any other business entity Seidling was associated with, while the bankruptcy proceeded. The order further prohibited Seidling from directing or instructing anyone else to transfer assets. Seidling violated the order by transferring real estate and draining bank accounts. He hid more than $1,000,000 in cash in a crawl space under his house. Seidling also used an unwitting individual to transfer a parcel of real estate.       

    At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that a number of reasons warranted the above-guideline sentence, including the length and scope of Seidling’s criminal conduct. In addition to the charged conduct, Judge Peterson found that Seidling committed perjury during his testimony at the criminal trial. Judge Peterson commented that he had never seen a more “systematically dishonest defendant” who “resolutely resisted taking responsibility” for his actions.

    Seidling’s criminal history also played a role in the sentence. Seidling had two prior federal convictions: a 1991 conviction for interference with commerce by threats or violence and a 2009 conviction for 50 counts of mail fraud. The 2009 conviction involved Seidling using small claims court to obtain judgments against victims without serving the victims with process. Drawing a connection between that case and the present one, Judge Peterson noted Seidling was skilled at using courts to extort people. Given this history, Judge Peterson found Seidling was a danger to reoffend.

    Throughout the criminal case, Seidling was represented by a court-appointed attorney. In order to obtain representation at public expense, a defendant must represent that he cannot afford representation. Judge Peterson found Seidling’s claim of indigency was false, and the court ordered Seidling to reimburse the U.S. Treasury for the cost of his defense.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The United States also received assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith P. Duchemin and Megan R. Stelljes handled the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Hayward Man Sentenced to Seven Years for Bankruptcy Fraud and Contempt of Court

    Source: US FBI

    Bernard Seidling Hid Approximately $20 Million in Assets During Bankruptcy, Including More Than One Million in Cash That He Stashed Under His House

    MADISON, WIS. – Bernard Seidling, 74, Hayward, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by Chief U.S. District Judge James D. Peterson to seven years in federal prison for bankruptcy fraud and criminal contempt of court. He was also ordered to pay a $500,000 fine. A jury convicted Seidling of these crimes after a four-day trial in federal court in Madison.

    “Seidling was a recurring and shameless financial predator,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “I am grateful to our tireless prosecutors and the many partners who worked to hold him accountable: the U.S. Trustee’s Office, the FBI, the Wisconsin Department of Justice – Division of Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Postal Inspectors.”

    “Mr. Seidling’s sentence reflects the FBI’s commitment to ensuring public trust by pursuing individuals who defraud others for personal gain,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “The FBI will continue to work diligently with our partners to pursue justice and combat any fraud which negatively impacts financial institutions and the American people.”

    Seidling filed for bankruptcy in 2022. On the schedules he filed at the beginning of the case, Seidling falsely stated he had no real estate, retirement accounts, trusts, partnerships, or business-related property, and that he had only one bank account with a balance of $195. In reality, Seidling had approximately $20 million in assets hidden behind dozens of sham trusts and partnerships. Seidling’s schedules also stated he had not sold real estate in the past two years, when in fact he sold a waterfront home in Key West, Florida, for more than $3 million in 2021.

    Over Seidling’s objection, the bankruptcy court converted the case from a reorganization to a liquidation. At that point, Seidling began falsely representing that he could not meaningfully participate in the bankruptcy due to his physical and mental health, and Seidling argued the bankruptcy court should indefinitely pause the proceeding. During the period of Seidling’s alleged incapacitation, he continued to manage his businesses, conduct banking activity, and play tennis at a club in Key West, where he lived during the winter months. Seidling also represented himself and participated in state court litigation during this time.

    Regarding the contempt conviction, Seidling violated an order issued by the bankruptcy court. That order prohibited Seidling from transferring assets held by 37 of Seidling’s businesses, plus any other business entity Seidling was associated with, while the bankruptcy proceeded. The order further prohibited Seidling from directing or instructing anyone else to transfer assets. Seidling violated the order by transferring real estate and draining bank accounts. He hid more than $1,000,000 in cash in a crawl space under his house. Seidling also used an unwitting individual to transfer a parcel of real estate.       

    At sentencing, Judge Peterson explained that a number of reasons warranted the above-guideline sentence, including the length and scope of Seidling’s criminal conduct. In addition to the charged conduct, Judge Peterson found that Seidling committed perjury during his testimony at the criminal trial. Judge Peterson commented that he had never seen a more “systematically dishonest defendant” who “resolutely resisted taking responsibility” for his actions.

    Seidling’s criminal history also played a role in the sentence. Seidling had two prior federal convictions: a 1991 conviction for interference with commerce by threats or violence and a 2009 conviction for 50 counts of mail fraud. The 2009 conviction involved Seidling using small claims court to obtain judgments against victims without serving the victims with process. Drawing a connection between that case and the present one, Judge Peterson noted Seidling was skilled at using courts to extort people. Given this history, Judge Peterson found Seidling was a danger to reoffend.

    Throughout the criminal case, Seidling was represented by a court-appointed attorney. In order to obtain representation at public expense, a defendant must represent that he cannot afford representation. Judge Peterson found Seidling’s claim of indigency was false, and the court ordered Seidling to reimburse the U.S. Treasury for the cost of his defense.

    The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. The United States also received assistance from the Office of the United States Trustee. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Meredith P. Duchemin and Megan R. Stelljes handled the prosecution. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: Twenty-Three Members of an Interstate Car Theft Ring Charged in Federal Court

    Source: US FBI

    Richard G. Frohling, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that a second superseding indictment had been unsealed, charging the following 23 individuals for their roles in an interstate car theft ring:

    Name

    Age

    Location
    Diaunte D. Shields

    30

    Wisconsin
    Geoffrey Harvey

    35

    Georgia
    Willie Bullard

    41

    Georgia
    Lashawn Davis, Jr.

    25

    Wisconsin
    Brandon Mullins

    40

    Georgia
    Nakiya Wright

    31

    Wisconsin
    Casha Griffin

    31

    Illinois
    Brianna Shields

    34

    Wisconsin
    Gerrica Baker

    27

    Wisconsin
    Deon Brooks

    24

    Michigan
    Tashawn Brown-Smith

    28

    Wisconsin
    Dequas Crawford-Higgs

    30

    Illinois
    Ja Lean Little

    23

    Illinois
    Vashawn Milton

    33

    Georgia
    Deamonte Lee

    27

    Illinois
    Glenn Larsen

    53

    Illinois
    Kenneth Kilson

    42

    Delaware
    Chaz Holifield

    34

    Wisconsin
    Meliek McClarn

    32

    Wisconsin
    Tashay Northern

    27

    North Dakota
    Esteban Cardenas

    37

    Wisconsin

    According to court records, between approximately January 2019 and February 2024, members of the alleged theft ring stole and directed others to steal motor vehicles, transported and arranged for the transportation of stolen vehicles across the nation, created front companies, altered vehicle identification numbers, made fake motor vehicle titles, registered stolen vehicles using those fake motor vehicle titles, and sold those vehicles to others for money and drugs. This investigation tied more than 175 stolen cars, many of which were new and “high end” to the ring. Some of the vehicles were stolen from airports, including Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport, car dealerships, and car manufacturer’s assembly plants.

    “The charges unsealed against these defendants are the direct result of effective collaboration and countless hours of thorough investigative work by dedicated law enforcement professionals,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Frohling. “I commend all involved in pursuing justice for the impacted victims and for seeking to hold the charged individuals accountable for their actions.”

    All twenty-three defendants are charged with conspiring to violate various laws of the United States, including conspiring to receive, transport, and sell stolen vehicles; remove, obliterate, or tamper with motor vehicle identification numbers; and produce and transfer false and fraudulent titles for stolen vehicles. If convicted of the conspiracy charge, each defendant would face up to 5 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  

                  Twenty-one of the twenty-three defendants are also charged with interstate transportation of stolen vehicles or the receipt, possession, concealment, or sale of stolen motor vehicles that traveled in interstate commerce.  If convicted of one of these charges, each defendant would face up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.  Diaunte Shields, Brandon Mullins, and Nakiya Wright are also charged with the use of interstate commerce to transmit and transfer fictitious obligations or the presentation or offer of fictitious obligations.  If convicted of one of these charges, each defendant would face up to 25 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. 

                  Diaunte Shields and Lashawn Davis, Jr.  are also charged with drug trafficking crimes. If convicted of one of these charges, they would face mandatory minimum terms of 10 years and up to life in prison. Nakiya Wright is also charged with aggravated identity theft and, if convicted, would face a mandatory term of 2 years in prison. Defendants Diaunte Shields, Casha Griffin, and Nakiya Wright also are charged with conspiring to violate federal money laundering laws, and if convicted of that offense, each of them would face a maximum term of 20 years in prison and up to a $500,000 fine, or twice the value of the property involved. 

                  “Following a multi-year investigation, the FBI successfully dismantled a national auto theft ring that has been ongoing since 2019,” said FBI Milwaukee Special Agent in Charge Michael Hensle. “These individuals are part of a criminal organization responsible for hundreds of high-end motor vehicle thefts resulting in millions of dollars in losses. Their criminal activity involves a complex operation of stealing vehicles and transporting them across the country. In Wisconsin, this organization is responsible for drug trafficking multiple kilogram quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl. The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue working together to stop these crimes and protect the American people.” 

