NewzIntel.com

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Global: Mounjaro becomes available on the NHS: what to know and what to do if you’re not eligible

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dan Baumgardt, Senior Lecturer, School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol

    bigshot01/Shutterstock

    Obesity remains one of the most pressing, and preventable, health challenges of our time. The UK is one of a number of countries undoubtedly struggling with it.

    It affects nearly every organ system in the body, contributing to cardiovascular conditions like coronary heart disease; musculoskeletal issues such as osteoarthritis and gout; and even the development of certain cancers, including of the breast, uterus and colon. Its impact on mental health is also significant.

    A few years ago, injectable weight-loss drugs entered clinical use and quickly captured public attention for their ability to promote rapid fat loss. Ozempic is available on the NHS, but only for managing type 2 diabetes. Wegovy is authorised for weight loss and cardiovascular risk reduction and is also available on the NHS, though access is currently limited to specialist weight management services.

    Now, a new option has emerged: Mounjaro, which is approved for both type 2 diabetes and weight loss. This dual-purpose drug is now available on the NHS, offering another potential tool in the fight against obesity.

    Demand is expected to be high. However, access will be limited at first, with strict eligibility criteria for NHS prescriptions.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    What is Mounjaro?

    Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a once weekly injectable medication designed to help control blood-sugar levels. It works by boosting the secretion and effects of insulin, improving glycaemic control in people with Type 2 diabetes. It also slows gastric emptying — the process by which food leaves the stomach — and enhances feelings of fullness by acting on the brain. This combined effect reduces appetite and helps support weight loss.

    Compared to similar medications like Ozempic and Wegovy (both brand names for semaglutide), clinical trials found Mounjaro more effective, with some participants losing up to 20% of their body weight over a 72-week period.



    Read more:
    The best exercises to do while taking weight loss drugs

    Who is eligible for Mounjaro on the NHS?

    The NHS has introduced specific criteria to prioritise patients most in need.

    First, patients need a BMI of 40 or more (classified as morbid obesity). People from certain ethnic backgrounds, such as South Asian communities, may be eligible at a lower BMI due to higher clinical risk of health conditions.

    Second, at least four obesity-related health conditions must be diagnosed, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension (high blood pressure), dyslipidaemia (abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels), cardiovascular disease and obstructive sleep apnoea. (Some of these conditions often occur together; for example, high blood pressure and cholesterol.)

    Patients are encouraged to check their BMI and confirm their diagnoses before contacting a GP. This helps ensure appointments are used effectively and discussions remain focused.

    While the current criteria are strict, there is optimism that eligibility will broaden in the coming years to include people with lower BMIs and fewer co-morbidities.

    Not eligible? Don’t despair

    The NHS continues to offer a comprehensive weight-loss programme, tiered according to BMI and previous attempts at weight loss. Don’t underestimate the value of group-based programmes or community referrals – when a healthcare professional refers a patient to a community-based health service for further care or support – many of which can be accessed via your GP.

    These services, such as the NHS digital weight management programme, support both individuals and families and can be highly effective for sustainable fat loss.

    GPs may also refer patients to online courses and structured exercise programmes. Lifestyle interventions, including increased physical activity and healthier eating, remain cornerstones of obesity treatment and are critical for long-term success, even when medications are used.



    Read more:
    From diet to drugs: what really works for long-term weight loss

    Higher tier interventions may be considered if lifestyle changes fail or if the patient has significant co-morbidities. This is where medications like Mounjaro, or private prescriptions, may become relevant – albeit that the cost of the latter may be a limiting factor for some.

    Other treatments include Orlistat, a medication that reduces fat absorption in the gut. This can be effective for some but often causes unpleasant side effects, such as oily stools and gastrointestinal upset

    Gastric banding or surgery may also result in significant, sustained weight loss, but they come with risks, can lead to surgical complications, and recovery can be demanding

    It’s also important to recognise that drugs like Mounjaro aren’t suitable for everyone. They can cause side effects significant enough for people to stop using them, and in some cases, they may not work at all.

    In this new era of faster, medication-assisted weight loss, we must remember that long-term change is about more than quick fixes. Sustainable success comes from consistent effort, willingness to change and methods that are both practical and lasting.

    Medications can help, sometimes dramatically, but they’re not the only answer. A return to basics, with tailored support and realistic goals, remains as relevant as ever.

    So whether you qualify for Mounjaro, are trying lifestyle changes, or are exploring other options, remember this: the journey to better health is personal, gradual and worth it.

    Dan Baumgardt 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. Mounjaro becomes available on the NHS: what to know and what to do if you’re not eligible – https://theconversation.com/mounjaro-becomes-available-on-the-nhs-what-to-know-and-what-to-do-if-youre-not-eligible-259582

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Assisted dying: 56 MPs switched their vote between rounds – here’s how religion affected their choices

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David Jeffery, Senior Lecturer in British Politics, University of Liverpool

    MPs voted to legalise assisted dying in England and Wales on June 20 after the third reading of the terminally ill adults (end of life) bill. The bill has been heavily contentious, both in terms of ethics and the technical aspects of the parliamentary process, with many feeling the legislation was rushed.

    This was the final vote in the House of Commons on the bill, which now moves to the House of Lords before becoming legislation.

    Want more politics coverage from academic experts? Every week, we bring you informed analysis of developments in government and fact check the claims being made.

    Sign up for our weekly politics newsletter, delivered every Friday.

    The bill passed with 314 votes to 291 – a majority of 23. This was a smaller margin of victory than the previous occasion MPs voted on the legislation in October 2024, when a majority of 55 supported its passage. The question, therefore, is: “who switched?”

    Excluding the speaker, the SNP MPs, who typically do not vote on issues specific to England and Wales, Sinn Fein MPs, who cannot vote because they do not take their seats, and the new Reform MP for Runcorn and Helsby, Sarah Pochin, who replaced former Labour MP Mike Amesbury between the second and third reading of this bill, we are left with 632 MPs to study.

    Characteristic Overall (N = 632) Yes (N = 313) No (N = 292) Abstain (N = 27)
    Female 260 (100%) 136 (52%) 110 (42%) 14 (5.4%)
    Ethnic MP 90 (100%) 26 (29%) 59 (66%) 5 (5.6%)
    LGBT 70 (100%) 50 (71%) 19 (27%) 1 (1.4%)
    Elected As
    Labour 410 (100%) 229 (56%) 165 (40%) 16 (3.9%)
    Conservative 121 (100%) 20 (17%) 94 (78%) 7 (5.8%)
    Liberal Democrat 72 (100%) 55 (76%) 14 (19%) 3 (4.2%)
    Independent 6 (100%) 0 (0%) 6 (100%) 0 (0%)
    Democratic Unionist Party 5 (100%) 0 (0%) 5 (100%) 0 (0%)
    Reform UK 5 (100%) 1 (20%) 4 (80%) 0 (0%)
    Green Party 4 (100%) 4 (100%) 0 (0%) 0 (0%)
    Plaid Cymru 4 (100%) 3 (75%) 1 (25%) 0 (0%)
    Social Democratic & Labour Party 2 (100%) 1 (50%) 0 (0%) 1 (50%)
    Alliance 1 (100%) 0 (0%) 1 (100%) 0 (0%)
    Traditional Unionist Voice 1 (100%) 0 (0%) 1 (100%) 0 (0%)
    Ulster Unionist Party 1 (100%) 0 (0%) 1 (100%) 0 (0%)
    MP Religious
    Not Religious 228 (100%) 173 (76%) 48 (21%) 7 (3.1%)
    Religious 404 (100%) 140 (35%) 244 (60%) 20 (5.0%)
    MP Religion
    None 228 (100%) 173 (76%) 48 (21%) 7 (3.1%)
    Christian 313 (100%) 117 (37%) 181 (58%) 15 (4.8%)
    Catholic 34 (100%) 7 (21%) 27 (79%) 0 (0%)
    Muslim 25 (100%) 2 (8.0%) 22 (88%) 1 (4.0%)
    Jewish 13 (100%) 7 (54%) 4 (31%) 2 (15%)
    Sikh 12 (100%) 6 (50%) 4 (33%) 2 (17%)
    Hindu 6 (100%) 1 (17%) 5 (83%) 0 (0%)
    Buddhist 1 (100%) 0 (0%) 1 (100%) 0 (0%)

    In total, 56 MPs changed position between the second and third reading. The no vote was stickier than the yes vote. Of those who voted no for the second reading, 97% did so in the third reading, and just one MP went from the no to the yes camp (Jack Abbott, the Labour MP for Ipswich).

    On the other hand, 14 MPs went from yes to no, and a further 15 went from yes to abstaining. Of the MPs who abstained for the second reading, ten later voted yes and ten voted no. This was not, however, enough for the bill to be blocked.

    How religion affected the vote

    It was [already clear](https://theconversation.com/assisted-dying-bill-religious-mps-were-more-likely-to-oppose-law-change-in-first-round-of-voting-256503](https://theconversation.com/assisted-dying-bill-religious-mps-were-more-likely-to-oppose-law-change-in-first-round-of-voting-256503) that support and opposition to the bill was linked to not only political party but religious outlook. And there is some evidence that religion played a role in motivating switchers.

    Apart from Labour, which broke 56% to 40% in favour of assisted dying, most other parties leant heavily in one direction or the other. This mirrors the divide along religion, where non-religious MPs were more likely to back the bill (76% to 21%) compared to religious MPs, who were half as likely to support it (35% to 60%).

    Religious Liberal Democrat and Labour MPs were more likely to support assisted suicide than religious MPs as a whole, whereas non-religious Conservatives were less likely to support it than non-religious MPs a whole.

    If we compare religious MPs to non-religious MPs, the former were more likely to switch to no (45% of religious MPs who switched did so to no, compared to 38% of non-religious MPs) than yes (18% against 25%). In both groups, 38% abstained in the third round.

    This pattern continues across parties too – all the Conservative MPs who changed position were religious (although more than 90% of the Conservative Party are religious, so we shouldn’t read too much into this).

    Among Labour MPs, who obviously make up the bulk of any parliamentary vote, there was a striking similarity in switching between religious and non-religious MPs. Of the switchers, 29% of Labour’s religious and non-religious MPs switched to yes, whilst 38% of religious and 36% of non-religious MPs switched to no.

    The effects of religion also play out within parties. Of the 11 MPs who switched to yes, seven were Labour Christian MPs, and the other four were non-religious Labour MPs.

    Two MPs elected under Reform’s banner – Lee Anderson and the now-independent Rupert Lowe – switched from yes to no, the former being non-religious and the latter a Christian. No Liberal Democrat MP switched to a yes vote, but the four who switched to no were religious – the one non-religious switcher abstained.

    Overall, it is clear that while religion is still important in structuring how MPs voted on assisted suicide, the role of party cannot be ignored – even in a free vote like on assisted dying.

    David Jeffery 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. Assisted dying: 56 MPs switched their vote between rounds – here’s how religion affected their choices – https://theconversation.com/assisted-dying-56-mps-switched-their-vote-between-rounds-heres-how-religion-affected-their-choices-259589

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: How might the US-Iran conflict escalate? Expert Q&A

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Scott Lucas, Professor of International Politics, Clinton Institute, University College Dublin

    On Sunday June 22, Donald Trump announced that several of Iran’s most important nuclear facilities had been “completely obliterated” and that the country’s nuclear weapons programme had been crippled. Iran denied this and vowed to retaliate. The Iranian parliament has already given approval to closing the strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which 20% of the world’s oil transits en route to customers all over the world.

    Initially the US government insisted that the objective was simply to halt Iran’s nuclear programme. But the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has said several times that he wanted to topple Iran’s theocratic regime. And the day after the US bombing raids, Donald Trump also began to talk of regime change in Iran.

    We asked Middle East expert Scott Lucas how the situation might develop.

    How might this now escalate?

    Iran’s leadership has no good military options, just as it has had limited capabilities in the nine days since Israel launched its missile strikes and targeted assassinations across the country. In theory, it could target US forces, with up to 40,000 in the region within range of missiles and drones. Iran-backed militias in Iraq could also attack US personnel on bases in the country.

    But the Biden administration showed that it would hit these back hard. When the militias in Iraq and the Assad regime’s Syria killed troops and a contractor, Washington pummelled the groups with airstrikes. Iran’s Quds Force, responsible for operations outside the Islamic Republic, told the militias to stop.

    Iran could target the US fleet in the Persian Gulf. It has also threatened to close the vital strait of Hormuz. But given that 20% of the world’s oil goes through the waterway, those operations would incur the wrath not only of Washington but of other countries. The Gulf states, whose support Tehran desperately wants and needs, would be angered.

    Iran’s allies in Yemen, the Houthi rebels, could renew their attacks on Red Sea shipping. They could fire drones and missiles, reprising their assault on Saudi oil facilities between 2019 and 2022. But the political and military cost of that retaliation would be high.

    Sign up to receive our weekly World Affairs Briefing newsletter from The Conversation UK. Every Thursday we’ll bring you expert analysis of the big stories in international relations.

    Iranian hybrid attacks, through cyber-warfare and assassination plots, are also a possibility. But the US and other states have clamped down on those activities in recent years with toughened surveillance, enforcement and sanctions on Iran, making their achievement of results more difficult.

    So while Iran continues to launch a dwindling stock of missiles at Israel, I think that its strategy beyond that is political. Play the victim and try to encourage other states, including the Gulf countries and the Europeans, to distance themselves from the Trump administration.

    What does this tell us about the relationship between Trump and Netanyahu?

    Benjamin Netanyahu has played Trump to ensure the success of Israel’s war. It’s as simple as that. As recently as February 4, Trump came close to humiliating the Israeli prime minister when he visited Washington to ask for the administration’s support for strikes on Iran. As Netanyahu sat uncomfortably in the White House press briefing, Trump declared that the US was going to open negotiations with Iran over Tehran’s nuclear programme.

    Netanyahu told the Trump administration in mid-May that it was intending to go ahead with strikes on Iran, even without US approval. There was some manoeuvring over the next three weeks, as the US and Iran went through five sets of talks. But on June 8, Trump met his national security advisors at Camp David in Maryland, where the CIA director John Ratcliffe and chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, General Dan Caine, briefed him on the threat from Iran.

    The next day Netanyahu told Trump over the phone that Israel was going ahead with its attacks, which it launched four days later. The US duly cancelled the sixth set of peace talks in Oman. Now Trump, with the Orwellian cry of “NOW IS THE TIME FOR PEACE!”, has blown up those negotiations for the foreseeable future.



    Read more:
    Why are the US and Israel not on the same page over how to deal with Iran? Expert Q&A

    Where are Russia and China in all this?

    Both countries are watching closely and calculating their response. On May 22, Beijing condemned “a reckless escalation and a flagrant violation of international law”. But its response will largely be rhetorical, avoiding any military or even political entanglement. If the US deepens its involvement in Iran’s war, including with any further strikes, China will step up the rhetoric while seeking advantage from the instability. It will play the responsible power, pursuing peace and progress, in contrast to a destructive and unreliable Trump administration. That would be a certain diplomatic win for Beijing.

    Russia is in a trickier position because of its 40-month full-scale invasion of Ukraine, which has no end in sight. Iran has been an essential part of the military campaign, providing thousands of drones for Moscow’s daily attacks on military and civilian sites. As recently as April, the two countries signed a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, pledging closer cooperation in trade, defence, energy, and regional infrastructure projects. Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araqchi has flown to Moscow for “serious consultations” with Russian “friends”, including Vladimir Putin.

    But Russia’s scope for intervention could be limited. Just before the US attacks the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, said he might mediate between Israel and Iran. Trump immediately slapped him down. And the Kremlin will not want to commit military resources to what might be a prolonged conflict, since it is already stretched – maybe overstretched – in Ukraine both on the battlefield and on the economic front.

    What will the Arab world be thinking?

    Perhaps the most important reaction to the strikes is coming from the Gulf states, in particularly Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Qatar. Only a few weeks ago Trump was in the Gulf signing deals on trade and arms. But Gulf leaders are rattled by what might be an expanding, destructive conflict with the prospect of a power vacuum in Tehran.

    For months, they have manoeuvred against that instability in discussions with the Islamic Republic as well as with Washington. With its open-ended war in Gaza, Israel has already shattered the economic and political prospects of “normalisation” (establishing diplomatic relations and trade partnerships). Now the Gulf states are worried how far Israel and Iran will carry out their confrontation across the Middle East.

    There had been hints that they might come off the fence between flattering Trump and pushing back against Washington, and this now appears to have happened – to an extent anyway. Without naming the US, Saudi Arabia “condemned and denounced” the violation of Iran’s sovereignty. Qatar said the US strikes would have “catastrophic repercussions”. The UAE warned all parties to avoid those “serious” repercussions, and Oman went farther by criticising the breaking of international law.

    Trump ignored his own intelligence. So who is helping him game out this situation?

    That’s a great question with no clear answer. It is clear that it’s not the director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, reportedly out of favour because she dared to publicise the assessment of US intelligence agencies that Iran is not pursuing a nuclear weapon. But with other cabinet members all proclaiming that this was Donald Trump’s “brilliant” plan, it is hard to see who led in pushing him away from negotiations and into the strikes.

    The defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, is little more than a hyperactive cheerleader. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is balancing between promoting the strikes and urging Iran to return to negotiations. The US vice-president, J.D. Vance, was central last week in efforts to persuade Republican legislators to back the strikes, amid the split in the Trumpist bloc over attacks.

    In the end, much of the impetus for this comes from Israel. Netanyahu has been careful to lavish praise on the US president for his “bold decision”, which he said would “change history”. With encouragement from a roll call of his Republican party admirers, Trump appears to have eagerly taken this up as his “victory”, claiming to have achieved “peace through strength”.

    Scott Lucas 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. How might the US-Iran conflict escalate? Expert Q&A – https://theconversation.com/how-might-the-us-iran-conflict-escalate-expert-qanda-259514

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Arshin Adib-Moghaddam, Professor in Global Thought and Comparative Philosophies, Director of Centre for AI Futures, SOAS, University of London

    While there’s been much negative discussion about AI, including on the possibility that it will take over the world, the public is also being bombarded with positive messages about the technology, and what it can do.

    This “good AI” myth is a key tool used by tech companies to promote their products. Yet there’s evidence that consumers are wary of the presence of AI in some products. This means that positive promotion of AI may be putting unwanted pressure on people to accept the use of AI in their lives.

    AI is becoming so ubiquitous that people may be losing their ability to say no to using it. It’s in smartphones, smart TVs, smart speakers like Alexa and virtual assistants like Siri. We’re constantly told that our privacy will be protected. But with the personal nature of the data that AI has access to in these devices, can we afford to trust such assurances?

    Some politicians also propagate the “good AI” promise with immense conviction, mirroring the messages coming from tech companies.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    My current research is partly explained in a new book called the The Myth of Good AI. This research shows that the data feeding our AI systems is biased, as it often over-represents privileged sections of the population and mainstream attitudes.

    This means that any AI products that don’t include data from marginalised people, or minorities, might discriminate against them. This explains why AI systems continue to be riddled with racism, ageism and various forms of gender discrimination, for instance.

    The speed with which this technology is impinging on our everyday life, makes it very hard to properly assess the consequences. And an approach to AI that is more critical of how it works does not make for good marketing for the tech companies.

    Power structures

    Positive ideas about AI and its abilities are currently dominating all aspects of AI innovation. This is partly determined by state interests and by the profit margins of the tech companies.

    These are tied into the power structures held up by tech multi-billionaires, and, in some places, their influence on governments. The relationship between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, despite its recent souring, is a vivid manifestation of this.

    And so, the public is at the receiving end of a distinctly hierarchical top-down system, from the big tech companies and their governmental enablers to users. In this way, we are made to consume, with little to no influence over how the technology is used. This positive AI ideology is therefore primarily about money and power.

    As it stands, there is no global movement with a unifying manifesto that would bring together societies to leverage AI for the benefit of communities of people, or to safeguard our right to privacy. This “right to be left alone”, codified in the US constitution and international human rights law, is a central pillar of my argument. It is also something that is almost entirely absent from the assurances about AI made by the big tech companies.

    Yet, some of the risks of the technology are already evident. A database compiling cases in which lawyers around the world used AI, identified 157 cases in which false AI-generated information – so called hallucinations – skewed legal rulings.

    Some forms of AI can also be manipulated to blackmail and extort, or create blueprints for murder and terrorism.

    Tech companies need to programme the algorithms with data that represents everyone, not just the privileged, in order to reduce discrimination. In this way, the public are not forced to give into the consensus that AI will solve many of our problems, without proper supervision by society. This distinction between the ability to think creatively, ethically and intuitively may be the most fundamental faultline between human and machine.

    It’s up to ordinary people to question the good AI myth. A critical approach to AI should contribute to the creation of more socially relevant and responsible technology, a technology that is already trialled in torture scenarios, as the book discusses, too.

    The point at which AI systems would outdo us in every task is expected to be a decade or so away. In the meantime there needs to be resistance to this attack on our right to privacy, and more awareness of just how AI works.

    Arshin Adib-Moghaddam 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. Here’s why the public needs to challenge the ‘good AI’ myth pushed by tech companies – https://theconversation.com/heres-why-the-public-needs-to-challenge-the-good-ai-myth-pushed-by-tech-companies-259200

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Investor Alert: Quantum Ai, Galaxy Trading Analytics (GTA), Rapliplen and London Group Are Not Registered

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on June 23, 2025

    The Financial and Consumer Affairs Authority of Saskatchewan (FCAA) warns investors of the online entities known as Quantum Ai, Galaxy Trading Analytics (GTA), Rapliplen and London Group.

    “The FCAA recommends Saskatchewan residents to always check an entity’s registration status at aretheyregistered.ca before making an investment,” FCAA Securities Division Executive Director Dean Murrison said. “This is an easy way to protect yourself and keep your investments safe.”

    These entities claim to offer Saskatchewan residents the following trading opportunities:

    • Quantum Ai: cryptocurrencies and contracts for differences (CFDs).
    • Galaxy Trading Analytics: cryptocurrencies, forex and commodities.
    • Raliplen: stocks, commodities, cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs).
    • London Group: commodities in the form of precious metals traded as futures or option contracts, as well as exchange traded funds (ETFs).

    This alert applies to the online entities using “quantum-ai ca”, “gtatrade com”, “raliplen com” and “londongrp com” (these URLs have been manually altered so as not to be interactive).

    Quantum Ai, Galaxy Trading Analytics (GTA), Rapliplen and London Group are not registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives in Saskatchewan. The FCAA cautions investors and consumers not to send money to companies that are not registered in Saskatchewan, as they may not be legitimate businesses. 

    If you have invested with Quantum Ai, Galaxy Trading Analytics (GTA), Rapliplen, London Group or anyone claiming to be acting on their behalf, contact the FCAA’s Securities Division at 306-787-5936.

    In Saskatchewan, individuals or companies need to be registered with the FCAA to trade or sell securities or derivatives. The registration provisions of The Securities Act, 1988, and accompanying regulations are intended to ensure that only honest and knowledgeable people are registered to sell securities and derivatives and that their businesses are financially stable.

    Tips to protect yourself:

    • Always verify that the person or company is registered in Saskatchewan to sell or advise about securities or derivatives. To check registration, visit The Canadian Securities Administrators’ National Registration Search at aretheyregistered.ca.
    • Know exactly what you are investing in. Make sure you understand how the investment, product, or service works.
    • Get a second opinion and seek professional advice about the investment.
    • Do not allow unknown or unverified individuals to remotely access your computer.

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Targeted regulatory reforms offer opportunity to boost climate finance flows 

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Targeted regulatory reforms offer opportunity to boost climate finance flows 

    Private climate finance to emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) is falling, despite these countries representing 25% of global GDP and requiring an additional US$450–US$550 billion annually in external climate investment by 2030. 

    Basel III rules, as currently interpreted, unintentionally discourage EMDE lending, including by unnecessarily limiting recognition of robust credit enhancement tools.  

    Project finance is treated highly conservatively under Basel capital calculation approaches, despite strong data showing lower-than-expected default rates and high recovery rates over time. 

    Country risk ceilings often overstate risk for EMDE exposures, limiting bank participation even in high-quality, co-financed projects – thus driving up the cost of capital. 

    Targeted clarifications and reforms to the Basel Framework could unlock significant volumes of private investment in high-impact, climate-aligned EMDE projects – without compromising financial stability. 

    Emerging markets and developing economies (EMDEs) are on the frontline of the global climate crisis – both in terms of exposure to its impacts and in their indispensable role in driving the transition to a net-zero future. Yet, these economies face a stark shortfall in the climate finance needed to achieve this transformation. 

    Despite accounting for roughly 25% of global GDP, emerging markets and developing economies – with the exception of China – attract just 14% of total international climate finance. To stay on a net-zero path, they require an additional US$450–$550 billion annually in external investment by 2030, a 15- to 18-fold increase from current private flows which sit at just US$30 billion. 

    Mobilising this scale of investment requires us to take a critical look at existing financial structures, particularly those where well-intentioned rules may inadvertently hinder the very transitions we most urgently need. Elements of the Basel III Framework exemplify this challenge. Designed in the aftermath of the 2007-2009 crisis and intended to safeguard financial stability, current interpretations unintentionally discourage lending to emerging markets and developing economies.  

    Targeted clarifications and reforms to the Basel Framework could unlock significant volumes of private investment in high-impact, climate-aligned projects in emerging markets and developing economies, while ensuring the continued soundness of the global financial system. 

    What are the barriers to climate finance in emerging markets and developing economies? 

    Basel III rules, as currently interpreted, unintentionally discourage EMDE lending. This includes unnecessarily limiting the recognition of public risk mitigation tools (such as credit guarantees and co-lending structures) that reduce lending risks of multilateral development banks and development finance institutions. For example, unconditionality and timeliness requirements often render guarantees ineligible to lower the capital buffers held by banks — despite their demonstrated effectiveness in reducing real-world credit risk. In addition, current rules do not recognise the risk-reducing benefits of blended finance structures, and the Basel framework’s list of multilateral development banks eligible for favourable risk weights is static, excluding newer institutions with strong credit ratings and climate finance aligned mandates. 

    Conservative risk weights of project finance to climate and infrastructure investment further undercut global climate finance flows to EMDEs. This is despite data demonstrating that project finance in EMDEs outperforms corporate loans, with higher recovery rates and default rates comparable to investment-grade corporates after five years. In addition, the Basel III rules do not recognise borrower-level mitigants (such as FX hedging and purchase agreements) and the internal ratings-based (IRB) maturity adjustment assumes linear risk growth over time when, in practice, project finance exhibits decreasing risk as projects stabilise and generate revenue.  

    What is the impact of country risk calculations? 

    While the Basel Framework does not explicitly assign capital charges based on country risk, it does so indirectly. This happens through country risk ceilings (the maximum credit rating that any entity within a country can receive) and risk-weight floors (a minimum percentage risk weight that regulators require banks to apply) for corporates or projects in lower-rated jurisdictions.  

    Illustrative example:

    A commercial bank considers lending to a solar energy project in a Sub-Saharan African country rated B- despite having:

    • A long-term power purchase agreement with a multilateral-backed utility,
    • Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency political risk insurance against currency inconvertibility and breach of contract, and
    • Co-financing from a multilateral development bank (A-loan).

    The exposure still attracts a 100%+ capital charge due to the country’s sovereign rating. This undermines the effect of risk mitigants and disincentivises the bank’s participation.

    ICC recommendations: what reforms should take place? 

    Given the urgency of the financing challenge faced by many EMDEs we encourage policymakers to consider a two-step approach to macroprudential reform – starting with low-hanging fruits that could yield an immediate boost to climate finance flows, before considering broader structural reforms.  

    Step 1: Technical adjustments and clarifications 

    Small, targeted adjustments to the Basel Framework could unlock substantial additional investment – either by way of new guidance from the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision or, failing that, through coordinated action from national regulators.  

    Such steps could include:  

    1. Updating credit risk mitigation guidance to accommodate the real-world mechanics of MDB/DFI and private credit enhancement tools, including PRI. At a minimum, such guidance should allow guarantees or insurance to qualify if exclusions are: standard market practice (e.g. nuclear or war clauses); and statistically remote or immaterial to the exposure in question. 
    1. Clarifying time limits for credit risk mitigants by recognising that contracts with defined arbitration periods (e.g. under 180 days) or subject to the established claims procedures of MDBs/DFIs can provide functionally timely payouts and should qualify for capital relief. 
    1. Allowing the application of blended risk weights to exposures covered by partial guarantees to reflect the real risk reduction offered by these tools.  
    1. Allowing for automatic recognition of credit enhancements provided by all MDBs/DFIs with credit ratings at or above AA-.  
    1. Providing clear guidance on the treatment of borrower-level risk mitigants in project finance transactions (both during pre-operation and operational phases) – including interest rate or currency hedging, purchase agreements, reserve accounts and performance bonds.  

    Step 2: Structural reforms  

    Building on these initial measures, we recommend that Basel Committee is mandated to establish new work programmes to:   

    1. Refine the treatment of project finance to reflect its proven performance based on available market data; introduce dynamic risk weights that adjust over a project’s lifecycle (particularly between pre-operation and operational phases); and consider recognising project finance as a distinct asset class within the prudential framework. 
    1. Review Basel’s approach to country risk to better differentiate between sovereign and project-level risk. This should permit risk weight adjustments where exposures are highly secure or mitigated by credible guarantees/involve MDB participation.  
    1. Consider the potential introduction of a scaling factor for high-quality, climate-related investments in EMDEs – similar to the existing Supporting Factor for Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises under Basel III or the Infrastructure Supporting Factor within the European Union’s Capital Requirements Regulation.  
    1. Review potential modalities to recognise well-structured blended finance arrangements – notably those with public or concessional first-loss tranches – as eligible credit risk mitigation where they provide transparent and reliable risk absorption. 

    ICC calls on governments and financial standard-setters to initiate a structured dialogue under the Baku to Belem Roadmap at COP30, with the engagement of the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision, and to explore targeted prudential adjustments that can be implemented in the near term.  

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Banks Publish Comprehensive 2024 Impact Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks), member-owned cooperatives that power communities, announced today the release of their 2024 Impact Report, highlighting their continued reliability as a liquidity provider and a landmark year of support for housing affordability and community development across the United States. Together, the 11 regional FHLBanks ended the year with more than $737 billion in advances outstanding, nearly $220 billion in outstanding letters of credit, and nearly $70 billion in mortgage loans held. They also committed more than $1.2 billion to housing programs and voluntary initiatives – setting a new high-water mark in the System’s 90+ year history. The Affordable Housing Program alone supported projects representing an estimated $8.9 billion in total development costs in 2024, demonstrating the integral role the FHLBanks play in expanding housing supply and economic opportunity.

    In 2024, the FHLBanks continued to deliver on their mission to provide reliable liquidity to nearly 6,500 financial institution members, while promoting access to safe, affordable housing in urban, suburban, and rural communities alike, transforming capital into community impact.

    “We are proud to be a dependable partner for America’s housing finance system and a critical component of our nation’s economic vitality,” said Ryan Donovan, president and CEO of the Council of Federal Home Loan Banks, the public voice of the FHLBank System. “The results demonstrated by our impact in 2024 reflect our deep-rooted commitment to expanding opportunity through responsible funding, innovative partnerships, and community-led solutions. When local financial institutions thrive, so do the communities they serve, and we provide the stability and strategic support our members depend on to stimulate economic opportunity.”

    Key 2024 Highlights:

    • $737 billion in advances outstanding to member institutions at year-end, ensuring the flow of affordable credit to local economies, especially during times of economic uncertainty.
    • $220 billion in total notional amount of outstanding letters of credit, helping members attract municipal deposits, keeping local funds in the community.
    • $70 billion in mortgage loans held at year-end, with nearly $15 billion in new mortgage loans purchased in 2024, 28% of which assisted low-income families.
    • $752 million in Affordable Housing Program (AHP) funding expensed, enabling the creation or preservation of over 26,000 housing units, 83% of which were multifamily developments.
    • $528 million in voluntary contributions for housing and economic development, including down payment assistance, disaster recovery, and regional capacity-building efforts.
    • Over 14,000 first-time homeowners supported through AHP grants.
    • $9.2 billion in Community Investment Program (CIP) advances for housing outstanding at year-end and $2.4 billion in Community Investment Cash Advances (CICA) for economic development outstanding at year-end, preserving over 12,500 jobs.

    As the housing market continues to evolve, the FHLBanks remain committed to addressing persistent affordability challenges and ensuring that local lenders have the capital and tools needed to serve their communities effectively.

    For an introductory video and to read the full 2024 Impact Report click here.

    About: The FHLBanks are 11 regionally based, wholesale suppliers of lendable funds to financial institutions of all sizes and many types, including community banks, credit unions, commercial and savings banks, insurance companies, and community development financial institutions. The FHLBanks are cooperatively owned by member financial institutions in all 50 states and U.S. territories. The steady supply of lendable funds from FHLBanks helps U.S. lenders invest in local needs including housing, jobs, and economic growth. The Council of FHLBanks represents all 11 FHLBanks.

    CONTACT INFORMATION
    Council of FHLBanks
    Peter E. Garuccio
    202-955-0002 ext. 14
    pgaruccio@cfhlb.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Federal Home Loan Banks Publish Comprehensive 2024 Impact Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The Federal Home Loan Banks (FHLBanks), member-owned cooperatives that power communities, announced today the release of their 2024 Impact Report, highlighting their continued reliability as a liquidity provider and a landmark year of support for housing affordability and community development across the United States. Together, the 11 regional FHLBanks ended the year with more than $737 billion in advances outstanding, nearly $220 billion in outstanding letters of credit, and nearly $70 billion in mortgage loans held. They also committed more than $1.2 billion to housing programs and voluntary initiatives – setting a new high-water mark in the System’s 90+ year history. The Affordable Housing Program alone supported projects representing an estimated $8.9 billion in total development costs in 2024, demonstrating the integral role the FHLBanks play in expanding housing supply and economic opportunity.

    In 2024, the FHLBanks continued to deliver on their mission to provide reliable liquidity to nearly 6,500 financial institution members, while promoting access to safe, affordable housing in urban, suburban, and rural communities alike, transforming capital into community impact.

    “We are proud to be a dependable partner for America’s housing finance system and a critical component of our nation’s economic vitality,” said Ryan Donovan, president and CEO of the Council of Federal Home Loan Banks, the public voice of the FHLBank System. “The results demonstrated by our impact in 2024 reflect our deep-rooted commitment to expanding opportunity through responsible funding, innovative partnerships, and community-led solutions. When local financial institutions thrive, so do the communities they serve, and we provide the stability and strategic support our members depend on to stimulate economic opportunity.”

    Key 2024 Highlights:

    • $737 billion in advances outstanding to member institutions at year-end, ensuring the flow of affordable credit to local economies, especially during times of economic uncertainty.
    • $220 billion in total notional amount of outstanding letters of credit, helping members attract municipal deposits, keeping local funds in the community.
    • $70 billion in mortgage loans held at year-end, with nearly $15 billion in new mortgage loans purchased in 2024, 28% of which assisted low-income families.
    • $752 million in Affordable Housing Program (AHP) funding expensed, enabling the creation or preservation of over 26,000 housing units, 83% of which were multifamily developments.
    • $528 million in voluntary contributions for housing and economic development, including down payment assistance, disaster recovery, and regional capacity-building efforts.
    • Over 14,000 first-time homeowners supported through AHP grants.
    • $9.2 billion in Community Investment Program (CIP) advances for housing outstanding at year-end and $2.4 billion in Community Investment Cash Advances (CICA) for economic development outstanding at year-end, preserving over 12,500 jobs.

    As the housing market continues to evolve, the FHLBanks remain committed to addressing persistent affordability challenges and ensuring that local lenders have the capital and tools needed to serve their communities effectively.

    For an introductory video and to read the full 2024 Impact Report click here.

    About: The FHLBanks are 11 regionally based, wholesale suppliers of lendable funds to financial institutions of all sizes and many types, including community banks, credit unions, commercial and savings banks, insurance companies, and community development financial institutions. The FHLBanks are cooperatively owned by member financial institutions in all 50 states and U.S. territories. The steady supply of lendable funds from FHLBanks helps U.S. lenders invest in local needs including housing, jobs, and economic growth. The Council of FHLBanks represents all 11 FHLBanks.

    CONTACT INFORMATION
    Council of FHLBanks
    Peter E. Garuccio
    202-955-0002 ext. 14
    pgaruccio@cfhlb.org

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: AI is consuming more power than the grid can handle — nuclear might be the answer

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Goran Calic, Associate Profesor of Strategy and Entrepreneurship Leadership Chair, McMaster University

    New partnerships are forming between tech companies and power operators — ones that could reshape decades of misconceptions about nuclear energy.

    Last year, Meta (Facebook’s parent company) put out a call for nuclear proposals, Google agreed to buy new nuclear reactors from Kairos Power, Amazon partnered with Energy Northwest and Dominion Energy to develop nuclear energy and Microsoft committed to a 20-year deal to restart Unit 1 of the Three Mile Island nuclear plant.

    At the centre of these partnerships is artificial intelligence’s voracious appetite for electricity. One Google search uses about as much electricity as turning on a household light for 17 seconds. Asking a Generative AI model like ChatGPT a single question is equivalent to leaving that light on for 20 minutes.



    Read more:
    AI is bad for the environment, and the problem is bigger than energy consumption

    Having GenAI generate an image can draw about 6,250 times more electricity, roughly the energy of fully charging a smartphone, or enough to keep the same light bulb on for 87 consecutive days.

    The hundreds of millions of people now using AI have effectively added the equivalent of millions of new homes to the power grid. And demand is only growing. The challenge for tech companies is that few sources of electricity are well-suited to AI.

    The grid wasn’t ready for AI

    AI requires vast amounts of computational power running around the clock, often housed in energy-intensive data centres.

    Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind provide intermittent energy, meaning they don’t guarantee the constant power supply these data centres require. These centres must be online 24/7, even when the sun isn’t shining and the wind isn’t blowing.

    Fossil fuels can run continuously, but they carry their own risks. They have significant environmental impacts. Fuel prices can be unpredictable, as exemplified by the gas price spikes due to the war in Ukraine, and the long-term availability of fossil fuels is uncertain.

    Major tech companies like Google, Amazon and Microsoft say they are committed to eliminating CO2 emissions, making fossil fuels a poor long-term fit for them.

    This has pushed nuclear energy back into the conversation. Nuclear energy is a good fit because it provides electricity around the clock, maximizing the use of expensive data centres. It’s also clean, allowing tech companies to meet their low CO2 commitments. Lastly, nuclear energy has very low fuel costs, which allows tech companies to plan their costs far into the future.

    However, nuclear energy has its own set of problems that have historically been hard to solve — problems that tech companies may now be uniquely positioned to overcome.

    Is nuclear energy making a comeback?

    Nuclear power has long been considered too costly and too slow to build. The estimated cost of a 1.1 gigawatt nuclear power facility is about US$7.77 billion, but can run higher. The recently completed Vogtle Units 3 and 4 in the state of Georgia, for example, cost US$36.8 billion combined.

    Historically, nuclear energy projects have been hard to justify because of their high upfront costs. Like solar and wind power, nuclear energy has relatively low operating costs once a plant is up and running. The key difference is scale: unlike solar panels, which can be installed on individual rooftops, the kind of nuclear reactors tech companies require can’t be built small.

    Yet this cost is now more palatable when compared to the expense of AI data centres, which are both more costly and entirely useless without electricity. The first phase of OpenAI and SoftBank’s Stargate AI project will cost US$100 billion and could be entirely powered by a single nuclear plant.

    Nuclear power plants also take a long time to build. A 1.1 gigawatt reactor takes, on average, 7.5 years in the U.S. and 6.3 years globally. Projects with such long timelines require confidence in long-term electricity demand, something traditional utilities struggle to predict.

    To solve the problem of long-range forecasting, tech companies are incentivizing power providers by guaranteeing they’ll purchase electricity far into the future.

    These companies are also literally and financially moving closer to nuclear power, either by acquiring nuclear energy companies or locating their data centres next to nuclear power plants.

    Destigmatizing nuclear energy

    One of the biggest challenges facing nuclear energy is the perception that it’s dangerous and dirty. Per gigawatt-hour of electricity, nuclear produces only six tonnes of CO2. In comparison, coal produces 970, natural gas 720 and hydropower 24. Nuclear even has lower emissions than wind and solar, which produce 11 and 53 tonnes of CO2, respectively.

    Nuclear energy is also among the safest energy sources. Per gigawatt-hour, it causes 820 times fewer deaths than coal, 43 times fewer than hydropower and roughly the same as wind and solar.

    Still, nuclear energy remains stigmatized, largely because of persistent misconceptions and outdated beliefs about nuclear waste and disasters. For instance, while many public concerns remain about nuclear waste, existing storage solutions have been used safely for decades and are supported by a strong track record and scientific consensus.

    Similarly, while the Fukushima disaster in Japan displaced thousands of people and was extremely costly (total costs of the disaster are expected at about US$188 billion), not a single person died of radiation exposure after the accident, a United Nations Scientific Committee of 80 international experts found.



    Read more:
    With nuclear power on the rise, reducing conspiracies and increasing public education is key

    For decades, there was little effort to correct public perceptions about nuclear fears because it wasn’t seen as necessary or profitable. Coal, gas and renewables were sufficient to meet the demand required of them. But that’s now changing.

    With AI’s energy needs soaring, Big Tech has classified nuclear energy as green and the World Bank has agreed to lift its longstanding ban on financing nuclear projects.

    Big Tech’s billion-dollar bet on nuclear

    The world has long lived with two nuclear dilemmas. The first is that, despite being one the safest and cleanest form of energy, nuclear was perceived as one the most dangerous and dirtiest.

    The second is that upgrading the power grid requires large-scale investments, yet money had been funnelled into small, distributed sources like solar and wind, or dirty ones like coal and natural gas.

    Now tech companies are making hundred-billion-dollar strategic bets that they can solve both nuclear dilemmas. They are betting that nuclear can offer the kind of steady, clean power their AI ambitions require.

    This could be an unexpected positive consequence of AI: the revitalization of one of the safest and cleanest energy sources available to humankind.

    Michael Tadrous, an undergraduate student and research assistant at the DeGroote School of Business at McMaster University, co-authored this article.

    Goran Calic 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. AI is consuming more power than the grid can handle — nuclear might be the answer – https://theconversation.com/ai-is-consuming-more-power-than-the-grid-can-handle-nuclear-might-be-the-answer-258677

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Energy Week (AEW) 2025 Promotes Africa-Centric Energy Transition with Dedicated Program Track

    The African Energy Week (AEW): Invest in African Energies conference – taking place on September 29 to October 3 in Cape Town – is organized under a mandate to make energy poverty history by 2030. As such, the event connects financiers with African projects, promoting energy development across the entire energy sector and its value chain. A dedicated Energy Transition Track at this year’s event offers attendees insight into the continent’s energy transition strategy, with panel discussions covering a series of topics, from natural gas as a clean cooking fuel to carbon capture and storage solutions to green hydrogen and renewable energy rollout.

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

    With over 900 million people living without access to clean cooking solutions in Africa, many countries are adopting bold strategies to advance the adoption of natural gas products such as LPG. Kenya, for example is rolling out LPG expansion, electric cooking and bioethanol alternatives with support from private sector investment, Tanzania is integrating clean cooking solutions into its national electrification plan and broader energy transition strategy while Ghana has adopted a multi-pronged approach, enhancing LPG affordability and scalability. The AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 Energy Transition Track will feature panel discussions focused on Africa’s burgeoning LPG market. Sessions include From Firewood to Freedom: Promoting Clean Cooking in Africa; Monetizing LPG to Enhance the Value of the Barrel in Africa’s Inland Markets; and Gas-to-Liquids Market Opportunities in Africa.

    Given the pressing energy access challenges faced across the continent, Africa has long-advocated for an energy transition strategy that takes into account the continent’s energy and climate needs. In this regard, many countries are pursuing a just transition, which utilizes a variety of solutions from low-carbon oil to non-associated gas to renewable energy and integrated power systems. According to the International Energy Agency, meeting Africa’s energy demand will require annual investments to more than double by 2030, reaching $240 billion annually. The Energy Transition Track at AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 not only offers a platform to discuss Africa’s just transition strategy, but lays out strategic investment prospects across the entire energy value chain. Sessions include Just Energy Transition Dialogue: Harnessing Africa’s Resource Wealth to Establish Energy Sovereignty; Forging the Path for a Green Hydrogen Economy: Shifting from Planning to Meeting Global Market Demands; and Overcoming Infrastructure Gaps: Innovations in Road, Rail and Transport Connectivity Across Africa.

    The AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 Energy Transition Track goes beyond promoting investments in energy projects to include strategic sessions on local content, inclusive participation and collaborative leadership. With a rapidly growing population, increased urbanization and soon-to-be the world’s largest workforce, Africa requires strategic commitments by governments and companies to accelerate capacity building, skills development and inclusive work practices. By 2050, Africa’s population is projected to increase to 2.5 billion people. As such, local content will serve as a catalyst for sustainable and equitable development. During the event, sessions will address these topics, including Energy Security in Africa: Why Women’s Participation in Africa’s Resource Governance Matters; From Start-Ups to Scale-Ups: Why SMEs are Africa’s Game Changers; and Collaborative Leadership: Operator Strategies for Local Content Development.

    The Energy Transition Track will also feature an Invest in Uganda session, which offers exclusive insight into the country’s $10 billion energy portfolio, comprising a mix of hydrocarbon, infrastructure and renewable energy projects. The discussion will unpack how supportive policies, a stable regulatory environment and untapped resources have made the country an attractive market to invest in. Beyond panel discussions, the track will also feature a series of Fireside Chats. These sessions aim to provide insight into the respective investment strategies of various companies, with discussions paving the way for collaborations and deals. 

    “AEW: Invest in African Energies 2025 takes place under a mandate to make energy poverty history, and as such, advocates for a just energy transition which encompasses the development of a variety of energy sources. The Energy Transition Track serves as a catalyst for this goal by uniting players from the renewable energy, natural gas, regulatory and infrastructure sectors to discuss strategies for securing investment and advancing projects in Africa,” states Verner Ayukegba, Senior Vice President, African Energy Chamber.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Energy Chamber.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Empowering solutions for South Africa’s energy future


    Download logo

    Electricity Expo Africa 2025 (www.ElectricityExpoAfrica.com) is set to convene South Africa’s leading minds and innovators in the energy sector, offering a critical platform for tangible solutions to the nation’s power crisis. Taking place from 19 to 21 August 2025 at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, this inaugural event arrives at a pivotal moment as the country grapples with persistent energy instability. 

    Themed ‘Empowering Solutions for South Africa’s Energy Future’, the Expo will address national grid constraints, accelerate the adoption of renewable energy, promote off-grid innovation, mitigate load shedding, and modernise infrastructure and regulation. 

    Organised by the Electrical Contractors Association (SA) and the South African Electrical Workers Association (SAEWA) and proudly endorsed by the National Bargaining Council for the Electrical Industry, Electricity Expo Africa 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4egPsr8) is a focused space for stakeholders committed to real-world impact. 

    “Electricity is the engine of development. This Expo is more than just an industry gathering – it’s a national imperative, a call to action for every stakeholder invested in South Africa’s future,” said Jimmy Turner, Chairperson of Electricity Expo Africa. “We are uniting solution-providers, policymakers, and communities to collectively transform South Africa’s energy landscape from one of scarcity to one of reliability and abundance.” 

    Three Pillars of Focus 

    1. Confronting the National Grid Crisis 

    South Africa’s ageing grid requires urgent intervention. At the heart of the Expo is a drive to modernise infrastructure through automation, smart diagnostics, and maintenance innovations. By gathering grid experts and transmission specialists, the event will foster knowledge exchange on how to prevent failures and accelerate national upgrade projects. 

    This effort supports the National Energy Action Plan, which aims to restore Eskom’s reliability and accelerate the development of new power capacity. 

    “Ending load shedding requires more than just talk; it demands real tools, smart systems, and urgent implementation of practical solutions,” emphasised Turner. “This Expo will present actionable answers – from cutting-edge grid technologies that bolster resilience to policy reforms that streamline infrastructure development. It’s about turning challenges into opportunities for growth.” 

    2. Accelerating Renewable and Off-Grid Solutions 

    South Africa’s energy future depends on a diversified generation mix. With the rapid rise of solar adoption – from 2,300 MW in 2022 to over 5,400 MW by early 2024 – the Expo will highlight solar PV, wind, and battery storage technologies that enable homes, businesses, and municipalities to generate electricity independently and reduce their reliance on the national grid. 

    Over 130 IPP projects, totalling roughly 22,500 MW, are also in the pipeline. At the Expo, both large-scale and decentralised innovations will be on display, including off-grid and mini-grid solutions for rural and high-risk areas. 

    Attendees will engage directly with tech developers and solution providers, demonstrating the tools needed to power communities and commercial hubs even in the absence of national supply. 

    3. Innovation in Policy, Infrastructure, and Regulation 

    The recent Electricity Regulation Amendment Act marks a new era for South Africa’s electricity sector, introducing reforms such as an independent transmission system operator and a competitive power market. But policy must match pace with technology. 

    Electricity Expo Africa 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4kYvdAY) will feature high-level discussions with government, regulators, and industry leaders. Topics include streamlining licences for renewables, energy storage incentives, updated grid codes, and infrastructure financing – crucial considering the estimated R390 billion needed for national grid expansion. 

    “We are not just showcasing innovation; we are driving a national movement towards a resilient, inclusive electricity system,” added Turner. “Electricity Expo Africa 2025 is where solutions become action, fostering the collaboration between government, industry, and civil society that is essential for a truly sustainable energy future.” 

    Who Needs to Be There 

    Electricity Expo Africa 2025 will host over 150 exhibitors and more than 60 expert speakers, creating a platform for high-impact visibility and engagement. Key participants will include: 

    • Policymakers and Energy Officials – Sharing reforms and strategic plans. 
    • Municipal Utility Leaders – Highlighting local innovation and micro-grids. 
    • Renewable Energy Innovators – Showcasing new generation technologies. 
    • Grid Technology and Storage Providers – Presenting advanced smart-grid systems. 
    • Financing and Infrastructure Partners – Exploring capital mobilisation and PPPs. 
    • Community Energy Access Organisations – Championing equitable power access. 

    This expansive programme creates a rare opportunity for businesses to place their innovations at the centre of national dialogue and development. 

    Turner underscores the dual opportunity for exhibitors: “Exhibiting at Electricity Expo Africa 2025 is more than a marketing opportunity – it’s a chance to fuel your company’s growth and help power South Africa’s energy transformation. We encourage businesses large and small to showcase their innovations at the Expo, where they can build valuable relationships and play a role in securing the nation’s energy future.” 

    Event details: 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Electricity Expo Africa (EEA).

    Issued By: The Lime Envelope 
    On Behalf Of: Electricity Expo Africa 

    For Media Information: 
    Kerry Oliver 
    Telephone: 082 927 9470 
    E-mail: kerry@thelime.co.za  

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Warren Releases New Data from Joint Committee on Taxation Revealing That “Pass Through Deduction” is a Giveaway to Millionaires

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

    June 23, 2025

    JCT Report on 199A (PDF) | JCT Response on Millionaires Claiming 199A (PDF)

    Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, released new data from the Joint Committee on Taxation (JCT), a nonpartisan Congressional committee dedicated to analyzing tax legislation, revealing that the majority of the benefit from the 199A tax deduction goes to millionaires. 

    The 199A tax deduction was created by the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, with Congressional Republicans claiming it would support small business owners by allowing them to deduct up to 20 percent of their business’s qualified income from their personal income taxes. 

    JCT’s responses provided a breakdown, by income level, of who claims the 199A deduction, in addition to other key information about who the deduction benefits. Key findings include:

    • More than 50% of the benefit of the 199A deduction goes to millionaires. 
    • The top 10% of taxpayers claimed 87% of the benefit of 199A, while the bottom 20% claimed no benefit whatsoever.
    • 84% of the businesses through which individuals claimed the 199A deduction had no employees.
    • More than two-thirds of the 199A deduction goes to individuals above the deduction’s phase-out thresholds, demonstrating that the law’s guardrails to prevent wealthy individuals from taking the benefit are ineffective.
    • The proportion of 199A benefits claimed by millionaires increased over time from 2018 to 2022.

    The House version of Trump’s “big, beautiful bill,” now under consideration by the Senate, includes an expansion of the 199A deduction from a 20 percent deduction to a 23 percent deduction.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Iowa Private Nonprofits Affected by March Storm

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Iowa of the July 22 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe winter storm occurring March 19.

    The disaster declaration covers the Iowa counties of Crawford, Harrison, Monona and Woodbury.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. 

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

    PNPs are also eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. 

    Interest rates can be as low as 3.62%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible. 

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Kansas Private Nonprofits Affected by Adverse Weather

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Kansas of the July 22 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe winter storm, straight‑line winds, flooding and wildfires occurring March 14-19.

    The disaster declaration covers the Kansas counties of Barton, Chautauqua, Edwards, Elk, Ellis, Gove, Graham, Gray, Greeley, Hodgeman, Jewell, Lincoln, Logan, Ness, Norton, Osborne, Pawnee, Phillips, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Stafford, Wallace and Woodson.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damages, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. 

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

    PNPs are also eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. 

    Interest rates can be as low as 3.62%, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible. 

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Nebraska Private Nonprofits Affected by March Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Nebraska of the July 22 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by the severe winter storm and straight‑line winds occurring March 18-19.

    The disaster declaration covers the Nebraska counties of Boone, Burt, Butler, Cass, Clay, Dakota, Colfax, Cuming, Dodge, Douglas, Fillmore, Hamilton, Jefferson, Johnson, Lancaster, Nuckolls, Otoe, Platte, Polk, Saline, Sarpy, Saunders, Seward, Thayer, Thurston, Washington, Webster and York.

    Under this declaration, PNPs providing services of a governmental nature are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans. Eligible PNPs may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Applicants may be eligible for a loan amount increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements might include insulating pipes, walls and attics, weather stripping doors and windows, and installing storm windows to help protect property and occupants from future damage caused by any disaster. 

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

    PNPs are also eligible to apply for Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to help meet working capital needs. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster. EIDL assistance is available regardless of whether the PNP suffered any physical property damage. 

    Interest rates can be as low as 3.62% with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible. 

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is July 22, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is Feb. 23, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to California Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Bridge Fire

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in California of the July 23, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Bridge Fire beginning Sept. 8, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the California counties of Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Ventura.

    Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

    EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.

    “SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than July 23.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: New Cantwell Fact Sheet: Republican Bill Threatens to Upend WA’s Reproductive Health System & Increase Costs as Three-Year Dobbs Decision Anniversary Approaches

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell
    06.23.25
    New Cantwell Fact Sheet: Republican Bill Threatens to Upend WA’s Reproductive Health System & Increase Costs as Three-Year Dobbs Decision Anniversary Approaches
    Health care professionals warn of labor & delivery department closures, higher rates of breast and cervical cancer due to missed screenings, & heightened trauma for sexual assault survivors; Republican bill would bar Planned Parenthood from receiving federal Medicaid funding, straining care options for all
    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, one day before the third anniversary of the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization Supreme Court decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-WA), ranking member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and senior member of the Senate Finance Committee, warned of dire consequences for reproductive health care in Washington state if the Republican reconciliation bill is passed.
    “In the State of Washington, Planned Parenthood serves about 100,000 patients annually,” said Sen. Cantwell at a May 14 press conference with Planned Parenthood president Alexis McGill Johnson. “About half of those patients rely on Medicaid. And it accounts for about half of the annual budget of Planned Parenthood [of Greater Washington and North Idaho]. These clinics and their patients count on that delivering care.”
    Sen. Cantwell issued a new fact sheet with details about the proposed cuts, and exclusive new testimonials from patients, doctors, and other health care professionals about how the cuts would impact Washingtonians.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Business leaders welcome the government’s modern Industrial Strategy

    Business leaders have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy – a 10-year plan to promote growth.

    Business leaders from across the UK have welcomed the government’s modern Industrial Strategy. The 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.

    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.

    Joint statement from business groups: 

    “The Industrial Strategy launched today marks a significant step forward and a valuable opportunity for the business community to rally behind a new vision for the UK—boosting confidence, sentiment, and enthusiasm for investment. 

    “From start-ups and small businesses to large corporates, businesses need a more attractive, stable environment that enables faster, easier, and more certain investment decisions.  

    “We welcome the Government’s engagement with businesses across the UK. Much of what we’ve shared has been heard and reflected in this strategy. While there’s more to do, we are ready to support the next steps. 

    “We encourage businesses nationwide to get behind this strategy and champion the UK as the best place to live, work, invest, and do business.” 

    Statement on behalf of: 

    • Shevaun Haviland, Director General, British Chambers of Commerce 

    • Rain Newton-Smith, Director General, Confederation of British Industry 

    • Aaron Asadi, Chief Executive Officer, Enterprise Nation 

    • Tina McKenzie, Policy and Advocacy Chair, Federation of Small Businesses 

    • Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive Officer, Make UK 

    • Michelle Ovens, Founder, Small Business Britain 

    • Dom Hallas, Executive Director, Startup Coalition 

    Advanced Manufacturing 

    Dr Hayaatun Sillem CBE, Chief Executive, Royal Academy of Engineering:

    “We are delighted to see the announcement of new skills packages for tech, engineering and defence, recognising that the Industrial Strategy’s objectives simply cannot be delivered without a significant boost to investment in our engineering and tech talent base. These packages provide a much-needed opportunity for government to take a holistic view of the rapidly changing skills landscape, and to work with partners across industry and professional bodies to make sure the UK tackles its longstanding skills and diversity deficits in these crucial areas. Today is International Women in Engineering Day – a reminder that we still have much to do to deliver equitable participation in these high-value jobs, and better outcomes for people from all parts of the UK. 

    “The Royal Academy of Engineering looks forward to supporting government in taking forward these recommendations, including through our new Skills Centre. We also welcome the publication of the Technology Adoption Review and hope that this will result in meaningful action to increase the capacity of the UK’s industrial base and public sector to deploy existing technologies at the scale and pace demanded in today’s tech-driven world.” 

    John Harrison, General Counsel and Head of Public Affairs, Airbus:

    “Airbus welcomes the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy. Having worked closely with the Government to help shape this plan, we are delighted to see it deliver a long-term vision, built on a genuine partnership with industry.  

    “The firm long-term commitment to the full innovation lifecycle, from R&D in the Aerospace Technology Institute to a focus on commercialisation and supply chain resilience, provides the confidence and stability needed to fuel innovation and anchor high-value manufacturing in the UK for decades to come. The significant new investment in skills is also critical, creating a strong pipeline of engineering and digital talent, which will be the foundation for developing the sustainable technologies of the future, from hydrogen-powered aircraft to next-generation space systems. We stand ready to help turn this ambitious strategy into a reality for British industry.” 

    Clean Energy  

    Dhara Vyas, CEO, Energy UK:

    “Energy UK welcomes the Government’s new Industrial Strategy and Clean Energy Industries sector plan, which rightly recognise the pivotal role energy will play across the whole economy, powering growth through digitalisation and electrification, boosting regional prosperity and delivering economic security and resilience.   

    “Stable, affordable energy prices will help ensure that the UK remains a competitive place to do business, and in an increasingly uncertain global operating environment, clean power will deliver energy security. Focussing on priority technologies where the UK has global expertise will deliver a strong competitive advantage for our businesses and economy.   

    “We know the investment necessary to decarbonise the economy will mostly be funded by the private sector. Clarity on Government policy, removal of the barriers to investment and targeted support are all essential to meet this ambition.”     

    Sue Ferns, Senior Deputy General Secretary, Prospect Union:  

    “Boosting clean energy is not only an important mission in its own right, it is central to the success of every other sector. It is welcome to see the government doubling down on this mission, focusing investment on key technologies like renewables and nuclear energy, and recognising the key role that trade unions play as partners in this strategy.  

    “Securing the investment is important, but perhaps the biggest challenge in this area is around the workforce. The energy workforce is undergoing an unprecedented transition, which creates opportunities for many but also serious challenges that need to be addressed.  

    “Delivering on this strategy in a way which creates prosperity and supports jobs will require the government’s forthcoming energy workforce plan to be as ambitious as possible and fully backed by all parts of government.”  

    Martin Pibworth, Chief Executive Designate, SSE plc:

    “The government’s industrial strategy is a welcome signal of long-term thinking and ambition – doubling down on homegrown energy is the right thing for security, resilience and affordability, making the most of the UK’s competitive geographical and technical advantages in renewables in particular. It’s exactly the kind of commitment that gives industry the confidence to deliver at pace and scale, and with important decisions on energy policy expected in the weeks ahead, we hope to see a continued focus on unlocking investment that drives growth. As the UK’s clean energy champion, SSE is investing £17.5bn over five years to 2027 – building the infrastructure, creating high-quality jobs, supporting the supply chain and driving the innovation needed to deliver a net zero economy.” 

    Creative Industries 

    Caroline Norbury, Chief Executive, Creative UK: 

    “The Sector Plan signals that the creative industries are central to the UK’s growth story. From freelancers to scale-ups, this is a step towards the joined-up support our sector needs – and Creative UK stands ready to work with government and industry partners to turn ambition into action.  

    “As we move into delivery mode, it’s essential that all parts of the sector – from cultural organisations to creative tech firms – are empowered to grow, invest and contribute fully to the UK’s economic future.” 

    Dana Strong, Sky Group CEO:  

    “We warmly welcome the Government’s support for the UK’s creative industries in today’s Industrial Strategy. The media and entertainment sector is a cultural powerhouse and a key driver of growth, with the potential to add £10 billion to the economy and create 40,000 jobs by 2033. Seizing this opportunity is vital to maintaining the UK’s global leadership in creativity.” 

    Alison Lomax, Managing Director, YouTube UK & Ireland:  

    “We welcome the Creative Industries Sector Plan’s commitment to a robust framework for creatives across the UK. It’s particularly encouraging to see the government acknowledge the digital creator economy’s vital role in driving growth for our creative industries. By embracing new distribution models that boost our cultural exports, this vision will solidify the UK’s position as a global cultural superpower.” 

    Defence 

    David Lockwood OBE, CEO, Babcock International:

    “We welcome the release of the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy today, setting out the strategic direction for critical sectors including advanced manufacturing, space and nuclear. The Government’s intent to back British businesses and invest in sovereign industries will lay the foundations for economic growth and unleash the potential of the growth sectors to drive prosperity across the UK. We look forward to the publication of the Defence Sector Plan, and working with the Government to bolster the British defence industrial base and safeguard our national and economic security.” 

    Charles Woodburn, Chief Executive, BAE Systems: 

    “The UK’s modern Industrial Strategy rightly recognises the importance of investing in skills and developing a workforce for the future. The UK’s defence sector is a powerhouse of skilled employment and training. Across the supply chain, it’s critical that we continue to invest in our people, just as much as we invest in technology, to ensure we can deliver the capabilities our armed forces need to stay ahead in an era of increasing instability. 

    “That’s why, this year alone, BAE Systems is recruiting more than 2,400 new apprentices and graduates across the UK and we recognise the importance of government, industry and academia working together to develop the talent needed to support this critical high growth sector.” 

    Paul Livingston CBE, Chief Executive, Lockheed Martin UK & NATO: 

    “Lockheed Martin welcomes publication of the UK government’s Modern Industrial Strategy and especially its identification of defence, space, and digital technologies as core areas for driving economic growth and expanding mutually beneficial international partnerships with the United States, NATO and their allies. With 28 facilities spanning the length and breadth of the country we’re committed to combining the best skills, expertise and technologies from the UK and the United States to boost capacity, sustain jobs and deliver economic benefits in both countries.” 

    Digital and Tech 

    Antony Walker, Deputy CEO, techUK: 

    “Today, the government has outlined welcome measures to boost confidence for the UK tech sector and the wider economy. 

    “techUK has long called for the Industrial Strategy to focus on strengthening the conditions for growth of the UK tech sector and accelerating the adoption of new technologies across the economy and public services. 

    “In an era of rapid technological change, the government must now work in true partnership with business to bolster investment and digital adoption across the whole of the UK economy and secure the country’s competitive advantage in key markets, including semiconductors and AI. techUK, and our members, stand ready to support this government to do so.” 

    Allison Kirkby, Chief Executive, BT Group: 

     “Long-term plans which have positive impact pay.  

    “BT has invested over £24bn in the UK so far this decade and will invest a further £20bn before it’s done, to upgrade the country’s digital infrastructure.  

    “That’s why we welcome the Government’s Industrial Strategy for the decade ahead. 

    “And it’s great to see it give telecoms prominence: at the centre of a high-growth sector as well as a lever for growth in the wider economy.  

    “We look forward to working more with Government on steps they can take to unlock further growth, and make sure the UK’s record-breaking fibre success story is followed fast by an acceleration in 5G too.” 

    Emily Turner, UK CEO, HSBC Innovation Banking:

    “I welcome today’s Industrial Strategy, which sets out positive steps to back the UK’s growth driving sectors, particularly Digital and Technologies. This ten-year strategy will help position the UK as an open and attractive destination for talent and investment, at a time when global competition is particularly acute.  ”We look forward to working closely with our clients and the government to ensure the effective implementation of the sector plans to help realise the full ambition of the UK’s industrial strategy, while ensuring that it remains flexible to keep pace with technological developments.” 

    Darren Hardman, CEO, Microsoft UK:

    “This is a really progressive plan from the Government. Cutting red tape, reducing energy costs, accelerating the delivery of new projects and ensuring the UK has a highly skilled workforce to take advantage of the AI economy. These are all critical factors in encouraging investment from businesses here in the UK and around the world.” 

    Vishal Marria, Founder and CEO, Quantexa:  

    “This Industrial Strategy is a key moment for the UK’s growth economy. By addressing structural headwinds like energy costs and grid access, the government is unlocking the potential of British industry. As a UK-founded data and AI company, we welcome the vision to make Britain the best place to build, scale, and invest. Lowering business electricity costs, accelerating clean energy, and prioritising digital skills are vital for sectors like technology, financial services, defence, and advanced manufacturing – all of which will rely on AI and trusted data to compete and lead. This strategy is the bold signal of confidence UK industry has been waiting for.” 

    Financial Services 

    Hannah Gurga, Director General, ABI:  

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy delivers a clear long-term growth vision, commitment to genuine partnership with business and the regulatory certainty firms need to thrive. We’re pleased that financial services has been recognised as a key growth sector and look forward to working with government on the detailed sector plan. 

    “The expansion of the British Business Bank’s capacity and its new £6.6 billion growth-capital commitment will unlock vital funding to support smaller UK businesses and drive growth.” 

    Miles Celic OBE, Chief Executive Officer, TheCityUK:  

    “The ambitions of today’s Industrial Strategy are laudable, highlighting the priorities for national growth.  Financial and related professional services are crucial to its success, from unlocking private capital for innovative businesses to increasing investible opportunities across the regions and nations. 

    “We believe that supporting growth across whole country is particularly important and we are pleased to see the establishment of the Strategic Investment Opportunities Unit within the Office for Investment. This is the first critical step in the proposal we’ve been pushing to attract investors and capital. 

    “Transforming both the planning and public procurement processes, making it easier for businesses to bring in global talent whilst addressing the skills shortfall here in the UK, and strengthening global market partnerships are vital for future proofing the economy and are steps where our industry has long called for action. 

    “The detailed delivery plans for each of the eight sectors of the Industrial Strategy will be critical to realising its ambition. We look forward to seeing these. The vital issue now is delivery. We are committed to working closely with government and the regulators on the successful execution of these ambitions.” 

    James Alexander, CEO, UKSIF: 

    “We welcome the overarching ambition of the Industrial Strategy, which feels like a generational shift in thinking. This rightly recognises that government and investors need to work in partnership through a shared vision so we can make the UK the ‘sustainable finance capital of the world’.” 

    Life Sciences 

    Richard Torbett, Chief Executive, ABPI: 

    “This strategy sets out a clear vision for how to grow the UK economy and is rightly focused on many of the key inputs the country needs to get right to create the conditions for success. The task now must be to move quickly from planning to delivery, rapidly boosting UK attractiveness for investment and returning the country to international competitiveness.   “For UK life sciences, a successful strategy means ensuring the UK is not only a cutting-edge place to research and develop the medicine of the future, but also a country which seeks to embrace and use the life-changing innovations we are developing. This will be the key litmus test for success in the upcoming life science sector plan and the NHS 10-year plan, where we hope to see more detail.” 

    Steve Bates OBE, CEO, UK BioIndustry Association (BIA): 

     “The Industrial Strategy has prioritised the life sciences sector because it will disproportionately drive economic growth over the next decade and help deliver an NHS fit for the future. 

    “SMEs are the lifeblood of this innovative industry and a strength of the UK ecosystem, securing £3.7 billion investment last year, much of it from overseas. We are on the verge of creating a new generation of globally-impactful companies, so it is a smart move by Government to establish a dedicated support service to help 10–20 high-potential UK life science companies scale, attract investment, and remain headquartered in the UK. 

    “The £4 billion British Business Bank Industrial Strategy Growth Capital initiative will bring new agility to support fledgling companies and cutting-edge technologies as part of the pro-innovation Industrial Strategy. We look forward to working closely with the Bank as they establish this programme for our sector. 

    “These, alongside improved health data resources for innovators, faster clinical trials, more streamlined and joined-up medicines regulation and access pathways, and investments in medicines manufacturing, mean this Industrial Strategy and the upcoming Life Sciences Sector Plan deliver across the breadth of BIA’s priorities on behalf of our members. These plans are just the beginning, however, as we will now get down to the serious work of delivering these commitments in partnership with the Government.” 

    Professor Andrew Morris CBE FRSE PMedSci, President, Academy of Medical Sciences:   

    “Today’s Industrial Strategy represents a significant step forward for UK life sciences – placing the sector at the heart of our economic future and recognising health and wealth are inseparable. This bold vision acknowledges what the Academy of Medical Sciences has long argued: that our world-leading research institutions, the NHS and our exceptional scientific talent can drive national and regional renewal in ways no other sector can match.  

    “We are particularly encouraged by the Government’s ambitious goal to make the UK the leading life sciences economy in Europe by 2030, and the third most important globally by 2035. This scale of ambition, combined with over £2bn of committed funding, demonstrates the recognition that life sciences uniquely delivers both economic prosperity and improved health outcomes for all.   

    “The strategy’s focus on pillars for the life sciences – supporting world-class R&D, making the UK an outstanding place to start and grow life sciences businesses, and driving health innovation through NHS reform – provides the framework needed to unlock the sector’s full potential. We welcome the commitment to continue investing in discovery research alongside applied sciences, ensuring we maintain curiosity-driven research that underpins future breakthroughs.  

    “Alignment with the forthcoming NHS 10-Year Health Plan offers unprecedented opportunity to ensure that cutting-edge innovations deliver rapid benefits for patients whilst driving economic growth. We look forward to the detailed life sciences sector plan that will translate these ambitions into action, and will continue working with Government to deliver this vision where scientific excellence drives both patient benefit and national prosperity as the UK achieves its full potential as a global leader in life sciences.”   

    Professional and Business Services 

    Malcolm Gomersall, CEO, Grant Thornton UK:   

    “The publication of the Industrial Strategy is a welcome step forward in setting out a clear, long-term path for growth in the sectors that are powering our economy.   

    “The strategy and the Professional and Business Services plan reflect our own investment priorities for the future, such as increased tech and AI adoption, fostering a highly skilled workforce in areas such as cyber security, digital and net zero transition and growing our specialist capabilities which support the expansion of our clients into international markets. I welcome the clear intention that the wider sector deliver this strategy in partnership with the Government through the Professional and Business Services Council. 

    “As an employer of over 5,500 people in one UK’s fastest growing and most resilient sectors, ourown journey and track record over recent years has been remarkable. To achieve our ambitious growth plans, we know that we need to continue investing in the future, which means ensuring our people have the right skills and tools for a new era of business.” 

    Jon Holt, Group Chief Executive and UK Senior Partner, KPMG: 

    “The UK is the second-largest exporter of professional and business services, making our industry central to this country’s economic strength. We are at the forefront of the AI revolution, we are major employers of diverse talent and we support businesses of all sizes across the country. As a global success story it’s only right that we’re recognised as a high growth sector.  

    “This industrial strategy makes bold choices and sets clear priorities. Its impact will come from a genuine partnership between Government and business, working together on wins to really unlock the growth, profitability and investment that will shape the UK’s future.” 

    Rachel Taylor, Government and Health Industries Leader, PwC: 

    “An industrial strategy without business is just a wish list. The UK Government’s new strategy sets a welcome direction – and business stands ready to turn ambition into action. 

    “Skills are the new growth currency. The Strategy sets out a bold plan to close the UK’s skills gap, and this will make important steps in addressing business leaders’ concerns that we are losing top talent to other countries. We must work together – government, business and our world-class education institutions – to build the workforce of the future and keep that talent here. 

    “Business is ready to lean in. With the right framework, we can unlock investment, drive innovation and deliver the growth and opportunity this strategy sets out to achieve.”

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: A Scorching Start to Summer ’25

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MISSISSAUGA, Ontario, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alectra Utilities is urging customers to be mindful of their energy consumption to manage summertime electricity bills in response to a prolonged heatwave affecting Southern Ontario. Keeping cool can get costly, but there are ways to conserve electricity in homes and businesses.

    “Our system’s peak demand is climbing daily due to the sustained high temperatures persisting overnight,” stated Jim Butler, Vice President, Centralized Operations, Network Services, Alectra Utilities. “These conditions are increasing electricity demand, particularly in the late afternoons when temperatures peak.”

    As the heatwave intensifies, electricity usage has surged due to air conditioners and cooling systems operating at full capacity. Yesterday, Alectra’s system load peaked at 4,893 megawatts (MW). As of 10:30 a.m. this morning, the system load had already reached 4,855 MW (one MW equals one million watts) and climbing. We anticipate further increases in power consumption as the heatwave continues into Tuesday and Wednesday.

    With extreme heat events becoming more frequent, investing in renewing aging equipment and installing new infrastructure remains crucial to meet the growing grid demand. For more information on Alectra’s capital construction investments, please visit: alectrautilities.com/improving-reliability.

    Alectra Utilities offers the following conservation tips to help reduce electricity consumption and manage summertime electricity bills:

    • Make use of a programmable thermostat to regulate temperature.
    • Use ceiling and portable fans to circulate air.
    • If possible, hang clothes outside instead of using a dryer.
    • Use curtains or blinds to shade windows on hot sunny days.
    • If using an air conditioner, keep doors and windows closed. This is especially important for small retail shops and restaurants with street-level entrances.

    For more information about how you can save energy this summer and avoid higher bills, visit alectrautilities.com/tips-resources.

    About Alectra Utilities

    Serving more than one million homes and businesses in Ontario’s Greater Golden Horseshoe area, Alectra Utilities is now the largest municipally-owned electric utility in Canada, based on the total number of customers served. We contribute to the economic growth and vibrancy of the 17 communities we serve by investing in essential energy infrastructure, delivering a safe and reliable supply of electricity, and providing innovative energy solutions. Our mission is to be an energy ally, helping our customers and the communities we serve to discover the possibilities of tomorrow’s energy future.

    X: https://twitter.com/alectranews

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alectranews/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alectranews/?hl=en

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/16178435/admin/

    Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/alectranews.bsky.social

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/alectranews

    Media Contact

    Ashley Trgachef, Media Spokesperson ashley.trgachef@alectrautilities.com |
    Telephone: 416.402.5469 | 24/7 Media Line: 1-833-MEDIA-LN

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BAY Miner cloud mining launches zero-cost one-click mining of BTC, ETH, XRP and other currencies

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Seattle, Washington, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Against the backdrop of increasing uncertainty in the international situation, global investors are accelerating their turn to blockchain assets as an emerging safe-haven option, and attention to the cryptocurrency market continues to rise. BAY Miner cloud mining has officially launched a cloud mining platform that supports multiple currencies and has zero cost with a low threshold and high efficiency, once again becoming the focus of market attention. Users do not need to buy mining machines or master the technology. Through BAY Miner’s mobile app and web version platform, they can participate in the real-time mining of multiple mainstream cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Dogecoin, Litecoin, etc. with one click.
    BAY Miner cloud mining platform provides one-stop solutions for global users’ questions such as “how to invest in Bitcoin” and “how to make money through cloud mining”. The platform combines green energy with an intelligent computing power management system. Users do not need to configure any hardware. They only need to register to get a $15 trial fee and immediately start mining mainstream cryptocurrencies such as BTC, ETH, XRP, DOGE, LTC, SOL, etc.
    Emily Carter, Head of Marketing at BAY Miner, said: “Our vision is to make digital asset mining more convenient, transparent, and adaptable to market changes. In uncertain times, investors seek more resilient alternatives, and BAY Miner cloud mining allows them to participate in blockchain investment with peace of mind.”

    Advantages and features of cloud mining:
    1. No hardware investment required: Users do not need to buy expensive mining machines or set up mining farms. All computing power comes from remote data centers and is maintained uniformly by the platform.
    2. Zero maintenance cost: No need to worry about electricity bills, equipment aging, noise and heat dissipation. The operation and maintenance work is undertaken by the cloud mining platform, and users focus on revenue management.
    3. Simple operation and novice-friendly: Just register an account, select a contract and pay the fee to start automatic mining. The platform supports multiple currencies, revenue visualization, automatic reinvestment and other functions.
    4. Mobile control anytime, anywhere: The cloud mining platform supports mobile apps, and users can view revenue and adjust strategies in real time through their mobile phones. Supports Android/iOS dual systems.
    5. Flexible contract selection: You can choose computing power packages by day, week, or month, suitable for different budgets and strategies. A variety of cryptocurrencies are available: BTC, ETH, XRP, DOGE, LTC, SOL, etc.
    6. Lower entry threshold: Compared with traditional mining models, cloud mining has low costs and low risks. It is suitable for junior investors or crypto enthusiasts as an experience method.
    7. Available worldwide, in line with the trend of decentralization: no geographical restrictions, only Internet access is required. Users can enjoy the decentralized computing resources of the global blockchain network.
    8. The platform provides registration rewards and referral rebates: registration rewards such as BAY Miner (starting from US$15) lower the threshold for users’ first investment. The promotion system allows users to get commission rewards by inviting friends.
    How to earn cryptocurrency with BAY Miner:
    Complete the registration in a few simple steps
    ·Visit the official website BAY Miner and register an account to automatically receive a $15 trial fee.
    ·Choose the cloud mining contract you want to participate in, such as BTC Free Hashrate Plan, or choose to top up to purchase a high-yield contract
    ·The system automatically distributes income every day, which can be viewed and withdrawn at any time through mobile phones or websites
    ·The promotion system supports users to invite friends and relatives to mine through exclusive invitation codes, and can get up to 5% alliance rewards, increasing additional sources of income.

    Cloud mining is super easy, click to register now

    The table below shows the potential income you can achieve
    BTC [New User Experience Contract]: Investment amount: $100, potential total net profit: $100 + $10
    BTC [Core Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $600, potential total net profit: $600 + $43.2
    DOGE [Core Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $3,000, potential total net profit: $3,000 + $825.3
    BTC [Electricity Contract Plan]: Investment amount: $8,000, potential total net profit: $8,000 + $4340
    BTC[Electricity Contract Plan]: Investment Amount: $30,000, Potential Total Net Profit: $30,000 + $23,220
    Note: Profit estimates depend on network conditions and market volatility.

    Click here for full contract details

    BAY Miner cloud mining is suitable for people:

    • Beginners who want to participate in crypto investment with a low threshold
    • Asset allocators seeking multi-currency passive income opportunities
    • Global users who cannot deploy local mining machines but have income needs
    • Digital finance enthusiasts who want to participate in blockchain through mobile devices

    Market prospects:
    According to market research, cloud mining platforms will become one of the important entry points for cryptocurrency investment in 2025. Especially in the context of rising uncertainty in the macro-political environment, decentralized asset allocation tools are favored by more users. BAY Miner is expanding its service network around the world and continuously optimizing platform stability and revenue structure.
    What is BAY Miner Cloud Mining?
    BAY Miner was founded in 2017 and is committed to building a low-threshold, highly transparent global encrypted cloud mining platform. With users all over the world, it has AI computing power scheduling, multi-currency contract configuration and real-time profit chart functions, suitable for novice users and professional investors to participate.
    Visit the official website: www.bayminer.com
    Email: info@bayminer.com
    Mobile APP: https://bayminer.com/app/download
    Address: Ground Floor, Egerton House, 68 Baker Street, Weybridge, Surrey, United Kingdom, KT13 8AL

    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. There is a possibility of financial loss. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: OEUK news Homegrown energy must power the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy 23 June 2025

    Source: Offshore Energy UK

    Headline: OEUK news

    Homegrown energy must power the UK’s modern Industrial Strategy

    23 June 2025

    Accessibility Statement

    • oeuk.org.uk
    • 23 June 2025

    Compliance status

    We firmly believe that the internet should be available and accessible to anyone, and are committed to providing a website that is accessible to the widest possible audience, regardless of circumstance and ability.

    To fulfill this, we aim to adhere as strictly as possible to the World Wide Web Consortium’s (W3C) Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.1 (WCAG 2.1) at the AA level. These guidelines explain how to make web content accessible to people with a wide array of disabilities. Complying with those guidelines helps us ensure that the website is accessible to all people: blind people, people with motor impairments, visual impairment, cognitive disabilities, and more.

    This website utilizes various technologies that are meant to make it as accessible as possible at all times. We utilize an accessibility interface that allows persons with specific disabilities to adjust the website’s UI (user interface) and design it to their personal needs.

    Additionally, the website utilizes an AI-based application that runs in the background and optimizes its accessibility level constantly. This application remediates the website’s HTML, adapts Its functionality and behavior for screen-readers used by the blind users, and for keyboard functions used by individuals with motor impairments.

    If you’ve found a malfunction or have ideas for improvement, we’ll be happy to hear from you. You can reach out to the website’s operators by using the following email [email protected]

    Screen-reader and keyboard navigation

    Our website implements the ARIA attributes (Accessible Rich Internet Applications) technique, alongside various different behavioral changes, to ensure blind users visiting with screen-readers are able to read, comprehend, and enjoy the website’s functions. As soon as a user with a screen-reader enters your site, they immediately receive a prompt to enter the Screen-Reader Profile so they can browse and operate your site effectively. Here’s how our website covers some of the most important screen-reader requirements, alongside console screenshots of code examples:

    1. Screen-reader optimization: we run a background process that learns the website’s components from top to bottom, to ensure ongoing compliance even when updating the website. In this process, we provide screen-readers with meaningful data using the ARIA set of attributes. For example, we provide accurate form labels; descriptions for actionable icons (social media icons, search icons, cart icons, etc.); validation guidance for form inputs; element roles such as buttons, menus, modal dialogues (popups), and others. Additionally, the background process scans all the website’s images and provides an accurate and meaningful image-object-recognition-based description as an ALT (alternate text) tag for images that are not described. It will also extract texts that are embedded within the image, using an OCR (optical character recognition) technology. To turn on screen-reader adjustments at any time, users need only to press the Alt+1 keyboard combination. Screen-reader users also get automatic announcements to turn the Screen-reader mode on as soon as they enter the website.

      These adjustments are compatible with all popular screen readers, including JAWS and NVDA.

    2. Keyboard navigation optimization: The background process also adjusts the website’s HTML, and adds various behaviors using JavaScript code to make the website operable by the keyboard. This includes the ability to navigate the website using the Tab and Shift+Tab keys, operate dropdowns with the arrow keys, close them with Esc, trigger buttons and links using the Enter key, navigate between radio and checkbox elements using the arrow keys, and fill them in with the Spacebar or Enter key.Additionally, keyboard users will find quick-navigation and content-skip menus, available at any time by clicking Alt+1, or as the first elements of the site while navigating with the keyboard. The background process also handles triggered popups by moving the keyboard focus towards them as soon as they appear, and not allow the focus drift outside it.

      Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

    Disability profiles supported in our website

    • Epilepsy Safe Mode: this profile enables people with epilepsy to use the website safely by eliminating the risk of seizures that result from flashing or blinking animations and risky color combinations.
    • Visually Impaired Mode: this mode adjusts the website for the convenience of users with visual impairments such as Degrading Eyesight, Tunnel Vision, Cataract, Glaucoma, and others.
    • Cognitive Disability Mode: this mode provides different assistive options to help users with cognitive impairments such as Dyslexia, Autism, CVA, and others, to focus on the essential elements of the website more easily.
    • ADHD Friendly Mode: this mode helps users with ADHD and Neurodevelopmental disorders to read, browse, and focus on the main website elements more easily while significantly reducing distractions.
    • Blindness Mode: this mode configures the website to be compatible with screen-readers such as JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver, and TalkBack. A screen-reader is software for blind users that is installed on a computer and smartphone, and websites must be compatible with it.
    • Keyboard Navigation Profile (Motor-Impaired): this profile enables motor-impaired persons to operate the website using the keyboard Tab, Shift+Tab, and the Enter keys. Users can also use shortcuts such as “M” (menus), “H” (headings), “F” (forms), “B” (buttons), and “G” (graphics) to jump to specific elements.

    Additional UI, design, and readability adjustments

    1. Font adjustments – users, can increase and decrease its size, change its family (type), adjust the spacing, alignment, line height, and more.
    2. Color adjustments – users can select various color contrast profiles such as light, dark, inverted, and monochrome. Additionally, users can swap color schemes of titles, texts, and backgrounds, with over seven different coloring options.
    3. Animations – person with epilepsy can stop all running animations with the click of a button. Animations controlled by the interface include videos, GIFs, and CSS flashing transitions.
    4. Content highlighting – users can choose to emphasize important elements such as links and titles. They can also choose to highlight focused or hovered elements only.
    5. Audio muting – users with hearing devices may experience headaches or other issues due to automatic audio playing. This option lets users mute the entire website instantly.
    6. Cognitive disorders – we utilize a search engine that is linked to Wikipedia and Wiktionary, allowing people with cognitive disorders to decipher meanings of phrases, initials, slang, and others.
    7. Additional functions – we provide users the option to change cursor color and size, use a printing mode, enable a virtual keyboard, and many other functions.

    Browser and assistive technology compatibility

    We aim to support the widest array of browsers and assistive technologies as possible, so our users can choose the best fitting tools for them, with as few limitations as possible. Therefore, we have worked very hard to be able to support all major systems that comprise over 95% of the user market share including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Apple Safari, Opera and Microsoft Edge, JAWS and NVDA (screen readers).

    Notes, comments, and feedback

    Despite our very best efforts to allow anybody to adjust the website to their needs. There may still be pages or sections that are not fully accessible, are in the process of becoming accessible, or are lacking an adequate technological solution to make them accessible. Still, we are continually improving our accessibility, adding, updating and improving its options and features, and developing and adopting new technologies. All this is meant to reach the optimal level of accessibility, following technological advancements. For any assistance, please reach out to [email protected]

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Justice Department Sues Washington State Over its new anti-Catholic law, Senate Bill 5375

    Source: US State of California

    The Justice Department announced today that it filed legal action for a complaint in intervention against the State of Washington over its a new state law, Senate Bill 5375, which violates the free exercise of religion for all Catholics, and requires Catholic priests to violate the confidentiality seal of Confession.

    Senate Bill 5375 requires Catholic priests to violate their vows to uphold the confidentiality seal that accompanies the sacred rite of Confession, subjecting them to immediate excommunication from the Catholic Church.

    As the Justice Department’s lawsuit explains, the violations imposed by this new law on all practicing members of the Catholic Church, including Catholic priests administering the sacrament and Catholic penitents participating in the rite, include deprivations of the Free Exercise of Religion under the First Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

    “Laws that explicitly target religious practices such as the Sacrament of Confession in the Catholic Church have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Senate Bill 5375 unconstitutionally forces Catholic priests in Washington to choose between their obligations to the Catholic Church and their penitents or face criminal consequences, while treating the priest-penitent privilege differently than other well-settled privileges. The Justice Department will not sit idly by when States mount attacks on the free exercise of religion.”

    The Department’s motion to intervene in Etienne v. Ferguson is pending before the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Sues Washington State Over its new anti-Catholic law, Senate Bill 5375

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department announced today that it filed legal action for a complaint in intervention against the State of Washington over its a new state law, Senate Bill 5375, which violates the free exercise of religion for all Catholics, and requires Catholic priests to violate the confidentiality seal of Confession.

    Senate Bill 5375 requires Catholic priests to violate their vows to uphold the confidentiality seal that accompanies the sacred rite of Confession, subjecting them to immediate excommunication from the Catholic Church.

    As the Justice Department’s lawsuit explains, the violations imposed by this new law on all practicing members of the Catholic Church, including Catholic priests administering the sacrament and Catholic penitents participating in the rite, include deprivations of the Free Exercise of Religion under the First Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

    “Laws that explicitly target religious practices such as the Sacrament of Confession in the Catholic Church have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Senate Bill 5375 unconstitutionally forces Catholic priests in Washington to choose between their obligations to the Catholic Church and their penitents or face criminal consequences, while treating the priest-penitent privilege differently than other well-settled privileges. The Justice Department will not sit idly by when States mount attacks on the free exercise of religion.”

    The Department’s motion to intervene in Etienne v. Ferguson is pending before the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Justice Department Sues Washington State Over its new anti-Catholic law, Senate Bill 5375

    Source: United States Attorneys General

    The Justice Department announced today that it filed legal action for a complaint in intervention against the State of Washington over its a new state law, Senate Bill 5375, which violates the free exercise of religion for all Catholics, and requires Catholic priests to violate the confidentiality seal of Confession.

    Senate Bill 5375 requires Catholic priests to violate their vows to uphold the confidentiality seal that accompanies the sacred rite of Confession, subjecting them to immediate excommunication from the Catholic Church.

    As the Justice Department’s lawsuit explains, the violations imposed by this new law on all practicing members of the Catholic Church, including Catholic priests administering the sacrament and Catholic penitents participating in the rite, include deprivations of the Free Exercise of Religion under the First Amendment and the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment.

    “Laws that explicitly target religious practices such as the Sacrament of Confession in the Catholic Church have no place in our society,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Senate Bill 5375 unconstitutionally forces Catholic priests in Washington to choose between their obligations to the Catholic Church and their penitents or face criminal consequences, while treating the priest-penitent privilege differently than other well-settled privileges. The Justice Department will not sit idly by when States mount attacks on the free exercise of religion.”

    The Department’s motion to intervene in Etienne v. Ferguson is pending before the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington.

    More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – Rockcliffe Capital Initiates Coverage on Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (TSX/NYSE: AEM) with a “Strong Buy” Rating and US$155 Price Target

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rockcliffe Capital is pleased to announce today the initiation of equity research coverage on Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (TSX/NYSE: AEM), a premier senior gold mining company with operations spanning Canada, Finland, Australia, Mexico, and the U.S. 

    Following rigorous financial and operational analysis, Rockcliffe Capital assigns Agnico Eagle a “Strong Buy” rating, alongside a 12-month price target of US$155, reflecting strong upside potential of approximately 25% from current market levels.

    “Agnico Eagle has delivered extraordinary operating discipline and record earnings this quarter,” said Felix Gelt, Managing Director of Research at Rockcliffe Capital. “With Q1 net income soaring to US$815 M—up 134% YoY—and free cash flow reaching US$594 M amid near-zero debt, Agnico offers both growth and balance sheet strength in the gold sector.”

    Investment Thesis Highlights:

    • Earnings Powerhouse: Q1 2025 net income rose to US$815 million (US$1.62 EPS), a 134% YoY increase, driven by record operating margins from elevated gold prices.
    • Revenue & Margin Strength: Q1 revenue climbed 34.9% YoY to US$2.468 billion, while all-in sustaining costs (AISC) dropped ~10% to US$1,183/oz, delivering a ~59% margin.
    • Balance Sheet Resilience: Operating cash flow hit US$1.044 billion, free cash flow was US$594 million, enabling net debt to fall to just US$5 million, with cash reserves of US$1.138 billion.
    • Strategic Growth Initiatives: Ongoing capital deployment into high-quality projects like Detour Lake, Upper Beaver, and the O3 Mining acquisition enhances reserve base and future production visibility.
    • Shareholder Returns: Maintains a US$0.40/share quarterly dividend. NCIB buybacks of US$50 million executed in the quarter; the Board plans an expanded NCIB of up to US$1 billion.
    • ESG Leadership: Released its 16th Sustainability Report highlighting best-in-class emissions intensity (0.38 tCO₂e/oz), US$1 billion Indigenous economic commitment, and sector-leading safety.

    Valuation & Target:
    Utilizing a disciplined valuation framework with a projected 2026 EV/EBITDA multiple of ~8× and P/E multiple of ~18×, Rockcliffe Capital derives a 12-month price target of US$155, equivalent to ~US$115/share, indicating ~25% upside from current levels.

    Risk Factors:

    • Gold Price Volatility: A sustained decline in gold prices could compress margins and cash flow.
    • Project Execution: Delays at key sites (e.g., underground transitions, permitting) could affect supply outlook.
    • Macro Factors: A stronger U.S. dollar or higher real interest rates may weigh on gold sector valuations.

    About Rockcliffe Capital Research
    Rockcliffe Capital’s Research Department provides institutional-grade equity research focused on growth-stage companies, public markets, and high-conviction investment themes. Through rigorous analysis, proprietary modeling, and deep sector insights, our research team supports investors, issuers, and strategic partners in identifying value and making informed decisions.

    Our coverage includes detailed valuation frameworks, peer comparisons, financial modeling, and ESG scorecards—delivering the intelligence that drives market leadership.

    Please contact research@rockcliffe.capital for access to our full research suite and initiation reports.

    Media Contact
    Rockcliffe Capital
    Research & Markets Division
    research@rockcliffe.capital
    +1 (416)-642-1967

    This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Rockcliffe Capital and its affiliates may hold positions in the securities mentioned.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – Rockcliffe Capital Initiates Coverage on Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (TSX/NYSE: AEM) with a “Strong Buy” Rating and US$155 Price Target

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rockcliffe Capital is pleased to announce today the initiation of equity research coverage on Agnico Eagle Mines Ltd. (TSX/NYSE: AEM), a premier senior gold mining company with operations spanning Canada, Finland, Australia, Mexico, and the U.S. 

    Following rigorous financial and operational analysis, Rockcliffe Capital assigns Agnico Eagle a “Strong Buy” rating, alongside a 12-month price target of US$155, reflecting strong upside potential of approximately 25% from current market levels.

    “Agnico Eagle has delivered extraordinary operating discipline and record earnings this quarter,” said Felix Gelt, Managing Director of Research at Rockcliffe Capital. “With Q1 net income soaring to US$815 M—up 134% YoY—and free cash flow reaching US$594 M amid near-zero debt, Agnico offers both growth and balance sheet strength in the gold sector.”

    Investment Thesis Highlights:

    • Earnings Powerhouse: Q1 2025 net income rose to US$815 million (US$1.62 EPS), a 134% YoY increase, driven by record operating margins from elevated gold prices.
    • Revenue & Margin Strength: Q1 revenue climbed 34.9% YoY to US$2.468 billion, while all-in sustaining costs (AISC) dropped ~10% to US$1,183/oz, delivering a ~59% margin.
    • Balance Sheet Resilience: Operating cash flow hit US$1.044 billion, free cash flow was US$594 million, enabling net debt to fall to just US$5 million, with cash reserves of US$1.138 billion.
    • Strategic Growth Initiatives: Ongoing capital deployment into high-quality projects like Detour Lake, Upper Beaver, and the O3 Mining acquisition enhances reserve base and future production visibility.
    • Shareholder Returns: Maintains a US$0.40/share quarterly dividend. NCIB buybacks of US$50 million executed in the quarter; the Board plans an expanded NCIB of up to US$1 billion.
    • ESG Leadership: Released its 16th Sustainability Report highlighting best-in-class emissions intensity (0.38 tCO₂e/oz), US$1 billion Indigenous economic commitment, and sector-leading safety.

    Valuation & Target:
    Utilizing a disciplined valuation framework with a projected 2026 EV/EBITDA multiple of ~8× and P/E multiple of ~18×, Rockcliffe Capital derives a 12-month price target of US$155, equivalent to ~US$115/share, indicating ~25% upside from current levels.

    Risk Factors:

    • Gold Price Volatility: A sustained decline in gold prices could compress margins and cash flow.
    • Project Execution: Delays at key sites (e.g., underground transitions, permitting) could affect supply outlook.
    • Macro Factors: A stronger U.S. dollar or higher real interest rates may weigh on gold sector valuations.

    About Rockcliffe Capital Research
    Rockcliffe Capital’s Research Department provides institutional-grade equity research focused on growth-stage companies, public markets, and high-conviction investment themes. Through rigorous analysis, proprietary modeling, and deep sector insights, our research team supports investors, issuers, and strategic partners in identifying value and making informed decisions.

    Our coverage includes detailed valuation frameworks, peer comparisons, financial modeling, and ESG scorecards—delivering the intelligence that drives market leadership.

    Please contact research@rockcliffe.capital for access to our full research suite and initiation reports.

    Media Contact
    Rockcliffe Capital
    Research & Markets Division
    research@rockcliffe.capital
    +1 (416)-642-1967

    This press release is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Rockcliffe Capital and its affiliates may hold positions in the securities mentioned.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Usbit trading center launches new logo to mark anniversary milestone

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, CO, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Usbit trading center, a global digital asset trading platform, has officially launched its new logo and visual identity to coincide with the anniversary of its founding. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth trajectory, reinforcing its brand values of security, innovation, and global accessibility at a time of accelerated adoption of digital assets worldwide.

    The new logo retains elements of the original brand mark but introduces a sharper, more modern design that symbolizes clarity, stability, and forward momentum. Accompanying the updated logo is a refined visual system, including a revised color palette, typographic standards, and iconography aimed at enhancing brand recognition across markets and platforms.

    The rebranding effort comes as usbit trading center continues to expand its presence across north america, europe, and asia. The updated identity supports this internationalization strategy by offering a unified, scalable brand architecture that can adapt to various digital and physical touchpoints—from trading interfaces and mobile applications to investor education materials and institutional portals.

    “the launch of our new identity is more than just a visual change,” said a usbit trading center spokesperson. “it is a reaffirmation of what usbit trading center stands for: secure infrastructure, transparent operations, and accessible digital finance for all. This milestone aligns with our evolution as a mature and compliant platform that meets the demands of both retail and institutional investors.”

    Since its founding, usbit trading center has prioritized the integration of cutting-edge technologies, user education, and regulatory alignment. Over the past year, the platform introduced reserve mode accounts, expanded support for defi asset access, and accelerated its engagement with us and international regulators.

    The company’s design team collaborated with international branding consultants to ensure the new visual identity communicates stability and trust—key themes for investors seeking reliability in a volatile market. The logo design draws on geometric precision and clean symmetry, reflecting the platform’s technical rigor and operational clarity.

    In parallel with the logo update, usbit trading center has also refreshed its user interface to align with the new design language, offering a cleaner, more intuitive trading experience. Enhanced ui elements include improved accessibility features, dark/light mode support, and responsive design optimized for mobile-first engagement.

    As part of the anniversary celebration, usbit trading center will roll out a series of community engagement events and digital campaigns under the theme “trust the evolution,” aimed at highlighting the company’s journey and future vision. Educational resources, partner interviews, and historical retrospectives will be released throughout the quarter.

    Usbit trading center’s rebranding underscores its positioning as a reliable, compliant, and globally oriented exchange. With renewed visual clarity and strategic consistency, the platform is poised to enter its next phase of development as digital assets move deeper into the global financial mainstream.

    For more information about the brand refresh and anniversary initiatives, visit the official usbit trading center website.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Usbit trading center launches new logo to mark anniversary milestone

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, CO, June 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Usbit trading center, a global digital asset trading platform, has officially launched its new logo and visual identity to coincide with the anniversary of its founding. The announcement marks a pivotal moment in the company’s growth trajectory, reinforcing its brand values of security, innovation, and global accessibility at a time of accelerated adoption of digital assets worldwide.

    The new logo retains elements of the original brand mark but introduces a sharper, more modern design that symbolizes clarity, stability, and forward momentum. Accompanying the updated logo is a refined visual system, including a revised color palette, typographic standards, and iconography aimed at enhancing brand recognition across markets and platforms.

    The rebranding effort comes as usbit trading center continues to expand its presence across north america, europe, and asia. The updated identity supports this internationalization strategy by offering a unified, scalable brand architecture that can adapt to various digital and physical touchpoints—from trading interfaces and mobile applications to investor education materials and institutional portals.

    “the launch of our new identity is more than just a visual change,” said a usbit trading center spokesperson. “it is a reaffirmation of what usbit trading center stands for: secure infrastructure, transparent operations, and accessible digital finance for all. This milestone aligns with our evolution as a mature and compliant platform that meets the demands of both retail and institutional investors.”

    Since its founding, usbit trading center has prioritized the integration of cutting-edge technologies, user education, and regulatory alignment. Over the past year, the platform introduced reserve mode accounts, expanded support for defi asset access, and accelerated its engagement with us and international regulators.

    The company’s design team collaborated with international branding consultants to ensure the new visual identity communicates stability and trust—key themes for investors seeking reliability in a volatile market. The logo design draws on geometric precision and clean symmetry, reflecting the platform’s technical rigor and operational clarity.

    In parallel with the logo update, usbit trading center has also refreshed its user interface to align with the new design language, offering a cleaner, more intuitive trading experience. Enhanced ui elements include improved accessibility features, dark/light mode support, and responsive design optimized for mobile-first engagement.

    As part of the anniversary celebration, usbit trading center will roll out a series of community engagement events and digital campaigns under the theme “trust the evolution,” aimed at highlighting the company’s journey and future vision. Educational resources, partner interviews, and historical retrospectives will be released throughout the quarter.

    Usbit trading center’s rebranding underscores its positioning as a reliable, compliant, and globally oriented exchange. With renewed visual clarity and strategic consistency, the platform is poised to enter its next phase of development as digital assets move deeper into the global financial mainstream.

    For more information about the brand refresh and anniversary initiatives, visit the official usbit trading center website.

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: President Ruto, Samaila Zubairu and Africa’s Top Chief Executive Officer’s (CEO) to Headline The Africa Debate in London

    Invest Africa (www.InvestAfrica.com) is pleased to announce Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) as Headline Partner for the 11th edition of The Africa Debate, taking place on Wednesday, 2 July 2025 at the Guildhall, in the heart of the City of London.

    This year’s theme — “Harnessing Natural Capital for Growth” — seeks to interrogate how Africa can transform the scale and structure of investment around its most enduring assets: from its critical minerals and fertile land to its human ingenuity and demographic dynamism.

    Now firmly established as the UK’s premier forum for Africa-focused investment dialogue, The Africa Debate will convene over 700 senior decision-makers from across government, finance, and industry for a full day of high-level exchanges. Through keynote addresses, ministerial dialogues, and curated sector debates, the programme will explore how to turn extractive advantage into structural transformation — mobilising green industrialisation, digital infrastructure, intra-African trade, and new financial instruments to drive inclusive, climate-smart growth.

    This year’s speaker line-up reflects the extraordinary breadth of voices shaping Africa’s next chapter, from heads of state to the stewards of global capital. Highlights include: H.E. William Ruto, President of the Republic of Kenya; H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn Boshe, Former Prime Minister of Ethiopia; Board Chair, TradeMark Africa; H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General, African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat; Benedict Oramah, President, Afreximbank; Samaila Zubairu, President & CEO, Africa Finance Corporation; Abebe Aemro Selassie, Director, African Department, International Monetary Fund; Solomon Quaynor, Vice President for Private Sector, Infrastructure & Industrialisation, African Development Bank; Strive Masiyiwa, Founder & Chair, Econet Wireless; Duncan Wanblad, CEO, Anglo American; Wale Tinubu, CEO, Oando Plc; Monique Gieskes, CEO, PHC; Marie-Chantal Kaninda, President, Glencore DRC; and more. The full programme is now available to view here (http://apo-opa.co/4ljJqbx), with detailed sessions on value chain transformation, blended finance, regional infrastructure, and Africa’s positioning in a multipolar global economy.

    Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of Africa Finance Corporation, commented: “Natural capital is only as valuable as the systems that refine, protect, and elevate it. At AFC, we believe that infrastructure is the bridge between Africa’s resource richness and the continent’s ability to rapidly industrialise and take its rightful place on the global stage. Our partnership with Invest Africa and The Africa Debate underscores the need for thoughtful, long-term capital — deployed strategically — to unlock the continent’s full economic potential. We are proud to support a platform that challenges assumptions and catalyses bold, bankable solutions.”

    Chantelé Carrington, CEO of Invest Africa, added: “Africa’s path to prosperity must be built not on extraction, but on transformation. This year’s theme compels us to ask harder questions about how we steward the continent’s assets — human, natural, and institutional — in a world shaped by climate change, technological disruption, and shifting geopolitical priorities. With AFC’s visionary leadership, we are honoured to convene a dialogue that is ambitious in scope, rigorous in thought, and focused on meaningful outcomes.”

    Confirmed Sponsors of The Africa Debate Include: Africa Finance Corporation (Headline Partner), Absa Group, Afreximbank, FirstBank UK Limited, Invest KZN, Standard Chartered, Standard Bank Group, Plantations et Huileries du Congo, Lagos Free Zone (Tolaram), Octopus Energy, ServiceNow, Stellar Developments, Spiro, Safaricom, Premier Invest, Remittances Hub, S-RM, DLA Piper, and London Stock Exchange Group.

    To register as a delegate for The Africa Debate, please visit: https://apo-opa.co/4efWGM0. Places are limited and advance registration is essential.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Invest Africa.

    For more information or media enquiries, please contact:
    Pippa van Breda
    Marketing & Communications Manager
    Invest Africa
    T: +44 2037 305 035
    E: pippa.vanbreda@investafrica.com

    About The Africa Debate:
    The Africa Debate is London’s premier investment forum dedicated to shaping the future of African trade, investment, and economic transformation. Now in its 11th year, the event serves as a critical platform for global businesses, investors, policymakers, and thought leaders to engage in high-level discussions on Africa’s evolving role in the global economy.

    About Invest Africa:
    Invest Africa is a leading pan-African business platform that promotes trade and investment across the continent. With a 60-year heritage and a network of over 400 global members, Invest Africa provides trusted intelligence, strategic connections, and high-level convenings to support business success across African markets.

    About Africa Finance Corporation:
    Africa Finance Corporation is Africa’s leading multilateral finance institution, focused on bridging the continent’s infrastructure gap through innovative, commercially viable, and sustainable investments.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: CNC praised for meeting 2024 – 2025 objectives

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

    News story

    CNC praised for meeting 2024 – 2025 objectives

    All officers and staff across the Constabulary have been praised for meeting the key strategic objectives upon which the force is measured.

    The Annual Business Plan 2024/2025.

    The CNC’s Annual Business Plan outlines objectives for the CNC to achieve each year. Under three strategic goals, the plan detailed 43 separate focus areas for delivery over the last financial year. At this time, 93 percent of these have been met completely, with those remaining on track from delivery shortly.  

    The achievements included, amongst other things: 

    • Expanded our operations to cover four new non-nuclear sites, successfully transitioning officers in from the Ministry of Defence Police to join our ranks  
    • Over 4,600 Project Servator deployments were completed as well as continued partnership working with Home Office forces in the areas around our sites 
    • Continued to support national armed policing capacity, providing mutual aid to other police forces at various high-profile events, including the Paris Olympics and the Conservative Party annual conference 
    • Successfully delivered the Vessel Protection Pilot on behalf of the Home Office, with CNC officers deployed to cross-channel ferries  
    • Delivered improvements to the facilities at Firearms Training Unit South (Bisley), maintaining our world-class training capabilities 
    • Fully implementing a new apprenticeship scheme, with 159 recruits starting the programme within the year, of which 85 have completed their initial training and 53 are still undertaking initial training 
    • Professional Development Units (PDUs) established and embedded at all sites to support the continuous development of skills and standards  
    • Demonstrated our flexibility by working with stakeholders on both new-build nuclear projects and managing the cessation of services at other sites  
    • Made huge progress in our Cultural Action Plan, the launch of the new Code of Ethics, and a wide range of initiatives led by our four affinity networks to progress our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion priorities   

    Civil Nuclear Police Authority Chair, Susan Johnson, OBE, congratulated the CNC on meeting its objectives, stating:  

    “Last year saw a huge effort across all parts of the organisation, by officers and staff.  

    “Being able to maintain the core mission on sites, whilst also undertaking additional initiatives on behalf of other partners, including the Home Office, is commendable.  

    “The CNC’s performance last year belies the size of the organisation and demonstrates what a vital national asset the CNC has become since its inception twenty years ago.  

    “I am certain the organisation will also excel in meeting the ambitious objectives which have been outlined in its business plan for this year too.”   

    Chief Constable Simon Chesterman also thanked all members of the organisation: 

    “Whether it’s delivering proactive, visible policing, or the work of police staff in our enabling services, it is through teamwork and dedication to our role that sees another year of strong operational performance and innovation.  

    “In addition to strengthening our operational capabilities and taking on new sites, we have also seen some real progress with our organisational culture too. 

    “We set out a challenging programme of work for the past year and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved, and grateful to everyone for their contribution.” 

    The Annual Business Plan 2024/2025 is available on our website. A more detailed narrative summary of our key achievements is included in the Annual Business Plan 2025/2026.

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –