NewzIntel.com

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Funding boost for local sporting clubs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Tuggeranong BMX Club in Kambah is one recipient of the Scheme.

    In brief:

    • The ACT Government offers the Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.
    • The scheme is providing funding to 38 local sport, recreation and community clubs.
    • Clubs will use the funding to improve their facilities and get more Canberrans involved in sport.

    The latest round of the ACT Government’s Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme provides funding for 38 local sporting and recreation clubs.

    It will help clubs develop places for sport and active recreation that are:

    • fit for purpose
    • sustainable
    • accessible.

    The investment aims to help more Canberrans get involved in sport.

    2025 funding recipients

    The ACT Water Ski Association is one club to receive funding.

    It will use the funds to upgrade its water ski clubhouse facilities at Molonglo Reach.

    This will include a refurbished kitchen and bathrooms.

    The Tuggeranong BMX Club in Kambah will replace its BMX start gate.

    Belconnen Netball Association in Charnwood will build:

    • a new female and male toilet
    • change facilities
    • a fully accessible toilet with shower
    • better storage space.

    “We are delighted to receive this investment from the ACT Government to upgrade our off-court facilities at Charnwood to ensure they are a more welcoming and inclusive environment for all our participants and supporters,”President of Belconnen Netball Association Kim Clarke said.

    “Our current toilet and storage facilities are not suitable to cater for up to 2,000 users on competition days and this support will ensure a safe, accessible and welcoming environment for everyone to play and attend our netball activities and competitions.”

    More information on the program

    The Scheme offers four funding options. These are:

    • The Community Sport Facilities Funding Program. This supports the development of new high-quality, sustainable facilities. It also covers the upgrade of existing facilities. The goal is to help maintain or increase physical activity in the community.
    • The Club Enhancement Program. This helps sporting and recreation groups to further develop their local services and programs. It can include:
      • buying equipment
      • upskilling coaches and officials
      • supporting improvements to club governance.
    • The State Organisation Support Program. This provides funding through three-year agreements. Funds are for improving organisational capacity and capability.
    • The Industry Partnership Program. This allows the ACT Government to co-invest with state sporting organisations in projects that are:
      • innovative
      • collaborative
      • scalable
      • sustainable.

    For more information visit the Sport and Recreation website.

    Read more like this

    Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:


    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Klobuchar Statement on the U.S. Court of International Trade Overturning President Trump’s Tariff Taxes

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn)

    WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the U.S. Court of International Trade overturning President Trump’s tariff taxes in a unanimous three-judge decision.

    “This unanimous verdict by judges appointed by Presidents Trump, Obama, and Reagan restores sanity and stability to our trade policies. Instead of raising costs by nearly $3,000 per family, we should bring relief to the American people who have faced higher costs and chaos for far too long under Trump’s tariff taxes. As the judges ruled, ‘The Constitution assigns Congress the exclusive powers to “lay and collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises,” and to “regulate Commerce with foreign Nations.”’ The President clearly overstepped his authority with these across-the-board tariffs.”

    In April, the Senate passed Klobuchar’s bipartisan resolution with Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Mark Warner (D-VA) to reverse President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs on Canadian goods.

    Klobuchar joined Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to introduce the Trade Review Act of 2025, bipartisan legislation that would bring stability and accountability to U.S. trade policy by reasserting limits on the president’s ability to unilaterally impose tariffs without the approval of Congress.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: /China Focus/ China Builds Satellite Constellations to Provide Intelligent Communications from Space

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    BEIJING, May 29 (Xinhua) — China is boosting its presence in low Earth orbit to support growing demand for smart device connectivity, launching four new satellites this month to expand its Tianqi constellation.

    On May 19, China successfully launched a commercial carrier rocket, CERES-1, from a platform in the sea off Shandong Province, east China, placing a group of four satellites in the Tianqi constellation into their planned orbit.

    Following SpaceX’s lead, a growing number of Chinese aerospace companies have begun building Starlink-style satellite networks in recent years. Some of these commercial space firms specialize in developing critical digital infrastructure for the Internet of Things (IoT).

    The Tianqi satellite constellation developed and operated by GuoDianGaoKe Technology has reached the first phase of deployment, with 37 satellites in orbit forming a global network providing services in the fields of smart cities, marine monitoring, emergency communications and environmental monitoring.

    The launch of four new satellites will reduce the constellation’s orbital period, a key factor for real-time data transmission, to five minutes, increasing operational efficiency by 37.5 percent.

    “Tianqi has filled the technological gap in China’s low-orbit IoT satellite field. Its technical systems, system performance and terminal performance have reached the world level,” said Lu Qiang, chairman of GuoDianGaoKe Technology.

    Tianqi is currently exploring the consumer markets for smartphones, smart cars and wearables. The second phase of the project involves developing and launching additional satellites to improve consumer-grade applications.

    Another commercial satellite constellation project, funded by a leading Chinese automaker, aims to revolutionize intelligent vehicle connectivity through space.

    Geely’s Future Mobility Constellation, developed by its space subsidiary Geespace, has deployed 30 satellites across three orbital planes.

    The deployment provided 90 percent global coverage, making Geespace the first Chinese commercial enterprise to offer low-orbit satellite communications services to international users.

    “The group focuses on intelligent driving, smart mobility and consumer electronics scenarios,” said Geespace founder and CEO Wang Yang.

    Geely’s Future Mobility Constellation project is divided into three phases: 72 satellites for global real-time data transmission (phase one), 264 satellites for direct smartphone connectivity (phase two), and 5,676 satellites for global broadband access (phase three).

    Thanks to the satellite constellation, Geely’s Zeekr and Galaxy electric vehicles are equipped with space communications, allowing users to send messages via satellite when terrestrial networks fail.

    In June 2024, Geely’s satellite constellation began international commercial operation in the Middle East, and is scheduled to expand to North Africa in 2025, marking a new milestone for Chinese commercial space companies on the global stage. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: UPDATE: Death in custody – Alice Springs

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    The Northern Territory Police Force (NTPF) is continuing to investigate the death of a 24-year-old man in police custody earlier this week.

    Around 1:10pm on Tuesday, the Joint Emergency Services Communication Centre received reports that a male had been involved in an altercation with a security guard at the Coles supermarket in Alice Springs.

    It is alleged a 24-year-old Aboriginal male was placing items down the front of his clothing when he was confronted by security guards.

    One of the security guards was assaulted and there were two police officers, who were in plain clothes at the time, in the supermarket who rendered assistance to the security guards.

    The man was placed onto the ground by those police officers, and lost consciousness a short time later.

    Initial first aid was provided, including CPR.

    St John Ambulance attended the scene, and the man was conveyed to Alice Springs Hospital where he was pronounced deceased shortly after 2:20pm.

    The NTPF Major Crime Section Detectives are in Alice Springs investigating the death with oversight from the Professional Standards Command. Police are also investigating this matter on behalf of the Coroner.

    The cause of the man’s death is currently undetermined, and the forensic pathologist is required to complete further investigation to provide any substantive cause of death.

    Police believe the man was involved in an incident near the Commonwealth Bank on Gregory Terrace just prior to the incident at Coles. It is alleged that during this incident the 24-year-old has assaulted a woman who was not known to him. Police have since identified this woman and investigations remain ongoing.

    Detectives are urging anyone who witnessed the incident at Coles or on Gregory Terrace to make contact on 131 444. Anonymous reports can be made through Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via https://crimestoppersnt.com.au/.

    Assistant Commissioner Travis Wurst said “Detectives have collected a considerable amount of evidence and the public can be assured that a full and thorough investigative report will be prepared for the Coroner.

    “Police are in contact with the man’s family and are providing support through our Cultural Reform Team and I have visited the community of Yuendumu today to provide an update. We are also providing welfare support, alongside the NT Police Association, to the members involved. 

    “Our thoughts are with the deceased’s family, our members and the entire Alice Springs Community and we thank them for their patience as we work through this investigation.”

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Greece pawn shop owner pleads guilty for his role in retail theft ring involving hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of stolen merchandise

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo announced today that Dominic Sprague, 41, of Greece, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford to conspiracy to transport stolen goods in interstate commerce. According to the plea agreement, Sprague faces up to 72 months in prison when sentenced. 

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who is handling the case, stated that between December 2021 and October 17, 2024, Sprague, who was the owner and operator of the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop in Greece, engaged in a conspiracy with larcenists, Amanda Reeves, Shabon Banks, Chad Lewis, Jr., and pawn shop manager James Civiletti, to buy and sell stolen goods.

    As part of the scheme, Reeves, Banks, and Lewis stole new-in-box items from store shelves on a weekly and sometimes daily basis, both alone and in concert with one another. They then sold the stolen goods to the pawn shop, which was managed by Civiletti, for a fraction of their actual retail value. The pawn shop then resold the stolen merchandise on eBay at much higher prices, resulting in significant profits. In total, the New York Gold Diamond Pawn Shop purchased 37,936 stolen new-in-box items from Reeves, Banks, and Lewis on more than 670 occasions, for which they were paid $290,000.00, which was approximately 25% of the actual retail value of the stolen items. This resulted in actual losses to the victim-retailers of approximately $1,160,000.00.

    Banks, Reeves, Lewis and Civiletti were previously convicted and are awaiting sentencing.

    The plea is the result of an investigation by the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood; the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Todd Baxter; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Erin Keegan, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Harry Chavis.     

    Sentencing is scheduled for September 23, 2025, before Judge Wolford.         

    # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Susan Stone, Credit Union SA Chair of Economics, University of South Australia

    A US court has blocked the so-called “Liberation Day” tariffs that US President Donald Trump imposed on imported goods from around 90 nations. This puts implementation of Trump’s current trade policy in disarray.

    The Court of International Trade ruled the emergency authority Trump used to impose the tariffs could not override the role of Congress, which has the right to regulate commerce with other countries.

    Tariffs imposed via other legislative processes such as those dealing with cars, steel and aluminium continue to stand. But the broad-based “reciprocal” tariffs will need to be removed within 10 days of the court’s ruling. Trump administration officials have already filed plans to appeal.

    The ruling calls into question trade negotiations underway with more than 18 different nations that are trying to lower these tariffs. Do these countries continue to negotiate or do they wait for the judicial process to play out?

    The Trump administration still has other mechanisms through which it can impose tariffs, but these have limits on the amount that can be imposed, or entail processes which can take months or years. This undermines Trump’s preferred method of negotiation: throwing out large threats and backing down once a concession is reached.

    Emergency powers were a step too far

    The lawsuits were filed by United States importers of foreign products and some US states, challenging Trump’s use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act of 1977.

    The lawsuits argued the national emergencies cited in imposing the tariffs – the trade deficit and the fentanyl crisis – were not an emergency and not directly addressed by the tariff remedy. The court agreed, and said by imposing tariffs Trump had overstepped his authority.

    The ruling said the executive orders used were “declared to be invalid as contrary to law”.

    The act states the president is entitled to take economic action in the face of “an unusual and extraordinary threat”. It’s mainly been used to impose sanctions on terrorist groups or freeze assets from Russia. There’s nothing in the act that refers to tariffs.

    The decision means all the reciprocal tariffs – including the 10% tariffs on most countries, the 50% tariffs Trump was talking about putting on the EU, and some of the Chinese tariffs – are ruled by the court to be illegal. They must be removed within 10 days.

    The ruling was based on two separate lawsuits. One was brought by a group of small businesses that argued tariffs materially hurt their business. The other was brought by 12 individual states that argued the tariffs would materially impact their ability to provide public goods.

    Some industry tariffs will remain in place

    The ruling does not apply to tariffs applied under Section 201, known as safeguard tariffs. They are intended to protect industries from imports allegedly being sold in the US market at unfair prices or through unfair means. Tariffs on solar panels and washing machines were brought under this regulation.

    Also excluded are Section 232 tariffs, which are applied for national security reasons. Those are the steel and aluminium tariffs, the automobile and auto parts tariffs. Trump has declared all those as national security issues, so those tariffs will remain.

    Most of the tariffs against China are also excluded under Section 301. Those are put in place for unfair trade practices, such as intellectual property theft or forced technology transfer. They are meant to pressure countries to change their policies.

    Other trade investigations are still underway

    In addition, there are current investigations related to copper and the pharmaceuticals sector, which will continue. These investigations are part of a more traditional trade process and may lead to future tariffs, including on Australia.

    The Trump administration is still weighing possible sector-specific tariffs on pharmaceuticals.
    Planar/Shutterstock

    Now for the appeals

    The Trump administration has already filed its intention to appeal to the federal appeals court. This process will take some time. In the meantime, there are at least five other legal challenges to tariffs pending in the courts.

    If the appeals court provides a ruling the Trump administration or opponents don’t like, they can appeal to the Supreme Court.

    Alternatively, the White House could direct customs officials to ignore the court and continue to collect tariffs.

    The Trump administration has ignored court orders in the past, particularly on immigration rulings. So it remains to be seen if customs officials will release goods without the tariffs being paid in 10 days’ time.

    The administration is unlikely to lay down on this. In addition to its appeal process, officials complained about “unelected judges” and “judicial overreach” and may contest the whole process. The only thing that continues to be a certainty is that uncertainty will drive global markets for the foreseeable future.

    Susan Stone 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. Trump’s global trade plans are in disarray, after a US court ruling on ‘Liberation Day’ tariffs – https://theconversation.com/trumps-global-trade-plans-are-in-disarray-after-a-us-court-ruling-on-liberation-day-tariffs-257812

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI China: China Film outlines its achievements, ambitions

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    China Film Co. Ltd. has been named one of China’s top 30 cultural enterprises for the 17th time in a list jointly released by Guangming Daily and Economic Daily.

    Fu Ruoqing, chairman of China Film Co. Ltd., poses for a photo after a ceremony recognizing China’s top 30 cultural enterprises for 2025, Beijing, May 26, 2025. [Photo courtesy of China Film Co. Ltd.]

    Fu Ruoqing, chairman of China Film Co. Ltd., accepted the award at a ceremony in Beijing on May 26. The company also released a press release underscoring its remarkable achievements over the past year along with its innovations and global ambitions.

    The statement noted that behind this significant honor lies the company’s steadfast role as a national leader in cinema, demonstrating its commitment to innovation across multiple fronts including quality productions, technological advancement and market revitalization.

    China Film Co. Ltd. maintains a people-centered creative approach, emphasizing meaningful themes, compelling storytelling and high-quality productions, according to the press release. In 2024, the company released 46 films, accounting for 70.19% of China’s total domestic box office revenue. Nine of these titles ranked among the year’s top 10 highest-grossing Chinese films. The productions have earned more than 140 domestic and international honors.

    Notable releases include “The Volunteers: The Battle of Life and Death,” portraying the heroic efforts during the War to Resist U.S. Aggression and Aid Korea; the visually poetic dance film “A Tapestry of a Legendary Land,” adapting traditional Chinese culture through cross-media artistry; the dramas “Promise of Decades” and “Revisit,” commemorating the 25th anniversary of Macao’s return; and “Snow Leopard,” winner of multiple international awards.

    The film company is driving reform to boost productivity and innovation, integrating its operations in investment, development, production and distribution through deep convergence of production and operational systems. This creative-centered approach unleashes youthful vitality and a pioneering spirit. Through its Young Filmmakers Initiative, the company is fostering a new generation of creative studios and empowering young directors to boldly create and innovate.

    China Film Co. Ltd. said it has consistently led technological innovation in cinema amid the convergence of technology and culture. In 2024, the company unveiled a two-year film technology innovation plan and achieved several breakthroughs in core technologies, developing China’s own high-format cinema system covering projection equipment, production processes and front-end shooting. Its 10-meter Cinity LED screen became the world’s first DCI-certified LED projection system, marking China’s leadership in direct-view display technology. Following the opening of the Cinity LED Mastering Center in Beijing, an overseas counterpart has also been completed and put into operation in Hollywood. Over 200 Cinity theaters operate domestically, with more than 30 overseas. On May 16, the world’s first 14-meter Cinity LED screen debuted in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, delivering groundbreaking audiovisual experiences.

    China operates the world’s most extensive digital film distribution network covering both urban and rural areas. As the country’s largest distributor, China Film Co. Ltd. has implemented a range of measures to ensure robust film supply. In 2024, the company handled distribution for 646 films, accounting for 87.52% of China’s total box office revenue. Notably, it distributed all of the 10 highest-grossing domestic films and 98% of imported foreign titles, further solidifying its market dominance.

    The company has actively responded to policies for stimulating consumption and domestic demand to unlock market potential. In 2024, it partnered with China Media Group to pioneer cinema live broadcasts, holding over 1,000 screening events that attracted 64,000 viewers. The “Games Wide Open” initiative, bringing Olympic events to cinemas, became a cultural phenomenon.

    The company has also accelerated global outreach, with several films receiving overseas releases and selection at international film festivals. Through its alliance booths at various film events and festivals, it has facilitated 68 participating organizations in exhibitions and negotiations, brokered 11 international cooperation deals and promoted nearly 200 films. The addition of new documentary and stage art film categories further diversified China’s cinematic exports.

    As the vanguard of China’s film industry, China Film Co. Ltd. stated it will continue to advance high-quality development through proactive measures in production, distribution, exhibition, technology and services.

    China Film Co. Ltd., China Publishing Group, Tencent, iQiyi, iFlytek and 25 other enterprises were named to this year’s list of China’s top 30 cultural enterprises. These industry leaders reported total net assets of 695.2 billion yuan in 2024, with combined operating revenue of 639.8 billion yuan from their core businesses — breaking the 600-billion-yuan threshold for the first time.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Elon Musk leaving US govt role

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Tesla CEO Elon Musk said Wednesday that he is leaving his government role as an adviser to U.S. President Donald Trump.

    “As my scheduled time as a Special Government Employee comes to an end, I would like to thank President Trump for the opportunity to reduce wasteful spending,” Musk posted on X.

    “The DOGE (the Department of Government Efficiency) mission will only strengthen over time as it becomes a way of life throughout the government,” he said.

    U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson on Wednesday thanked Musk for his work and promised to pursue more spending cuts in the future, posting on X that “Elon Musk and the entire DOGE team have done INCREDIBLE work exposing waste, fraud, and abuse across the federal government.”

    “The House is eager and ready to act on DOGE’s findings so we can deliver even more cuts to big government that President Trump wants and the American people demand,” Johnson wrote.

    The billionaire will rededicate himself to companies like Tesla and rocket manufacturer SpaceX. Musk said earlier that he will step back from political spending, because “I think I’ve done enough.”

    In an interview with CBS News on Tuesday, Musk criticized Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act,” describing the legislation, a mix of tax cuts and enhanced immigration enforcement, as a “massive spending bill” that increases the federal deficit and “undermines the work” of DOGE.

    Trump on Wednesday defended his bill, saying, “I’m not happy about certain aspects of it, but I’m thrilled by other aspects of it.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Development Contributions Policy approved

    Source: Auckland Council

    A new Development Contributions Policy has today been adopted by Auckland Council’s Governing Body.

    The policy ensures the cost of growth-related infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers.

    The Contributions Policy 2025 enables the council to recover development contributions from those undertaking development. The policy supports a 30-year plan for growth-related infrastructure in the investment priority areas in Auckland.

    Auckland Council Mayor Wayne Brown said council had a rational debate and sorted this one out fairly fast.

    “At the end of it, growth pays for growth; developers must pay their fair share of the cost of infrastructure,” said Mayor Brown. “Auckland ratepayers shouldn’t be expected to shoulder a disproportionate share of the cost of growth, especially during times when households are struggling. 

    “Given there are often complaints on both sides of this, and we received over 300 pages of robust advice to support our decisions, I’m confident we have landed in the right place. 

    “This is a very significant policy for council, one that enables approximately $10 billion of investment in priority areas across Auckland. We’re doing what we need to support growth in the right places, within the constraints in front of us.” 