                  “This was a calculated, multi-state operation that went far beyond stealing cars—it was identity theft, forgery, and financial fraud on a significant scale,” said Jason Bushey, Acting Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “These defendants didn’t just take vehicles—they exploited people’s identities, manipulated documents, and laundered illegal profits through sophisticated schemes designed to conceal their crimes. IRS-CI special agents followed the money, mapped out the financial structure of this organization, and worked side by side with our partners to bring those responsible to justice. Let me be clear: if you build your enterprise on fraud and deception, we will find you, we will expose you, and we will hold you accountable.”

                   “The Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Office was proud to be a partner in this endeavor from its inception, with deputy sheriffs and detectives from this agency playing a key role in identifying and capturing members of this crime ring,” said Sheriff Denita R. Ball. “As stated by others, this was not just a ring of car thieves. This group took advantage of innocent people and turned lives upside down. Their actions were calculated and callous. And now they will face the justice they deserve.”

                  This case is the result of a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI), the Milwaukee County Sherriff’s Office, and the Wheaton Police Department (IL). The Sun Prairie Police Department (WI), Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department (WI), and numerous local and state law enforcement agencies throughout the country provided additional assistance.

    Operation Strike Out was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.

                  Assistant United States Attorneys Kate Biebel and Philip T. Kovoor are prosecuting this case.

                  The public is cautioned that an indictment is merely a charge, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

     # #  #

    For Additional Information Contact:

    Steve Caballero, Public Affairs Officer @ 414-297-1700

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Security: U.S. Marshals Arrest Fugitive at San Francisco International Airport

    Source: US Marshals Service

    San Francisco, CA – On June 25, members of the U.S. Marshals Service Northern District of California arrested in San Francisco a former U.S. Postal Service (USPS) employee wanted for violating pre-trial conditions by unlawful flight to avoid prosecution and fleeing to a foreign country.

    Johnny Q. Nguyen, 49, is alleged to have run a fraudulent mail scheme from July to December 2024, stealing over $90,000 from businesses and charities in Washington and California by sending fake government letters demanding fees. Nguyen allegedly funneled the money through an LLC shell company and laundered the proceeds via transfers and cash withdrawals. Authorities intercepted an additional $395,000 in intended payments.

    In May, Nguyen was indicted by a grand jury in the Western District of Washington on several charges, including mail fraud and money laundering. After a court appearance in the Northern District of California June 17, he was ordered to surrender his passport and restrict his travel. However, on June 24, he used a concealed passport to flee the U.S. on a one-way flight to Vietnam.

    On June 25, the U.S. Marshals learned of Nguyen’s flight and alerted the State Department’s Diplomatic Security Service, who intercepted Nguyen on a layover in Taipei, Taiwan, and put him on a return flight to San Francisco International Airport (SFO). U.S. Marshals took him into custody upon arrival at SFO and he was transported and booked into Santa Clara County Jail without incident. 

    On June 26, Nguyen appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Susan van Keulen for the Northern District of California and was ordered detained and transferred to the Western District of Washington in custody to appear on the charges. The mail fraud and money laundering case is being investigated by the U.S Postal Inspection Service. 

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Moscow has become a blooming garden thanks to the unification of the city and business

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    Festival “Gardens and Flowers” — one of the most beloved city initiatives among Muscovites and tourists. Real oases with waterfalls, tropical forests and even bright compositions of bougainvilleas and rose bushes are appearing in the capital. For several years now, the city has been turning into a bright garden, where you can find green ferns in the squares, have lunch in the shade of lemon trees and have a photo shoot against the backdrop of pink flowers.

    As part of a large-scale urban project “Summer in Moscow” Business traditionally joins the festival. More than a thousand organizations, from large banks to small cafes, together decorate the city with bright flowers and green compositions.

    Thus, the capital’s companies transformed the main business center “Moscow-City”, took part in the creation of the green wall of the Moscow Zoo, planted plants on the stairs of the sports complex “VTB Arena”, and decorated Chistoprudny Boulevard with flowers. Soon, landscape projects created by large corporations will appear on Bolotnaya Embankment, Balchug Island and Novaya Basmannaya Street.

    Small and medium businesses are also not standing aside. Restaurants all over the city have opened summer verandas, surrounded by flower beds or small climbing plants. The facades of buildings housing cafes and shops have literally blossomed: each entrepreneur approaches decoration creatively, turning their establishments into real photo zones.

    Thanks to the joint efforts of the city and the capital’s entrepreneurs, people of all ages enjoy the summer, take beautiful photo sessions and enjoy walking along the streets.

    Flagship venues of the Gardens and Flowers festival opened in the center of the capital

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    Please Note; This Information is Raw Content Directly from the Information Source. It is access to What the Source Is Stating and Does Not Reflect

    https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/156253073/

    MIL OSI Russia News

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Seeks Recovery of $40,300 in Cryptoscheme That Impersonated Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – U.S. Attorney Jeanine Ferris Pirro announced today that her office filed a complaint against 40,353 USDT.ETH cryptocurrency stolen in the commission of a  Business Email Compromise Scheme.

                According to the complaint, one or more perpetrators impersonated the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee, fraudulently stole $250,300 worth of crypocurrency from an intended donor, and then laundered the funds through other wallets. The FBI was able to trace and recover $40,300 from this transaction. The complaint seeks recovery of these funds to compensate the victim.

                “All donors should double and triple check that they are sending cryptocurrency to their intended recipient. It can be extremely difficult for law enforcmeent to recoup lost funds due to the extremely complex nature of the blockchain,” said U.S. Attoney Pirro. “Nevertheless, my office and our law enforcement partners stand ready to go toe-to-toe with criminals and make victims whole.”

                “Impersonation scams take many forms and cost Americans billions in losses each year,” said Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen, of the FBI Washington Field Office, which is investigating the case. “To avoid becoming a victim, carefully review email addresses, website URLs, and spelling in any messages you receive. Scammers often use subtle differences to deceive you and gain your trust. Never send money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or other assets to people you do not know personally or have only interacted with online or over the phone. Report suspected scams to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov.”

                According to the complaint, on Dec. 24, 2024, the victims received an email from someone purporting to be Steve Witkoff, Co-Chair of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee. Legitimate emails from the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee are @t47inaugural.com;  the email received by victim was from @t47lnaugural.com with the lowercase “I” was replaced by a lowercase “L.” Depending on the font, the lowercase “L” can look like the uppercase “I.”

                The imposter Steve Witkoff, a scammer located in Nigeria, instructed the victims to deposit funds into a cryptocurrency wallet ending in 58c52. On Dec. 26, 2024, the victim sent 250,300 USDT.ETH to the crypto wallet believing the funds were going to the Inaugural Committee. Within two hours after receiving the funds from the victim, the funds moved from the 58c52 cryptowallet to other cryptocurrency addresses. Through blockchain analysis, the FBI identified and recovered 40,300 USDT.ETH, which is the property subject to forfeiture in this civil action.

                Members of the public who believe they are victims of a cybercrime – including business email compromise, cryptocurrency scams, romance scams, investment scams, and “pig butchering” fraud scams – should contact the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov. For more information on business email compromise schemes, please visit: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/business-email-compromise.

                The Department of Justice would like to acknowledge Tether for its assistance in effectuating the transfer of these assets.

                FBI Assistant Director in Charge Steven J. Jensen of the Washington Field Office joined in the announcement. This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office- Criminal and Cyber Division. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Blaylock, Jr.

    25cv2116

    MIL Security OSI

  • MIL-OSI: Weiss Ratings Releases 2025 Insight on Nvidia’s Trillion-Dollar Robot Project and Autonomous Trucking Breakthrough

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Section 1 – Introduction

    Framing the Rise of Autonomous Robotics and the Trillion-Dollar Disruption in AI

    The convergence of artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous mobility is reshaping the foundation of global technology investment. As AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT spark public fascination, a more profound transformation is accelerating behind the scenes — one with the potential to rewire logistics, infrastructure, and manufacturing as we know them. At the center of this emerging landscape is a new class of robots designed not for novelty, but for economic impact. From self-navigating trucks to fully autonomous warehouse systems, the use of robotics has rapidly evolved from controlled trials to scalable deployment.

    Industry leaders are calling this movement the next trillion-dollar breakthrough. Nvidia, long recognized for its dominance in AI acceleration, is now applying its proprietary chipsets and computing platforms toward a singular goal: building the world’s first trillion-dollar robot. This ‘Trillion-Dollar Robot’ is not just a single entity, but a concept that encompasses a range of applications, from autonomous freight delivery to self-driving transport fleets and industrial material handling systems. This next phase targets large-scale societal infrastructure, inspiring a new era of technological advancement.

    Investor interest in robotics has surged accordingly. According to McKinsey, automation is expected to account for 25% of all global capital spending over the next five years. Meanwhile, venture capital and institutional firms have invested billions in enabling technologies, particularly those aligned with Nvidia’s rapidly advancing vision. Among them, a low-profile $7 stock has emerged as a cornerstone partner in this next-generation robotics ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the industry’s development. This stock is not just building hardware; it’s architecting a software and data platform to power America’s autonomous backbone, making it a key player in the trillion-dollar shift towards self-driving trucks.

    To access the full Weiss Ratings insight, visit the official website.

    Section 2 – Weiss Ratings 2025 Insight: Disruptors & Dominators Analyzes Nvidia’s Robotics Strategy and the $7 Stock Powering It

    Weiss Ratings has released a detailed 2025 market insight through its Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, analyzing what many industry analysts now consider a pivotal moment in the race toward full-scale automation: Nvidia’s transition from AI infrastructure leader to the architect of what some are calling the “Trillion-Dollar Robot.” The research focuses on how Nvidia’s growing portfolio of AI-accelerated systems is converging with regulatory, industrial, and transportation trends to create a new era in robotics-driven logistics, particularly in the field of autonomous trucking.

    The centerpiece of this insight is an emerging $7 stock that Weiss Ratings identifies as one of the most strategically positioned companies in the autonomous systems sector. According to the editorial team, this company is not only building next-generation hardware, including sensors, LiDAR, radar arrays, and camera-based vision systems, but also developing innovative solutions for various applications. Importantly, it is also developing proprietary operating platforms that interface with Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This combination of hardware and AI-aligned software gives it the potential to enable fully self-navigating systems in commercial transport vehicles, showcasing its technological prowess.

    Weiss Ratings emphasizes that the company’s partnership network now includes several global players across shipping, retail, logistics, and vehicle manufacturing, and, most notably, a formal alignment with Nvidia itself. While the $7 stock remains outside the mainstream spotlight, its integration with AI-driven mobility infrastructure could position it as a pivotal enabler in what Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has described as the most significant industrial opportunity since the invention of the microprocessor.

    The analysis outlines why regulatory developments, including potential federal actions related to autonomous vehicle oversight, may further catalyze this sector. For instance, if the government introduces favorable regulations for autonomous vehicles, it could significantly boost the adoption of self-driving trucks, thereby accelerating the trillion-dollar shift. Rather than making direct investment recommendations, Weiss Ratings provides a research-oriented perspective that draws on decades of market data, proprietary scoring systems, and real-time macro trend monitoring. The report’s emphasis remains on understanding the fundamental factors that may shape this critical moment in robotics, AI, and autonomous infrastructure.

    Section 3 – Consumer Trend Overview: AI Curiosity, Robotics Hype, and the Momentum Behind Autonomous Mobility

    Across both retail and institutional channels, 2025 has witnessed a notable increase in public interest surrounding the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence. Terms like “autonomous trucking,” “robotaxis,” and “AI-powered logistics” are now trending not only in financial forums but also in broader technology and mainstream media conversations. This surge is primarily attributed to the visibility of platforms like ChatGPT and the growing realization that generative AI is no longer confined to text or image synthesis — it is now driving real-world mobility and infrastructure.

    This shift in public interest reached a tipping point following Nvidia’s keynote at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where CEO Jensen Huang unveiled new robotics applications powered by the company’s proprietary AI chips. Viewers were introduced to humanoid systems, warehouse automation platforms, and most significantly, Nvidia’s roadmap for autonomous commercial trucks. The media coverage that followed described the development as a turning point, with Forbes referencing a potential “$24 trillion opportunity” and Oxford Economics confirming that the robotics revolution had officially arrived.

    As these developments unfold, consumer and investor interest has extended beyond big-cap names like Nvidia and Tesla into the suppliers, partners, and adjacent innovators positioned to scale these initiatives. According to Weiss Ratings, this includes firms developing edge-AI systems, autonomous vehicle platforms, and robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) delivery models. One lesser-known $7 stock has surfaced repeatedly in online discussions and trend analysis as a company deeply embedded in the backend infrastructure of this new AI-powered movement.

    Search trends further confirm the shift. Over the past 12 months, keyword clusters including “Nvidia robot partner,” “self-driving truck tech,” and “AI manufacturing automation” have seen exponential growth, reflecting a retail investor base eager to identify entry points before widespread institutional exposure. This growing demand for transparency and context underscores the role of independent research providers — such as Weiss Ratings — in helping consumers distinguish between hype and substance, and in providing timely, data-driven insights as emerging sectors evolve.

    Readers can review the editorial analysis through Weiss Ratings’ newsletter archive.

    Section 4 – Technology Spotlight: DriveThor, LiDAR Systems, and the Embedded Stack Behind Self-Driving Infrastructure

    At the foundation of Nvidia’s autonomous robotics push lies its high-performance computing architecture, specifically the DriveThor platform — a unified AI system-on-chip designed to process perception, mapping, planning, and driver monitoring in real-time. Built on Nvidia’s next-gen GPU architecture, DriveThor represents a leap forward in autonomous vehicle design, combining deep learning accelerators, sensor fusion capabilities, and vehicle-to-cloud connectivity into a single chip.

    However, the performance of such centralized AI platforms depends on a complex network of hardware and software partners to bring self-driving systems into functional reality. That’s where a new class of modular technology providers — including a $7 company highlighted in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial — comes into view. This firm develops end-to-end autonomy stacks, combining essential sensor arrays, integrated radar and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) units, thermal cameras, and onboard diagnostics that support the operation of self-driving commercial vehicles.

    LiDAR, in particular, is often described as the “eyes” of an autonomous system. It emits laser pulses to measure distances and generate high-resolution 3D maps of the surrounding environment. When combined with radar and optical imaging, these layers of perception enable real-time obstacle detection, lane tracking, and adaptive decision-making. The $7 company in question has engineered its system to support seamless fusion of these inputs, enabling adaptive driving across urban, highway, and rural environments.

    On the software side, the same company has developed an integrated operating platform that harmonizes vehicle data with Nvidia’s Drive AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This interface handles localization, path planning, and environmental modeling, functioning as the core logic layer of a self-driving truck or industrial robot. It also enables continuous improvement by capturing millions of miles of road data and feeding that intelligence back into simulation engines.

    Taken together, these technologies form the invisible scaffolding of the “Trillion-Dollar Robot” concept — not as a single product, but as a converging network of hardware, AI, and edge processing tools designed to scale autonomy into critical infrastructure.

    Section 5 – Market Reception and Public Sentiment: From Curiosity to Speculation in the Robotics Race

    As robotics transitions from concept to infrastructure, the tone of online engagement has shifted accordingly. What began as a novelty conversation — humanoid robots at CES, companion bots, and AI-powered assistants — has evolved into more pragmatic discussions about the role of automation in the economy. Search patterns now indicate increased interest in supply chain optimization, autonomous freight, and job creation through robotics, particularly in the face of rising labor shortages in the transportation and manufacturing sectors.

    Platforms like Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and financial content hubs have been buzzing with speculation about the implications of Nvidia’s move into commercial robotics. One consistent theme is the curiosity surrounding lesser-known firms supporting the backend of this transformation. Among them, the $7 stock profiled in the Weiss Ratings Disruptors & Dominators newsletter has surfaced in speculative analysis, not for flashy marketing, but for its foundational role in systems integration. Online commentators have taken note of its partnerships, intellectual property holdings, and use-case demonstrations with interest, especially when tied to federal infrastructure trends.

    Importantly, Weiss Ratings’ approach to these developments remains rooted in research, not recommendation. The publication’s editorial lens emphasizes independent evaluation, dissecting public company filings, industry partnerships, and macroeconomic indicators without promoting individual investments. This approach has garnered attention from readers seeking context and clarity in a saturated information environment.

    While some observers express skepticism about the speed of adoption for autonomous systems, others frame the sector as inevitable, citing the high cost of inaction across logistics, industrial output, and national security. Terms like “self-driving truck regulations,” “robotics in manufacturing,” and “autonomous transport 2025” have all experienced year-over-year volume spikes, reflecting a broader public interest in gaining visibility into where these innovations are headed.

    In this climate of cautious optimism, Weiss Ratings positions its Disruptors & Dominators coverage as an analytical touchpoint for understanding technology trajectories — especially those like Nvidia’s robotics initiative, which blends infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and policy into one accelerating narrative.

    Disruptors & Dominators is Weiss Ratings’ newsletter focused on AI, autonomous infrastructure, and disruptive technology sectors. Details are available on the official Weiss Ratings website.

    Section 6 – Availability and Transparency Statement

    The complete insight discussed in this release — including Weiss Ratings’ 2025 coverage of Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the independently rated $7 stock associated with its infrastructure development — is published within the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, available through the Weiss Ratings platform. The analysis examines current market signals, technological developments, and policy trends that are shaping what some are calling a new industrial frontier.

    This release is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a stock recommendation, or a solicitation to purchase any security. Weiss Ratings maintains a strict independence policy and does not accept compensation from the companies it covers. All opinions and evaluations are based on publicly available data, industry trends, and the application of proprietary research methodologies.

    Readers seeking further context are encouraged to consult official filings, regulatory updates, and the company’s reported financials to gain a comprehensive understanding of this evolving sector. The Disruptors & Dominators editorial series is designed to support independent analysis of disruptive trends across artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and transformational technologies.

    Section 7 – Final Observations: Robotics Infrastructure, AI Expansion, and the Shape of a Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

    The robotics movement underway in 2025 represents more than just a breakthrough in machine autonomy — it signals a fundamental restructuring of how labor, logistics, and national infrastructure interact with artificial intelligence. While early applications of AI focused on cloud computing, recommendation engines, and content generation, the current phase emphasizes AI’s physical manifestation: autonomous systems capable of navigating, sensing, and making decisions in real-world environments.

    From a strategic perspective, Nvidia’s expansion into robotics represents a vertical integration model previously seen in sectors such as semiconductors and data centers, now applied to the fusion of mobility and cognition. The company is no longer just supplying chips to innovators; it is increasingly shaping the operating systems, regulatory architecture, and embedded partnerships that define the growth of this sector.

    For independent research organizations like Weiss Ratings, this shift demands an even closer examination of adjacent players — including those providing the sensors, decision engines, and physical frameworks necessary for scaled deployment. The emergence of smaller-cap, infrastructure-enabling firms is not only relevant for investors; it reflects a broader change in how innovation is operationalized at the ground level.

    As autonomous mobility and robotics continue to transition from demonstration to deployment, the real opportunity may not lie in flashy prototypes, but in the systems and platforms that enable scale. This is where industry attention is increasingly focused, and where editorial coverage plays a vital role in bringing transparency to a rapidly advancing ecosystem.

    Section 8 – Public Commentary Themes: Interest, Caution, and the Race to Scale AI Robotics

    Online discussions around Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the emerging ecosystem of autonomous technology partners have become increasingly layered in tone. A recurring point of interest involves the transition from lab-based robotics to scalable industrial platforms, particularly in sectors such as freight, manufacturing, and healthcare systems. Some commentators have noted that the 2025 rollout of Nvidia’s DriveThor-enabled autonomous trucking strategy marks a meaningful shift from abstract AI speculation to infrastructure-level application.

    At the same time, skepticism persists. A recurring discussion point revolves around the timeline and feasibility of national regulatory frameworks for self-driving fleets, especially in light of state-by-state policy variations. Others have expressed concern about labor displacement, while still acknowledging the need for solutions to chronic driver shortages and logistics bottlenecks. This duality — optimism for innovation, tempered by realism about structural inertia — continues to shape the public dialogue.

    Notably, independent financial communities have shown interest in companies playing enabling roles behind the scenes. A frequently discussed theme involves the under-the-radar $7 stock referenced in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial. Some investors are analyzing their patent filings, partner integrations, and testing data as signals of long-term infrastructure relevance. Rather than chasing speculative spikes, these observers frame the opportunity in terms of foundational value within an AI-enabled economy.

    Another standard narrative highlights the strategic alliances forming between traditional industrial brands and AI platform providers, with Nvidia’s deepening involvement seen as a signpost for what’s next. This includes attention on chip suppliers, robotics firmware developers, and companies aligned with clean-label hardware design.

    Across forums, media, and professional newsletters, the consensus is forming: the robotics revolution is no longer theoretical. It’s underway — and its enablers, not just its figureheads, are becoming the focus of the following investment conversation.

    About Weiss Ratings

    Founded in 1971, Weiss Ratings is an independent financial research and ratings firm committed to providing unbiased, data-driven analysis to individual investors and institutions. With coverage across more than 53,000 publicly traded companies, ETFs, and mutual funds, the organization utilizes proprietary modeling systems to identify patterns, risks, and opportunities across rapidly evolving sectors, including artificial intelligence, technology infrastructure, and disruptive innovation.

    Weiss Ratings does not accept compensation from the companies it evaluates and maintains strict editorial independence across all published content. Its research products, including the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, are designed to support informed decision-making through transparent financial metrics, historical backtesting, and real-time trend monitoring. The company does not offer investment advice or diagnostic services; all analysis is provided for informational purposes only.

    Contact:

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Weiss Ratings Releases 2025 Insight on Nvidia’s Trillion-Dollar Robot Project and Autonomous Trucking Breakthrough

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Section 1 – Introduction

    Framing the Rise of Autonomous Robotics and the Trillion-Dollar Disruption in AI

    The convergence of artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous mobility is reshaping the foundation of global technology investment. As AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT spark public fascination, a more profound transformation is accelerating behind the scenes — one with the potential to rewire logistics, infrastructure, and manufacturing as we know them. At the center of this emerging landscape is a new class of robots designed not for novelty, but for economic impact. From self-navigating trucks to fully autonomous warehouse systems, the use of robotics has rapidly evolved from controlled trials to scalable deployment.

    Industry leaders are calling this movement the next trillion-dollar breakthrough. Nvidia, long recognized for its dominance in AI acceleration, is now applying its proprietary chipsets and computing platforms toward a singular goal: building the world’s first trillion-dollar robot. This ‘Trillion-Dollar Robot’ is not just a single entity, but a concept that encompasses a range of applications, from autonomous freight delivery to self-driving transport fleets and industrial material handling systems. This next phase targets large-scale societal infrastructure, inspiring a new era of technological advancement.

    Investor interest in robotics has surged accordingly. According to McKinsey, automation is expected to account for 25% of all global capital spending over the next five years. Meanwhile, venture capital and institutional firms have invested billions in enabling technologies, particularly those aligned with Nvidia’s rapidly advancing vision. Among them, a low-profile $7 stock has emerged as a cornerstone partner in this next-generation robotics ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the industry’s development. This stock is not just building hardware; it’s architecting a software and data platform to power America’s autonomous backbone, making it a key player in the trillion-dollar shift towards self-driving trucks.

    To access the full Weiss Ratings insight, visit the official website.

    Section 2 – Weiss Ratings 2025 Insight: Disruptors & Dominators Analyzes Nvidia’s Robotics Strategy and the $7 Stock Powering It

    Weiss Ratings has released a detailed 2025 market insight through its Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, analyzing what many industry analysts now consider a pivotal moment in the race toward full-scale automation: Nvidia’s transition from AI infrastructure leader to the architect of what some are calling the “Trillion-Dollar Robot.” The research focuses on how Nvidia’s growing portfolio of AI-accelerated systems is converging with regulatory, industrial, and transportation trends to create a new era in robotics-driven logistics, particularly in the field of autonomous trucking.

    The centerpiece of this insight is an emerging $7 stock that Weiss Ratings identifies as one of the most strategically positioned companies in the autonomous systems sector. According to the editorial team, this company is not only building next-generation hardware, including sensors, LiDAR, radar arrays, and camera-based vision systems, but also developing innovative solutions for various applications. Importantly, it is also developing proprietary operating platforms that interface with Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This combination of hardware and AI-aligned software gives it the potential to enable fully self-navigating systems in commercial transport vehicles, showcasing its technological prowess.

    Weiss Ratings emphasizes that the company’s partnership network now includes several global players across shipping, retail, logistics, and vehicle manufacturing, and, most notably, a formal alignment with Nvidia itself. While the $7 stock remains outside the mainstream spotlight, its integration with AI-driven mobility infrastructure could position it as a pivotal enabler in what Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has described as the most significant industrial opportunity since the invention of the microprocessor.

    The analysis outlines why regulatory developments, including potential federal actions related to autonomous vehicle oversight, may further catalyze this sector. For instance, if the government introduces favorable regulations for autonomous vehicles, it could significantly boost the adoption of self-driving trucks, thereby accelerating the trillion-dollar shift. Rather than making direct investment recommendations, Weiss Ratings provides a research-oriented perspective that draws on decades of market data, proprietary scoring systems, and real-time macro trend monitoring. The report’s emphasis remains on understanding the fundamental factors that may shape this critical moment in robotics, AI, and autonomous infrastructure.

    Section 3 – Consumer Trend Overview: AI Curiosity, Robotics Hype, and the Momentum Behind Autonomous Mobility

    Across both retail and institutional channels, 2025 has witnessed a notable increase in public interest surrounding the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence. Terms like “autonomous trucking,” “robotaxis,” and “AI-powered logistics” are now trending not only in financial forums but also in broader technology and mainstream media conversations. This surge is primarily attributed to the visibility of platforms like ChatGPT and the growing realization that generative AI is no longer confined to text or image synthesis — it is now driving real-world mobility and infrastructure.

    This shift in public interest reached a tipping point following Nvidia’s keynote at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where CEO Jensen Huang unveiled new robotics applications powered by the company’s proprietary AI chips. Viewers were introduced to humanoid systems, warehouse automation platforms, and most significantly, Nvidia’s roadmap for autonomous commercial trucks. The media coverage that followed described the development as a turning point, with Forbes referencing a potential “$24 trillion opportunity” and Oxford Economics confirming that the robotics revolution had officially arrived.

    As these developments unfold, consumer and investor interest has extended beyond big-cap names like Nvidia and Tesla into the suppliers, partners, and adjacent innovators positioned to scale these initiatives. According to Weiss Ratings, this includes firms developing edge-AI systems, autonomous vehicle platforms, and robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) delivery models. One lesser-known $7 stock has surfaced repeatedly in online discussions and trend analysis as a company deeply embedded in the backend infrastructure of this new AI-powered movement.

    Search trends further confirm the shift. Over the past 12 months, keyword clusters including “Nvidia robot partner,” “self-driving truck tech,” and “AI manufacturing automation” have seen exponential growth, reflecting a retail investor base eager to identify entry points before widespread institutional exposure. This growing demand for transparency and context underscores the role of independent research providers — such as Weiss Ratings — in helping consumers distinguish between hype and substance, and in providing timely, data-driven insights as emerging sectors evolve.

    Readers can review the editorial analysis through Weiss Ratings’ newsletter archive.

    Section 4 – Technology Spotlight: DriveThor, LiDAR Systems, and the Embedded Stack Behind Self-Driving Infrastructure

    At the foundation of Nvidia’s autonomous robotics push lies its high-performance computing architecture, specifically the DriveThor platform — a unified AI system-on-chip designed to process perception, mapping, planning, and driver monitoring in real-time. Built on Nvidia’s next-gen GPU architecture, DriveThor represents a leap forward in autonomous vehicle design, combining deep learning accelerators, sensor fusion capabilities, and vehicle-to-cloud connectivity into a single chip.

    However, the performance of such centralized AI platforms depends on a complex network of hardware and software partners to bring self-driving systems into functional reality. That’s where a new class of modular technology providers — including a $7 company highlighted in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial — comes into view. This firm develops end-to-end autonomy stacks, combining essential sensor arrays, integrated radar and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) units, thermal cameras, and onboard diagnostics that support the operation of self-driving commercial vehicles.

    LiDAR, in particular, is often described as the “eyes” of an autonomous system. It emits laser pulses to measure distances and generate high-resolution 3D maps of the surrounding environment. When combined with radar and optical imaging, these layers of perception enable real-time obstacle detection, lane tracking, and adaptive decision-making. The $7 company in question has engineered its system to support seamless fusion of these inputs, enabling adaptive driving across urban, highway, and rural environments.

    On the software side, the same company has developed an integrated operating platform that harmonizes vehicle data with Nvidia’s Drive AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This interface handles localization, path planning, and environmental modeling, functioning as the core logic layer of a self-driving truck or industrial robot. It also enables continuous improvement by capturing millions of miles of road data and feeding that intelligence back into simulation engines.

    Taken together, these technologies form the invisible scaffolding of the “Trillion-Dollar Robot” concept — not as a single product, but as a converging network of hardware, AI, and edge processing tools designed to scale autonomy into critical infrastructure.

    Section 5 – Market Reception and Public Sentiment: From Curiosity to Speculation in the Robotics Race

    As robotics transitions from concept to infrastructure, the tone of online engagement has shifted accordingly. What began as a novelty conversation — humanoid robots at CES, companion bots, and AI-powered assistants — has evolved into more pragmatic discussions about the role of automation in the economy. Search patterns now indicate increased interest in supply chain optimization, autonomous freight, and job creation through robotics, particularly in the face of rising labor shortages in the transportation and manufacturing sectors.

    Platforms like Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and financial content hubs have been buzzing with speculation about the implications of Nvidia’s move into commercial robotics. One consistent theme is the curiosity surrounding lesser-known firms supporting the backend of this transformation. Among them, the $7 stock profiled in the Weiss Ratings Disruptors & Dominators newsletter has surfaced in speculative analysis, not for flashy marketing, but for its foundational role in systems integration. Online commentators have taken note of its partnerships, intellectual property holdings, and use-case demonstrations with interest, especially when tied to federal infrastructure trends.

    Importantly, Weiss Ratings’ approach to these developments remains rooted in research, not recommendation. The publication’s editorial lens emphasizes independent evaluation, dissecting public company filings, industry partnerships, and macroeconomic indicators without promoting individual investments. This approach has garnered attention from readers seeking context and clarity in a saturated information environment.

    While some observers express skepticism about the speed of adoption for autonomous systems, others frame the sector as inevitable, citing the high cost of inaction across logistics, industrial output, and national security. Terms like “self-driving truck regulations,” “robotics in manufacturing,” and “autonomous transport 2025” have all experienced year-over-year volume spikes, reflecting a broader public interest in gaining visibility into where these innovations are headed.

    In this climate of cautious optimism, Weiss Ratings positions its Disruptors & Dominators coverage as an analytical touchpoint for understanding technology trajectories — especially those like Nvidia’s robotics initiative, which blends infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and policy into one accelerating narrative.

    Disruptors & Dominators is Weiss Ratings’ newsletter focused on AI, autonomous infrastructure, and disruptive technology sectors. Details are available on the official Weiss Ratings website.

    Section 6 – Availability and Transparency Statement

    The complete insight discussed in this release — including Weiss Ratings’ 2025 coverage of Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the independently rated $7 stock associated with its infrastructure development — is published within the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, available through the Weiss Ratings platform. The analysis examines current market signals, technological developments, and policy trends that are shaping what some are calling a new industrial frontier.

    This release is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a stock recommendation, or a solicitation to purchase any security. Weiss Ratings maintains a strict independence policy and does not accept compensation from the companies it covers. All opinions and evaluations are based on publicly available data, industry trends, and the application of proprietary research methodologies.

    Readers seeking further context are encouraged to consult official filings, regulatory updates, and the company’s reported financials to gain a comprehensive understanding of this evolving sector. The Disruptors & Dominators editorial series is designed to support independent analysis of disruptive trends across artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and transformational technologies.

    Section 7 – Final Observations: Robotics Infrastructure, AI Expansion, and the Shape of a Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

    The robotics movement underway in 2025 represents more than just a breakthrough in machine autonomy — it signals a fundamental restructuring of how labor, logistics, and national infrastructure interact with artificial intelligence. While early applications of AI focused on cloud computing, recommendation engines, and content generation, the current phase emphasizes AI’s physical manifestation: autonomous systems capable of navigating, sensing, and making decisions in real-world environments.

    From a strategic perspective, Nvidia’s expansion into robotics represents a vertical integration model previously seen in sectors such as semiconductors and data centers, now applied to the fusion of mobility and cognition. The company is no longer just supplying chips to innovators; it is increasingly shaping the operating systems, regulatory architecture, and embedded partnerships that define the growth of this sector.

    For independent research organizations like Weiss Ratings, this shift demands an even closer examination of adjacent players — including those providing the sensors, decision engines, and physical frameworks necessary for scaled deployment. The emergence of smaller-cap, infrastructure-enabling firms is not only relevant for investors; it reflects a broader change in how innovation is operationalized at the ground level.

    As autonomous mobility and robotics continue to transition from demonstration to deployment, the real opportunity may not lie in flashy prototypes, but in the systems and platforms that enable scale. This is where industry attention is increasingly focused, and where editorial coverage plays a vital role in bringing transparency to a rapidly advancing ecosystem.

    Section 8 – Public Commentary Themes: Interest, Caution, and the Race to Scale AI Robotics

    Online discussions around Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the emerging ecosystem of autonomous technology partners have become increasingly layered in tone. A recurring point of interest involves the transition from lab-based robotics to scalable industrial platforms, particularly in sectors such as freight, manufacturing, and healthcare systems. Some commentators have noted that the 2025 rollout of Nvidia’s DriveThor-enabled autonomous trucking strategy marks a meaningful shift from abstract AI speculation to infrastructure-level application.

    At the same time, skepticism persists. A recurring discussion point revolves around the timeline and feasibility of national regulatory frameworks for self-driving fleets, especially in light of state-by-state policy variations. Others have expressed concern about labor displacement, while still acknowledging the need for solutions to chronic driver shortages and logistics bottlenecks. This duality — optimism for innovation, tempered by realism about structural inertia — continues to shape the public dialogue.

    Notably, independent financial communities have shown interest in companies playing enabling roles behind the scenes. A frequently discussed theme involves the under-the-radar $7 stock referenced in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial. Some investors are analyzing their patent filings, partner integrations, and testing data as signals of long-term infrastructure relevance. Rather than chasing speculative spikes, these observers frame the opportunity in terms of foundational value within an AI-enabled economy.

    Another standard narrative highlights the strategic alliances forming between traditional industrial brands and AI platform providers, with Nvidia’s deepening involvement seen as a signpost for what’s next. This includes attention on chip suppliers, robotics firmware developers, and companies aligned with clean-label hardware design.

    Across forums, media, and professional newsletters, the consensus is forming: the robotics revolution is no longer theoretical. It’s underway — and its enablers, not just its figureheads, are becoming the focus of the following investment conversation.

    About Weiss Ratings

    Founded in 1971, Weiss Ratings is an independent financial research and ratings firm committed to providing unbiased, data-driven analysis to individual investors and institutions. With coverage across more than 53,000 publicly traded companies, ETFs, and mutual funds, the organization utilizes proprietary modeling systems to identify patterns, risks, and opportunities across rapidly evolving sectors, including artificial intelligence, technology infrastructure, and disruptive innovation.

    Weiss Ratings does not accept compensation from the companies it evaluates and maintains strict editorial independence across all published content. Its research products, including the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, are designed to support informed decision-making through transparent financial metrics, historical backtesting, and real-time trend monitoring. The company does not offer investment advice or diagnostic services; all analysis is provided for informational purposes only.

    Contact:

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Weiss Ratings Releases 2025 Insight on Nvidia’s Trillion-Dollar Robot Project and Autonomous Trucking Breakthrough

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, July 03, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Section 1 – Introduction

    Framing the Rise of Autonomous Robotics and the Trillion-Dollar Disruption in AI

    The convergence of artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous mobility is reshaping the foundation of global technology investment. As AI-driven platforms like ChatGPT spark public fascination, a more profound transformation is accelerating behind the scenes — one with the potential to rewire logistics, infrastructure, and manufacturing as we know them. At the center of this emerging landscape is a new class of robots designed not for novelty, but for economic impact. From self-navigating trucks to fully autonomous warehouse systems, the use of robotics has rapidly evolved from controlled trials to scalable deployment.

    Industry leaders are calling this movement the next trillion-dollar breakthrough. Nvidia, long recognized for its dominance in AI acceleration, is now applying its proprietary chipsets and computing platforms toward a singular goal: building the world’s first trillion-dollar robot. This ‘Trillion-Dollar Robot’ is not just a single entity, but a concept that encompasses a range of applications, from autonomous freight delivery to self-driving transport fleets and industrial material handling systems. This next phase targets large-scale societal infrastructure, inspiring a new era of technological advancement.

    Investor interest in robotics has surged accordingly. According to McKinsey, automation is expected to account for 25% of all global capital spending over the next five years. Meanwhile, venture capital and institutional firms have invested billions in enabling technologies, particularly those aligned with Nvidia’s rapidly advancing vision. Among them, a low-profile $7 stock has emerged as a cornerstone partner in this next-generation robotics ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the industry’s development. This stock is not just building hardware; it’s architecting a software and data platform to power America’s autonomous backbone, making it a key player in the trillion-dollar shift towards self-driving trucks.

    To access the full Weiss Ratings insight, visit the official website.

    Section 2 – Weiss Ratings 2025 Insight: Disruptors & Dominators Analyzes Nvidia’s Robotics Strategy and the $7 Stock Powering It

    Weiss Ratings has released a detailed 2025 market insight through its Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, analyzing what many industry analysts now consider a pivotal moment in the race toward full-scale automation: Nvidia’s transition from AI infrastructure leader to the architect of what some are calling the “Trillion-Dollar Robot.” The research focuses on how Nvidia’s growing portfolio of AI-accelerated systems is converging with regulatory, industrial, and transportation trends to create a new era in robotics-driven logistics, particularly in the field of autonomous trucking.

    The centerpiece of this insight is an emerging $7 stock that Weiss Ratings identifies as one of the most strategically positioned companies in the autonomous systems sector. According to the editorial team, this company is not only building next-generation hardware, including sensors, LiDAR, radar arrays, and camera-based vision systems, but also developing innovative solutions for various applications. Importantly, it is also developing proprietary operating platforms that interface with Nvidia’s DRIVE AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This combination of hardware and AI-aligned software gives it the potential to enable fully self-navigating systems in commercial transport vehicles, showcasing its technological prowess.

    Weiss Ratings emphasizes that the company’s partnership network now includes several global players across shipping, retail, logistics, and vehicle manufacturing, and, most notably, a formal alignment with Nvidia itself. While the $7 stock remains outside the mainstream spotlight, its integration with AI-driven mobility infrastructure could position it as a pivotal enabler in what Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has described as the most significant industrial opportunity since the invention of the microprocessor.

    The analysis outlines why regulatory developments, including potential federal actions related to autonomous vehicle oversight, may further catalyze this sector. For instance, if the government introduces favorable regulations for autonomous vehicles, it could significantly boost the adoption of self-driving trucks, thereby accelerating the trillion-dollar shift. Rather than making direct investment recommendations, Weiss Ratings provides a research-oriented perspective that draws on decades of market data, proprietary scoring systems, and real-time macro trend monitoring. The report’s emphasis remains on understanding the fundamental factors that may shape this critical moment in robotics, AI, and autonomous infrastructure.

    Section 3 – Consumer Trend Overview: AI Curiosity, Robotics Hype, and the Momentum Behind Autonomous Mobility

    Across both retail and institutional channels, 2025 has witnessed a notable increase in public interest surrounding the intersection of robotics and artificial intelligence. Terms like “autonomous trucking,” “robotaxis,” and “AI-powered logistics” are now trending not only in financial forums but also in broader technology and mainstream media conversations. This surge is primarily attributed to the visibility of platforms like ChatGPT and the growing realization that generative AI is no longer confined to text or image synthesis — it is now driving real-world mobility and infrastructure.

    This shift in public interest reached a tipping point following Nvidia’s keynote at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, where CEO Jensen Huang unveiled new robotics applications powered by the company’s proprietary AI chips. Viewers were introduced to humanoid systems, warehouse automation platforms, and most significantly, Nvidia’s roadmap for autonomous commercial trucks. The media coverage that followed described the development as a turning point, with Forbes referencing a potential “$24 trillion opportunity” and Oxford Economics confirming that the robotics revolution had officially arrived.

    As these developments unfold, consumer and investor interest has extended beyond big-cap names like Nvidia and Tesla into the suppliers, partners, and adjacent innovators positioned to scale these initiatives. According to Weiss Ratings, this includes firms developing edge-AI systems, autonomous vehicle platforms, and robotics-as-a-service (RaaS) delivery models. One lesser-known $7 stock has surfaced repeatedly in online discussions and trend analysis as a company deeply embedded in the backend infrastructure of this new AI-powered movement.

    Search trends further confirm the shift. Over the past 12 months, keyword clusters including “Nvidia robot partner,” “self-driving truck tech,” and “AI manufacturing automation” have seen exponential growth, reflecting a retail investor base eager to identify entry points before widespread institutional exposure. This growing demand for transparency and context underscores the role of independent research providers — such as Weiss Ratings — in helping consumers distinguish between hype and substance, and in providing timely, data-driven insights as emerging sectors evolve.

    Readers can review the editorial analysis through Weiss Ratings’ newsletter archive.

    Section 4 – Technology Spotlight: DriveThor, LiDAR Systems, and the Embedded Stack Behind Self-Driving Infrastructure

    At the foundation of Nvidia’s autonomous robotics push lies its high-performance computing architecture, specifically the DriveThor platform — a unified AI system-on-chip designed to process perception, mapping, planning, and driver monitoring in real-time. Built on Nvidia’s next-gen GPU architecture, DriveThor represents a leap forward in autonomous vehicle design, combining deep learning accelerators, sensor fusion capabilities, and vehicle-to-cloud connectivity into a single chip.

    However, the performance of such centralized AI platforms depends on a complex network of hardware and software partners to bring self-driving systems into functional reality. That’s where a new class of modular technology providers — including a $7 company highlighted in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial — comes into view. This firm develops end-to-end autonomy stacks, combining essential sensor arrays, integrated radar and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) units, thermal cameras, and onboard diagnostics that support the operation of self-driving commercial vehicles.

    LiDAR, in particular, is often described as the “eyes” of an autonomous system. It emits laser pulses to measure distances and generate high-resolution 3D maps of the surrounding environment. When combined with radar and optical imaging, these layers of perception enable real-time obstacle detection, lane tracking, and adaptive decision-making. The $7 company in question has engineered its system to support seamless fusion of these inputs, enabling adaptive driving across urban, highway, and rural environments.

    On the software side, the same company has developed an integrated operating platform that harmonizes vehicle data with Nvidia’s Drive AGX and DriveThor chipsets. This interface handles localization, path planning, and environmental modeling, functioning as the core logic layer of a self-driving truck or industrial robot. It also enables continuous improvement by capturing millions of miles of road data and feeding that intelligence back into simulation engines.

    Taken together, these technologies form the invisible scaffolding of the “Trillion-Dollar Robot” concept — not as a single product, but as a converging network of hardware, AI, and edge processing tools designed to scale autonomy into critical infrastructure.

    Section 5 – Market Reception and Public Sentiment: From Curiosity to Speculation in the Robotics Race

    As robotics transitions from concept to infrastructure, the tone of online engagement has shifted accordingly. What began as a novelty conversation — humanoid robots at CES, companion bots, and AI-powered assistants — has evolved into more pragmatic discussions about the role of automation in the economy. Search patterns now indicate increased interest in supply chain optimization, autonomous freight, and job creation through robotics, particularly in the face of rising labor shortages in the transportation and manufacturing sectors.

    Platforms like Reddit, X (formerly Twitter), and financial content hubs have been buzzing with speculation about the implications of Nvidia’s move into commercial robotics. One consistent theme is the curiosity surrounding lesser-known firms supporting the backend of this transformation. Among them, the $7 stock profiled in the Weiss Ratings Disruptors & Dominators newsletter has surfaced in speculative analysis, not for flashy marketing, but for its foundational role in systems integration. Online commentators have taken note of its partnerships, intellectual property holdings, and use-case demonstrations with interest, especially when tied to federal infrastructure trends.

    Importantly, Weiss Ratings’ approach to these developments remains rooted in research, not recommendation. The publication’s editorial lens emphasizes independent evaluation, dissecting public company filings, industry partnerships, and macroeconomic indicators without promoting individual investments. This approach has garnered attention from readers seeking context and clarity in a saturated information environment.

    While some observers express skepticism about the speed of adoption for autonomous systems, others frame the sector as inevitable, citing the high cost of inaction across logistics, industrial output, and national security. Terms like “self-driving truck regulations,” “robotics in manufacturing,” and “autonomous transport 2025” have all experienced year-over-year volume spikes, reflecting a broader public interest in gaining visibility into where these innovations are headed.

    In this climate of cautious optimism, Weiss Ratings positions its Disruptors & Dominators coverage as an analytical touchpoint for understanding technology trajectories — especially those like Nvidia’s robotics initiative, which blends infrastructure, artificial intelligence, and policy into one accelerating narrative.

    Disruptors & Dominators is Weiss Ratings’ newsletter focused on AI, autonomous infrastructure, and disruptive technology sectors. Details are available on the official Weiss Ratings website.

    Section 6 – Availability and Transparency Statement

    The complete insight discussed in this release — including Weiss Ratings’ 2025 coverage of Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the independently rated $7 stock associated with its infrastructure development — is published within the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, available through the Weiss Ratings platform. The analysis examines current market signals, technological developments, and policy trends that are shaping what some are calling a new industrial frontier.

    This release is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice, a stock recommendation, or a solicitation to purchase any security. Weiss Ratings maintains a strict independence policy and does not accept compensation from the companies it covers. All opinions and evaluations are based on publicly available data, industry trends, and the application of proprietary research methodologies.

    Readers seeking further context are encouraged to consult official filings, regulatory updates, and the company’s reported financials to gain a comprehensive understanding of this evolving sector. The Disruptors & Dominators editorial series is designed to support independent analysis of disruptive trends across artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and transformational technologies.

    Section 7 – Final Observations: Robotics Infrastructure, AI Expansion, and the Shape of a Trillion-Dollar Opportunity

    The robotics movement underway in 2025 represents more than just a breakthrough in machine autonomy — it signals a fundamental restructuring of how labor, logistics, and national infrastructure interact with artificial intelligence. While early applications of AI focused on cloud computing, recommendation engines, and content generation, the current phase emphasizes AI’s physical manifestation: autonomous systems capable of navigating, sensing, and making decisions in real-world environments.

    From a strategic perspective, Nvidia’s expansion into robotics represents a vertical integration model previously seen in sectors such as semiconductors and data centers, now applied to the fusion of mobility and cognition. The company is no longer just supplying chips to innovators; it is increasingly shaping the operating systems, regulatory architecture, and embedded partnerships that define the growth of this sector.

    For independent research organizations like Weiss Ratings, this shift demands an even closer examination of adjacent players — including those providing the sensors, decision engines, and physical frameworks necessary for scaled deployment. The emergence of smaller-cap, infrastructure-enabling firms is not only relevant for investors; it reflects a broader change in how innovation is operationalized at the ground level.

    As autonomous mobility and robotics continue to transition from demonstration to deployment, the real opportunity may not lie in flashy prototypes, but in the systems and platforms that enable scale. This is where industry attention is increasingly focused, and where editorial coverage plays a vital role in bringing transparency to a rapidly advancing ecosystem.

    Section 8 – Public Commentary Themes: Interest, Caution, and the Race to Scale AI Robotics

    Online discussions around Nvidia’s robotics initiative and the emerging ecosystem of autonomous technology partners have become increasingly layered in tone. A recurring point of interest involves the transition from lab-based robotics to scalable industrial platforms, particularly in sectors such as freight, manufacturing, and healthcare systems. Some commentators have noted that the 2025 rollout of Nvidia’s DriveThor-enabled autonomous trucking strategy marks a meaningful shift from abstract AI speculation to infrastructure-level application.

    At the same time, skepticism persists. A recurring discussion point revolves around the timeline and feasibility of national regulatory frameworks for self-driving fleets, especially in light of state-by-state policy variations. Others have expressed concern about labor displacement, while still acknowledging the need for solutions to chronic driver shortages and logistics bottlenecks. This duality — optimism for innovation, tempered by realism about structural inertia — continues to shape the public dialogue.

    Notably, independent financial communities have shown interest in companies playing enabling roles behind the scenes. A frequently discussed theme involves the under-the-radar $7 stock referenced in Weiss Ratings’ 2025 editorial. Some investors are analyzing their patent filings, partner integrations, and testing data as signals of long-term infrastructure relevance. Rather than chasing speculative spikes, these observers frame the opportunity in terms of foundational value within an AI-enabled economy.

    Another standard narrative highlights the strategic alliances forming between traditional industrial brands and AI platform providers, with Nvidia’s deepening involvement seen as a signpost for what’s next. This includes attention on chip suppliers, robotics firmware developers, and companies aligned with clean-label hardware design.

    Across forums, media, and professional newsletters, the consensus is forming: the robotics revolution is no longer theoretical. It’s underway — and its enablers, not just its figureheads, are becoming the focus of the following investment conversation.

    About Weiss Ratings

    Founded in 1971, Weiss Ratings is an independent financial research and ratings firm committed to providing unbiased, data-driven analysis to individual investors and institutions. With coverage across more than 53,000 publicly traded companies, ETFs, and mutual funds, the organization utilizes proprietary modeling systems to identify patterns, risks, and opportunities across rapidly evolving sectors, including artificial intelligence, technology infrastructure, and disruptive innovation.

    Weiss Ratings does not accept compensation from the companies it evaluates and maintains strict editorial independence across all published content. Its research products, including the Disruptors & Dominators newsletter, are designed to support informed decision-making through transparent financial metrics, historical backtesting, and real-time trend monitoring. The company does not offer investment advice or diagnostic services; all analysis is provided for informational purposes only.

    Contact:

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Equasens: Appointment at the head of the Pharmagest Division

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Villers-lès-Nancy (France), July 03, 2025 – 06 :00pm (CET)

    Press Release

    Equasens announces the departure of Damien VALICON, as Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division

    He will be replaced by François-Pierre MARQUIER as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    ***

    Equasens Group (Euronext Paris™ – Compartment B – FR 0012882389 –$EQS), announces the departure of Damien VALICON, who held the position of Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Director of the Pharmagest Division for 18 months, and the appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, who is resuming his operational duties as Director of the Pharmagest Division.

    The appointment of François-Pierre MARQUIER, proposed by Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of the Equasens Group, will be effective after a transition period. It was approved by the Board of Directors at its meeting on June 25, 2025, chaired by Thierry CHAPUSOT, Chairman of the Board of Directors.

    François-Pierre MARQUIER, who joined Pharmagest in May 2021 as Regional Director for the Ile-de-France region, has headed the Pharmacy France business since January 2023. He will now oversee all the Division’s activities, both in France and the rest of Europe.

    Denis SUPPLISSON, Chief Executive Officer of Equasens Group, states: « François-Pierre has a deep understanding of our business sectors, a precise grasp of our challenges and the sectoral expertise we need to accelerate our European development. »

    Biography François-Pierre MARQUIER – LinkedIn – Graduate of IDRAC Business School and Emlyon Business School (DUA), he began his career in 1996 with DHL as Marketing Manager. In 2000, he joined Cegid Group where he evolved for over 20 years, holding management positions in marketing and sales.
    He joined Equasens Group in May 2021 as Regional Director, before being appointed Director of the Pharmacy France business in January 2023.
    He has represented Pharmagest within FEIMA for over 2 years.

    Upcoming financial communications

    • 31 July 2025:                 Q2 2025 revenue – After the close of trading
    • 26 September 2025:         H1 2025 results

    About Equasens Group Follow us also on LinkedIn

    Founded over 35 years ago, Equasens Group, a leader in digital healthcare solutions, today employs over 1.400 people across Europe.
    Equasens Group’s specialized business applications facilitate the day-to-day work of healthcare professionals and their teams, working in private practice, collaborative medical structures or healthcare establishments. The Group also provides comprehensive support to healthcare professionals in the transformation of their profession by developing electronic equipment, digital solutions and healthcare robotics, as well as data hosting, financing and training adapted to their specific needs.
    And reflecting the spirit of its tagline “Technology for a More Human Experience”, the Group is a leading provider of interoperability solutions that improve coordination between healthcare professionals, their communications and data exchange resulting in better patient care and a more efficient and secure healthcare system.

    Listed on Euronext Paris, Equasens Group (Compartment B – FR 0012882389 – $EQS) applies a two-pronged development strategy combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions at a European level.

    CONTACTS

    Analyst and Investor Relations:
    Chief Administrative and Financial Officer: Frédérique Schmidt
    Tel: +33 (0)3 83 15 90 67 – frederique.schmidt@equasens.com

    Financial communications agency:
    FIN’EXTENSO – Isabelle Aprile

    Tel.: +33 (0)6 17 38 61 78 – i.aprile@finextenso.fr

    Attachment

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Integrates Katana Mainnet, Tapping 1 Billion KAT Incentives Amid DeFi Yield Revival

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has integrated Katana mainnet, becoming one of the first wallets to support the newly launched DeFi-focused blockchain. The integration allows users to connect to the Katana chain directly within the wallet, enabling native token transfers, DApp interactions, and access to the $1 billion KAT liquidity incentive program.

    With support for Katana now live, Bitget Wallet users can easily add the chain, manage assets, and connect to Katana-based applications to earn yield through liquidity provision and token staking. The update further expands Bitget Wallet’s multi-chain capabilities and comes as the platform accelerates its strategy to offer curated access to high-potential DeFi ecosystems. Additional Katana-related features, including analytics tools and asset discovery functions, are set to launch in the coming weeks.

    Katana is a DeFi-optimized Layer 2 network on Ethereum built using Polygon’s Agglayer Chain Development Kit (CDK). Incubated by Polygon Labs and GSR, Katana is designed to address the inefficiencies of existing DeFi infrastructure, with a focus on enhancing real yield strategies and concentrating liquidity into a few core DeFi app primitives. The network aims to attract early users and liquidity through its KAT incentive program, which will distribute 1 billion KAT tokens to contributors across various ecosystem protocols.

    For Bitget Wallet, the integration aligns with its broader effort to support onchain utility beyond asset storage, tapping into emerging chains that offer real-world financial applications. The wallet, which now serves over 80 million users and supports 130+ blockchains, has in recent months expanded its coverage of next‑generation Layer 2 networks as part of its “Crypto for Everyone” roadmap.

    “Users are increasingly looking for new sources of real yield in a more modular and efficient DeFi landscape,” said Jamie Elkaleh, CMO of Bitget Wallet. “By integrating Katana at launch, we’re giving our users direct access to a purpose-built chain for high yield generation and deep liquidity without friction. This is part of our ongoing commitment to making the best of DeFi simple, secure, and accessible.”

    For more information, visit the Bitget Wallet official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7e9d25e4-0499-4163-a841-155e94f4b3ca

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Wallet Integrates Katana Mainnet, Tapping 1 Billion KAT Incentives Amid DeFi Yield Revival

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN SALVADOR, El Salvador, July 04, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Bitget Wallet, the leading non-custodial crypto wallet, has integrated Katana mainnet, becoming one of the first wallets to support the newly launched DeFi-focused blockchain. The integration allows users to connect to the Katana chain directly within the wallet, enabling native token transfers, DApp interactions, and access to the $1 billion KAT liquidity incentive program.

    With support for Katana now live, Bitget Wallet users can easily add the chain, manage assets, and connect to Katana-based applications to earn yield through liquidity provision and token staking. The update further expands Bitget Wallet’s multi-chain capabilities and comes as the platform accelerates its strategy to offer curated access to high-potential DeFi ecosystems. Additional Katana-related features, including analytics tools and asset discovery functions, are set to launch in the coming weeks.

    Katana is a DeFi-optimized Layer 2 network on Ethereum built using Polygon’s Agglayer Chain Development Kit (CDK). Incubated by Polygon Labs and GSR, Katana is designed to address the inefficiencies of existing DeFi infrastructure, with a focus on enhancing real yield strategies and concentrating liquidity into a few core DeFi app primitives. The network aims to attract early users and liquidity through its KAT incentive program, which will distribute 1 billion KAT tokens to contributors across various ecosystem protocols.

    For Bitget Wallet, the integration aligns with its broader effort to support onchain utility beyond asset storage, tapping into emerging chains that offer real-world financial applications. The wallet, which now serves over 80 million users and supports 130+ blockchains, has in recent months expanded its coverage of next‑generation Layer 2 networks as part of its “Crypto for Everyone” roadmap.

    “Users are increasingly looking for new sources of real yield in a more modular and efficient DeFi landscape,” said Jamie Elkaleh, CMO of Bitget Wallet. “By integrating Katana at launch, we’re giving our users direct access to a purpose-built chain for high yield generation and deep liquidity without friction. This is part of our ongoing commitment to making the best of DeFi simple, secure, and accessible.”

    For more information, visit the Bitget Wallet official channels.

    About Bitget Wallet
    Bitget Wallet is a non-custodial crypto wallet designed to make crypto simple and secure for everyone. With over 80 million users, it brings together a full suite of crypto services, including swaps, market insights, staking, rewards, DApp exploration, and payment solutions. Supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens, Bitget Wallet enables seamless multi-chain trading across hundreds of DEXs and cross-chain bridges. Backed by a $300+ million user protection fund, it ensures the highest level of security for users’ assets. Its vision is Crypto for Everyone — to make crypto simpler, safer, and part of everyday life for a billion people.

    For more information, visit: X | Telegram | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | TikTok | Discord | Facebook

    For media inquiries, contact media.web3@bitget.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7e9d25e4-0499-4163-a841-155e94f4b3ca

    The MIL Network

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Oxford Leisure Centres refurbish cafés and offer sustainable choices

    Source: City of Oxford

    Published: Thursday, 3 July 2025

    Five Oxford leisure centres have received significant upgrades to their catering facilities and menus.

    Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, Ferry Leisure Centre, Hinksey Outdoor Pool, and Oxford Ice Rink have all undergone improvements designed to modernise the spaces and offer a wider range of food and drink choices.

    A key highlight of the upgrades is the introduction of Fairtrade coffee and tea that are not only organic, but also Rainforest Alliance-certified and Soil Association-accredited. All hot drinks are now served in eco cups, with 30p discount offered to customers who bring their own reusable cup.

    “These enhancements reflect our commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable options for our visitors. We’re proud to offer a catering experience that’s better for both people and the planet, while making every visit more enjoyable.”

    Rob Jennings, Contract Manager for More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), which operates the centres

    “Looking after our health isn’t just about exercise – it’s about connection too. Grabbing a (Fairtrade) coffee with a friend after a swim or catching up over tea with a friend while the kids are in the pool, can give our mental wellbeing a real boost. These new cafes make our leisure centres more social and welcoming, as well as great places to get active.”

    Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion at Oxford City Council

    Oxford Ice Rink now boasts an updated menu of convenient grab-and-go options, including hot dogs and doughnuts. Leys Pools and Leisure Centre has opened a new kiosk café in its recently launched Active Zone, serving a variety of hot and cold snacks and drinks.

    As a special welcome, customers using the free 7-day trial at Barton Leisure Centre, Leys Pools and Leisure Centre, and Ferry Leisure Centre will receive one complimentary hot drink.

    MLCT in partnership with Serco Leisure operates five leisure centres across Oxford on behalf of Oxford City Council. For more information, visit oxfordcityleisure.com

    MIL OSI United Kingdom

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Government sets out progress of financial services competitiveness programme03 July 2025 A major Government-led programme to strengthen and grow Jersey’s financial services industry is to be showcased at a public event later this month. The conference – at the Radisson Blu Hotel on 23 July… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    03 July 2025

    A major Government-led programme to strengthen and grow Jersey’s financial services industry is to be showcased at a public event later this month. 

    The conference – at the Radisson Blu Hotel on 23 July – will provide the first significant update on the project, launched earlier this year in collaboration with Jersey Finance Ltd, the Jersey Financial Servies Commission (JFSC) and industry partners. 

    The Competitiveness Programme aims to support and find new areas of growth for Jersey’s financial and related professional services (FRPS) sector – the Island’s largest employer and the most significant contributor to tax revenues that fund public services. 

    In a keynote speech, Deputy Ian Gorst, Minister for External Relations with responsibility for Financial Services, will outline the need for action amid an ever-changing and increasingly uncertain global landscape, and set out the work undertaken in the programme so far. 

    The Minister will also discuss the future plans for the programme, which will culminate in a report setting a clear strategy to safeguard and grow the industry over the next ten years and beyond. 

    Further presentations and panel discussions will focus on: 

    • Updates on the programme’s workstreams on tax, ‘quick win’ changes, and longer-term improvements to Jersey’s business and regulatory environment
    • Global trends affecting international finance centres 
    • Insights from the JFSC strategy and registry review 
    • Opportunities to collaborate on upcoming work. 

    Deputy Gorst said: “The importance of our financial-services industry cannot be underestimated – it is by far our largest employer and the tax revenues it generates play a fundamental part in supporting Island life as we know it. It is essential we do all we can to safeguard this industry and find new areas to grow the sector in an increasingly competitive global market. I look forward to welcoming stakeholders and updating them on the good work undertaken so far – and setting out what we aim to achieve over the coming year.” 

    The event takes place on Wednesday 23 July 2025, 9am-11am and can be watched live online. Register online via Eventbrite.

    More information about the Competitiveness Programme can be found at: Financial Services Competitiveness Programme​.​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom