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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Pre-loved tech will help to bridge digital divide under new government charter 

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Pre-loved tech will help to bridge digital divide under new government charter 

    Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on GOV.UK and then work with their chosen charity partner to distribute devices.

    Pre-loved tech bridging digital divide under new government charter.

    Big names like Deloitte, Vodafone and Three alongside leading charity Good Things Foundation are uniting with government to encourage organisations to donate pre-loved tech to digital excluded Brits.

    Organisations can sign up to the IT Reuse for Good charter on gov.uk from today and then work with their chosen charity partner to distribute devices.  

    The Charter encourages organisations to change how they manage and dispose of IT assets, with the aim of increasing device donations to the 1.5 million people in the United Kingdom who lack access to a basic laptop, tablet and smartphone.  

    With technology transforming essential services like healthcare access, job applications and housing, government is doubling down on commitment to improve skills and technology access for all – breaking down barriers to opportunity as part of our Plan for Change.

    Telecoms Minister Sir Chris Bryant said:

    Britain is leading the way when it comes to technological advancements with everyday essentials such as doctor’s appointments and job applications becoming increasingly digital. But to maximise the full potential of technology, we need to bring everyone along with us on this journey.  

    This Charter represents a significant step forward in our mission to bridge the digital divide and create a more sustainable approach to technology. By working together with industry and charity partners, we’re helping more people access the digital tools they need to improve their lives while reducing harmful electronic waste.

    Research also shows that digitally excluded people face higher costs for things like home insurance, train travel and food paying up to 25% more on average than consumers who are online.  

    The charter sets out principles for organisations to adhere to including ensuring devices are securely wiped, professionally refurbished and fit for purpose so they can be provided free of charge to those who need them.

    Ryan, a single father from Essex, struggled without access to a laptop. “Job searching felt impossible,” he said. “I couldn’t keep up and felt like I was falling behind.”

    Through a donation from Vodafone’s Great British Tech Appeal to the National Device Bank, an initiative led by Good Things Foundation, Ryan received a laptop that transformed his prospects. “This laptop isn’t just a piece of equipment – it’s a lifeline,” Ryan shares. Now, he can actively search for jobs, attend online training, and build a better future.

    “I want my kids to see what’s possible with determination and the right support,” Ryan says.

    Helen Milner OBE, CEO of Good Things Foundation, said:

    Alongside the government, Vodafone, Three and Deloitte, Good Things Foundation has developed the IT Reuse for Good Charter, tackling the UK’s digital divide and e-waste crisis head-on. With 1.5 million adults lacking essential devices and 1.45 million tons of e-waste discarded yearly, we’re proud to lead the charge for a more inclusive and sustainable future.  The Charter builds on the success of our National Device Bank and will be a game-changer, unlocking thousands of devices. We have also launched a Playbook to help businesses to navigate IT reuse for good, and bake it into their organisations.

    Richard Houston, Senior Partner and CEO Deloitte UK said:

    Since 2021, we’ve donated 20,000 devices to schools and charities through our network of social impact partners. I’m incredibly proud that we have been able to help thousands of people continue education, find employment, and connect with loved ones through technology. Yet I know there is so much more that can be done. I encourage all organisations, whatever size, to consider the role you can play, and together, we can bridge the digital divide.  

    Rich Marsh, Responsible Business Director at BT Group, said:

    As well as being a leader in sustainability for more than 30 years, at BT we’ve seen first-hand the positive impact that digital inclusion projects are having across the UK – supported by our networks, social tariffs and digital skills programs.  

    We warmly welcome the ‘IT Re-Use for Good’ Charter, which brings these 2 things together and gives a second life to our devices. Now we’re committing to donate even more devices, helping play our part in providing people with the tech they need in today’s digital society.

    Notes to editors

    Signatories must donate their first device within 6 months of signing the charter. Progress will be monitored by self-reporting every 6 months.  

    Digital Inclusion Action Plan documents

    Paula Coughlan, Chief People, Communications and Sustainability Officer said:

    At Currys, everything we do is to help everyone enjoy amazing technology. Within that, we’re very aware that not everyone can afford or have access to the amazing tech we sell. Through our work to date, it’s clear to see the positive, transformative power of just one digital device for a child or for a family, and how isolating not having access to the digital world really is. That’s why we were founding members of the Digital Poverty Alliance, and why we’re committed to doing everything we can to help make digital poverty a thing of the past. It’s been wonderful to work with Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) on this important new Charter and we’re proud to be signatories. The more we can do as a society, as businesses, working together with government with solutions to bridge the digital divide, the more likely we are to really make a difference.

    DSIT media enquiries

    Email press@dsit.gov.uk

    Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 3000

    Updates to this page

    Published 25 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Farm-to-forest Ban passes first reading

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has taken a major step towards protecting food production by ending the large-scale conversion of productive farmland into pine plantations, with the first reading of the Climate Change Response (Emissions Trading Scheme—Forestry Conversion) Amendment Bill receiving unanimous support in Parliament last night.

    “This Bill is about protecting our most valuable land that grows food for export and sustains rural communities,” Agriculture and Forestry Minister Todd McClay says. 

    “For too long, ETS incentives have driven the wrong outcomes for our rural sector.”

    “Once farms are planted in trees as a result of carbon credits we lose the ability to produce the high-quality safe food that consumers demand – and we lose rural jobs, export earnings, and the families that go with them. Today we are putting a stop to the harm that this has done to rural New Zealand.”

    The Bill will:

    • Prevent exotic forests from entering the ETS on LUC 1–5 land (New Zealand’s most productive soil);
    • Limit new ETS registrations on LUC 6 land to 15,000 hectares per year, allocated by ballot;
    • Allow up to 25 per cent of a farm to go into the ETS, preserving landowner choice while ending full-farm conversions;
    • Protect eligible Māori-owned land, and provide time-limited exemptions for pre-announced investments.

    The Bill includes temporary exemptions where an investor can provide evidence of a qualifying forestry investment between 1 January 2021 and 4 December 2024. For instance, the purchase of land and ordering of trees prior to 4 December 2024 would be an example of proof of a qualifying investment, whilst each of these actions alone would not. 

    “The last Government sat back while 300,000 hectares of farmland were sold off for carbon credits. That short-sighted policy puts ideology ahead of long-term food security. We’re reversing that damage.”

    The new settings will take effect from 4 December 2024, with the law coming fully into force in October 2025.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: JOYY Achieves Top Rankings in Extel’s 2025 Asia Executive Team Survey

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JOYY Inc. (NASDAQ: JOYY) (“JOYY” or the “Company”), a global technology company, has been acknowledged as a “Most Honored Company” by Extel, formerly known as Institutional Investor Research, in its 2025 Asia Companies’ Executive Team Survey.

    JOYY earned top positions in the Overall Asia (ex-Japan/ANZ) Executive Team Small & Mid-Cap category in the internet sector across all seven evaluated areas: Best CEO, Best CFO, Best ESG, Best Board of Directors, Best IR Team, Best IR Professional, and Best IR Program. This is the seventh consecutive year that JOYY has been featured in the rankings, demonstrating excellence in the Company’s executive leadership, corporate governance and investor relations.

    Ms. Li Ting, Chairperson and CEO of JOYY, was ranked No. 1 in Best CEO in the Small & Mid-Cap Internet sector. Mr. Alex Liu, the Vice President of Finance, secured top positions in the Best CFO category. JOYY achieved the highest ranking in Best IR Program, which is defined by nine key attributes including the quality of roadshows and meetings, comprehensive business and market knowledge, and timely and granular disclosure practices.

    The Extel Asia Executive Team survey is regarded as a trusted benchmark for excellence in investor relations and corporate governance. The 2025 rankings are based on feedback from 5,437 buy-side professionals and 863 sell-side analysts. A total of 1,668 companies across 18 sectors were evaluated.

    About JOYY Inc.
    JOYY is a leading global technology company with a mission to enrich lives through technology. With a diversified product portfolio spanning live streaming, short-form videos, casual games, instant messaging, and emerging initiatives like advertising, JOYY has evolved beyond social entertainment into a multifaceted ecosystem powered by AI and data-driven technologies. Headquartered in Singapore and operating across the globe, JOYY has fostered a vibrant user community through its localized strategies. JOYY’s ADSs have been listed on the NASDAQ since November 2012.

    Investor Relations Contact
    JOYY Inc.
    Investor Relations
    Email: joyy-ir@joyy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: In Floor Speech, Warren Slams Trump’s War in Iran, Exposes 10 Ways Big Beautiful Bill Increases Costs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
    June 24, 2025
    “American families don’t need another war – they need good jobs and lower prices, and that is what we should be focused on.”
    Video of Floor Speech (YouTube)
    Washington, D.C. — In a speech on the floor of the U.S. Senate, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) underscored the recklessness of President Trump’s decision to bomb Iran and highlighted ten ways Republicans’ ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’ raise costs for American families.  
    “We all agree that Iran should not and cannot have a nuclear weapon…But the only successful strategy for preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon is diplomacy, something Trump had been pursuing right up until Netanyahu began bombing Iran,” said Senator Warren.
    “American families don’t need another war – they need good jobs and lower prices, and that is what we should be focused on,” she continued. 
    Senator Warren also called out the hypocrisy of President Trump’s promise to lower costs “on Day 1” while instead he has been working to rip health care away from over 16 million people to pay for tax cuts for the wealthy. She then highlighted ten ways the bill would raise costs for families, from rent to groceries to prescription drug prices. 
    “But what makes the bill worse is that the money you lose doesn’t pay down the national debt or help us rebuild our roads and bridges. The money you lose will be handed directly to a handful of giant corporations and billionaires in the form of new tax giveaways,” said Senator Warren. 
    Senator Warren called for her Republican colleagues to stand up for American families and say no to the dangerous bill. 
    “We still have time to stop it—and that’s exactly what we should do. Democrats will vote NO. We just need a few courageous Republicans, people who care more about working people instead of billionaires, to join us and stop the Big Beautiful Betrayal from passing,” she concluded. 
    Transcript: Floor Speech on Iran, ‘Big, Beautiful Bill’U.S. Senate FloorJune 24, 2025
    As Prepared for Delivery
    Senator Elizabeth Warren: Bombing another country is an act of war.
    And last week, Donald Trump launched an attack that could spin the United States into another endless war in the Middle East. 
    What followed from that decision can only be described as pure madness.
    Trump declared total victory. Iran threatened retaliation. Americans in the region were forced to shelter in place. Trump’s own team admitted no one knows where the nuclear materials are and what nuclear capacity Iran may still have. Trump called for regime change. And then last night, for a moment, we hoped and believed there was a ceasefire, only for us to wake up to frantic posts on social media by the president begging both sides to stop shooting missiles and rockets at each other.
    Today the Deputy commander of Central Command could describe nothing about what kind of contingency plans the Defense Department was making or even whether they did—or didn’t—have plans for U.S. boots on the ground. And the classified briefing scheduled for right now so that all the senators can ask questions about what has happened and what is currently happening in Iran has just been scrapped for another 48 hours. 
    There is no grand plan. There is no careful effort to develop a responsible U.S. foreign policy to keep us all safe. Once again, Trump serves up chaos—dangerous chaos that threatens the long-term security of the American people. 
    New reporting by CNN and the New York Times suggest Donald Trump’s bombing of Iran failed to destroy its nuclear program. The media reports highlight that the strikes only set back Iran’s nuclear program by a few months.
    A few months – while risking another war in the Middle East. 
    We all agree that Iran should not and cannot have a nuclear weapon. We are committed to that. But the only successful strategy for preventing Iran from developing a nuclear weapon is diplomacy, something Trump had been pursuing right up until Netanyahu began bombing Iran. 
    That is what we need right now: for all sides to come to the table to build an agreement that’s sturdy and that cements lasting peace. 
    But Trump’s reckless action, backed by many Republicans in Congress, makes it more likely this crisis escalates into a deadly cycle of violence.
    Trump’s reckless action puts American lives at risk.
    Trump’s reckless action risks initiating another endless war that could last months – or even decades – as it did in Iraq and Afghanistan.
    We have the power to put a stop to this madness now. Senator Kaine has introduced a War Powers Resolution to stop Donald Trump from turning these Iran bombings into another endless war in the Middle East.
    American families don’t need another war – they need good jobs and lower prices, and that is what we should be focused on.
    When Donald Trump ran for President, he promised over and over that he would lower costs “on Day 1.” His words—on Day 1. After he was elected, and he was told that his policies would drive up costs, Trump said he “couldn’t care less.” 
    Now we’re at Day 154, and costs are up. Families are paying more for gas. More for housing. More for electricity. Prices are even going up on baby strollers — or as Donald Trump calls it, “the thing you carry the babies around in.” Yes, Donald Trump, the man of the people. 
    So logically, right now, Republicans in Congress are ramming through Trump’s “Big Beautiful Bill.” A bill that’s not designed to bring down costs, but that will rip health care away from over 16 million people and hand that money over to every billionaire CEO who paid to be in the front row of Trump’s inauguration.
    For anyone who is watching, I’m here today to read into the record ten ways Trump and Republicans’ “Big Beautiful Bill” will make your life more expensive:
    One, your utility bills may go up. The Republicans’ bill will get rid of investments we’ve made in clean energy. We need that energy, and the Republican bill takes our country backwards. It also means that the price of electricity will go up for American families like yours.
    Two, your rent could go up. How? Republicans are trying to block state and local governments from fighting schemes that predatory housing companies use to artificially jack up the price of rent.
    Three, if you’re a kid from a working-class family and don’t have the money to write one check to pay for college, Republicans will make that even more expensive for you. That’s right – Republicans are cutting Pell Grants.
    Four, Republicans are making your student loan payments go up. Independent experts explain that by changing how student loan repayment plans work, Republicans could raise your student loan payments by an average of $400 a month.
    Five, Republicans are making it more expensive to go to medical school. I can’t believe I have to say this, but rich kids shouldn’t be the only people who can become doctors. But this bill would limit how much you can take out in loans to go to medical school.
    Six, Republicans are making the cost of groceries go up. They are cutting food assistance – or SNAP – by nearly $200 per person per year. More than seven million people will have less help, including more than four million people who will lose their food assistance altogether.
    Seven, Republicans are increasing the cost of prescription drugs for millions of Americans. By demanding that states require higher copays for prescription drugs – from $4 to $35 – the cost of a prescription will go up nearly 900% for low-income people on Medicaid.
    Eight, Republicans will send your Affordable Care Act premiums skyrocketing, pushing them up by thousands – and in some cases tens of thousands – of dollars every year. 
    Nine, Republicans’ will drive up the cost of private health insurance. More than half of all Americans get their insurance from their employer. When a portion of the uncompensated care is shifted to private insurers, experts estimate that the costs to your family will increase by hundreds of dollars a year. 
    Ten, Republicans are ripping health insurance away entirely from 16 million people. For those people who will be uninsured, the cost of essential services like X-rays and blood tests will go up. A trip to the emergency room, if God forbid there’s an accident, could mean they go bankrupt.
    That’s just ten ways this bill could raise your costs. That’s bad. But what makes the bill worse is that the money you lose doesn’t pay down the national debt or help us rebuild our roads and bridges. The money you lose will be handed directly to a handful of giant corporations and billionaires in the form of new tax giveaways. Yes, Republicans are stealing your health care to pay for Jeff Bezos’ third yacht.
    And at the same time working families are worried about war and are scraping together enough money to put food on the table, Jeff Bezos is already celebrating by renting out Venice for his ten-million-dollar wedding.
    With control of the White House, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, this is what the Republicans decided to do with their power: drive up your costs and rip health care coverage from millions of people. 
    Really, imagine that: the Republicans have virtually unlimited power, and they want to use it to kick newborn babies out of the hospital and take wheelchairs away from people with disabilities – all so they can give that money to their billionaire friends and corporate donors. 
    It’s sickening. And I am angry.
    I’m angry because I believe that it isn’t just rich kids who should be able to afford a trip to the hospital when they fall down and break an arm.
    Because I believe it isn’t just babies from wealthy families who should be able to see a pediatrician when they get an ear infection.
    Because I believe it isn’t just parents who are Wall Street bankers who should be able to pay for cancer treatment for their kids.
    Our nation is better than that.
    My Republican colleagues should feel ashamed. Experts have run the numbers. Fifty-one thousand more people will die a year – unnecessarily – if the Republican bill becomes law. 
    The Republican reaction? Senator Joni Ernst proclaimed, “well, we’re all going to die.”
    And as recently as today, Senator Mitch McConnell is telling Republicans behind closed doors that their party can take a sledgehammer to Medicaid and ignore people’s concerns because quote “they’ll get over it.”
    Really?
    Seniors in nursing homes who get kicked to the curb won’t “get over it.”
    Little kids who find their mom or dad on the kitchen floor after they couldn’t afford insulin won’t “get over it.”
    Parents who rely on Medicaid to take care of their kid with a disability won’t “get over it.”
    Because make no mistake: people won’t stop getting sick—they’ll just stop getting care. And it doesn’t matter if you’re in a red state or blue state, either. 
    And no, if Senate Republicans cut Medicaid, we will not get over it. We will hold you accountable at the ballot box. 
    But this bill isn’t law. We still have time to stop it—and that’s exactly what we should do. Democrats will vote NO. We just need a few courageous Republicans, people who care more about working people instead of billionaires, to join us and stop the Big Beautiful Betrayal from passing.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Sweden signs agreement with US on advanced space technology

    Source: Government of Sweden

    Minister for Foreign Affairs Maria Malmer Stenergard today signed an agreement with the United States that will enable American companies to export advanced space technology to Sweden. This will enable Sweden to use American launchers to launch satellites from Swedish territory.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Staff Completes 2025 Article IV Mission to Vietnam

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    June 24, 2025

    End-of-Mission press releases include statements of IMF staff teams that convey preliminary findings after a visit to a country. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF’s Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    • Vietnam’s economy started 2025 strongly, with 6.9% year-on-year growth in the first
    • quarter. However, the outlook is more challenging amid global trade tensions and high uncertainty.
    • There is room for greater support by fiscal policy to cushion the impact of global shocks if needed. Allowing more flexibility in the exchange rate and strengthening the financial system will be important.
    • Implementation of the ambitious reform agenda encompassing institutional overhauls, private sector strengthening, and infrastructure improvements present an opportunity to raise medium-term growth. Further reforms to boost productivity, strengthen governance, and improve the business environment are also critical.

    Hanoi: An International Monetary Fund (IMF) team, led by Mr. Paulo Medas, held discussions for the 2025 Article IV consultation with the Vietnamese authorities from June 11-24, 2025. The team exchanged views with Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc, senior officials of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), the Ministry of Finance, the National Assembly, and other government agencies. It also met with representatives from the private sector, think tanks, and other stakeholders.

    At the conclusion of the mission, Mr. Medas issued the following statement:

    “The Vietnamese economy rebounded strongly in 2024, growing at 7.1 percent backed by robust exports, resilient foreign direct investment (FDI), and supportive policies. This momentum continued into the first quarter of 2025, with economic activity expanding by 6.9 percent (y/y). Inflation remained contained. The current account surplus reached a record 6.6 percent of GDP in 2024.

    “The outlook is heavily dependent on the outcome of trade negotiations and is constrained by elevated global uncertainty on trade policies and economic growth. Our projections, in line with the IMF April 2025 World Economic Outlook, assumes high tariffs take effect in the third quarter. In such a scenario, economic growth is projected to slow to 5.4 percent in 2025 and decelerate further in 2026.  However, if global trade tensions subside, the economic outlook would improve significantly.

    “Downside risks are high. A further escalation in global trade tensions or a tightening of global financial conditions could weaken further exports and investment. Domestically, financial stress could re-emerge from tighter financial conditions and high corporate indebtedness. On the upside, achieving nondiscriminatory trade agreements and successfully implementing planned infrastructure and structural reforms could significantly boost medium-term growth.

    “Given the uncertain outlook, policy priorities should focus on preserving macro-financial stability while navigating economic adjustments. Fiscal policy, supported by low level of public debt, should take the lead in cushioning the near-term impact especially under downside scenarios. Accelerated implementation of public investment and strengthening social safety nets would be important.

    “Monetary policy has much more limited room and should be decisively focused on anchoring inflation expectations. Allowing the exchange rate flexibility will be critical as the economy adjusts to the external shock. Some monetary easing could be considered if global interest rates decline as expected and inflation falls. Vigilance is needed to monitor and act against inflation pressures arise, including due to external shocks. These challenges underscore the importance of modernizing the monetary policy framework to enhance its effectiveness and anchor stability, including by replacing credit growth limits with an improved prudential framework.

    “Further efforts are needed to strengthen financial sector soundness. To bolster banking system resilience, priorities include strengthening bank supervision, build liquidity and capital buffers, and further improving the bank resolution framework.

    “The government’s plans for an ambitious reform agenda are very welcome and could boost medium-term growth, but implementation will be key. The government’s focus on institutional reforms to enhance efficiency, strengthen private sector development, and plans to scale up public investment is a major step forward. It will be important to develop and implement concrete reforms to improve key infrastructure (e.g., logistics, energy), functioning of capital markets, education and training, and productivity.  To maximize the return on large investments, it is critical to strengthen public investment management and adopt a sound macro-fiscal strategy to preserve the health of public finances. Efforts to strengthen economic governance are essential, including strengthening the AML/CFT regime, and efforts in this regard are welcome. Vietnam’s rapid economic growth is outpacing the development of its economic statistics and urgent efforts are needed to close data gaps to support effective policymaking and risk management.

    “The team is grateful to the authorities for their warm hospitality and the candid and insightful discussions.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Pavis Devahasadin

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

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/24/pr-25214-vietnam-imf-staff-completes-2025-article-iv-mission

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Tech and Business – Fibre broadband extension a priority for business

    Source: BusinessNZ

    BusinessNZ supports the Infrastructure Commission’s endorsement for extending fibre broadband to more areas of New Zealand.
    A proposal by Chorus to gain government backing for expanding fibre broadband from 87% to 95% of households and businesses has been endorsed by the Infrastructure Commission as a national priority.
    BusinessNZ Advocacy Director Catherine Beard says Chorus’ proposal would bring a significant boost to business and rural connectivity, bringing economic benefit to more parts of country.
    “More urban and rural businesses would be able to take part in the digital economy with modern connectivity that is scalable for business needs.
    “BusinessNZ agrees with the Infrastructure Commission’s assessment of the proposal as a national priority.”
    The BusinessNZ Network including BusinessNZ, EMA, Business Central, Business Canterbury and Business South, represents and provides services to thousands of businesses, small and large, throughout New Zealand.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tampa-based companies signs with IMAGE program

    Source: US Immigration and Customs Enforcement

    TAMPA, Fla. — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Tampa has signed an ICE Mutual Agreement Between Government and Employers, or IMAGE, program agreement with Ruri Software Technologies and Famous Technologies, Inc., as part of a voluntary collaborative program with America’s business community.

    These privately owned companies entered into IMAGE agreements as part of a mutually beneficial initiative that provides businesses enhanced security and a more stable workforce while minimizing the likelihood of hiring unauthorized workers. This Department of Homeland Security E-Verify employment eligibility program is free to employers and enables them to verify new hires’ eligibility to work in the U.S. Its internet-based system is available throughout the nation and provides an automated link to the Social Security Administration’s database and DHS immigration records.

    “These partnerships with businesses in our communities are an integral part of our commitment to providing national security, as well as the security of employees and customers,” said HSI Tampa Special Agent in Charge John Condon. “They are leading by example in how a legal workforce is a key component of responsible corporate citizenship.”

    As part of these agreements, Ruri Software Technologies and Famous Technologies have pledged to maintain secure and stable workforces and curtail the employment of unauthorized workers through outreach and education.

    To qualify for IMAGE certification, companies must:

    • Complete the IMAGE Self-Assessment Questionnaire
    • Enroll in the E-Verify program within 60 days
    • Establish a written hiring and employment eligibility verification policy that includes internal Form I-9 audits at least once per year
    • Submit to a Form I-9 inspection

    Ruri Software Technologies is a rapidly growing IT consulting company providing complete life cycle of software solutions to its clientele. Its companion company, Famous Technologies Inc., is also a rapidly expanding IT consulting firm that provides complete life cycle software solutions in a variety of domains across the U.S. Their basic processes aim to provide innovative, technology-enabled solutions that help provide their customers with leading products and services that endeavor to be on the cutting edge of technology.

    “We are proud to align ourselves with the values and standards that IMAGE represents, and we look forward to upholding the integrity and responsibility that comes with this designation,” said Ruri Software technologies director of operations Ram Arikatlal. “It is an honor to be part of this important partnership committed to fostering a lawful workforce while promoting best hiring practices.”

    Companies interested in more information about the IMAGE program can call 813-357-7137 or visit ICE.gov/image.

    To learn more about HSI Tampa, follow us on X at @HSITampa.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen Announces Resignation of DED Director Belitz

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen Announces Resignation of DED Director Belitz

    LINCOLN, NE – Today, Governor Jim Pillen announced the resignation of K.C. Belitz, director of the Department of Economic Development (DED). His final day with the state is July 18.

    Belitz, appointed to oversee the agency in July 2023, led the implementation of several new initiatives like Read Nebraska, 6 Regions, One Nebraska and the Governor’s New Venture Competition. He also oversaw the review and issuance of hundreds of millions of dollars in grants through state and local programs aimed at revitalizing key areas of Nebraska, including north and south Omaha, but also including smaller cities and rural communities.

    “K.C. is a committed public servant, whose entire career has been about growing local communities and growing Nebraska,” said Gov. Pillen. “Over the past two years, he has been a positive champion for bringing new business to the state and fostering relationships that will allow Nebraska to continue attracting companies involved in the bioeconomy, manufacturing, technology and other industries. I appreciate all that K.C. has done as director of DED and wish him the very best in all future endeavors.”

    “It has been a pleasure to serve Gov. Pillen and the people of Nebraska in this role,” said Beliz. “It has afforded me the chance to meet stakeholders across Nebraska who care deeply about their communities, making investments and creating opportunities so that families can raise their kids, have great careers, and thrive in their home state. That has been immensely satisfying, and I’m appreciative of those many relationships.”

    An announcement as to interim leadership for DED, as well as the search for a permanent director, will be made at a later date.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Treasury Corporation Announces TSX Venture Exchange Listing and the Issuance of Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not for distribution to United States news wire services or for dissemination in the United States.

    TORONTO, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitcoin Treasury Corporation (TSXV: BTCT) (“Bitcoin Treasury” or the “Corporation”), further to its press releases dated May 22, 2025, May 30, 2025, June 17, 2025, and June 23, 2025, is pleased to announce that, pursuant to a bulletin issued by the TSX Venture Exchange (the “TSXV” or the “Exchange”) on June 24, 2025, the Corporation has now met all final listing requirements of the Exchange, assuming closing of the previously announced brokered offering (the “Offering”) of 426,650 Bitcoin Treasury Shares (as defined below). It is anticipated that, effective at markets open on Thursday, June 26, 2025, the common shares of Bitcoin Treasury (the “Bitcoin Treasury Shares”) will be listed (the “Listing”) with an immediate trading halt. The Corporation expects that on Monday, June 30, 2025, following the completion of the previously announced Offering, anticipated to be on June 26, 2025, the Exchange will issue a further bulletin announcing the lifting of the trading halt. Once the trading halt is lifted, the Bitcoin Treasury Shares will trade under the symbol BTCT.

    The Corporation filed a filing statement pursuant to TSXV Form 3D2 – Information Required in a Filing Statement for a Reverse Takeover, dated June 17, 2025, a copy of which can be found under the Corporation’s profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    For further information, please contact:

    Bitcoin Treasury Corporation
    Elliot Johnson, Chief Executive Officer
    Phone: 416-619-3403
    Email: ejohnson@btctreasurycorp.com

    Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release includes certain “forward-looking statements” under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to: expectations related to the anticipated trading the Bitcoin Treasury Shares on the TSXV and timing thereof; and the brokered offering of the Bitcoin Treasury Shares and the timing thereof. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: business integration risks; the Corporation’s operating results will experience significant fluctuations due to the highly volatile nature of Bitcoin; the Corporation operates in a heavily regulated environment and any material changes or actions could lead to negative adverse effects to the business model, operational results, and financial condition of the Corporation; evolving cryptocurrency regulatory requirements and the impact on the Corporation’s business plan; Bitcoin value risk; reliance on key personnel; implementation of the Corporation’s business plan; lack of operating history; competitive conditions; de banking and financial services risk; anti money laundering and corrupt business practices; additional capital; financing risks; global financial conditions; insurance and uninsured risks; cybersecurity risks; changes to bank fees or practices, or payment card networks; audit of tax filings; market for the Bitcoin Treasury Shares; market price of the Bitcoin Treasury Shares; conflicts of interest; internal controls; tariffs and the imposition of other restrictions on trade could adversely affect the Corporation’s business; risk of litigation; pandemics or other health crisis; acquisitions and integration; risk of dilution of Bitcoin Treasury securities; dividend policy; Bitcoin price volatility; custodial risks; technological vulnerabilities; Bitcoin transactions are irreversible and may result in significant losses; short history risk; limited history of the Bitcoin market; potential decrease in the global demand for Bitcoin; economic and political factors; top Bitcoin holders control a significant percentage of the outstanding Bitcoin; availability of exchange traded products liquidity; security breaches; the requirements that accompany being a publicly traded company may put a strain on the Corporation’s resources, divert attention from management, and adversely affect its ability to maintain and attract management and qualified board members; liquidity risk; leverage risk; and share price fluctuations.

    Although management of the Corporation believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions and have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release, and the Corporation does not undertake any obligation to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward -looking statements or information, whether as a result of new information, change in management’s estimates or opinions, future circumstances or events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.

    The TSXV has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this news release.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Donald Heflin, Executive Director of the Edward R. Murrow Center and Senior Fellow of Diplomatic Practice, The Fletcher School, Tufts University

    President Donald Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House on June 24, 2025, in Washington, less than 12 hours after announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Within hours of President Donald Trump unexpectedly announcing an upcoming ceasefire between Israel and Iran on June 23, 2025, both countries launched airstrikes against the other.

    “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f–k they’re doing,” an angry and frustrated Trump told reporters outside the White House on June 24.

    While Iran and Israel have tentatively agreed to the truce – and Trump reiterated on June 24 that the “ceasefire is in effect” – it is not clear whether this deal can hold. Some research shows that an estimated 80% of ceasefire deals worldwide fail.

    Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., spoke with former Ambassador Donald Heflin, an American career diplomat who serves as the executive director of the Edward R. Murrow Center at the Fletcher School, Tufts University, to understand how ceasefires typically work – and how the Israel-Iran deal stacks up against other agreements to end wars.

    An excavator removes debris from a residential building that was destroyed in Israel’s June 13, 2025, airstrike on Tehran, Iran.
    Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

    How do ceasefire deals typically happen?

    There are classes taught on how to negotiate ceasefires, but it is ad hoc with each situation.

    For example, in one scenario, one of the warring parties wants a ceasefire and has decided that the conflict isn’t going well. The second party might not want a ceasefire, but could agree that it is getting tired or the risks are too high, and agrees to work something out.

    The next scenario, which leads to more success, is when both parties want a ceasefire. They decide that the loss of life and money has gone too far for both sides. One of the parties approaches the other through intermediaries to say it wants a ceasefire, and the other warring party agrees.

    In a third situation – which is what we are seeing with the Iran-Israel deal – the outside world imposes a ceasefire. Trump likely told both Israel and Iran: Look, it’s enough. This is too dangerous for the rest of the world. We don’t care what you think. Time for a ceasefire.“

    The U.S. has done this in the Middle East before, like after the Yom Kippur War in 1973 between Israel and a coalition of Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria. Israel was achieving big military victories, but the risk was pretty great for the world. The U.S. came in and said, “That’s enough, stop it now.” And it worked.

    Does the US bring the warring parties to a table in this kind of situation, or simply pressure the countries to stop fighting?

    It is more of the U.S. saying, “We are done.” When the U.S. does something like this, it is often going to have backup from the European Union and other countries like Qatar, saying, “The Americans are right. It is time for a ceasefire.”

    It appears that this Israel-Iran deal does not have specific conditions attached to it. Is that typical of a ceasefire deal?

    This deal doesn’t seem to have any specific details attached to it. Ceasefires work better when they have that. Lasting ceasefires need to address the concerns of the warring parties and give each side some of what it wants.

    For instance, in the Ukraine and Russia war, we have not seen either one of those countries push for a ceasefire. Part of the problem is Crimea and eastern Ukraine, sections of land in Ukraine that Russia has annexed and claims as its own. Russia would be happy with a deal that puts it in charge of Crimea and Ukraine, but Ukraine won’t agree to that. The question of who controls specific areas of land has to be addressed in this conflict; otherwise, the ceasefire isn’t going to last.

    Search and rescue efforts continue in a building in Beersheba, Israel, hit by a ballistic missile fired from Iran shortly before the ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump came into effect on June 24, 2025.
    Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Who is responsible for ensuring that both sides uphold a ceasefire?

    Security guarantees are an important part of negotiating and maintaining long-term ceasefires. Big countries like the U.S. could say that if a warring party violates a ceasefire agreement, they are going to punish them.

    In the 1990s, the U.S. and Europe assured Ukraine that if it gave up its nuclear arsenal, the U.S. would defend Ukraine if Russia ever invaded it. Russia has invaded Ukraine twice since then, in 2014 and 2022. The U.S. gave a more substantial response in the form of sending weapons and other war materials to Ukraine after the 2022 invasion, but there have been no real consequences for Russia.

    That has created a problem for ceasefires in the future, because the U.S. didn’t deliver on its past security guarantees.

    The further away you get from Europe, the less interested the West is in wars. But in those kinds of disputes, United Nations and other international peacekeeping troops can be sent in. Sometimes, that can work brilliantly in one place, like with the example of international peacekeeping troops called the multilateral Observer Mission stationed between Israel and Egypt helping maintain peace between those countries. But you can copy it to another place and it just doesn’t work as well.

    How does this ceasefire fit within the history of other ceasefires?

    It’s too early to tell. What matters is how the details get fleshed out.

    Ideally, you can get representatives of the Israeli and Iranian governments to sit around a conference table to reach a detailed agreement. The Israelis might say, “We have got to have some kind of assurances that Iran is not going to use a nuclear weapon.” And the Iranians could say, “Assassinations of our military generals and scientists has got to stop.” That kind of conversation and agreement is what is missing, thus far, in this process.

    Why is it so common for ceasefire deals to fail?

    Some ceasefire deals don’t get to the underlying conditions of what really caused the problem and what made people start shooting this time around. If you don’t get to the core issues of a conflict, you are putting a Band-Aid on the situation. Putting a Band-Aid on someone when they are bleeding is a good move, but you ultimately might need more than that to stop the bleeding.

    The outside world might be pretty happy with a ceasefire deal that seems to stop the fighting, but if the details are not ironed out, the experts would say, “This isn’t going to last.”

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

    – ref. Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold – https://theconversation.com/ceasefires-like-the-one-between-iran-and-israel-often-fail-but-an-agreement-with-specific-conditions-is-more-likely-to-hold-259739

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Donald Heflin, Executive Director of the Edward R. Murrow Center and Senior Fellow of Diplomatic Practice, The Fletcher School, Tufts University

    President Donald Trump speaks to reporters outside the White House on June 24, 2025, in Washington, less than 12 hours after announcing a ceasefire between Israel and Iran. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Within hours of President Donald Trump unexpectedly announcing an upcoming ceasefire between Israel and Iran on June 23, 2025, both countries launched airstrikes against the other.

    “We basically have two countries that have been fighting so long and so hard that they don’t know what the f–k they’re doing,” an angry and frustrated Trump told reporters outside the White House on June 24.

    While Iran and Israel have tentatively agreed to the truce – and Trump reiterated on June 24 that the “ceasefire is in effect” – it is not clear whether this deal can hold. Some research shows that an estimated 80% of ceasefire deals worldwide fail.

    Amy Lieberman, a politics and society editor at The Conversation U.S., spoke with former Ambassador Donald Heflin, an American career diplomat who serves as the executive director of the Edward R. Murrow Center at the Fletcher School, Tufts University, to understand how ceasefires typically work – and how the Israel-Iran deal stacks up against other agreements to end wars.

    An excavator removes debris from a residential building that was destroyed in Israel’s June 13, 2025, airstrike on Tehran, Iran.
    Majid Saeedi/Getty Images

    How do ceasefire deals typically happen?

    There are classes taught on how to negotiate ceasefires, but it is ad hoc with each situation.

    For example, in one scenario, one of the warring parties wants a ceasefire and has decided that the conflict isn’t going well. The second party might not want a ceasefire, but could agree that it is getting tired or the risks are too high, and agrees to work something out.

    The next scenario, which leads to more success, is when both parties want a ceasefire. They decide that the loss of life and money has gone too far for both sides. One of the parties approaches the other through intermediaries to say it wants a ceasefire, and the other warring party agrees.

    In a third situation – which is what we are seeing with the Iran-Israel deal – the outside world imposes a ceasefire. Trump likely told both Israel and Iran: Look, it’s enough. This is too dangerous for the rest of the world. We don’t care what you think. Time for a ceasefire.“

    The U.S. has done this in the Middle East before, like after the Yom Kippur War in 1973 between Israel and a coalition of Arab countries led by Egypt and Syria. Israel was achieving big military victories, but the risk was pretty great for the world. The U.S. came in and said, “That’s enough, stop it now.” And it worked.

    Does the US bring the warring parties to a table in this kind of situation, or simply pressure the countries to stop fighting?

    It is more of the U.S. saying, “We are done.” When the U.S. does something like this, it is often going to have backup from the European Union and other countries like Qatar, saying, “The Americans are right. It is time for a ceasefire.”

    It appears that this Israel-Iran deal does not have specific conditions attached to it. Is that typical of a ceasefire deal?

    This deal doesn’t seem to have any specific details attached to it. Ceasefires work better when they have that. Lasting ceasefires need to address the concerns of the warring parties and give each side some of what it wants.

    For instance, in the Ukraine and Russia war, we have not seen either one of those countries push for a ceasefire. Part of the problem is Crimea and eastern Ukraine, sections of land in Ukraine that Russia has annexed and claims as its own. Russia would be happy with a deal that puts it in charge of Crimea and Ukraine, but Ukraine won’t agree to that. The question of who controls specific areas of land has to be addressed in this conflict; otherwise, the ceasefire isn’t going to last.

    Search and rescue efforts continue in a building in Beersheba, Israel, hit by a ballistic missile fired from Iran shortly before the ceasefire announced by U.S. President Donald Trump came into effect on June 24, 2025.
    Mostafa Alkharouf/Anadolu via Getty Images)

    Who is responsible for ensuring that both sides uphold a ceasefire?

    Security guarantees are an important part of negotiating and maintaining long-term ceasefires. Big countries like the U.S. could say that if a warring party violates a ceasefire agreement, they are going to punish them.

    In the 1990s, the U.S. and Europe assured Ukraine that if it gave up its nuclear arsenal, the U.S. would defend Ukraine if Russia ever invaded it. Russia has invaded Ukraine twice since then, in 2014 and 2022. The U.S. gave a more substantial response in the form of sending weapons and other war materials to Ukraine after the 2022 invasion, but there have been no real consequences for Russia.

    That has created a problem for ceasefires in the future, because the U.S. didn’t deliver on its past security guarantees.

    The further away you get from Europe, the less interested the West is in wars. But in those kinds of disputes, United Nations and other international peacekeeping troops can be sent in. Sometimes, that can work brilliantly in one place, like with the example of international peacekeeping troops called the multilateral Observer Mission stationed between Israel and Egypt helping maintain peace between those countries. But you can copy it to another place and it just doesn’t work as well.

    How does this ceasefire fit within the history of other ceasefires?

    It’s too early to tell. What matters is how the details get fleshed out.

    Ideally, you can get representatives of the Israeli and Iranian governments to sit around a conference table to reach a detailed agreement. The Israelis might say, “We have got to have some kind of assurances that Iran is not going to use a nuclear weapon.” And the Iranians could say, “Assassinations of our military generals and scientists has got to stop.” That kind of conversation and agreement is what is missing, thus far, in this process.

    Why is it so common for ceasefire deals to fail?

    Some ceasefire deals don’t get to the underlying conditions of what really caused the problem and what made people start shooting this time around. If you don’t get to the core issues of a conflict, you are putting a Band-Aid on the situation. Putting a Band-Aid on someone when they are bleeding is a good move, but you ultimately might need more than that to stop the bleeding.

    The outside world might be pretty happy with a ceasefire deal that seems to stop the fighting, but if the details are not ironed out, the experts would say, “This isn’t going to last.”

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

    – ref. Ceasefires like the one between Iran and Israel often fail – but an agreement with specific conditions is more likely to hold – https://theconversation.com/ceasefires-like-the-one-between-iran-and-israel-often-fail-but-an-agreement-with-specific-conditions-is-more-likely-to-hold-259739

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister welcomes launch of draft National Infrastructure Plan

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop encourages New Zealanders to have their say on the draft National Infrastructure Plan released today by the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission. 

    “Improving the way we plan, fund, maintain and build our infrastructure is critical to boosting economic growth and increasing productivity and living standards, and so the Government welcomes today’s draft report by the independent Infrastructure Commission.

    “Contrary to many perceptions, New Zealand spends a lot on infrastructure. We are in the top 10% of the OECD for infrastructure investment spending over the last decade – but in the bottom 10% of the OECD when it comes to getting ‘bang for buck’ from our spending. As the Commission says, we need to “lift our game” and there are many draft recommendations in the draft plan that will help drive better value for money from public investment. 

    “I am pleased to see the draft Plan makes recommendations that align with existing Government priorities, such as making better use of user pricing to fund investment, adopting spatial planning, prioritising infrastructure through the resource management system, and drastically improving asset management and maintenance. The Government will continue to advance these policy priorities and will be informed by the Commission’s final report due later in the year.

    “It is clear that the central government infrastructure system needs to drastically improve. As the Commission notes, central government is New Zealand’s largest owner and funder of infrastructure. Government owns around 40% of our total stock of infrastructure and funds almost half of all infrastructure investment each year. 

    “However, the system is underperforming. Half of all proposals for investment in Budgets 2023 and 2024 did not have a business case. There are regularly large gaps between Budget funding being allocated and projects actually starting. 

    “Asset maintenance is a major problem, with New Zealand ranked fourth to last in the OECD for asset management, and dead last for the metric on Accountability and Professionalism. Over half of all capital-intensive government agencies do not have robust, comprehensive asset registers in place or adequate plans for looking after existing infrastructure. Maintenance spending is regularly diverted to building new infrastructure, resulting in costly catch-up spending later. In practice, years of poor asset management means leaky hospitals and schools, mould in police stations and courthouses, service outages on commuter rail, and poor accommodation for Defence Force personnel and their families.

    “Cabinet has already agreed to an all-of-Government work programme that will improve central government asset management and performance, including investigating legislative requirements for the development of ten-year investment plans by capital intensive agencies and performance reporting requirements.

    “The Government is determined to improve New Zealand’s infrastructure system and to work alongside the industry and other political parties to establish a broad consensus about what needs to change.  I’ve encouraged the Commission to brief all political parties as they develop the draft plan and I’ll be writing again to relevant spokespeople encouraging them to give their feedback to the Commission over the next few weeks.

    “The Government will respond to the finalised National Infrastructure Plan in 2026, once it is presented by the Commission in late 2025. As part of that response we will be engaging with other political parties in Parliament, and I intend to ask the Business Committee to hold a special Parliamentary debate on the plan. 

    “I thank the Infrastructure Commission for its hard work in delivering this draft National Infrastructure Plan. I encourage everyone to provide their feedback on it through the consultation process, and I look forward to receiving the final version toward the end of this year.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of May 31, 2025, was $22.16.

    This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended May 31, 2025.

    About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
    ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

    Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
    There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

    Contact:
    BANX@destracapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ArrowMark Financial Corp. Releases Month End Estimated Net Asset Value as of May 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ArrowMark Financial Corp., (NASDAQ: BANX) (“ArrowMark Financial”), today announced that BANX’s estimated and unaudited Net Asset Value (“NAV”) as of May 31, 2025, was $22.16.

    This estimated NAV is not a comprehensive statement of our financial condition or results for the month ended May 31, 2025.

    About ArrowMark Financial Corp.
    ArrowMark Financial Corp. is an SEC registered non-diversified, closed-end fund listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “BANX.” Its investment objective is to provide shareholders with current income. BANX pursues its objective by investing primarily in regulatory capital securities of financial institutions. BANX is managed by ArrowMark Asset Management, LLC. To learn more, visit ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com, or contact Destra at 877.855.3434 or by email at BANX@destracapital.com.

    Disclaimer and Risk Factors:
    There is no assurance that ArrowMark Financial will achieve its investment objective. ArrowMark Financial is subject to numerous risks, including investment and market risks, management risk, income and interest rate risks, banking industry risks, preferred stock risk, convertible securities risk, debt securities risk, liquidity risk, valuation risk, leverage risk, non-diversification risk, credit and counterparty risks, market at a discount from net asset value risk and market disruption risk. Shares of closed-end investment companies may trade above (a premium) or below (a discount) their net asset value. Shares of ArrowMark Financial may not be appropriate for all investors. Investors should review and consider carefully ArrowMark Financial’s investment objective, risks, charges and expenses. Past performance does not guarantee future results.

    The Annual Report, Semi-Annual Report and other regulatory filings of the Company with the SEC are accessible on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and on the BANX’s website at ir.arrowmarkfinancialcorp.com.

    Contact:
    BANX@destracapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Environment – Damning new groundwater figures reveal growing drinking water crisis – Greenpeace

    Source: Greenpeace

    New data published yesterday by StatsNZ shows about half of groundwater monitoring sites had contamination that exceeded maximum health limits for New Zealand at least once between April 2019 and March 2024.
    Over that period, 45.1% of sites exceeded the maximum acceptable level for E. coli, and 12.4% for nitrate – a contaminant linked to cancer and preterm births.
    The alarming figures have been revealed less than a month after the Luxon Government released proposals to further weaken freshwater protections.
    Greenpeace freshwater campaigner Will Appelbe says the proposals show the Government is knowingly sacrificing the health of rural communities to appease corporate dairy and Federated Farmers.
    “While he should be ensuring that everyone has access to clean drinking water and swimmable rivers, Luxon has instead proposed scrapping the cap on synthetic nitrogen fertiliser. This rule exists to prevent further nitrate contamination and protect people’s health.”
    “His Government also wants to prioritise corporate uses of water over safe drinking water and healthy rivers.”
    “The Government’s job is to safeguard public health – not bankroll big dairy.”
    A cap on the use of synthetic nitrogen fertiliser was introduced in 2021, which was set at 190 kg/hectare. As part of the National Direction proposals for freshwater, the Luxon Government has proposed repealing this cap, along with other changes that weaken environmental protections and benefit irrigation companies and intensive dairy. Consultation on the proposals are open until 27 July 2025.
    The current maximum allowable value (MAV) for nitrate is 11.3 mg/L, which was set in the 1950s to avoid blue baby syndrome. But this standard has been criticised by health scientists for being woefully out of date, because it doesn’t take into account newer health science that finds health risks like preterm birth and cancer at much lower levels.
    “We’ve already seen the influence the agriculture lobby has had over the rollback of freshwater protections last year, and this data published yesterday demonstrates the consequences.”
    “The science is clear, and the stakes are high. Luxon needs to decide if he’s governing for people – or polluters.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: DAUPHIN COUNTY – Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission to Announce Largest Investment in State Museum History

    Source: US State of Pennsylvania

    June 25, 2025 – Harrisburg, PA

    ADVISORY – DAUPHIN COUNTY – Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission to Announce Largest Investment in State Museum History

    Wednesday, June 25, 2025, Andrea Lowery, Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission (PHMC), will hold a press conference to announce a historic investment that will fundamentally transform the State Museum of Pennsylvania and redefine how Pennsylvanians connect with their past.

    This significant multi-year project, representing the single largest investment in the museum since its opening in 1964, will usher in a new era of enhanced visitor experiences and crucial infrastructure upgrades. This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn about the future of one of Pennsylvania’s premier cultural institutions.

    WHO:
    Andrea Lowery, Executive Director, PHMC
    Greg Kirk, Deputy Secretary for Capital Programs, DGS
    Senator Patty Kim
    Representative Nathan Davidson

    WHEN:
    WEDNESDAY, June 25, 2025, at 9:00 AM

    WHERE:
    State Museum of Pennsylvania
    3rd Street Entrance [Allegheny Room]
    300 North Street
    Harrisburg, PA 17120

    RSVP: Press who are interested in attending please RSVP to jlosiewicz@pa.gov.

    Media Contact: Jay Losiewicz, 717-705-8639

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Jayud Global Logistics Receives $4.2 Million Government Subsidy for Charter Flight Operations

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SHENZHEN, China, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Jayud Global Logistics Limited (NASDAQ: JYD) (“Jayud” or the “Company”), a leading end-to-end supply chain solution provider based in Shenzhen, specializing in cross-border logistics, today announced that it has received a government subsidy of RMB 30,258,086 (approximately USD 4.2 million) from the Shenzhen Transportation Bureau.

    The subsidy relates to two charter flight routes operated by the Company during 2022-2023 as part of its expanded air freight services:

    • Shenzhen-Clark Route: RMB 17.28 million
    • Shenzhen-Davao Route: RMB 12.98 million

    Jayud originally applied for the cargo aircraft new route subsidies in March 2023, with the Shenzhen Transportation Bureau finalizing the subsidy amounts in March 2025 after adjusting all applications due to total requests exceeding available funding.

    Xiaogang Geng, Chairman of the Board and CEO of Jayud, stated, “This significant government recognition and financial support validates our strategic expansion into charter flight operations and demonstrates the value we bring to Shenzhen’s logistics infrastructure. These subsidies will positively impact our financial performance and support our continued growth in cross-border air freight services.”

    The Company expects this to positively impact its revenue and financial results for the current fiscal year.

    About Jayud Global Logistics Limited

    Jayud Global Logistics Limited is one of the leading Shenzhen-based end-to-end supply chain solution providers in China, focusing on cross-border logistics services. The Company benefits from the unique geographical advantages of providing a high degree of support for ocean, air, and overland logistics. The Company has established a global operation nexus featuring logistic facilities throughout major transportation hubs in China and globally, with footprints in 12 provinces in Mainland China and 16 countries across six continents. Jayud offers a comprehensive range of cross-border supply chain solutions, including freight forwarding, supply chain management, and other value-added services. With its strong service capabilities and research and development capabilities in proprietary IT systems, the Company provides customized and efficient logistics solutions and develops long-standing customer relationships. For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://ir.jayud.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs, including the expectation that the Offering will be successfully completed. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may”, “will”, “expect”, “anticipate”, “aim”, “estimate”, “intend”, “plan”, “believe”, “is/are likely to”, “potential”, “continue” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the Company’s registration statement and other filings with the SEC.

    For more information, please contact:

    Jayud Global Logistics Limited
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@jayud.com 

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Matthew Abenante, IRC
    President
    Strategic Investor Relations, LLC
    Tel: 347-947-2093
    Email: matthew@strategic-ir.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: DRML Miner Unveils Zero-Cost XRP Cloud Mining Platform

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, UK, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DRML Miner, a global leader in eco-conscious cryptocurrency mining, has officially launched its highly anticipated zero-cost XRP cloud mining platform, ushering in a new era of accessible, automated, and AI-enhanced digital asset earnings. Tailored for both seasoned investors and crypto newcomers, the platform provides users with daily XRP rewards, a $10 signup bonus, and the opportunity to grow passive income without any upfront hardware costs or technical know-how.

    This launch comes at a pivotal moment, with XRP currently in a price consolidation phase, offering a unique chance for investors to generate consistent returns while traditional markets remain uncertain.

    What Sets DRML Miner’s XRP Cloud Mining Apart

    With traditional mining often plagued by high costs and complex setups, DRML Miner breaks down these barriers through a user-friendly, cloud-based solution. Users simply register, select a mining contract, and start earning—no rigs, no maintenance, no hassle.

    Key features of the new XRP mining contracts include:

    • AI-Powered Yield Optimization: Smart allocation of hashrate ensures optimal returns, even during stagnant market conditions.
    • Daily XRP Payouts: Predictable earnings improve liquidity and minimize exposure to price volatility.
    • 100% Remote Participation: Start mining instantly from anywhere in the world.
    • Principal Security: All contracts guarantee a full return of principal at expiration.

    A Strategic Entry Point for XRP Investors

    According to the DRML Miner team, the launch of XRP-only mining contracts was strategically timed to coincide with the asset’s ongoing consolidation, allowing users to profit regardless of short-term price swings.

    “We see XRP’s current price range not as a plateau, but as potential,” said the CEO of DRML Miner. “Our new mining contracts unlock the value of XRP in a stable, low-risk, and fully automated way.”

    Real Returns Backed by Real Results

    The platform offers a range of contract tiers designed to suit various investment preferences. Verified performance metrics include:

    • 2-Day Plan: +7.0% return
    • 5-Day Plan: +1.3% return
    • 15-Day Plan: +1.45% return
    • 30-Day Plan: +1.55% return

    These figures reflect historical averages and highlight the consistency and transparency of DRML Miner’s operations.

    About DRML Miner

    Founded in 2018 and legally registered in the UK, DRML Miner operates more than 120 sustainable mining farms powered by renewable energy. With over 7 million users globally, the platform is committed to making crypto mining accessible, eco-friendly, and profitable for all.

    Whether you’re a long-term XRP holder or exploring crypto for the first time, DRML Miner offers a secure, smart, and sustainable way to earn.

    Start mining XRP today at https://drmlminers.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or trading recommendations. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and the possibility of losing funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Ideology and Politics – Food quality and safety will suffer if meat inspection service is privatised as Govt proposes – PSA

    Source: PSA

    The Government wants to privatise its high-quality meat inspection service ignoring the impact it will have on food quality and safety in announcements being made to meat inspectors.
    The Ministry for Primary Industries is proposing to allow meat processing companies to carry out more of their own meat inspection work with reduced oversight from AsureQuality, the Government’s meat inspection service. AsureQuality employs some 650 meat inspectors who carry out meat inspection on 27 million animals at 65 meat processing facilities every year.
    Hundreds of highly qualified and experienced AsureQuality meat inspectors could face the axe, with many forced to transfer to the private sector with lower wages and poorer conditions.
    “This is all about privatising a trusted and valuable service which ensures New Zealand consumers can buy safe, high-quality meat with confidence,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
    “The work of meat inspectors ensures that disease and defects in products are identified and that meat is fit for human consumption.
    “Independent meat inspectors are more rigorous because they have no vested interest in the end product and will not cut corners to increase company profits. Our overseas markets and consumers here at home will miss out if we lose the independence of our meat inspection services.
    “This is just more of the same deregulation agenda we are seeing across health and other parts of the public service.
    “History tells us who wins from deregulation, business. This proposal is all about boosting the profits of meat companies while dismantling a proven, efficient and independent government owned service that keeps New Zealanders safe from diseased and contaminated meat.
    “Meat inspectors also play a critical role in underpinning New Zealand’s global reputation for excellence in all we export.
    “Why put all that at risk?
    “The Government’s priorities are again clear – it scrapped pay equity, making underpaid women pay for tax cuts for business in the Budget and it’s doing the same here, forcing meat inspectors to take a cut in wages to boost the bottom line of meat companies.
    “This government has no shame in its reckless pursuit of ideology over the consequences for New Zealanders as we again fail to learn the lessons from the past.”
    The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Announces Voting Results From 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) is pleased to announce the voting results from the Company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 24, 2025.

    The shareholders approved all motions put forth at the Meeting including the re-appointment of Smythe LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the Company’s independent auditors, and the Company’s 2025 Equity Incentive Plan. The shareholders re-elected Hannah McDonald, Paul McRae, Victor Tanaka, Eira Thomas and Gareth Thomas to the Company’s Board of Directors.

    A total of 57,565,137 common shares were voted, representing the votes attached to 30.57% of all outstanding common shares.

    The votes cast were as follows:

     Resolution  For %  Withheld/Against %
     Number of Directors  99.55  0.45
     Eira Thomas  99.60  0.40
     Gareth Thomas  99.28  0.72
     Victor Tanaka  99.47  0.53
     Paul McRae  98.59  1.41
     Hannah McDonald  99.49  0.51
     Appointment of Auditors  99.65  0.35
     Equity Incentive Plan  99.13  0.87
     Other Business  97.98  2.02


    On behalf of the Board of Directors

    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Ken Armstrong”

    Ken Armstrong, President and CEO, is responsible for this news release and can be reached at 604-681-5558.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration and development company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within the Spences Bridge Gold Belt in southern British Columbia. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold project is the most advance property, with a recently updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6% and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2,400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3, 2025 for details of the updated PEA. Shovelnose is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which result in lower cost exploration and development.

    Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and Westhaven does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment, the Mineral Resource Estimate future planned activities, future mineral production and future growth potential for the Company and its projects, the interpretation of preliminary results from exploration undertaken to date at Shovelnose using various exploration techniques and analysis; statements with respect to potential styles of epithermal mineralization at the Shovelnose Project; and the possibility that the Company’s Shovelnose project may host multiple gold bearing epithermal systems. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other precious metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company’s ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. Although management of Westhaven Gold Corp. have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company’s dependence on one group of mineral projects; precious metals price volatility; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company’s management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company’s inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company’s interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; and the factors identified under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s management discussion and analysis. Mineral exploration involves a high degree of risk and few properties, which are explored, are ultimately developed into producing mines. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Westhaven Announces Voting Results From 2025 Annual General Meeting

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westhaven Gold Corp. (TSX-V:WHN) is pleased to announce the voting results from the Company’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on June 24, 2025.

    The shareholders approved all motions put forth at the Meeting including the re-appointment of Smythe LLP, Chartered Professional Accountants, as the Company’s independent auditors, and the Company’s 2025 Equity Incentive Plan. The shareholders re-elected Hannah McDonald, Paul McRae, Victor Tanaka, Eira Thomas and Gareth Thomas to the Company’s Board of Directors.

    A total of 57,565,137 common shares were voted, representing the votes attached to 30.57% of all outstanding common shares.

    The votes cast were as follows:

     Resolution  For %  Withheld/Against %
     Number of Directors  99.55  0.45
     Eira Thomas  99.60  0.40
     Gareth Thomas  99.28  0.72
     Victor Tanaka  99.47  0.53
     Paul McRae  98.59  1.41
     Hannah McDonald  99.49  0.51
     Appointment of Auditors  99.65  0.35
     Equity Incentive Plan  99.13  0.87
     Other Business  97.98  2.02


    On behalf of the Board of Directors

    WESTHAVEN GOLD CORP.

    “Ken Armstrong”

    Ken Armstrong, President and CEO, is responsible for this news release and can be reached at 604-681-5558.

    Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

    About Westhaven Gold Corp.

    Westhaven is a gold-focused exploration and development company targeting low sulphidation, high-grade, epithermal style gold mineralization within the Spences Bridge Gold Belt in southern British Columbia. Westhaven controls ~61,512 hectares (~615 square kilometres) within four gold properties spread along this underexplored belt. The Shovelnose Gold project is the most advance property, with a recently updated 2025 Preliminary Economic Assessment that validates the Project’s potential as a robust, low cost and high margin 11-year underground gold mining opportunity with average annual life-of-mine gold production of 56,000 ounces and having a Cdn$454 million after-tax NPV6% and 43.2% IRR (base case parameters of US$2,400 per ounce gold, US$28 per ounce silver and CDN/US$ exchange rate of $0.72). Initial capital costs are projected to be Cdn$184 million with a payback period of 2.1 years. Please see Westhaven’s news release dated March 3, 2025 for details of the updated PEA. Shovelnose is situated off a major highway, near power, rail, large producing mines, pipelines and within commuting distance from the city of Merritt, which result in lower cost exploration and development.

    Qualified Person: The technical and scientific information in this news release has been reviewed and approved by Peter Fischl, P.Geo, who is a Qualified Person for the Company under the definitions established by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects.

    Westhaven trades on the TSX Venture Exchange under the ticker symbol WHN. For further information, please call 604-681-5558 or visit Westhaven’s website at www.westhavengold.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release and Westhaven does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Forward-looking statements in this news release may include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the results of the Preliminary Economic Assessment, the Mineral Resource Estimate future planned activities, future mineral production and future growth potential for the Company and its projects, the interpretation of preliminary results from exploration undertaken to date at Shovelnose using various exploration techniques and analysis; statements with respect to potential styles of epithermal mineralization at the Shovelnose Project; and the possibility that the Company’s Shovelnose project may host multiple gold bearing epithermal systems. In certain cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects” or “does not expect”, “is expected”, “budget”, “scheduled”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates” or “does not anticipate”, or “believes”, or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will be taken”, “occur” or “be achieved”. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made, and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the price of gold and other precious metals; costs of exploration and development; the estimated costs of development of exploration projects; the Company’s ability to operate in a safe and effective manner and its ability to obtain financing on reasonable terms. Although management of Westhaven Gold Corp. have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information. Such factors include, without limitation: the Company’s dependence on one group of mineral projects; precious metals price volatility; regulatory, consent or permitting delays; risks relating to reliance on the Company’s management team and outside contractors; risks regarding mineral resources and reserves; the Company’s inability to obtain insurance to cover all risks, on a commercially reasonable basis or at all; currency fluctuations; risks regarding the failure to generate sufficient cash flow from operations; risks relating to project financing and equity issuances; risks and unknowns inherent in all mining projects, including the inaccuracy of reserves and resources, metallurgical recoveries and capital and operating costs of such projects; laws and regulations governing the environment, health and safety; operating or technical difficulties in connection with mining or development activities; employee relations, labour unrest or unavailability; the Company’s interactions with surrounding communities; the speculative nature of exploration and development, including the risks of diminishing quantities or grades of reserves; stock market volatility; conflicts of interest among certain directors and officers; and the factors identified under the caption “Risk Factors” in the Company’s management discussion and analysis. Mineral exploration involves a high degree of risk and few properties, which are explored, are ultimately developed into producing mines. There can be no assurance that such forward-looking statements or information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that are incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited Announces the Pricing of $220,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, BC, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited (the “Company”) announced today the pricing of its initial public offering of 22,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on The Nasdaq Global Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading on June 25, 2025, under the ticker symbol “OBAWU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one-half of one redeemable warrant, each whole warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Class A ordinary share at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. An amount equal to $10.00 per unit will be deposited into a trust account upon the closing of the offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OBA” and “OBAWW,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on June 26, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. The Company’s primary focus, however, will be to search globally for a target with operations or prospects focusing on global consumer and technology sectors with disruptive growth potential through the use of technology that can benefit from operations in Asia, excluding the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

    The Company’s management team is led by Jonathan Lin, its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), and Gary Chan, its Chief Financial Officer. The Board also includes Norma Chu, Enrique Gonzalez, Gan Wee Leong, and Jack Cho.

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 110 East 59th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at prospectus@cantor.com,or by accessing the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on June 24, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the expected closing of the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Investor Contacts

    Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited
    Jonathan Lin
    jonathan.lin@l2capm.com
    (778)-653-3584

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited Announces the Pricing of $220,000,000 Initial Public Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Vancouver, BC, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited (the “Company”) announced today the pricing of its initial public offering of 22,000,000 units at a price of $10.00 per unit. The units are expected to be listed on The Nasdaq Global Stock Market LLC (“Nasdaq”) and begin trading on June 25, 2025, under the ticker symbol “OBAWU.” Each unit consists of one Class A ordinary share and one-half of one redeemable warrant, each whole warrant entitling the holder thereof to purchase one Class A ordinary share at a price of $11.50 per share, subject to certain adjustments. No fractional warrants will be issued upon separation of the units and only whole warrants will trade. An amount equal to $10.00 per unit will be deposited into a trust account upon the closing of the offering. Once the securities constituting the units begin separate trading, the Class A ordinary shares and warrants are expected to be listed on Nasdaq under the symbols “OBA” and “OBAWW,” respectively. The offering is expected to close on June 26, 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. The Company has granted the underwriters a 45-day option to purchase up to an additional 3,300,000 units at the initial public offering price to cover over-allotments, if any.

    The Company is a blank check company formed for the purpose of effecting a merger, amalgamation, share exchange, asset acquisition, share purchase, reorganization or similar business combination with one or more businesses. The Company may pursue an acquisition opportunity in any business or industry or at any stage of its corporate evolution. The Company’s primary focus, however, will be to search globally for a target with operations or prospects focusing on global consumer and technology sectors with disruptive growth potential through the use of technology that can benefit from operations in Asia, excluding the People’s Republic of China, Hong Kong and Macau.

    The Company’s management team is led by Jonathan Lin, its Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Directors (the “Board”), and Gary Chan, its Chief Financial Officer. The Board also includes Norma Chu, Enrique Gonzalez, Gan Wee Leong, and Jack Cho.

    Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. is acting as sole book-running manager for the offering.

    The offering is being made only by means of a prospectus. When available, copies of the prospectus may be obtained from Cantor Fitzgerald & Co., Attention: Capital Markets, 110 East 59th Street, New York, New York 10022, or by email at prospectus@cantor.com,or by accessing the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov.

    A registration statement relating to the securities has been filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) and became effective on June 24, 2025. This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains statements that constitute “forward-looking statements,” including with respect to the expected closing of the proposed initial public offering and search for an initial business combination. No assurance can be given that the offering discussed above will be completed on the terms described, or at all.

    Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the “Risk Factors” section of the Company’s registration statement and prospectus for the Company’s initial public offering filed with the SEC. Copies of these documents are available on the SEC’s website, www.sec.gov. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

    Investor Contacts

    Oxley Bridge Acquisition Limited
    Jonathan Lin
    jonathan.lin@l2capm.com
    (778)-653-3584

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: REP. HILL INTRODUCES RISE ACT TO SPUR FASTER ECONOMIC GROWTH AND JOBS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) introduced the Revitalizing Investment, Savings, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Act, which he co-leads with Rep. Steube (R-FL). The RISE Act will unlock capital, boost investment, and stimulate economic growth and innovation for all Americans by limiting the capital gains tax rate to 15%.

    Rep. Hill said, “To build a stronger, more prosperous future, we need policies that unlock capital, reward risk-taking, and drive real growth for all Americans. That is exactly what the RISE Act delivers. My bill restores the proven, bipartisan capital gains tax rate that encourages long-term investment in Main Street businesses and drives innovation across our country. With greater access to capital, startups can turn ideas into reality, small businesses will expand and hire, and hardworking Americans will have more opportunity and higher wages.”

    Rep. Steube said, “American businesses rely on investment to grow and thrive. Yet, our current tax code burdens entrepreneurs and startups by taxing federal long-term capital gains at nearly 24%, creating a costly barrier to investment. Investing in America should never be a high-risk, expensive gamble. True long-term prosperity and economic security start when Washington unlocks more capital for U.S. industries. Our bill will cap the federal long-term capital gains tax rate at 15%, empowering investors to fuel economic growth and create good-paying American jobs.”

    Background:
    The RISE Act would limit the capital gains tax rate to 15% for all Americans. This is the top rate that was in effect from 2003 to 2012 and has historically enjoyed bipartisan support. Currently, federal capital gains taxes reach nearly 24% when including the 3.8% Medicare surtax—nearly five percentage points above the OECD average. Combined with state taxes as high as 14%, America’s total rates significantly discourage the business investment needed for economic growth.

    High capital gains tax rates increase the cost of capital and reduce overall investment in the economy. When businesses receive more funding to grow, productivity and innovation increase—boosting wages, raising living standards, and keeping prices low for consumers.

    The RISE Act builds on bipartisan precedent: President Obama preserved the 15% top rate in 2010 with overwhelming Democratic support, President Bush lowered the top rate to 15% in 2003 and extended the rate in 2006, and President Clinton signed legislation in 1997 to reduce capital gains taxes with significant Democratic backing.

    The RISE Act is endorsed by the National Taxpayers Union, National Venture Capital Association, and Americans for Tax Reform.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kurtz Fargo, Colorado’s Largest Locally Owned Firm, Expands in Durango

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DURANGO, Colo., June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kurtz Fargo LLP, Colorado’s largest locally owned and Colorado-focused accounting firm, today announces the grand opening of its new office location in Durango. This further expansion outside of Boulder headquarters is part of their long-term strategic growth plan to continue establishing leadership across the state and nationwide.

    The modern, 2,476 square foot office is centrally located at 1140 Main Ave, Suite A, Durango, CO 81301. Its convenient downtown location integrates Kurtz Fargo in the community and ensures easy access for clients. A dedicated team of 10 seasoned professionals will staff the location, offering a comprehensive suite of accounting and advisory services tailored to support both local businesses and individuals. The Durango Chamber of Commerce officially welcomed Kurtz Fargo with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on June 5, 2025, celebrating the firm’s arrival in the local business community.

    Durango was chosen for this strategic expansion to better serve Kurtz Fargo’s expanding client base throughout the region and reinforce its robust presence across Colorado.

    “Durango’s dynamic economy, particularly its thriving small business sector, strong entrepreneurial spirit and supportive local environment, make it an ideal choice for our continued growth,” said Matt Fargo, CPA, Co-founder and Managing Partner of Kurtz Fargo. “We want to be a meaningful partner in local economic development, bringing our industry-leading accounting and advisory services closer to businesses and individuals in Durango and surrounding areas.”

    Local business leaders have voiced strong enthusiasm for Kurtz Fargo’s expanded presence in Southwest Colorado including Durango-based Agile Space Industries, an in-space propulsion solution provide. “Having Kurtz Fargo establish an office here is fantastic news for our community and for us as their client as they have been a great partner for Agile,” said Kris Schaa, Chief Financial Officer of Agile Space Industries. “Over the past three years they helped improve our financial reporting through their audit services. This has been a key component in our ability to scale. They are a great resource for our local business community.”

    Kurtz Fargo aims to offer a full range of services from its new Durango location, including tax planning and preparation, audit and assurance, and business consulting, tailored to meet the unique needs of the local market. The firm looks forward to becoming an integral part of the Durango community, contributing to its economic vitality and building lasting relationships.

    About Kurtz Fargo LLP:

    Founded in 2010 and based in Boulder, CO, Kurtz Fargo LLP is a certified public accounting firm offering professional assurance, tax, and advisory services. They specialize in serving emerging growth, small, and mid-sized businesses, combining agility with expertise to deliver customized financial strategies that drive results. The firm prides itself on building lasting partnerships and providing guidance to help businesses thrive. Kurtz Fargo was recognized as one of the Best Firms to Work For in 2024 by Accounting Today, and proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary in August 2025, marking a decade and a half of dedicated service and growth. Learn more at www.kurtzfargo.com and connect with Kurtz Fargo on LinkedIn.

    Contact:

    Rachel Weber

    Principal

    Comm Oddities

    rachel@commodditiesinc.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7545eaa-4ce8-4d28-9d0b-206f270a8bc3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: The ancients also had to deal with a cost-of-living crisis. Here’s how they managed

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Konstantine Panegyres, Lecturer in Classics and Ancient History, The University of Western Australia

    Louis Le Brun, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons, CC BY

    Talk to anyone today, and they will probably have something to say about how expensive life has become. While the rate of inflation has slowed, prices for many goods and services are still much higher than pre-pandemic.

    Cost-of-living crises are not new. They have occurred at various times and places throughout the millennia.

    If we look at cost-of-living pressures in ancient Greek and Roman times and how people back then dealt with them, we can learn something about how to face our own issues.

    ‘The price of land has gone up’

    The cost of living was a conversation topic in antiquity, especially the price of land and food.

    The Roman writer Pliny the Younger (circa 61–113 CE) in one of his letters remarked to his friend about the rising cost of real estate:

    Have you heard that the price of land has gone up, particularly in the neighbourhood of Rome? The reason for the sudden increase in price has given rise to a good deal of discussion.

    The ancient Greek scholar Athenaeus, who lived in Naukratis, in Egypt, around 200 CE, wrote a long book called The Learned Banqueters, depicting a dinner party.

    The characters at this dinner party often complain about the price of food and goods. For example, one character complains about the price of fish:

    I don’t think I’ve ever seen fish more expensive. Poseidon, if you got 10% of what’s spent on them every day, you’d be far away the richest god there is!

    People often said that fish was exorbitantly expensive and thought fish sellers were trying to rip them off.

    In fact, the poet Antiphanes (circa 408–330 BCE) complained “there’s no group more abominable” than fish sellers and money lenders.

    How to lower costs?

    Ancient people were well aware that a cost-of-living crisis can cause political disturbances.

    As the Roman poet Lucan (39–65 CE) wrote:

    the causes of hatred and mainsprings of political popularity are determined by the price of food.

    So, how did ancient leaders deal with this sort of problem?

    One solution was for the ruler to cover the cost of inflation.

    For example, the Athenian statesman Demosthenes (384–322 BCE) mentions a problem with the price of grain that was solved by boosting imports:

    When grain earlier advanced in price and reached sixteen drachmae per medimnus, we imported more than ten thousand medimni of wheat, and measured it out at the normal price of five drachmae a medimnus.

    Alexander Severus helped trim the cost of meat.
    Creative commons, CC BY

    Another solution was to put extreme regulations on the market.

    For example, the Roman emperor Alexander Severus (ruled 222–235 CE) was once faced by a group of angry citizens.

    They demanded a reduction in the price of beef and pork, which had become unaffordable.

    Alexander Severus “did not proclaim a general reduction in prices”, says the anonymous biographer who recounts this anecdote. Instead, the emperor

    ordered that no one should slaughter a sow or a suckling pig, a cow, or a calf. In two years or even in little more than one year, there was such an abundance of pork and beef that while a pound previously cost eight minutili, the price of both these meats was reduced to two and even one per pound.

    The city is so expensive

    The Greek writer Plutarch of Chaeronea (46–119 CE) records a story about the famous philosopher Socrates (circa 470–399 BCE), who lived in Athens.

    One day, according to Plutarch, a friend of Socrates complained to him about “how expensive the city was”:

    Chian wine costs a mina, a purple robe three minae, a half-pint of honey five drachmas!

    In response, Socrates took his friend by the hand and told him to search for bargains or for cheaper items, saying:

    A sleeveless vest for ten drachmas! The city is cheap!

    Socrates’ point was that even in expensive times it’s still possible to find bargains to save money. You just have to look harder for them and lower your standard of living. It can be difficult to do that, but it’s necessary.

    Socrates also gave out employment advice for people who were struggling.

    According to Socrates’ friend, the historian Xenophon of Athens (430–350 BCE), when a poor veteran came to Socrates complaining about lack of money and asking how to cope with expenses, Socrates told him to

    take up some kind of work at once that will assure you a living when you get old.

    Socrates thought making sure you still have money when you
    are old is more important than fully enjoying your current job. You will likely have to put up with things you don’t like to achieve security.

    From ancient to modern

    Most ancient people would probably have said that during a cost-of-living crisis it’s best to be patient, live simply, and wait for better times to come.

    As Pliny the Younger (circa 61–113 CE) once wrote in one of his letters, “my income is small or precarious, but its deficiencies can be made up by simple living”.

    If politicians cannot solve the problems, then it is up to us to cope with them as best as we can.

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

    – ref. The ancients also had to deal with a cost-of-living crisis. Here’s how they managed – https://theconversation.com/the-ancients-also-had-to-deal-with-a-cost-of-living-crisis-heres-how-they-managed-257896

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Kennedy, Daines, colleagues to Trump admin: New trade deals can benefit American farmers, energy producers and manufacturers

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator John Kennedy (Louisiana)

    WASHINGTON – Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.) today joined Sen. Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Rep. Adrian Smith (R-Neb.) and 53 other lawmakers in sending a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Secretary of the Treasury Scott Bessent, Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins and Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick recognizing the Trump administration’s efforts to secure deals with foreign countries that level the playing field for American farmers, energy producers and manufacturers.

    The letter specifically highlights the momentum for engaging in trade negotiations that President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementation of certain tariffs presents and notes the potential for agreements that lower trade barriers on American goods.

    “We write to you to express our strong support for ongoing trade negotiations to level the playing field for American producers and manufacturers. President Trump’s decision to pause the implementation of certain reciprocal tariffs creates momentum to secure meaningful and enforceable agreements for U.S. agricultural producers, energy producers, and manufacturers,” the lawmakers began.

    “International trade is fundamental to the continued success and vitality of U.S. industry, particularly agriculture. Many of the commodities grown in the U.S. are dependent on access to export markets, including grains, oilseeds, specialty crops, and livestock products,” they added.

    “Certain barriers may require long-term negotiations. However, we are confident in your ability to utilize this 90-day pause to come to agreements that can benefit all American industries while providing opportunity for continued dialogue,” the members of Congress continued.

    “We applaud the President for seeking to renew American leadership in global trade and secure meaningful market access for American industries. We look forward to working together on a trade policy agenda that strengthens American industry, agriculture, and rural communities,” they concluded. 

    Sens. Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Tim Sheehy (R-Mont.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and Todd Young (R-Ind.) and 43 members of the House of Representatives also joined the letter.

    The full letter is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    World news story

    Making the UK the best place to do business: Modern Industrial Strategy set to deepen global collaboration

    Modern Industrial Strategy will make the UK the best country to invest in and grow a business, delivering on the Plan for Change.

    UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy

    • Strategy developed in partnership with business, marking a new era of collaboration between government and high growth industries.
    • New Industrial Strategy to unlock billions in investment and support 1.1 million new well-paid jobs over the next decade. *New Global Talent Taskforce and £54m fund will attract world-class researchers, top talent and their teams to the UK.
    • Electricity costs for thousands of businesses to be slashed by up to 25%.

    The plan focuses on 8 high growth sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services and Life Sciences, where there is potential for faster growth.

    The modern Industrial Strategy unveiled today, Monday 23 June, sets out a ten-year plan to boost investment, create good skilled jobs and make Britain the best place to do business.

    It includes targeted support for the areas of the country and economy that have the greatest potential to grow, while introducing reforms that will make it easier for all businesses to get ahead.

    The Strategy’s bold plan of action includes:

    • Slash electricity costs by up to 25% from 2027 for electricity-intensive manufacturers in growth sectors and foundational industries in their supply chain, bringing costs more closely in line with other major economies in Europe.

    • Unlocking billions in finance for innovative business, especially for SMEs by increasing British Business Bank financial capacity to £25.6 billion, crowding in tens of billions of pounds more in private capital. The includes an additional £4bn for Industrial Strategy Sectors, crowding in billions more in private capital. By investing largely through venture funds, the BBB will back the UK’s most high-growth potential companies.

    • Reducing regulatory burdens by cutting the administrative costs of regulation for business by 25% and reduce the number of regulators. 

    • Boosting R&D spending to £22.6bn per year by 2029-30 to drive innovation across the IS-8, with more than £2bn for AI over the Spending Review, and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next ten years. This will leverage in billions more from private investors. Regulatory changes will further clear the path for fast-growing industries and innovative products such as biotechnology, AI, and autonomous vehicles.

    • Attracting elite global talent to our key sectors, via visa and migration reforms and the new Global Talent Taskforce. The Taskforce and a £54m Global Talent Fund will support top talent to relocate to the UK.

    • Deepening economic and industrial collaboration with our partners, building on our Industrial Strategy Partnership with Japan and recent deals with the US, India, and the EU.

    • Reducing planning timelines and cutting costs for developers, by hiring more planners, streamlining pre-application requirements and combining environmental obligations, removing burdens on businesses as well as accelerating house building. 

    • Revolutionising public procurement and reducing barriers for new entrants and SMEs to bolster domestic competitiveness.

    • Supporting the UK’s city regions and clusters by increasing the supply of investible sites through a new £600m Strategic Sites Accelerator, enhanced regional support from the Office for Investment, National Wealth Fund, and British Business Bank, and more.

    • Upskilling the nation with an extra £1.2 billion each year for skills by 2028-29, and delivering more opportunities to learn and earn in our high-growth sectors including new short courses in relevant skills funded by the Growth and Skills Levy and skills packages targeted at defence digital and engineering.

    • Supporting 5,500 more SMEs to adopt new technology through the Made Smarter programme while centralising government support in one place through the Business Growth Service.

    The plan focuses on 8 sectors where the UK is already strong and there’s potential for faster growth: Advanced Manufacturing, Clean Energy Industries, Creative Industries, Defence, Digital and Technologies, Financial Services, Life Sciences, and Professional and Business Services. Each growth sector has a bespoke 10-year plan that will attract investment, enable growth and create high-quality, well-paid jobs. 

    Five sector plans have been published in tandem:

    Advanced Manufacturing

    Backing the Advanced Manufacturing sector with up to £4.3 billion in funding, including up to £2.8 billion in R&D over the next five years, with the aim of anchoring supply chains in the UK – from increasing vehicle production to 1.35, to leading the next generation of technologies for zero emission flight.

    Clean Energy Industries

    Doubling investment in Clean Energy Industries by 2035, with Great British Energy helping to build the clean power revolution in Britain with a further £700 million in clean energy supply chains, taking the total funding for the Great British Energy Supply Chain fund to £1 billion.

    Creative Industries

    Maximizing the value of the UK’s Creative Industries through a £380 million boost for film and TV, video games, advertising and marketing, music and visual and performing arts will improve access to finance for scale-ups and increase R&D, skills and exports.

    Digital and Technologies

    Making the UK the European leader for creating and scaling Digital and Technology businesses, with more than £2 billion to drive the AI Action Plan, including a new Sovereign AI Programme, £187 million for training one million young people in tech skills and targeting R&D investment at frontier technologies such as cyber security in Northern Ireland, semiconductors in Wales and quantum technologies in Scotland. 

    Professional and Business Services

    Ensuring the UK’s Professional and Business Services becomes the world’s most trusted adviser to global industry, revolutionising the sector across the world through adoption of UK-grown AI and working to secure mutual recognition of professional qualifications agreements overseas.

    Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

    This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.

    In an era of global economic instability, it delivers the long-term certainty and direction British businesses need to invest, innovate and create good jobs that put more money in people’s pockets as part of the plan for change.

    This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear – Britain is back and open for business.

    Regarding the launch of the New Industrial Strategy, British Ambassador to Chile, Louise de Sousa, said:

    The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy is our ten-year plan to strengthen infrastructure, reduce costs for businesses and simplify regulation.

    With a highly skilled workforce and unrivalled global business connectivity, the UK provides an ideal location to scale, invest and grow business, by accessing the G7’s lowest corporation tax and a generous R&D tax.

    This being and internation strategy from the start, the plan will provide local businesses, entrepreneurs and innovators the stability and ease needed to make long-term investment decisions, which, in turn will help strengthening the already strong economic ties between UK and Chile.

    The Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to promote business investment and growth and make it quicker, easier and cheaper to do business in the UK, giving businesses the confidence to invest and create 1.1 million good, well-paid jobs in thriving industries – delivering on the UK Government’s Plan for Change.

    Further information

    If you want to know more about this matter, please contact the Communications Office.

    For more information about the activities of the British Embassy in Santiago, follow us on:

    Updates to this page

    Published 24 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Glacier Bancorp, Inc. to Expand Southwest Presence and Enter Texas by Acquisition of Guaranty Bancshares, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KALISPELL, Mont. and MOUNT PLEASANT, Texas, June 24, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glacier Bancorp, Inc. (“Glacier” or the “Company”) (NYSE: GBCI) and Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. (“Guaranty”) (NYSE: GNTY), the bank holding company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A., a leading community bank headquartered in Mount Pleasant, Texas, today jointly announced the signing of a definitive agreement, pursuant to which Glacier will acquire Guaranty in an all-stock transaction. The acquisition marks Glacier’s 27th bank acquisition since 2000 and its 13th announced transaction in the past 10 years. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty had total assets of $3.2 billion, total gross loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    The boards of Glacier and Guaranty unanimously approved the transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals, Guaranty shareholder approval, and other customary conditions of closing. The definitive agreement provides that upon closing of the transaction, Guaranty shareholders are to receive 1.0000 share of Glacier stock for each Guaranty share (subject to adjustment under certain circumstances). Based on the closing price of $41.58 for Glacier shares on June 23, 2025, the transaction would result in aggregate consideration of $476.2 million (inclusive of the value to Guaranty stock options) and value of $41.58 per Guaranty share. Upon closing of the transaction, which is anticipated to take place in the fourth quarter of 2025, Guaranty Bank & Trust will operate as a new banking division under the name “Guaranty Bank & Trust, Division of Glacier Bank,” representing Glacier’s 18th separate bank division.

    “We are thrilled to add Guaranty Bank & Trust to the Glacier family of banks as a new banking Division,” said Randy Chesler, Glacier’s President and CEO. “This is a compelling opportunity to further expand our presence in the Southwest. Guaranty fits strategically and culturally within the unique Glacier business model and will allow us to enter a complementary state with an exceptional demographic profile, strong growth prospects, and a business-friendly operating environment. The Texas economy is estimated to be worth $2.7 trillion, and if Texas were an independent country, its economy would be the 8th largest in the world.” Chesler also noted that “This acquisition continues our long history of consistently adding high quality community banks to our proven banking model and we are very enthusiastic about the future opportunities this partnership will provide.”

    “Guaranty Bank & Trust has a 100+ year history of doing business in the State of Texas, and we are pleased to find a partner that emphasizes the relationship banking model that has been core to our success over many decades and through many business cycles,” said Ty Abston, Guaranty’s Chairman and CEO. “The opportunity to join Glacier Bancorp, which is a family of community banks that collectively share our banking philosophy, culture and character, was a perfect opportunity to position Guaranty Bank & Trust for the future. We will continue to grow and invest in our communities and our customers will be dealing with the same familiar faces, led by the same management team, in each of our markets. This partnership gives Guaranty added strength, with the support of a larger balance sheet and the resources to invest in the latest technologies and products to serve our existing and future customers. We are excited to join the Glacier family of banks and look forward to the opportunities and benefits this combination will bring to our clients, employees, communities and shareholders.”

    Glacier management will review additional information regarding the transaction on a conference call beginning at 7:00 a.m. Mountain Time on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

    Investors who would like to join the call may now register by following this link to obtain dial-in instructions: https://register-conf.media-server.com/register/BIdfefa202793d4cf9b9b8d5068cef9318

    To participate via the webcast, log on to: https://edge.media-server.com/mmc/p/n3vugmow

    If you are unable to participate during the live webcast, the call will be archived on our website, www.glacierbancorp.com.

    A slide presentation to accompany management’s commentary may be accessed from Glacier’s June 24, 2025, Form 8-K filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) or at https://www.glacierbancorp.com/news-market-information/annual-reports-presentations.

    Glacier was advised in the transaction by Stephens Inc. as financial advisor and Miller Nash LLP as legal counsel. Guaranty was advised by Keefe Bruyette & Woods, A Stifel Company as financial advisor and Norton Rose Fulbright US LLP as legal counsel.

    About Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    Glacier Bancorp, Inc. is the parent company for Glacier Bank and its bank divisions: Altabank (American Fork, UT), Bank of the San Juans (Durango, CO), Citizens Community Bank (Pocatello, ID), Collegiate Peaks Bank (Buena Vista, CO), First Bank of Montana (Lewistown, MT), First Bank of Wyoming (Powell, WY), First Community Bank Utah (Layton, UT), First Security Bank (Bozeman, MT), First Security Bank of Missoula (Missoula, MT), First State Bank (Wheatland, WY), Glacier Bank (Kalispell, MT), Heritage Bank of Nevada (Reno, NV), Mountain West Bank (Coeur d’Alene, ID), The Foothills Bank (Yuma, AZ), Valley Bank (Helena, MT), Western Security Bank (Billings, MT), and Wheatland Bank (Spokane, WA).
    Visit Glacier’s website at www.glacierbancorp.com.

    About Guaranty Bancshares

    Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. is the parent company for Guaranty Bank & Trust, N.A. and has 33 banking locations across 26 Texas communities located within the East Texas, Dallas/Fort Worth, Houston and Central Texas regions of the state. As of March 31, 2025, Guaranty Bancshares, Inc. had total assets of $3.2 billion, total loans of $2.1 billion and total deposits of $2.7 billion.

    Visit Guaranty’s website at www.gnty.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This presentation contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can be identified by words such as “estimate,” “anticipate,” “expect,” “will,” and similar references to future periods. Such forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding the expected closing of the transaction and its timing and the potential benefits of the business combination transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty, including future financial and operating results, the combined company’s plans, objectives, expectations and intentions, and other statements that are not historical facts regarding either company or the proposed combination of the companies. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside of our control, that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those projected, including but not limited to the following: risks that the proposed merger transaction will not close when expected or at all because required regulatory, shareholder or other approvals or conditions to closing are delayed or not received or satisfied on a timely basis or at all; risks that the benefits from the transaction may not be fully realized or may take longer to realize than expected, including as a result of changes in general economic and market conditions, interest and exchange rates, monetary policy, laws and regulations and their enforcement, and the degree of competition in the geographic and business areas in which Glacier and Guaranty operate; uncertainties regarding the ability of Glacier Bank and Guaranty Bank & Trust to promptly and effectively integrate their businesses, including into Glacier Bank’s existing division structure; changes in business and operational strategies that may occur between signing and closing; uncertainties regarding the reaction to the proposed transaction of the companies’ respective customers, employees, and contractual counterparties; and risks relating to the diversion of management time on merger-related issues. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made and reflect management’s current estimates, projections, expectations and beliefs. Glacier undertakes no obligation to publicly revise or update the forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that arise after the date of this report. For more information, see the risk factors described in Glacier’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and other filings with the SEC.

    Important Information and Where You Can Find It

    This communication relates to the proposed merger transaction involving Glacier and Guaranty. This communication does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or the solicitation of any vote or approval.

    In connection with the proposed merger transaction, Glacier expects to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) that will include a Preliminary Proxy Statement of Guaranty and a Preliminary Prospectus of Glacier, as well as other relevant documents concerning the proposed transaction. After the Registration Statement is declared effective, Guaranty will mail a Definitive Proxy Statement/Prospectus to its shareholders. This communication is not a substitute for the Proxy Statement/Prospectus or Registration Statement or for any other document that Glacier or Guaranty may file with the SEC and send to Guaranty’s shareholders in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Shareholders of Guaranty are urged to read carefully the Registration Statement and accompanying Proxy Statement/Prospectus regarding the proposed merger transaction when it becomes available and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information.

    Free copies of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement, as well as other filings containing information about Glacier, Guaranty, and the proposed transaction, may be obtained at the SEC’s Internet site (http://www.sec.gov). You will also be able to obtain these documents, free of charge, from Glacier at www.glacierbancorp.com under the tab “SEC Filings” and in the “Investors” section of GNTY’s website, www.gnty.com, under the heading “Financial Information – SEC Filings” or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Glacier at: Glacier Bancorp, Inc., 49 Commons Loop, Kalispell, Montana 59901, ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (406) 751-7706 or by requesting them in writing or by telephone from Guaranty at: Guaranty Bancshares, Inc., 16475 Dallas Parkway, Suite 600, Addison, Texas 75001 ATTN: Corporate Secretary; Telephone (888) 572,9881.

    Participants in the Solicitation

    GBCI and GNTY and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the shareholders of GNTY in connection with the proposed merger transaction. Information about the directors and executive officers of GBCI is set forth in the proxy statement for GBCI’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 12, 2025. Information about the directors and executive officers of GNTY is set forth in the proxy statement for Guaranty’s 2025 annual meeting of shareholders, as filed with the SEC on Schedule 14A on March 31, 2025. Additional information regarding the interests of those participants and other persons who may be deemed participants may be obtained by reading the Proxy Statement/Prospectus included in the Registration Statement and other relevant documents regarding the proposed merger transaction filed with the SEC when they become available. Copies of these documents may be obtained free of charge from the sources described above.

    CONTACT: Randall M. Chesler
    (406) 751-4722

    Ron J. Copher
    (406) 751-7706

    The MIL Network –