    Matching pace and scale of growth

    Auckland Council financial strategy general manager Michael Burns said the council is grateful for feedback on the policy, as it has helped inform a final policy that will enable infrastructure investment to match the pace and scale of Auckland’s growth.

    “This is a complex but significant piece of policy that ultimately affects both current and future Aucklanders. It ensures the cost of new infrastructure is fairly shared between developers and ratepayers, and the council appreciates the feedback from a range of stakeholders that has helped get the balance right,” says Mr Burns.

    “The new policy is informed by our long-term plan adopted last year and also supports a 30-year, $10.3 billion infrastructure investment programme in parts of Auckland where significant growth is expected and delivers quality urban environments.”

    At today’s Governing Body, councillors endorsed a 30-year programme of infrastructure investment required to support the expected development in the identified Investment Priority Areas in Auckland, and adopted the new Contributions Policy 2025 – the two collectively enabling strategic infrastructure investment across Auckland.

    The plans help meet the needs of Auckland’s forecast population growth, as 200,000 more Aucklanders are expected by 2034 and a further 400,000 by 2054. The contributions policy helps fund stormwater, transport, parks and community facilities in new and existing developments.

    The 30-year programme focuses on investment in the Inner Northwest (Redhills, Westgate and Whenuapai), Drury, Māngere, Mount Roskill and Tāmaki.

    The proposed contributions policy was revised following feedback during consultation and takes account of updated information on project requirements, developer and central government plans.

    “Auckland has experienced substantial growth in the last decade and that is expected to continue. The scale of growth means the council needs to plan now for the investment required to support that growth and to plan how it will be funded,” says Mr Burns.

    Investment priority areas

    The increased investment the council is committing to is reflected in an increased development contributions price in some areas. This is particularly so in investment priority areas – Inner Northwest, Tamaki, Mt Roskill, Mangere and Drury – where the scale of growth requires aligned funding.

    Some feedback suggested that it would be fairer for development contribution prices to increase over time rather than remain flat. The council has considered this and agreed that, while still recovering the full costs of infrastructure over time, prices should start lower and increase at 2 per cent annually. This ensures earlier developers pay a similar cost, in real terms, as those who develop later on.

    On average, development contributions in the investment priority areas, paid in the 2025/2026 financial year, will be $48,000. This is down from the $68,000 that was consulted on.

    Development contributions across the rest of Auckland (outside of investment priority areas) will remain on average $20,000 per household equivalent for the 2025/2026 year, less than the $32,000 that was consulted on.

    The policy will come into effect on 1 July 2025.

    For more information, visit aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/developmentcontributions

    – ends –

    Further information

    What is the new pricing for development contributions?
    Development contributions pricing will vary depending on a range of factors, including location, timing and investment levels by area.

    Within the period of the Long-term Plan 2024-2034, areas outside of investment priority areas will see a $8.9 billion capital investment, with $1.5 billion from development contribution at $20,000 on average (per household unit equivalent).  

    Over a 30-year period, there is a $10.3 billion of capital investment in the investment priority areas, with $4.8 billion recovered from development contributions at $48,000 on average (per household unit equivalent).  

    The table below shows the development contribution prices.

    Development contribution costs

      Previous 2022 policy
    (average cost per household unit equivalent)    		 Consultation proposal
    (average cost per household unit equivalent)    		 New 2025 policy
    (average cost per household unit in 2026 financial year increasing by 2 per cent each year)
    Inner Northwest $25,000 $98,000 $72,000
    Tāmaki $31,000 $119,000 $71,000 (with a stormwater connection)$51,000 (without a stormwater connection)
    Mt Roskill $20,000 $52,000 $33,000
    Māngere $18,000 $29,000 $27,000
    Drury $70,000 $83,000 $64,000
    Elsewhere in the Auckland region $20,000 $32,000 $20,000

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI: NBPE – Transaction in Own Shares

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR INTO AUSTRALIA, CANADA, ITALY, DENMARK, JAPAN, THE UNITED STATES, OR TO ANY NATIONAL OF SUCH JURISDICTIONS

    St Peter Port, Guernsey 29 May 2025

    NB Private Equity Partners (“NBPE” or the “Company”) today announces details of Class A Shares bought back pursuant to general authority granted by shareholders of the Company on 12 June 2024 and the share buy-back agreement with Jefferies International Limited.

    Transaction on London Stock Exchange

    Date of purchase of Shares 28 May 2025
    Number of Shares purchased 1,586 Class A Shares
    Highest price/lowest price paid £14.36 / £14.22
    ISIN for the Shares GG00B1ZBD492

    All Class A Shares bought back will be cancelled. Following the cancellation, the number of outstanding Class A Shares is 45,549,961‬. The Company also has 3,150,408 Class A shares held in treasury. For reporting purposes under the FCA’s Disclosure Guidance and Transparency Rules the market should use the figure of 45,549,961 voting rights when determining if they are required to notify their interest in, or a change to their interest in the Company.

    For further information, please contact:

    NBPE Investor Relations        +44 20 3214 9002
    Luke Mason        NBPrivateMarketsIR@nb.com

    Kaso Legg Communications        +44 (0)20 3882 6644

    Charles Gorman        nbpe@kl-communications.com
    Luke Dampier
    Charlotte Francis

    About NB Private Equity Partners Limited
    NBPE invests in direct private equity investments alongside market leading private equity firms globally. NB Alternatives Advisers LLC (the “Investment Manager”), an indirect wholly owned subsidiary of Neuberger Berman Group LLC, is responsible for sourcing, execution and management of NBPE. The vast majority of direct investments are made with no management fee / no carried interest payable to third-party GPs, offering greater fee efficiency than other listed private equity companies. NBPE seeks capital appreciation through growth in net asset value over time while paying a bi-annual dividend.

    LEI number: 213800UJH93NH8IOFQ77

    About Neuberger Berman

    Neuberger Berman is an employee-owned, private, independent investment manager founded in 1939 with over 2,800 employees in 26 countries. The firm manages $515 billion of equities, fixed income, private equity, real estate and hedge fund portfolios for global institutions, advisors and individuals. Neuberger Berman’s investment philosophy is founded on active management, fundamental research and engaged ownership. Neuberger Berman has been named by Pensions & Investments as the #1 or #2 Best Place to Work in Money Management for each of the last eleven years (firms with more than 1,000 employees). Visit www.nb.com for more information. Data as of March 31, 2025.

    This press release appears as a matter of record only and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any security.

    NBPE is established as a closed-end investment company domiciled in Guernsey. NBPE has received the necessary consent of the Guernsey Financial Services Commission. The value of investments may fluctuate. Results achieved in the past are no guarantee of future results. This document is not intended to constitute legal, tax or accounting advice or investment recommendations. Prospective investors are advised to seek expert legal, financial, tax and other professional advice before making any investment decision. Statements contained in this document that are not historical facts are based on current expectations, estimates, projections, opinions and beliefs of NBPE’s investment manager. Such statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, and undue reliance should not be placed thereon. Additionally, this document contains “forward-looking statements.” Actual events or results or the actual performance of NBPE may differ materially from those reflected or contemplated in such targets or forward-looking statements.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: JuCoin Solves DeFi’s Accessibility Crisis with Breakthrough CeDeFi Solution

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Service-driven exchange JuCoin eliminates 65% user drop-off rate by removing wallet barriers and technical friction

    SINGAPORE, May 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — JuCoin, the world’s first service-driven cryptocurrency exchange, has launched its revolutionary CeDeFi solution, empowering users to trade publicly available blockchain tokens directly through their exchange accounts without the traditional requirements of external wallets, seed phrase management, or blockchain technical knowledge.

    This industry-leading innovation directly addresses crypto’s most significant adoption barrier: industry research reveals that 65% of users abandon decentralized applications after their first interaction due to overwhelming technical complexity and poor user experience design.

    “The numbers tell the story, when nearly two-thirds of people try DeFi once and never return, we’re not dealing with a user problem, we’re dealing with a design problem,” stated Sammi Li, CEO of JuCoin. “We’ve eliminated the technical gatekeeping that has kept mainstream users locked out of blockchain innovation. Now, investing in emerging tokens is as simple as trading Bitcoin on any exchange.”

    Democratizing Access to Blockchain Innovation

    JuCoin’s CeDeFi solution delivers unprecedented accessibility through:

    • Universal Blockchain Access: Direct trading of tokens from multiple networks without platform changes
    • Centralized Portfolio Management: All blockchain assets visible and manageable through JuCoin’s interface
    • One-Click Operations: Multi-step blockchain processes reduced to single actions
    • Institutional-Level Security: JuCoin’s security infrastructure protecting all decentralized interactions

    The solution breaks down the artificial barriers between centralized and decentralized finance, allowing users to explore the full spectrum of cryptocurrency innovation while maintaining the security, support, and familiarity of their trusted exchange platform.

    Executing the Service-Driven Philosophy

    This CeDeFi launch represents the culmination of JuCoin’s service-driven approach, which transforms exchanges from simple transaction processors into comprehensive financial service providers. Drawing from CEO Sammi Li’s expertise in luxury consumer experiences, JuCoin has consistently prioritized intuitive design and seamless functionality over technical showcasing.

    “We don’t measure our success by how many features we can cram into a platform, but by how effortlessly our users can achieve their financial goals,” Li noted. “Our CeDeFi solution embodies this principle. It’s the result of making sophisticated blockchain technology completely invisible to the user experience.”

    The innovation strengthens JuCoin’s comprehensive ecosystem approach, integrating with JuChain blockchain infrastructure, JuChat social platform, and JuOne hardware solutions to create a unified Web3 experience that prioritizes accessibility without sacrificing security or functionality.

    Immediate Availability and Growth Trajectory

    JuCoin’s CeDeFi solution is fully operational and available to all platform users starting today. The launch includes complete integration with Solana blockchain tokens, with additional network support planned for systematic deployment to expand access to the broader decentralized asset universe.

    Detailed user guides and educational content are available through the JuCoin platform to help users maximize the benefits of this groundbreaking technology.

    About JuCoin

    JuCoin has operated as a leading cryptocurrency exchange since 2013, evolving into the world’s first service-driven crypto platform serving over 12 million users globally across more than 30 countries. The company maintains an integrated digital ecosystem including JuChain (Layer 1 blockchain), JuOne (Web3 AI-encrypted smartphone), JuChat (Web3 super app), and JuCoin Labs (innovation hub), all unified through the JU token.

    The company’s service-driven philosophy focuses on removing complexity from cryptocurrency interactions, making advanced blockchain capabilities accessible to all users regardless of technical expertise or background.

    Contact:
    Nicolas Tang
    nicolas_t@jucoin.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9966f22e-9134-47fb-8c75-49cf846d7b51

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Result of the Daily Variable Rate Repo (VRR) auction held on May 29, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    Tenor 1-day
    Notified Amount (in ₹ crore) 25,000
    Total amount of bids received (in ₹ crore) 3,335
    Amount allotted (in ₹ crore) 3,335
    Cut off Rate (%) 6.01
    Weighted Average Rate (%) 6.01
    Partial Allotment Percentage of bids received at cut off rate (%) NA

    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    

    Press Release: 2025-2026/426

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Arrest – Domestic violence and firearm offences – Leanyer

    Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services

    Strike Force Lyra, with specialist assistance from the Territory Response Group and Dog Operations Unit, have arrested a 27-year-old male in relation to domestic violence and firearm offences in Leanyer yesterday afternoon.

    On Saturday, the male attended a residence in company of two other persons and allegedly demanded money from a female victim before threatening to shoot and kill her. The victim is believed to be known to him. The offender allegedly continued assaulting and threatening the victim for some time and demanded the victim to remove her jewellery before he fled the scene.

    Later that day, the alleged offender returned to the victim’s residence and made further threats.

    On 28 May 2025, police executed a coordinated high-risk apprehension resulting in the alleged offender being apprehended in Leanyer without incident. During the arrest, the offender was located in possession of a firearm and a machete, concealed within his clothing.

    He has since been charged with:

    • Aggravated assault
    • Assault with intent to steal – Aggravated
    • Make a threat to kill a person
    • Trespass
    • Drive Unlicenced
    • Possess / Carry / Use Controlled Weapon
    • Possess / Use Firearm while Unlicensed
    • Possess Unregistered Firearm
    • Going armed in Public

    He was remanded to appear in Darwin Local Court today.

    Strike Force Lyra continues to actively seek out those who commit Domestic and Family Violence offences. Domestic and Family Violence has no place in our community, and we appreciate the brave victim-survivors and witnesses who report these incidents to Police.

    If you or someone you know are experiencing difficulties due to domestic violence, support services are available, including, but not limited to, 1800RESPECT (1800737732) or Lifeline 131 114.

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D2 published

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    We’ve published Draft Practical Compliance Guideline PCG 2025/D2 Factors to consider when determining the amount of your inbound, cross-border related party financing arrangement – ATO compliance approach.

    This draft PCG outlines our compliance approach and risk assessment framework, providing:

    • general factors relevant in determining and testing the amount of a taxpayer’s inbound, cross-border related party financing arrangement
    • specific examples on how we use the factors in our compliance approach
    • the types of documentation and evidence that we expect taxpayers to prepare in determining the amount of their cross-border related party financing arrangements.

    The draft is open for public comment until 30 June 2025. If you would like to submit comments, refer to the instructions within PCG 2025/D2.

    Keep up to date

    We have tailored communication channels for medium, large and multinational businesses, to keep you up to date with updates and changes you need to know.

    Read more articles in our online Business bulletins newsroom.

    Subscribe to our free:

    • fortnightly Business bulletins email newsletterExternal Link
    • email notifications about new and updated information on our website – you can choose to receive updates relevant to your situation. Choose the ‘Business and organisations’ category to ensure your subscription includes notifications for more Business bulletins newsroom articles like this one.

    MIL OSI News –

  • US curbs chip design software, chemicals, other shipments to China

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The United States has ordered a broad swathe of companies to stop shipping goods to China without a license and revoked licenses already granted to certain suppliers, said three people familiar with the matter.

    The new restrictions – which are likely to escalate tensions with Beijing – appear aimed at choke points to prevent China from getting products necessary for key sectors, one of the people said.

    Products affected include design software and chemicals for semiconductors, butane and ethane, machine tools, and aviation equipment, the people said.

    Many companies received letters from the U.S. Department of Commerce over the last few days informing them of the new restrictions.

    Firms that supply electronic design automation (EDA) software for semiconductors were sent letters last Friday that licenses would now be needed to ship to Chinese customers, two of the sources said.

    The electronic design automation software makers include Cadence, Synopsys and Siemens EDA, one said.

    The two sources said the Commerce Department will review requests for licenses to ship to China on a case-by-case basis, suggesting the action was not an outright ban.

    It is unclear whether the new restrictions are part of a broader strategy to create leverage for trade talks during a pause in the imposition of higher tariffs.

    The Commerce Department said it is reviewing exports of strategic significance to China, while noting “in some cases, Commerce has suspended existing export licenses or imposed additional license requirements while the review is pending.”

    The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Shares of Cadence, which declined to comment, closed down 10.7% and shares of Synopsys fell 9.6%.

    Synopsys’ CEO Sassine Ghazi said in a call with analysts that the company had not received a letter nor had it heard from the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Industry and Security, which enforces export controls.

    “We are aware of the reporting and speculations, but Synopsys has not received a notice from BIS … We have not received a letter,” Ghazi said.

    After the market closed, Synopsys reaffirmed its revenue forecast for 2025. Its shares and those of Cadence bounced back 3.5% in trading after the close.

    Siemens EDA did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

    Any move to strip the software makers of their Chinese customers could deal a blow to their bottom line and to their Chinese chip design customers, which heavily rely on top-of-the-line U.S. software.

    “They are the true choke point,” said a former Commerce Department official, who added that rules restricting the export of EDA tools to China have been under consideration since the first Trump administration, but were ruled out as too aggressive.

    Synopsys relies on China for about 16% of its annual revenue, and China accounts for about 12% of annual revenue for Cadence.

    Synopsys, which partners with chip companies such as Nvidia, Qualcomm and Intel, provides software and hardware used for designing advanced processors.

    The Financial Times earlier reported that the Trump administration had ordered the software firms to stop selling their services to Chinese groups.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Q&A: AI and Privacy: The Foundation You Can’t Ignore

    Source: Privacy Commissioner

    Question

    Answer

    What is a non-OneDrive example of where content stores are risky? 

    Shared file servers, Dropbox, and email inboxes are all non-OneDrive examples. From a governance standpoint, personal OneDrive should be treated as temporary storage for drafts, not for long-term collaboration.

    Wouldn’t AI assess value (also) based on date and on words like ‘draft’? Can it be told to e.g disregard a doc with ‘confidential’ in the title or filename?

    Yes, AI can be trained to factor in metadata like document age or certain keywords. But this approach is limited and unreliable on its own. A much safer and more robust method is to apply sensitivity labels and metadata rules that formally control how content is handled. For example, Microsoft 365 tools allow you to restrict AI access based on classification, file type, or protection labels – making it much easier to enforce privacy at scale.

    For your recruitment example, what about the situation where we ‘keep a CV on file for future opportunities’? Is that not really a realistic thing to do? 

    It’s a common practice, but it needs to be done with care. You should define a retention period (e.g. 12 months), communicate this to applicants, and allow them to request deletion after the recruitment process. Also consider legal hold requirements, in case the process is challenged. Ideally, this is built into your recruitment case file template with the default settings pre-applied but flexible for roles like a Chief Executive.

    How does one get buy-in from leadership to prioritise these strategies?

    Focus on risk. Identify the highest-risk content (e.g. HR, contracts, or customer data), quantify the potential fallout of a breach, and show how practical steps can reduce exposure. You could use this session’s video or invite an external review to present findings. Often, a short, high level assessment is enough to spark action, especially when linked to regulatory or reputational risk.

    Is Teams not safe? Is SharePoint safer to collaborate internally with staff?

    They work together. Teams stores files in SharePoint and OneDrive behind the scenes. Both can be made safe with the right setup: applying retention rules, sensitivity labels, metadata, and access controls. What matters is structure. For example, a recruitment team site can be tightly scoped with the right protections, so that only authorised people can access specific content and only for as long as it’s needed.

    Love the approach to start with high-risk areas for labelling etc. HR, Legal – where else should we start? 

    Start with areas that handle high-stakes personal or sensitive data. This often includes customer service (names, addresses, complaints), regulatory consultations, and internal incident management. The key is to understand what information is created and used as part of your core business processes and to apply structured governance there first.

    So AI can really access anything on OneDrive or Teams? Is this just within the organisation or external as well? Otherwise, why would anyone even use these platforms if they are so unsecure? 

    AI like Microsoft Copilot can only access what the individual user has permission to see – it doesn’t open up content to the outside world.But not all AI tools are created equal. If you’re using a third-party tool (like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Claude), and it’s trained on your inputs, there’s a much higher risk. Always confirm the scope, access, and data use policies of any AI platform you’re considering.

    Do you think the large number of apps and programs teams (sometime multiple to communicate across) use is exposing organisations to greater risk?

    Absolutely. Every new app increases your attack surface. But this isn’t just a Microsoft problem, the pre-Teams world was full of risky, unstructured tools too. The strength of Microsoft 365 lies in its potential to consolidate and govern information. The challenge is to use it well: with structured Teams templates, sensible defaults, and good training. Done right, it can significantly reduce risk.

    Thanks Sarah. Do you do any other lectures or information sessions? It’s great to get this wide view and ideas about where to start and how to progress.

    Yes! We have recorded sessions available on our website, and we’re running upcoming workshops (June–August) on managing “high-stakes content” – covering privacy, confidentiality, and governance in practice. Let us know if you’d like an invitation.

    Thanks for the presentation Sarah. What is an IPC Workspace? 

    It depends. Privacy Officers bring the compliance lens. IT provides the tools. HR, Finance, or Operations may own the business processes. Often, the best results come from collaboration across roles – sometimes led by a CISO, or through a digital transformation project. We’re often asked to create a scoping report first – identifying key risks and recommending a practical, cross-functional way forward.

    What do you think about using AI to help you to manage your content e.g., highlight risk, old info, differing information etc.

    There’s real promise here, especially in auto classifying content or flagging risk patterns. But you need to ensure the AI only sees your data and doesn’t feed it back into public training sets. We’re working with AI to assist classification and retention. That said, good design still matters. When workspaces are built with clear rules and defaults, risk is reduced without relying solely on AI.

    I also wonder about why we don’t explicitly reference commercial sensitivity in privacy conversations. Do these have different considerations?

    It’s a great point. While commercial sensitivity isn’t covered under the Privacy Act, the governance techniques are the same: structured storage, restricted access, retention rules, and labelling. These protect business secrets just as effectively as personal information.

    (Would) one of the risks for using AI would be misinformation and manipulation?

    Definitely. Especially when AI pulls from poor-quality or untrusted sources – or if it mixes draft and final content. That’s why it’s critical to structure what AI can access and ensure human review remains part of the workflow. At this point in time, AI should be helpful, not authoritative.

    Thanks Sarah, I was at the 7th Data conference, IM only got mentioned once when it came to AI… just the once, be good to get this message in front of that crowd if you can.

    Agreed!!!

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • Market open in green; Sensex tops 81,500, Nifty near 24810

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian benchmark indices opened higher on Thursday amid positive global cues, as buying was seen in the IT and metal sectors in the early trade.

    At 9:29 am, the BSE Sensex was up 237.56 points or 0.29 per cent at 81,549.88, while the NSE Nifty rose 57 points or 0.23 per cent to trade at 24,809.45.

    Sectoral indices also showed strength, with the Nifty Bank gaining 86.95 points or 0.16 per cent to 55,503.95. The Nifty Midcap 100 index was up 105.80 points or 0.19 per cent at 57,247.20, and the Nifty Smallcap 100 rose by 85.20 points or 0.48 per cent to 17,869.20.

    Despite the Nifty declining for the past two sessions, analysts noted a drop in the India VIX, indicating a lack of demand for downside protection—typically not seen when investor sentiment is bearish.

    “The 24,462 level remains crucial to determine whether this is a temporary dip or the beginning of a deeper correction. As long as the Nifty holds above this level, it remains a buyer’s market,” said Akshay Chinchalkar, Head of Research at Axis Securities.

    Among the top performers in the Sensex pack were Infosys, Tata Steel, Tech Mahindra, Sun Pharma, HCL Tech, Tata Motors, HDFC Bank, Power Grid, TCS and L&T. Bajaj Finance was the only stock in the red during early trade.

    Asian markets also opened in the green, with indices in Hong Kong, Bangkok, Seoul, China, and Japan trading higher. Jakarta was the only notable exception, trading lower.

    On Wall Street, the previous session ended in losses. The Dow Jones closed at 42,098.70, down 244.95 points or 0.58 per cent. The S&P 500 fell 32.99 points or 0.56 per cent to 5,888.55, while the Nasdaq slipped 98.23 points or 0.51 per cent to 19,100.94.

    Market sentiment remained sensitive to global developments, including U.S. tariff-related news. “The U.S. Federal Court striking down the reciprocal tariffs sends a strong message—that the President cannot act unilaterally against the interests of the market and the economy,” said Dr. V.K. Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist at Geojit Financial Services.

    On the institutional front, foreign institutional investors (FIIs) were net buyers on May 28, purchasing equities worth ₹4,662.92 crore. Domestic institutional investors (DIIs) also continued their buying spree, picking up stocks worth ₹7,911.99 crore.

    — IANS

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Wind turbine fire kept crews busy overnight

    Source:

    CFA crews were kept busy last night with a wind turbine fire at a wind farm in Great Western.

    The wind farm fire began at about 9.30pm on Wednesday 28 May and seven CFA units from Ararat, Stawell and Great Western fire brigades attended the scene.

    CFA District 16 Commander Ben Townsend said the fire was monitored by the company last night and crews were called back when it reignited at about 3.20am.

    “CFA crews that attended did what they could do to create safety zones and remained clear of the structure,” Ben said.

    “Crews were initially called out because the main body of the wind turbine was on fire. They contacted the operator of the turbines and shut them down.

    “Crews left the scene in the hands of the owners to monitor and just after 3am they got called back because a blade had caught fire, dislodged and fell to the ground.”

    The scene is now under control and will be investigated.

    Submitted by CFA media

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: After a chaotic 6 months, South Koreans will elect a new president – and hope for bold leadership

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Alexander M. Hynd, Lecturer, Korean Politics/International Relations, The University of Melbourne

    On June 3, South Koreans will head to the polls to choose the country’s new president. The election may draw to a close one of the most chaotic and contentious periods in the country’s post-1987 democratic era.

    South Korea has been embroiled in a political crisis since December, when former President Yoon Suk Yeol disastrously declared martial law.

    Yoon ordered security forces to block lawmakers from entering the National Assembly, leading to a dramatic late night confrontation. His unconstitutional decree was overturned after just six hours.

    The fall-out was equally dramatic: Yoon was impeached and removed from office in a drawn-out process that was not finally resolved until April.

    This period coincided with massive street demonstrations both opposing and supporting Yoon, a far-right assault on a courthouse and a physical stand-off between investigators and Yoon’s personal security team.

    The country, meanwhile, has cycled through three short-lived caretaker leaders.

    With weak economic growth and high costs of living, in addition to an equally challenging security environment, South Korea is in desperate need of bold and effective leadership.

    Who are the candidates?

    The Democratic Party’s Lee Jae-myung is the clear frontrunner to be the next president, after finishing a close second in the previous 2022 election.

    Recent polling put the veteran left-leaning politician at around 49% support as the race entered the final week.

    This is a double-digit lead over his main conservative opponent, Kim Moon-soo, polling at 35%. Another conservative candidate, Lee Jun-seok, is polling at 11%. Notably, for the first time since 2007, there are no female candidates standing to be president.

    The high levels of support for Lee Jae-myung suggest a widespread desire among the public to repudiate Yoon’s martial law declaration.

    Kim, the labour minister in Yoon’s administration, has apologised for December’s declaration. But his opponents have continued to question him about it.

    Kim’s challenge has been to build a coalition of moderates and mainstream conservatives who firmly opposed the martial law declaration, while also winning support from those who believe far-right conspiracy theories around election fraud. Yoon, the former president, is continuing to promote these narratives.

    Lee’s compelling background

    Lee Jae-myung’s personal story has uplifting parallels with South Korea’s own history of economic and political development.

    Lee was born into poverty; the exact date of his birth is not known. He worked in factories from a very young age and permanently injured his left arm in an industrial accident when he was still a child.

    Lee went on to earn a scholarship to study law and, by the late 1980s, had established himself as a labour lawyer and activist.

    This activist image was highlighted when he live-streamed himself dramatically scaling a fence to enter the National Assembly and vote down Yoon’s martial law declaration in December. He has previously compared himself to populist, progressive US Senator Bernie Sanders.

    More recently, however, he has moderated his political rhetoric and policy platform to appeal to centrists and even some conservative voters.

    This shift may also help shield Lee from the “red-baiting” claims left-leaning South Korean candidates typically face from conservative opponents that they are “communists”, “pro-China”, or “pro-North Korea”.

    But Lee is also plagued by legal troubles, including corruption charges linked to a land development project. These charges, frequently highlighted by his opponents, risk derailing his administration if he wins the election.

    What are the main issues?

    Some international commentators have focused on how the next president will handle North Korea. South Koreans, however, are more interested in the candidates’ plans to fix the country’s troubled economy.

    Lee Jae-myung has pledged to immediately establish an emergency economic taskforce if he takes office.

    There has also been a vigorous debate over South Korea’s future energy policy. Kim favours expanding nuclear energy production to around 60% of the country’s energy mix. Lee has voiced safety concerns about nuclear power, arguing “the era of building more reactors should come to an end”.

    Additionally, questions remain over potential constitutional reform to end South Korea’s so-called “imperial presidency” system, which has been blamed for centralising too much power in the hands of the president.

    The system dates back to the rewriting of the constitution following mass protests in 1987. This established direct presidential elections and a single, five-year term.

    Both Lee and Kim support changing this to a four-year, two-term presidential system, similar to the United States.

    Big challenges lie ahead

    On the international stage, the new leader will face an uphill battle negotiating with US President Donald Trump over his punitive tariffs. Trump imposed 25% tariffs on South Korean goods in April, but lowered them temporarily to 10% until early July.

    Before his impeachment, Yoon was widely reported to be practising his golf skills to attempt to find common ground with Trump, much as former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe did.

    The new leader will also face massive challenges bringing South Korean society together in the current climate. Political polarisation and the spread of disinformation worsened under Yoon’s presidency – and these trends will be hard to reverse.

    Alexander M. Hynd 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. After a chaotic 6 months, South Koreans will elect a new president – and hope for bold leadership – https://theconversation.com/after-a-chaotic-6-months-south-koreans-will-elect-a-new-president-and-hope-for-bold-leadership-257348

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Can you handle the Deadlift?

    Source: US Army (video statements)

    U.S. Soldiers assigned to 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment participated in the Bearing the Burden deadlift competition in Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

    About the U.S. Army: The Army Mission – our purpose – remains constant: To deploy, fight and win our nation’s wars by providing ready, prompt & sustained land dominance by Army forces across the full spectrum of conflict as part of the joint force. Interested in joining the U.S. Army? Visit:
    spr.ly/6001igl5L
    Connect with the U.S. Army online: Web:
    https://www.army.mil
    Facebook:
    https://www.facebook.com/USarmy/
    X:

    Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/usarmy/
    LinkedIn:
    https://www.linkedin.com/company/us-army
    #USArmy #Soldiers #Military #Shorts #Army

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQwBkzCw7aA

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Cantwell on Trade Court Decision Striking Down Trump’s Global Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington Maria Cantwell

    05.28.25

    Cantwell on Trade Court Decision Striking Down Trump’s Global Tariffs

    EDMONDS, WA– Today, 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, praised the U.S. Court of International Trade for striking down Donald Trump’s global tariffs, which amounted to massive new taxes on American consumers:

    “I am glad the Court of International Trade unanimously recognized that the President exceeded his authority. We need trade to flow through our ports. The remaining 10 percent global tariffs on Europe and 30 percent tariff on China should be lifted to lower prices for American families and to stabilize supply chains for US manufacturers. And Congress and the courts should take a close look at the other tariffs the president has planned.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Murray Tours Wenatchi Landing Site, Discusses Importance of Federal Investment

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Washington State Patty Murray

    ***PHOTOS, B-ROLL FROM VISIT HERE***

    Wenatchee, WA — Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, visited the Wenatchi Landing site to hear an update on the project and discuss how federal investment can help support the mixed-use commercial development area. Senator Murray was joined by a number of local leaders and stakeholders including Douglas County Board of Commissioners Chair Marc Straub, Vice Chair Dan Sutton, and Commissioner Randy Agnew; Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority Commissioners Mark Spurgeon, Alan Loebsack, and Jim Huffman; Douglas County Sewer District Commissioners Wayne Barnhardt, Greg Peterson, and Cheryl Sutton; WSDOT Regional Administrator Chris Keifenhiem; CEO of Chelan Douglas Regional Port Authority Jim Kunz; Executive Director of Chelan Douglas Transportation Council Jeff Wilkens; and Link Transit CEO Nick Covey.

    During her visit, Senator Murray was briefed on the status of the project at the Douglas County Public Services Building, and then the group headed out to tour the Wentachi Landing site. Wenatchi Landing is a 317-acre mixed-use development area on the east bank of the Columbia River, across the US-2 bridge from Sunnyslope and Wenatchee. The approved Master Site Plan envisions an array of mixed-use development and amenities in the area, including housing, offices, retail spaces, business parks, resort-style hospitality, and wineries—all with access to the region’s popular Apple Capital Loop trail network. Douglas County has applied for an $18 million BUILD (formerly RAISE) grant with the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to fund completion of Phase 1 of the project, and Senator Murray recently sent a letter to DOT Secretary Sean Duffy supporting Douglas County’s BUILD grant application. Another potential avenue for the project to secure federal funding is through Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS)—funding Members of Congress can direct to projects in their states and districts to support local communities. CDS funding is part of the annual appropriations bills that Senator Murray helps write and negotiate as Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee.

    “The Wentachi Landing project means so much to Douglas County—it’s going to bring more jobs, new residents, and tourism to the area with the new development of everything from a regional job center to retail and housing,” said Senator Murray. “So, it was important for me to come here to see the site, learn about the path ahead, and hear what I can do to best support this work at the federal level. I’m already exploring all avenues to help secure the funding this project needs, whether that’s helping to support grant applications or securing funding through Congressionally Directed Spending in our appropriations bills. Federal investment is going to be essential to turning the vision for Wenatchi Landing into a reality, and you can bet I will be doing everything in my power to ensure this project moves forward.”

    Chair Marc Straub said, “On behalf of the Douglas County Board of Commissioners, we are grateful to Senator Murray for her steadfast and unwavering support of the Wenatchi Landing project and her ongoing efforts to champion federal investment in our region. Wenatchi Landing represents a transformative opportunity—not just for Douglas County, but for the entire region and Washington State. This project is poised to deliver significant economic growth, attract new businesses and jobs, and enhance transportation safety and connectivity along US-2/97. With Senator Murray’s support and advocacy, we are one step closer to realizing a vibrant, sustainable, and inclusive development that will leave a lasting legacy of growth and connection for generations to come.”

    As Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Senator Murray writes and negotiates the annual appropriations bills—which provide federal funding across government—with her Republican counterparts every year. Washington state benefits tremendously from the BUILD—formerly RAISE—grant program Murray established. In the last round of RAISE grants—for Fiscal Year 2024, awarded in June 2024—Washington state was awarded the most grants of any state and received the most in total funding, nearly $90 million. In January, Murray announced another $56 million in RAISE grants for Washington state. President Trump renamed the RAISE grant program to Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development (BUILD) at the beginning of his term. Washington state’s Democratic Congressional delegation helped secure $7.5 billion for the BUILD program in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and have advocated strongly for Washington state’s BUILD grant applicants.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Board of Commissioners

    Source: Tertiary Education Commission

     Our Board:

    sets our strategic direction, makes decisions about funding allocations and provides guidance on our operations
    monitors the performance of the Chief Executive and the organisation
    oversees management of strategic risk.

    Dr Alan Bollard CNZM, Chair

    Alan Bollard is Chair of the New Zealand Portrait Gallery. He is New Zealand Governor of the Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia, a Director of China Construction Bank (NZ), and Chair of the New Zealand Pacific Economic Cooperation Council.
    He has been Chair of the New Zealand Infrastructure Commission, Professor of Pacific Region Business at Te Herenga Waka – Victoria University of Wellington, and Chair of the Centres for Asia-Pacific Excellence.
    Alan was the Director of the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research from 1987 to 1994, Chair of the New Zealand Commerce Commission from 1994 to 1998, and the Secretary to the Treasury between 1998 and 2020. From 2002 to 2012, he was the Governor of the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. He was the Executive Director of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in Singapore from 2012 to 2018.
    Alan has published a number of economics and popular books. He is a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, a Fellow of Royal Society Te Apārangi, and has honorary doctorate degrees from the University of Auckland and Massey University.
    Robin Hapi CNZM, Deputy Chair

    Robin Hapi was a former Commissioner of the Tertiary Education Commission from 2007 to 2013 and joins TEC for a second time from February 2025. This follows a term of 12 years as Amokapua/Chair of Te Wānanga o Raukawa. He has served on several Boards and led a range of commercial and not-for-profit entities.
    Robin is currently Chair of Tū Ātea Ltd and Co-Chair of the Pūhoro STEMM Academy. His previous service includes positions on the Boards of Te Mātāwai, Kāinga Ora Homes and Communities, WorkSafe NZ and the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency; he has also been Chair of the Māori Economic Development Advisory Board, Chair of BERL and Deputy Chair of Callaghan Innovation. 
    Robin is an old boy of Hato Pāora College and an alumni of Massey University, where he graduated with a Master of Business Administration with Distinction. In December 2015 Robin was awarded the Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit (CNZM) in recognition of his contribution to governance, community and Māori, and in 2022 he received the Dame Mira Szászy Lifetime award from the University of Auckland Business School for his contribution to governance. Robin is also a Distinguished Fellow of the NZ Institute of Directors.
    Robin is of Ngāti Kahungunu descent and affiliates to Kahurānaki Marae, Te Hauke.
    Dr Alastair MacCormick, Commissioner, Chair Whatitata Whakau – Risk and Assurance Committee

    TEC’s longest serving Commissioner, Alastair was first appointed to the TEC Board of Commissioners in May 2017, and appointed as Chair of the Whatitata Whakau – Risk and Assurance Committee in August 2017.
    Alastair is an Emeritus Professor of the University of Auckland. He holds a Doctorate in Management Science from Yale University and an MCom in Economics and a BSc in Mathematics and Physics from Auckland. For a decade he was Dean of Business and Economics at the University of Auckland and subsequently Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic).
    Alastair also served over nine years on the Grants Committee of Callaghan Innovation for the Government support of Private Sector R&D and is a professional director with global experience in both public, private and listed companies.
    Alastair’s generosity with his time and expertise is demonstrated in his role as Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Elizabeth Knox Home and Hospital (a voluntary role which Alastair has supported for almost 40 years) along with founding the New Zealand Education and Scholarship Trust in 1991. He has also spent 14 years on the Board of Trustees for Auckland Grammar School, serving as Chair of the Board for six years.
    Alastair was awarded a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in The Queen’s Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours for services to tertiary education and the community.
    Kirk Hope, Commissioner

    “People are our greatest asset and the drivers of our economy.  Business needs a training and development system to ensure everyone can reach their potential and New Zealand continues to prosper”. 

    Appointed in November 2019, Kirk brings strong current business sector knowledge to the TEC Board table. Kirk is the Chief Executive of the Financial Services Council. Previously, he was the Chief Executive of BusinessNZ, New Zealand’s largest business advocacy group with approximately 80,000 business connections.
    It is not just his knowledge and understanding of business that Kirk brings to TEC. He has held the positions of CEO of the New Zealand Bankers’ Association, Executive Director of the Financial Services Federation, along with several executive positions in both government and banking industries.
    The pairing of business acumen with a strong financial base, a Master’s in Law, an honours degree in political science, easily makes Kirk a great fit for TEC.
    Kirk’s passion is giving back, so sometime in the future we could see him sharing his wealth of knowledge and business expertise through teaching – perhaps that will be after he finishes PhD in economic history (a long term goal) or when he isn’t surfing.
    Samuelu (Sam) Sefuiva, Commissioner, Chair Ohu Tangata – People and Culture Committee

    Sam has over 30 years’ experience in public policy, strategic and business advice, cultural and economic development and executive leadership. He has a strong professional and personal interest in the Pacific region particularly in human rights, social enterprise and public policy. Sam joined the TEC Board in January 2023.
    Sam has mentored, led and facilitated senior executives in Australia, New Zealand and the Pacific in improving international, regional and domestic non-government and community enterprise environments. His strengths are in high level policy advice and relations, strategic thinking, business planning and facilitation.
    Currently his leadership roles include: Mana Whakapai-AMPTI (consortium) Manager, Auckland Māori and Pasifika Trades Training Initiative; Trustee, Digital Wings Trust; and Trustee Black Grace (Dance) Trust. Previously, Sam was Chief Advisor to the Race Relations Commissioner at the NZ Human Rights Commission.
    Sam enjoys spending time with his family and including grandchildren, his wider Samoan fanau and village (Salani, Falealili), as well as some passive recreational activities such as reading, surfing, fishing.
    Deidre Shea, Commissioner

    “Accessible, quality educational opportunities for all New Zealanders throughout their lives are key to the health and success of our communities and our nation. I am privileged to be able to contribute to this as a member of TEC’s board.”

    Commissioned in 2023, Deidre received her Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2022 Queen’s Birthday honours for services to Education.
    Deidre held leadership roles with Ōnehunga High School (OHS) from 1995 and was Principal from 2007 until 2022. Her leadership extended to the Auckland Secondary School Principals’ Association from 2008 to 2015 and the Secondary Principals’ Association of New Zealand (SPANZ) 2014 to 2023. She became President of SPANZ from 2019 to 2021, leading through numerous challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic.
    Deidre is committed to excellent, lifelong educational opportunities for all. She has overseen the establishment of a Construction School at OHS in 2005, followed by a Services Academy in 2007 and later a Health Science Academy. OHS operates the nation’s largest school-based Adult and Community Education programme.
    Deidre has chaired Te Hikoi (formerly the AIMHI Alternative Education consortium) for the past decade. 
    Bharat Guha, Commissioner

    Bharat Guha is the current Chief Financial Officer (CFO) for the Invercargill Licensing Trust. He is a chartered accountant with extensive experience in the education and hospitality sector.
    Bharat has held numerous senior positions as CEO, Deputy CEO and CFO in different New Zealand and overseas organisations. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Bharat was based in London, working as the Group CFO for an LSE-listed company with branches in the UK, Malaysia, Singapore and Nepal.
    Bharat was recognised as a Fellow of the Australia New Zealand Chartered Accountants for his financial work on the Zero Fee Scheme for the Southern Institute of Technology. In addition, he has developed and led successful government–private tertiary institution partnerships for attracting international students to New Zealand.
    Bharat is a graduate of the University of Otago, undertaking a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Information Systems) and a Master in Business Administration. He also completed the Executive Leadership Programme at Oxford University and the Southland Leadership Academy.
    Bharat is committed and passionate about ensuring the future growth of tertiary education in New Zealand.
    Sharon McGuire, Commissioner

    Sharon McGuire has a strong commercial background and knowledge of the polytechnic and broader tertiary sector. She also has governance experience with several entities. Her tertiary experience includes being a director for regional economic development with the Nelson Marlborough Institute of Technology.
    Sharon’s commercial experience includes working as a general manager in the hotels sector, as a director of a major sports franchise, work with Chambers of Commerce, and as a business owner specialising in project services and advising on business viability.
    Sharon has held senior executive roles and is an experienced Director in the Not-for-Loss sector. Sharon is a great supporter of community organisations, and was awarded the Paul Harris Fellow for services to Rotary and the wider community.
     Top

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gov. Pillen’s Bill to Protect Kids Online Passes

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Pillen’s Bill to Protect Kids Online Passes

    LINCOLN, NE — Governor Jim Pillen, a leading advocate for Nebraska families and kids, praised the Legislature for its final passage of  LB504, the Age-Appropriate Online Design Code Act. The bill was presented on the Governor’s behalf by Senator Carolyn Bosn.

    “This bill fights back against far-left tech giants who are trying to get our kids addicted to their apps. By limiting the grip social media has on children, we’re giving parents a chance to fight back. I thank Senator Bosn for partnering with me and leading this effort on the floor. I’m proud to sign this legislation into law for Nebraska families.”

    This legislation was introduced as part of a package of bills that prioritized protecting Nebraska’s children from harm resulting from big tech, social media and overuse of smartphones.  LB504 will protect user data, give parents the ability to manage and control privacy and account settings and limits the ability of tech companies to target children by encouraging excessive use.

    The bill is set to go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Two-state solution is on life support: UN envoy

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The UN Security Council holds a meeting on the situation in the Middle East, including the Palestinian question, at the UN headquarters in New York, on May 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The interim UN special coordinator for the Middle East peace process warned on Wednesday that the two-state solution is on life support, calling for collective action to revive it.

    “The two-state solution is on life support. Reviving it requires collective action,” said Sigrid Kaag. “Peace cannot be a transaction or a partial, temporary arrangement. It needs to be built on international consensus and legitimacy, moving it from managing the conflict to ending it.”

    There can be no sustainable peace in the Middle East without a solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The region’s future will remain bound to its unresolved past, unless bold political will and decisions break the cycle, she told the Security Council.

    Palestinian statehood is a right, not a reward, she said.

    The upcoming high-level international conference in June, co-chaired by France and Saudi Arabia, presents a critical opportunity. It must not be another rhetorical exercise. It must launch a path toward ending the occupation and realizing the two-state solution based on international law, UN resolutions and previous agreements, said Kaag. “We need to pivot ourselves from declarations to decisions. We need to implement rather than adopt new texts.”

    Humanitarian aid and assistance urgently need to reach all civilians across Gaza. Essential services, livelihoods, and human dignity need to be restored. Forced displacement of civilians must be rejected and prevented. Post-war Palestinian governance and appropriate security arrangements in Gaza are needed. The territorial and political unity of Gaza and the West Bank must be preserved. Hostages need to be unconditionally released, said the UN envoy.

    While war-torn Gaza rightly captures the world’s attention, the West Bank is on a dangerous trajectory, she warned.

    “Developments are best described as accelerating de facto annexation through settlement expansion, land seizures, and settler violence. If not reversed, this will make the two-state solution physically impossible,” she said.

    International engagement and alignment are critical, said Kaag. “We need to act now to reverse the current trajectory. A well-defined, widely supported and timebound political process, accompanied by safeguards and guarantees, is essential.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Confucius Institute Ljubljana celebrates 15th anniversary

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Members of the Chinese Yangqin Art Troupe perform during the 15th anniversary celebration of the Confucius Institute Ljubljana in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on May 28, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Over 100 distinguished guests from the business, education, and cultural sectors of both China and Slovenia gathered in Ljubljana on Tuesday to mark the 15th anniversary of the Confucius Institute Ljubljana.

    Zhao Binghui, charge d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy in Slovenia, spoke highly of the Institute’s contributions to deepening multi-level and multi-field exchanges between China and Slovenia by promoting high-quality Chinese language education and organizing diverse cultural activities over the past 15 years.

    The Institute was jointly established by the Shanghai University of International Business and Economics (SUIBE) and the University of Ljubljana in May 2010.

    To date, the Institute has established five Confucius Classrooms and 26 teaching centers throughout Slovenia, providing Chinese language education from kindergarten to university level. “Language is a bridge for exchanges and mutual learning of civilizations,” he noted.

    Qi Ming, chairman of SUIBE, also emphasized the Institute’s role as a vital bridge between the two universities, helping foster mutual understanding between the Chinese and Slovenian peoples. He noted the partnership has led to diverse collaborations, including faculty and student exchanges, as well as joint research initiatives.

    Meanwhile, Danijela Voljc, the Slovenian director of the Institute, said that over 600 Slovenians are currently studying Chinese through its programs. Over the past 15 years, the Institute has trained several thousand more students, bringing Chinese and Slovenian cultures closer together, the director added.

    Since 2012, Chinese has been officially included in Slovenia’s national education system.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • US court blocks most Trump tariffs, says president exceeded his authority

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    A U.S. trade court blocked President Donald Trump’s tariffs from going into effect in a sweeping ruling on Wednesday that found the president overstepped his authority by imposing across-the-board duties on imports from U.S. trading partners.

    The Court of International Trade said the U.S. Constitution gives Congress exclusive authority to regulate commerce with other countries that is not overridden by the president’s emergency powers to safeguard the U.S. economy.

    “The court does not pass upon the wisdom or likely effectiveness of the President’s use of tariffs as leverage,” a three-judge panel said in the decision to issue a permanent injunction on the blanket tariff orders issued by Trump since January. “That use is impermissible not because it is unwise or ineffective, but because [federal law] does not allow it.”

    The judges also ordered the Trump administration to issue new orders reflecting the permanent injunction within 10 days. The Trump administration minutes later filed a notice of appeal and questioned the authority of the court.

    The court invalidated with immediate effect all of Trump’s orders on tariffs since January that were rooted in the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), a law meant to address “unusual and extraordinary” threats during a national emergency.

    The court was not asked to address some industry-specific tariffs Trump has issued on automobiles, steel and aluminum, using a different statute.

    The decisions of the Manhattan-based Court of International Trade, which hears disputes involving international trade and customs laws, can be appealed to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, D.C., and ultimately the U.S. Supreme Court.

    TRADE TURMOIL

    Trump has made charging U.S. importers tariffs on goods from foreign countries the central policy of his ongoing trade wars, which have severely disrupted global trade flows and roiled financial markets.

    Companies of all sizes have been whipsawed by Trump’s swift imposition of tariffs and sudden reversals as they seek to manage supply chains, production, staffing and prices.

    A White House spokesperson on Wednesday said U.S. trade deficits with other countries constituted “a national emergency that has decimated American communities, left our workers behind, and weakened our defense industrial base – facts that the court did not dispute.”

    “It is not for unelected judges to decide how to properly address a national emergency,” Kush Desai, the spokesperson, said in a statement.

    Financial markets cheered the ruling. The U.S. dollar rallied following the court’s order, surging against currencies such as the euro, yen and the Swiss franc in particular. Wall Street futures rose and equities across Asia also rose.

    The ruling, if it stands, blows a giant hole through Trump’s strategy to use steep tariffs to wring concessions from trading partners. It creates deep uncertainty around multiple simultaneous negotiations with the European Union, China and many other countries.

    Trump has promised Americans that the tariffs would draw manufacturing jobs back to U.S. shores and shrink a $1.2 trillion U.S. goods trade deficit, which were among his central campaign promises.

    Without the instant leverage provided by tariffs of 10% to 54% or higher, the Trump administration would have to find new forms of leverage or take a slower approach to negotiations with trading partners.

    BUSINESSES HURTING

    The ruling came in a pair of lawsuits, one filed by the nonpartisan Liberty Justice Center on behalf of five small U.S. businesses that import goods from countries targeted by the duties and the other by 12 U.S. states.

    The companies, which range from a New York wine and spirits importer to a Virginia-based maker of educational kits and musical instruments, have said the tariffs will hurt their ability to do business.

    “There is no question here of narrowly tailored relief; if the challenged Tariff Orders are unlawful as to Plaintiffs they are unlawful as to all,” the judges wrote in their decision.

    At least five other legal challenges to the tariffs are pending.

    Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield, a Democrat whose office is leading the states’ lawsuit, called Trump’s tariffs unlawful, reckless and economically devastating.

    “This ruling reaffirms that our laws matter, and that trade decisions can’t be made on the president’s whim,” Rayfield said in a statement.

    Trump has claimed broad authority to set tariffs under IEEPA. The law has historically been used to impose sanctions on enemies of the U.S. or freeze their assets. Trump is the first U.S. president to use it to impose tariffs.

    The Justice Department has said the lawsuits should be dismissed because the plaintiffs have not been harmed by tariffs that they have not yet paid, and because only Congress, not private businesses, can challenge a national emergency declared by the president under IEEPA.

    In imposing the tariffs in early April, Trump called the trade deficit a national emergency that justified his 10% across-the-board tariff on all imports, with higher rates for countries with which the United States has the largest trade deficits, particularly China.

    Many of those country-specific tariffs were paused a week later. The Trump administration on May 12 said it was also temporarily reducing the steepest tariffs on China while working on a longer-term trade deal. Both countries agreed to cut tariffs on each other for at least 90 days.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: 10 cent coin with King Charles III image now in production

    Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

    The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has quality checked and approved the 10 cent coin with the effigy of King Charles III, King of New Zealand (KCIII), for production and New Zealanders can expect to see it in their change around 2027.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Money Market Operations as on May 28, 2025

    Source: Reserve Bank of India
    (Amount in ₹ crore, Rate in Per cent)
      Volume
    (One Leg)    		 Weighted
    Average Rate    		 Range
    A. Overnight Segment (I+II+III+IV) 5,93,184.29 5.71 3.01-6.00
         I. Call Money 15,980.96 5.80 4.85-5.85
         II. Triparty Repo 4,02,610.35 5.71 5.65-5.85
         III. Market Repo 1,73,035.98 5.71 3.01-5.90
         IV. Repo in Corporate Bond 1,557.00 5.89 5.85-6.00
    B. Term Segment      
         I. Notice Money** 198.08 5.69 5.25-5.85
         II. Term Money@@ 997.00 – 5.80-6.15
         III. Triparty Repo 9,241.00 5.84 5.76-5.90
         IV. Market Repo 0.00 – –
         V. Repo in Corporate Bond 0.00 – –
      Auction Date Tenor (Days) Maturity Date Amount Current Rate /
    Cut off Rate
    C. Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF), Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) & Standing Deposit Facility (SDF)
    I. Today’s Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 3,843.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF# Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 606.00 6.25
    4. SDFΔ# Wed, 28/05/2025 1 Thu, 29/05/2025 2,29,136.00 5.75
    5. Net liquidity injected from today’s operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*       -2,24,687.00  
    II. Outstanding Operations
    1. Fixed Rate          
    2. Variable Rate&          
      (I) Main Operation          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (II) Fine Tuning Operations          
         (a) Repo          
         (b) Reverse Repo          
      (III) Long Term Operations^          
         (a) Repo Thu, 17/04/2025 43 Fri, 30/05/2025 25,731.00 6.01
         (b) Reverse Repo          
    3. MSF#          
    4. SDFΔ#          
    D. Standing Liquidity Facility (SLF) Availed from RBI$       7,622.73  
    E. Net liquidity injected from outstanding operations [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     33,353.73  
    F. Net liquidity injected (outstanding including today’s operations) [injection (+)/absorption (-)]*     -1,91,333.27  
    G. Cash Reserves Position of Scheduled Commercial Banks
         (i) Cash balances with RBI as on May 28, 2025 9,32,078.85  
         (ii) Average daily cash reserve requirement for the fortnight ending May 30, 2025 9,48,817.00  
    H. Government of India Surplus Cash Balance Reckoned for Auction as on¥ May 28, 2025 3,843.00  
    I. Net durable liquidity [surplus (+)/deficit (-)] as on May 02, 2025 2,34,873.00  
    @ Based on Reserve Bank of India (RBI) / Clearing Corporation of India Limited (CCIL).
    – Not Applicable / No Transaction.
    ** Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 2 to 14 days tenor.
    @@ Relates to uncollateralized transactions of 15 days to one year tenor.
    $ Includes refinance facilities extended by RBI.
    & As per the Press Release No. 2019-2020/1900 dated February 06, 2020.
    Δ As per the Press Release No. 2022-2023/41 dated April 08, 2022.
    * Net liquidity is calculated as Repo+MSF+SLF-Reverse Repo-SDF.
    ¥ As per the Press Release No. 2014-2015/1971 dated March 19, 2015.
    # As per the Press Release No. 2023-2024/1548 dated December 27, 2023.
    ^ As per the Press Release No. 2025-2026/91 dated April 11, 2025.
    Ajit Prasad          
    Deputy General Manager
    (Communications)    
    Press Release: 2025-2026/425

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: 30 years ago Australia confronted its Stolen Generation past – then the Howard government blew it

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Anne Maree Payne, Senior Research Fellow, Indigenous Land & Justice Research Group, UNSW Sydney

    May 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the national inquiry into the forcible removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children from their families.

    Conducted by the Human Rights and Equal Opportunity Commission, the inquiry’s final report was called Bringing Them Home. It demonstrated the extent and trauma of First Nations child removal practices across Australia over more than a century.

    Our archival research paints a dramatic picture of how the Howard government set out to minimise the impact of the report, despite the genuine outpouring of national grief.

    National reckoning

    The 1990s in Australia was marked by an unprecedented national focus on the impact of colonisation on Indigenous Australians. This was part of a global trend using truth-seeking models to examine contemporary and historical injustices.

    The decade included a number of landmark events:

    The establishment of a human rights inquiry investigating the Stolen Generations in 1995 promised a reckoning with this largely unknown history.

    Government resistance

    However, the election of the Howard government in 1996 had an immediate effect on the nation’s trajectory towards “coming to terms” with its past.

    After some early resistance, cabinet eventually agreed to make a whole-of-government submission, broadly outlining its Indigenous affairs priority:

    to address current disadvantage in health, housing, employment and education.

    It stressed compensation for Indigenous child removal was

    inappropriate and unacceptable.

    The Bringing Them Home report contained stories and a history that shocked many Australians. Nonetheless, then Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Affairs, John Herron argued in 2000 the inquiry was deeply flawed, and

    there was never a ‘generation’ of stolen children.

    No apology

    The government tried to discredit the final 1997 report, including its core finding the removal of Aboriginal children constituted genocide.

    Its formal response rejected the key recommendations of a commonwealth apology and compensation for members of the Stolen Generations.

    However, the government was willing to act on three areas that presented “opportunities for a positive response”:

    • access to records
    • reunion assistance
    • mental health strategies.

    Several of the report’s recommendations were designed to promote self-determination and establish minimum national standards in Indigenous child welfare, adoption and juvenile justice.

    One tactic employed by the Howard government was to push responsibility for implementing the recommendations onto the states and non-government organisations, such as churches, which had been involved in child removal.

    Therefore, a national legislative response was not forthcoming, with the government arguing this would represent a

    significant intrusion by the Commonwealth in state and territory responsibilities.

    Family reunion

    Herron had ministerial oversight of the government’s response to the report. The prime minister set the tone, saying it would be done in a “practical and realistic way”.

    Herron recommended to cabinet family reunion and counselling services should form the overarching theme of the government’s response. This focus left the broader systemic issues identified in Bringing Them Home unaddressed.

    While acknowledging “some of the disadvantages suffered by Indigenous people can be attributed to policies of child removal”, the background paper accompanying Herron’s cabinet submission also outlined some of the government’s early criticisms of the report, describing it as

    very emotive, and focused only on one view of the separation process.

    Partial response

    The government’s response package was initially costed at A$54 million over four years. It included:

    • an oral history project to provide some form of acknowledgement
    • funding for indexing of archival records
    • enhanced family reunion services
    • Indigenous mental health workers.

    These measures undoubtedly addressed real needs identified in Bringing Them Home. However, they were a partial response to the broad-ranging findings of the report.

    Herron argued facilitating family reunion was the “most pressing” issue identified by the inquiry, which had indeed noted that

    assisting family reunions is the most significant and urgent need of separated families.

    But it is an oversimplification to single out this issue as “the most pressing”.

    ATSIC was unequivocal in its feedback, saying the response would “severely disappoint Indigenous people”. It accused the government of not giving the report “serious attention”.

    Herron insisted the government had “listened to Indigenous people”. However, we were unable to identify any archival evidence of consultation with Indigenous communities in formulating the response package.

    Legacy

    The Healing Foundation commissioned a recent report on the unfinished business of Bringing Them Home. It identified the lack of a whole-of-government policy response that centred on the needs and rights of Stolen Generations survivors and descendants, as a key failing.

    This is unsurprising given the approach by the Howard government was carefully designed to limit the impact of Bringing Them Home.

    Despite this, the inquiry achieved a significant legacy. This includes greater public awareness of the Stolen Generations, apologies from all Australian parliaments, and the establishment of compensation schemes, now in place in most Australian states and territories.

    This was despite the Howard government’s sustained rejection of such measures 30 years ago when the nation was first seeking to come to terms with the wrongs of the past.

    .

    Anne Maree Payne received seed funding from the School of Humanities & Languages, UNSW Sydney, to undertake the archival research on which this article is based.

    Heidi Norman receives funding from the Australian Research Council.

    – ref. 30 years ago Australia confronted its Stolen Generation past – then the Howard government blew it – https://theconversation.com/30-years-ago-australia-confronted-its-stolen-generation-past-then-the-howard-government-blew-it-257447

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –