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Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Security: CEO of “Smart Ring” Wearable Tech Company Arrested on Securities Fraud Charges

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Boca Raton woman was arrested today on charges alleging she lied to investors to obtain over $2 million for her company ESOS Rings, Inc., which she then used for personal expenses and Ponzi payments to keep the scheme going. 

    Michelle Bisnoff, also known as “Michelle Angeline Silverstein” and “Shelly Silverstein,” 57, previously of Pacific Palisades and Santa Barbara and currently living in Boca Raton, Florida, is charged in a criminal complaint with one count of securities fraud and one count of wire fraud.  Bisnoff was released on bond and ordered to appear for further proceedings in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles on August 7.

    According to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint, Bisnoff is the founder and CEO of ESOS.  Allegedly, from 2017 through the end of 2023, Bisnoff fraudulently solicited investments in ESOS by falsely representing ESOS’s business activities and profitability, and the returns that the investors would receive on their investments. Bisnoff allegedly told prospective investors that ESOS owned patents for “smart rings,” a wearable device encoded with financial information, which could be used to make contactless payments. Bisnoff allegedly said ESOS earned transaction fees each time a ring was used, generating profits for ESOS.  Bisnoff also allegedly told prospective investors that ESOS was already manufacturing and selling these smart rings, and that ESOS would soon be bought by Apple or another suitor, resulting in a buy back of the investors’ shares at prices significantly above the share price she was offering to the investors. 

    According to the affidavit, neither Bisnoff nor ESOS owned the patents at issue; the majority of investor funds raised were used to allegedly make Ponzi payments to earlier investors and to benefit Bisnoff personally; the prospective acquirors of ESOS had no knowledge of ESOS and/or no plan to provide capital for it; and ESOS had virtually no business operations, let alone profits.

    A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    If convicted of both charges, Bisnoff faces a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years. 

    The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission sued Bisnoff and ESOS for allegedly fraudulently raising $1.95 million from ESOS investors.  On September 19, 2023, United States District Judge Consuelo B. Marshall imposed a judgment finding Bisnoff and ESOS jointly and severally liable for disgorgement of $566,483, representing net profits from the fraud, as well as $46,836 in pre-judgment interest and a civil penalty of $223,229, with the total amount due—$836,548—to be paid to the SEC within 30 days.  According to the affidavit, to date neither Bisnoff nor ESOS has paid any of the amounts due.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation is investigating this matter.  Substantial assistance was provided by the SEC and the United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Florida

    Assistant United States Attorney Ranee A. Katzenstein of the Criminal Appeals Section is prosecuting this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Kern County Woman Pleads Guilty to Six-Year, $825,000 Credit Card Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    FRESNO, Calif. — Karina Arceo, 34, of Wasco, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft charges for her role in a long-running credit card fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

    According to court records, from February 2016 through August 2022, Arceo and her partner and co-defendant, Miguel Leyva, stole the personally identifiable information (PII) for over 125 victims. They stole much of the PII from patient files at health care providers in Kern County where Arceo worked. Leyva previously pleaded guilty and was sentenced to five years and five months in prison.

    Arceo and Leyva used the stolen PII to open thousands of fraudulent credit cards in the victims’ identities. They used false identification documents to open the credit cards and provided billing addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses over which they had control so that any communications related to the credit cards would go to them instead of the victims. They then made hundreds of thousands of dollars in fraudulent purchases on the credit cards in Kern County and elsewhere. The fraudulent purchases included home appliances, automobile accessories, designer clothing, tickets to concerts and sporting events, and travel, among other items.

    Arceo and Leyva often resold the items that they fraudulently purchased for cash and reaped a windfall because they did not actually pay for the items. They also used checks that had been stolen from companies in Kern County to access the companies’ bank accounts and make fraudulent payments towards the credit cards so as to keep their scheme going. Altogether, their scheme caused a total actual loss of more than $825,000.

    This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph Barton and Arelis Clemente are prosecuting the case.

    Arceo is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 6, 2024. She faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and $250,000 fine for the conspiracy charge, and a mandatory two years in prison, consecutive to other counts, for the identity theft charge. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of the applicable statutory factors and Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Second Executive Admits Participating in $150 Million Fraud on Qualcomm

    Source: US FBI

    NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – October 5, 2023

    SAN DIEGO – Ali Akbar Shokouhi, the primary investor of a technology company sold to Qualcomm for over $150 million, pleaded guilty in federal court today, admitting his role in a massive fraud.

    Shokouhi, a San Diego resident, pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering related to a transaction involving proceeds of the fraud on Qualcomm. In his plea agreement, Shokouhi admitted that he schemed with co-defendant Karim Arabi and others to hide both Arabi’s and Shokouhi’s involvement in Abreezio—the tech firm that they marketed to Qualcomm. 

    Arabi was a Qualcomm employee throughout the entire marketing period, and hiding his involvement in the firm and the development of its patented technology allowed Abreezio’s principals to claim that the company was an “angel-funded” outside firm while disguising its true connections to Qualcomm.  In that regard, Shokouhi admitted Arabi was intimately involved in Abreezio’s formation, development, and marketing to Qualcomm, including choosing the “Abreezio” name.  Shokouhi further admitted that he referred to Arabi by a different name in text messages with co-conspirators to obscure Arabi’s involvement in Abreezio.  According to court documents, Qualcomm agreed to pay roughly $180 million for Abreezio—$150 million of which was paid in October 2015. 

    Like co-defendant Sanjiv Taneja, who recently pleaded guilty and admitted his own role in the fraud, Shokouhi acknowledged that he never actually met the purported creator of Abreezio’s core technologies, who is Arabi’s family member and was never involved in the company’s technical or strategic decision-making as far as Shokouhi knew.

    Shokouhi further admitted that he and Arabi concealed Shokouhi’s involvement in Abreezio in part because Shokouhi had previously been terminated from Qualcomm because of a conflict-of-interest violation.  As part of his plea agreement, Shokouhi agreed to forfeit over $16 million that he personally received from Qualcomm’s purchase of Abreezio, and to pay restitution.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas W. Pilchak, Janaki G. Chopra and Eric R. Olah.

    DEFENDANTS                                 Case Number 22-CR-1152-BAS                                       

    Karim Arabi                                        Age: 57                                   San Diego, CA

    Sanjiv Taneja                                      Age: 60                                   Cupertino, CA

    Ali Akbar Shokouhi                            Age: 64                                   San Diego, CA

    AGENCIES

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    Internal Revenue Services, Criminal Investigation

    United States Marshals Service

    *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • Reliance, Adani, Vedanta pledge massive investments to transform Northeast

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major boost to the economic development of India’s northeastern states, corporate giants Reliance Industries, Adani Group, and Vedanta Group have announced massive investment commitments in the region.

    The announcements were made at the Rising Northeast Investors Summit 2025, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Friday.

    The two-day summit aims to project the Northeast as a land of opportunity and attract both global and domestic investors.

    Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani said the group will invest Rs 75,000 crore in the region over the next five years, in sectors ranging from telecommunications and retail to bioenergy and healthcare. He said the investment is expected to create over 2.5 million direct and indirect jobs.

    Ambani noted that Jio’s 5G network already covers 90% of the region’s population and pledged to double its subscriber base this year.

    The company will also set up 350 compressed biogas plants, build FMCG manufacturing units, and expand cancer care and genomic research initiatives in collaboration with institutions like Mizoram University.

    He also announced the establishment of Olympic training centres across all eight Northeastern states through the Reliance Foundation.

    Vedanta Group Chairman Anil Agarwal announced a Rs 80,000 crore investment focused on oil and gas, critical minerals, refining, power, renewables, and digital infrastructure. The investment, he said, would help generate up to 1 lakh jobs.

    Agarwal also detailed Vedanta’s plans to expand its social initiatives, including Nand Ghars, handloom skill centres, and digital education platforms for women and children. “Under the Prime Minister’s leadership, this region has become a key engine of growth for Viksit Bharat. The private sector is ready to be a partner in its prosperity,” he said.

    Adani Group Chairman Gautam Adani announced a doubling of the group’s earlier commitment, bringing its total planned investment in the Northeast to Rs 1 lakh crore over the next decade. The group will focus on green energy, smart meters, pumped storage, infrastructure development, and capacity building.

    “More than infrastructure, we will invest in people,” Adani said. “Every initiative will prioritize local jobs, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.”

    According to Adani, the group has already invested Rs 6.2 lakh crore in the region since 2014.

    (ANI)

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Anglo American Platinum Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Confirmed to Speak at African Mining Week 2025

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    ACCRA, Ghana, May 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    Craig Miller, CEO of mining company Anglo American Platinum, has been confirmed to speak at the upcoming African Mining Week 2025 conference. During the event, Miller is expected to shed light on the company’s strategy in Africa as well as the continent’s pivotal role in strengthening the global PGM supply chain. Miller will speak on a panel titled: South Africa’s Strategic Influence in the Global Platinum Group Metals Market.

    Taking place October 1–3, 2025, in Cape Town, African Mining Week is Africa’s premier gathering for mining stakeholders and provides a strategic platform for industry leaders, investors and companies to unlock emerging opportunities across the continent’s mining value chain. As the CEO of the world’s largest platinum group metals (PGM) producer, Miller is uniquely positioned to discuss the continent’s emergence as a global PGM supplier and the impact resource-rich nations such as South Africa will have on future supply chains.

    African Mining Week serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    With global demand for PGMs increasing – driven by applications in electric vehicles and clean energy technologies – Anglo American Platinum is positioning itself as an instrumental part of the continent’s PGM value chain. The company operates several of South Africa’s key PGM producing assets, including the 5.8-million-ounce (oz) Tumela Mine, the 310,000-oz Mogalakwena Mine, the 217,000-oz Kroondal Mine, the 160,000-oz Dishaba Mine, among other projects. In Zimbabwe, the company manages the Unki Platinum Mine, one of the country’s largest with an annual production capacity of 64,000 oz.

    For 2025, the company has set a refined production target of up to 3.4 million oz across its PGM projects, supported by ongoing mine expansions and new investments across its African portfolio. As such, African Mining Week 2025 will serve as a crucial platform for Miller to share insight into the company’s investments in Africa and the road ahead for the continent’s PGM production.

    Through his participation, Miller is expected to outline the company’s future direction, strategic priorities and ongoing projects, while reinforcing cooperation with African and international partners to enhance operational performance and market access. The South Africa’s Strategic Influence in the Global Platinum Group Metals Market session offers a strategic opportunity for conference attendees to gain insight into both the country’s PGM market and its future role as a global supplier.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: African Mining Week 2025 to Set the Stage for Investment and Innovation

    Source: Africa Press Organisation – English (2) – Report:

    CAPE TOWN, South Africa, May 23, 2025/APO Group/ —

    With global demand for critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and copper reaching unprecedented heights, Africa’s vast mineral reserves have placed the continent at the center of the global energy transition. From powering electric vehicles to supplying renewable energy infrastructure, these resources are essential to the world’s low-carbon future – and Africa holds many of the keys. As the world races to secure stable, long-term access to these minerals, the spotlight is increasingly turning toward African markets.

    African Mining Week (AMW), taking place on October 1–3, 2025 in Cape Town, arrives at a critical moment. The event serves as a high-level, pan-African platform designed to unlock new investment flows, accelerate technological adoption and promote sustainable, inclusive growth across the continent’s mining landscape. By convening government leaders, mining executives, financiers and technology providers under one roof, AMW will shape strategic dialogue and dealmaking that define the next era of African mining.

    Driving Investment and Economic Growth

    AMW 2025 represents more than a conference; it’s a strategic platform designed to attract and mobilize investment into Africa’s mining industry. By bringing together policymakers, industry leaders and investors, the event will facilitate discussions on creating favorable regulatory environments, showcasing investment-ready projects and highlighting the continent’s untapped mineral potential, given that it holds about 30% of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves. The focus on value addition and local content development underscores the commitment to ensuring that mining activities translate into tangible economic benefits for African nations.

    Fostering Innovation and Technological Advancement

    In an era where technology is revolutionizing industries, AMW 2025 will spotlight the latest advancements in mining technology. The dedicated Technology Forum will showcase how digital solutions, such as artificial intelligence and data analytics, are enhancing exploration and operational efficiency. By connecting African mining projects with global tech providers, the event will promote the adoption of innovative practices that can drive productivity and sustainability in the sector.

    Promoting Sustainable Development and Responsible Mining

    Sustainability is at the heart of AMW 2025’s agenda. The event will address the importance of responsible mining practices, environmental stewardship and community engagement. Discussions will explore strategies for minimizing environmental impact, ensuring fair labor practices and integrating artisanal and small-scale mining into the formal economy. In Ghana, for example, small-scale mining generates $5 billion in foreign earnings alone. By emphasizing sustainability, AMW aims to align Africa’s mining sector with global best practices and standards.

    Enhancing Knowledge Sharing and Regional Collaboration

    AMW 2025 will serve as a hub for knowledge exchange, offering a series of sessions, workshops and panel discussions led by experts and stakeholders from across the continent and beyond. Topics will range from regulatory frameworks and investment opportunities to technological innovations and sustainable practices. The event will also feature country-specific spotlights, providing insights into the unique mining landscapes of nations like Gabon, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Chattanooga Man Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Defrauding Elderly Widow with Dementia of $1.2 Million

    Source: US FBI

    NASHVILLE – Karl Hampton, 65, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, was sentenced to 60 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay over $1.2 million in restitution for executing a scheme to defraud an elderly widow who had dementia, announced Henry C. Leventis, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Tennessee.

    Hampton and his wife Deborah, both formerly of Franklin, Tennessee, were indicted in June 2021 on multiple counts of conspiracy and money laundering and Karl Hampton was also charged with eight counts of wire fraud.  After a week-long jury trial in April 2023, Karl Hampton was convicted on all counts.

    At trial, the evidence showed that Karl Hampton met the 86-year-old widow while he was working as an exterminator for a pest control company based in Nashville. Between January 2018 and February 2020, Karl Hampton tricked the woman into believing that he would care for her personally and financially. Hampton held himself out to the woman and others as her “personal representative,” her “son” or “godson,” and pretended that he was acting on her behalf.  In April 2019, Hampton convinced her to sign over her Power of Attorney and to name him in her Revocable Living Trust and in her will.  He then methodically drained the woman’s bank accounts, took out a $500,000 line of credit in her name, and amassed huge charges on her credit cards for his own personal expenses.

    Some of the funds Hampton stole came from two investment accounts that belonged to the estate of the woman’s deceased sister. Those funds were supposed to be split between the woman and another individual. Instead, Hampton transferred the funds to himself.

    In total, Hampton took more than $1.2 million. from the woman’s accounts in the form of checks, cashier’s checks, and bank transfers, cash withdrawals, and using the woman’s credit card for his own benefit.  Hampton frequently purchased luxury items, including a car and a luxury SUV, and a 4.3-karat diamond ring that cost more than $21,000. Hampton often spent over $1,000 per day in cash buying lottery tickets.

    Deborah Hampton pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering on February 13, 2023. She was sentenced to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $21,000.

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Memphis Field Office, Nashville Resident Agency.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Booth prosecuted the case.

    # # # # #

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: United States Seizes More Than $6 Million in Alleged Proceeds of a Crypto-Confidence Scheme

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – The United States seized over $6 million worth of cryptocurrency from perpetrators overseas, announced U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew M. Graves, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Tennessee Francis M. Hamilton III, Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Criminal Division, and FBI Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the Knoxville Division.

                The perpetrators in Southeast Asia targeted one or more individuals in the United States and fraudulently obtained millions of dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency through a cryptocurrency confidence investment scheme.

                The FBI was able to trace victim funds on the blockchain and located multiple cryptocurrency wallet addresses which still held victim funds totaling more than $6 million. 

                Cryptocurrency confidence investment schemes begin by criminals contacting potential victims through seemingly misdirected text messages, dating applications, or professional meetup or investment groups. Next, using various means of manipulation, the criminal gains the victim’s affection and trust. The perpetrator then recommends cryptocurrency investment by touting their own, or an associate’s, success in the field. Means of carrying out the scheme vary, but a common tactic is to direct a victim to a fake investment platform hosted on a website. These websites, and the investment platforms hosted there, are created by criminals to mimic legitimate platforms. The subject assists the victim with opening a cryptocurrency account, often on a U.S.- based exchange, and then walks the victim through transferring money from a bank account to that cryptocurrency account. Next, the victim will receive instructions on how to transfer their cryptocurrency assets to the fake investment platform.

                On its surface, the fraudulent platforms often show lucrative returns, encouraging further investment; however, all deposited funds are actually routed to a cryptocurrency wallet address controlled completely by the perpetrators. The perpetrators frequently allow victims to withdraw some of their “profits” early in the scheme to engender trust and help convince victims of the legitimacy of the platform. As the scheme continues, victims are unable to withdraw their funds and are provided various excuses as to why. Ultimately, victims are locked out of their accounts and lose all their funds.

                “In these scams, fraudsters trick U.S. citizens into believing they are transferring funds to cryptocurrency investment opportunities when, in fact, they are just unwittingly turning their money over to the fraudsters,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “The fact these fraudsters and their accounts are typically located outside the United States, will not stop us or our partners at the FBI from doing all we can to recover the proceeds of these frauds and to hold the people running them accountable.”

                “Investment scams and schemes are not new, but committing fraud with digital currency presents new challenges for law enforcement attempting to recover lost funds,” said Special Agent in Charge Carrico. “The FBI along with our law enforcement partners will continue to investigate allegations of crypto scams, but the best defense is to educate yourself before making any investment. Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

               Based on data submitted to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (https://www.ic3.gov/) in 2022 alone, perpetrators of these schemes targeted tens of thousands of victims in the United States and resulted in over two billion dollars in private assets being siphoned overseas. The loss amount reported in IC3 complaints involving cryptocurrency increased 45% since 2022, from more than $3.8 billion to over $5.6 billion in 2023. 

               The FBI Knoxville Division is investigating the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and FBI’s Virtual Asset Unit are providing invaluable assistance. 

               The Department of Justice would like to acknowledge Tether for its assistance in effectuating the transfer of these assets. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Rosenberg and Rick Blaylock Jr. of the District of Columbia, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph DeGaetano of the Eastern District of Tennessee, and Trial Attorney Stefanie Schwartz from the National Cryptocurrency Enforcement Team with the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section of the Department of Justice.

    ###

    Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft volunteers cleared over 140 thousand m2 of the Volga River coastline

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Rosneft – Rosneft – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Employees of Rosneft enterprises held a large-scale environmental campaign in Samara and Saratov as part of the Volga Day. Volunteers cleared more than 140 thousand square meters of the coastline of the great Russian river from garbage, collected and removed 50 cubic meters of household and current-borne garbage.

    During the campaign, employees of Samaraneftegaz, Kuibyshevsky, Novokuibyshevsky and Saratovsky Oil Refineries, Novokuibyshevsky Petrochemical Company, Novokuibyshevsky Oil and Additives Plant also improved coastal areas in recreation areas of Samara and Saratov.

    Environmental volunteering is an integral part of the corporate culture of Rosneft subsidiaries. For several years, volunteer campaigns to collect plastic caps, waste paper, batteries and other environmental initiatives have been held at the enterprises of the Samara Group.

    Preservation of water resources is a significant area of Rosneft’s activities in the field of environmental protection. The Company’s subsidiaries pay great attention to measures aimed at improving the efficiency of wastewater treatment, developing a water recycling system, and rational use and restoration of water resources.

    Samaraneftegaz is implementing a comprehensive program to preserve natural resources. The company has completely stopped taking water from surface water bodies to maintain reservoir pressure; only recycled water is used in production.

    The Kuibyshev Oil Refinery is implementing projects to modernize production, including the plant’s treatment facilities. Thanks to the reconstruction of the recycling water supply units, water intake and water pipelines, the share of recycled water in the enterprise’s water supply reached 91.5% by 2024.

    Over the past five years, the Novokuibyshevsk Oil Refinery has reduced its wastewater volume by 45%. Thanks to the membrane bioreactor at the treatment facilities, the plant increased its use of recycled water to 96% and reduced its intake of river water by 10.6% during the year.

    The Saratov Oil Refinery is also actively working to reduce water consumption: over the past five years, the plant has reduced its intake of natural water by 57.3%. The Syzran Oil Refinery is systematically reducing its intake of water from natural sources for production purposes. The share of recycled water at the enterprise by the end of 2024 was 95.6%. At the Novokuibyshevsk Oil and Additives Plant, thanks to the construction and commissioning of recycled water supply units, the share of recycled water supply increased to 95%.

    Rosneft subsidiaries systematically work to replenish aquatic bioresources in the Volga basin. In 2024, the Company’s Samara enterprises released more than 430 thousand fish fry, including valuable sterlet, into the Volga waters.

    The effectiveness of the environmental policy of Rosneft enterprises in the Volga Federal District has been repeatedly noted at regional and all-Russian competitions. For many years, the enterprises have become winners of the competition “Leader of Environmental Activities in Russia”.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft May 23, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: AGF Investments Announces May 2025 Cash Distributions for AGF Enhanced U.S. Equity Income Fund, AGF Total Return Bond Fund and AGF Systematic Global Infrastructure ETF

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — AGF Investments Inc. (AGF Investments) (TSX:AGF.B) today announced the May 2025 cash distributions for AGF Enhanced U.S. Equity Income Fund*, AGF Total Return Bond Fund* and AGF Systematic Global Infrastructure ETF, which pay monthly distributions. Unitholders of record on May 30, 2025 will receive cash distributions payable on June 5, 2025.

    Details regarding the final “per unit” distribution amounts are as follows:

    ETF Ticker Exchange Cash Distribution Per Unit ($)
    AGF Enhanced U.S. Equity Income Fund* AENU Cboe Canada Inc. $0.129939
    AGF Total Return Bond Fund* ATRB Cboe Canada Inc. $0.092000
    AGF Systematic Global Infrastructure ETF QIF Cboe Canada Inc. $0.142740

    *AGF Enhanced U.S. Equity Income Fund and AGF Total Return Bond Fund are mutual funds with an ETF series option.

    Further information about the AGF ETFs can be found at AGF.com.

    This information is not intended to provide legal, accounting, tax, investment, financial, or other advice, and should not be relied upon for providing such advice. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with investment fund investments. Please read the prospectus before investing. Investment funds are not guaranteed, their values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated.

    AGF ETFs are ETFs offered by AGF Investments Inc. ETFs are listed and traded on organized Canadian exchanges and may only be bought and sold through licensed dealers.

    About AGF Management Limited

    Founded in 1957, AGF Management Limited (AGF) is an independent and globally diverse asset management firm. Our companies deliver excellence in investing in the public and private markets through three business lines: AGF Investments, AGF Capital Partners and AGF Private Wealth.

    AGF brings a disciplined approach, focused on incorporating sound, responsible and sustainable corporate practices. The firm’s collective investment expertise, driven by its fundamental, quantitative and private investing capabilities, extends globally to a wide range of clients, from financial advisors and their clients to high-net worth and institutional investors including pension plans, corporate plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments and foundations.

    Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, AGF has investment operations and client servicing teams on the ground in North America and Europe. With over $51 billion in total assets under management and fee-earning assets, AGF serves more than 815,000 investors. AGF trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol AGF.B.

    About AGF Investments

    AGF Investments is a group of wholly owned subsidiaries of AGF Management Limited, a Canadian reporting issuer. The subsidiaries included in AGF Investments are AGF Investments Inc. (AGFI), AGF Investments America Inc. (AGFA), AGF Investments LLC (AGFUS) and AGF International Advisors Company Limited (AGFIA). The term AGF Investments may refer to one or more of these subsidiaries or to all of them jointly. This term is used for convenience and does not precisely describe any of the separate companies, each of which manages its own affairs.

    AGF Investments entities only provide investment advisory services or offers investment funds in the jurisdiction where such firm and/or product is registered or authorized to provide such services.

    AGF Investments Inc. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of AGF Management Limited and conducts the management and advisory of mutual funds in Canada.

    Media Contact

    Amanda Marchment
    Director, Corporate Communications
    416-865-4160
    amanda.marchment@agf.com  

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Correction: Invesco Ltd: Form 8.3 – Adriatic Metals plc.; Opening Position disclosure

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    FORM 8.3

    CORRECTION: PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE BY
    A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE

    *An amendment has been made to the reported holding figure in section 2 (a)*

    Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

    1.        KEY INFORMATION

    (a)        Full name of discloser: Invesco Ltd.
    (b)        Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a):
            The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.    		  
    (c)        Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates:
            Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree    		 Adriatic Metals plc
    (d)        If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:  
    (e)        Date position held/dealing undertaken:
            For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure    		 20.05.2025
    (f)        In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer?
            If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”    		 Yes; Dundee Precious Metals Inc.

    2.        POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    If there are positions or rights to subscribe to disclose in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 2(a) or (b) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security.

    (a)        Interests and short positions in the relevant securities of the offeror or offeree to which the disclosure relates following the dealing (if any)

    Class of relevant security: GBP 1p ordinary GB00BL0L5G04
      Interests Short positions
      Number % Number %
    (1)        Relevant securities owned and/or controlled: 1,411,614 0.40    
    (2)        Cash-settled derivatives:        
    (3)        Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:        

            TOTAL:

    		 1,411,614 0.40    

    All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

    Details of any open stock-settled derivative positions (including traded options), or agreements to purchase or sell relevant securities, should be given on a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions).

    (b)        Rights to subscribe for new securities (including directors’ and other employee options)

    Class of relevant security in relation to which subscription right exists:  
    Details, including nature of the rights concerned and relevant percentages:  

    3.        DEALINGS (IF ANY) BY THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

    Where there have been dealings in more than one class of relevant securities of the offeror or offeree named in 1(c), copy table 3(a), (b), (c) or (d) (as appropriate) for each additional class of relevant security dealt in.

    The currency of all prices and other monetary amounts should be stated.

    (a)        Purchases and sales

    Class of relevant security Purchase/sale Number of securities Price per unit
    AUD Depository Receipt AU0000004772 Sale 200,000 3.72 AUD

    (b)        Cash-settled derivative transactions

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. CFD    		 Nature of dealing
    e.g. opening/closing a long/short position, increasing/reducing a long/short position    		 Number of reference securities Price per unit
             

    (c)        Stock-settled derivative transactions (including options)

    (i)        Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

    Class of relevant security Product description e.g. call option Writing, purchasing, selling, varying etc. Number of securities to which option relates Exercise price per unit Type
    e.g. American, European etc.    		 Expiry date Option money paid/ received per unit
                   

    (ii)        Exercise

    Class of relevant security Product description
    e.g. call option    		 Exercising/ exercised against Number of securities Exercise price per unit
             

    (d)        Other dealings (including subscribing for new securities)

    Class of relevant security Nature of dealing
    e.g. subscription, conversion    		 Details Price per unit (if applicable)
           

    4.        OTHER INFORMATION

    (a)        Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

    Details of any indemnity or option arrangement, or any agreement or understanding, formal or informal, relating to relevant securities which may be an inducement to deal or refrain from dealing entered into by the person making the disclosure and any party to the offer or any person acting in concert with a party to the offer:
    Irrevocable commitments and letters of intent should not be included. If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
     

    (b)        Agreements, arrangements or understandings relating to options or derivatives

    Details of any agreement, arrangement or understanding, formal or informal, between the person making the disclosure and any other person relating to:
    (i)        the voting rights of any relevant securities under any option; or
    (ii)        the voting rights or future acquisition or disposal of any relevant securities to which any derivative is referenced:
    If there are no such agreements, arrangements or understandings, state “none”
     

    (c)        Attachments

    Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached? NO
    Date of disclosure: 21.05.2025
    Contact name: Philippa Holmes
    Telephone number*: +441491417447

    Public disclosures under Rule 8 of the Code must be made to a Regulatory Information Service.

    The Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit is available for consultation in relation to the Code’s disclosure requirements on +44 (0)20 7638 0129.

    *If the discloser is a natural person, a telephone number does not need to be included, provided contact information has been provided to the Panel’s Market Surveillance Unit.

    The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at www.thetakeoverpanel.org.uk.

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Crypto Gem Hunt Report #5: Meme Coins Keep Soaring as A-Rated Restaking and L1 Projects Gain Steady Momentum

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin soared to an unprecedented high of over $110,000 today, sending ripples of positive sentiment across the entire cryptocurrency market, HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange is proud to announce the release of its 5th Crypto Gem Hunt Report. The latest report meticulously highlights eight tokens that have demonstrated substantial wealth creation across various narratives, including meme coins, Layer 1 solutions, restaking protocols, and data tools.

    Notably, MOODENG emerged as the top performer, delivering an astonishing surge of up to 567% as of May 19. This remarkable performance underscores the platform’s belief that carefully selecting high-quality projects and responding swiftly to market shifts are paramount for identifying and capitalizing on the most profitable opportunities.

    Meme Coins Dominate Yet Again and Deliver Explosive Gains Across Blockchains

    Meme coins remain the hottest narrative in crypto, delivering standout returns regardless of their chain origin. Whether rooted in the Solana or Ethereum networks, both legacy names and emerging narratives have posted significant breakouts.

    According to HTX data, top Solana meme coins like MOODENG and POPCAT have skyrocketed by 567% and 447%, respectively. MOODENG in particular, jumped from 0.036 USDT to 0.24 USDT, demonstrating remarkable narrative resilience. HOUSE, a new Solana meme coin launched exclusively on HTX on April 27, surged 179% shortly after listing, further validating the strength and capital flow into the Solana meme coin space.

    On the Ethereum side, NEIROCTO—a meme coin initially listed on HTX on September 7, 2024—recently rallied 400%. Meanwhile, the AI meme coin DARK gained 246%, demonstrating the strong appeal of combining AI with the meme coin narrative.

    In short, meme coins that combine strong narratives, engaged communities, and cultural virality continue to outperform. As market sentiment recovers, meme coins are often the first to ignite retail enthusiasm, acting as the catalysts for broader market rallies.

    A-Rated Infrastructure Projects Earn Their Spot: Restaking, L1, and Data Tools

    Beyond meme coins, HTX’s 5th Crypto Gem list also includes high-quality projects StakeStone (STO), Initia (INIT), and Bubblemaps (BMT), representing the restaking, Layer 1, and data tool sectors, respectively. They were all awarded A ratings by HTX analysts, reflecting their high potential and broad market recognition.

    StakeStone has quickly emerged as a star in the restaking space. Unlike PoS staking or existing restaking protocols, StakeStone focuses on cross-chain liquidity infrastructure with efficient liquidity distribution and dynamic yield strategies for ETH, BTC, and stablecoins. Since listing on HTX on April 6, STO has gained 314%, outperforming most restaking peers.

    Initia, one of 2025’s most anticipated Layer 1 launches, fuses a robust Layer 1 chain with a flexible, interconnected Layer 2 ecosystem. It aims to offer production-grade modular blockchain services for developers and users alike. INIT was listed on HTX on April 23 and has rallied 155% to date. Bubblemaps offers next-gen data visualization tools that bring clarity to complex on-chain relationships. Its innovative data presentation and user-friendly design for DeFi users position it as a differentiated contender in the data infrastructure sector.

    HTX Crypto Gem Hunt Offers High Standards for Project Selection

    Since its inception, the HTX Crypto Gem Hunt program has focused on identifying tokens with strong upside potential, leveraging deep analysis across technology, narrative strength, and user experience. The program has continually selected only the most promising opportunities for user wealth growth by zeroing in on narratives like meme coins, public chains, restaking protocols, AI memes, data tooling, and the Solana ecosystem.

    Across its five phases, the program has featured projects that delivered an average return of over 8 times, with seven “super cryptos” achieving more than 10x growth. The program’s first two phases (phase 1 and phase 2) focused on the on-chain meme coin boom. Phase 3 targeted the AI meme coin sector, yielding excellent performance, and phase 4 expanded to sectors including meme coins, Layer 1, and AI-powered social media, achieving consistent results.

    HTX empowers investors to unlock significant financial gains with its innovative Crypto Gem list. By tracking HTX’s latest asset listings, users gain early access to high-potential tokens before they surge. This proactive approach allows investors to strategically position themselves in undervalued opportunities, maximizing returns in the current market cycle. The next list may include your prized assets. HTX’s rigorous project selection and market expertise ensure a continuous stream of lucrative investment opportunities for its valued users.

    About HTX

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

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

    To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord.

    For further inquiries, please contact Ruder Finn Asia, glo-media@htx-inc.com.

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a8d8fea5-0beb-4272-a507-e228bd85537e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b7b4efe0-bae5-4dfe-8e6c-2353e73016e4

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Arizona Swindlers Sentenced for Paycheck Protection Program Fraud

    Source: US FBI

    PHOENIX, Ariz. – Four Arizona residents were sentenced to significant prison terms in connection with their schemes to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, a federal loan initiative designed to help businesses pay their employees and meet expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. All four defendants, Willie Mitchell, Sean Swaringer, Kimberly Coleman, and Jason Coleman pleaded guilty to Bank Fraud.

    They were each sentenced as follows:

    • Willie Mitchell, aka Blu Mitchell, 41, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced on February 6, 2023, by United States District Judge G. Murray Snow to 97 months in prison.
    • Sean Swaringer, 57, of Peoria, Arizona, was sentenced on April 4, 2023, by United States District Judge Steven P. Logan to 121 months in prison.
    • Kimberly Coleman, 39, of Mesa, Arizona, was sentenced on April 10, 2023, by Judge Logan to 120 months in prison.
    • Jason Coleman, 41, of Mesa, Arizona, was sentenced on May 15, 2023, by Judge Logan to 60 months in prison.

    In addition to their respective prison terms, all four defendants also were ordered to serve five years of supervised release.

    Mitchell, working with others, fraudulently obtained seven PPP loans totaling $9,470,900. He purchased a vehicle, multiple properties, and vacations with the PPP funds.

    Swaringer obtained four fraudulent PPP loans totaling more than $1.5 million on behalf of two entities: Cryotherapy for Veterans and Cryoworld Therapy, LLC. In addition to his own loans, Swaringer also recruited more than 10 individuals to apply for fraudulent PPP loans. He assisted in preparing and submitting their PPP applications in exchange for kickbacks from their PPP loan proceeds. Swaringer was ordered to pay more than $3.8 million in restitution for his own loans and the kickbacks from at least 15 other PPP loans. Swaringer purchased jewelry, vehicles, vacations, and real estate with the fraudulent funds.

    Kimberly Coleman and her husband, Jason Coleman, collectively prepared and submitted approximately two dozen fraudulent PPP loan applications in an attempt to receive more than $30 million in PPP funds. They were successful in at least 10 of those submissions and fraudulently obtained more than $13 million in PPP funds. The Colemans’ purchases included luxury vehicles and real estate properties, personal property from several high-end retail outlets, vacation, and jewelry.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the investigation in these cases, with significant assistance from Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Small Business Administration-Office of the Inspector General. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecutions.

    CASE NUMBERS:         CR21-00977-001-PHX-GMS
                                              CR21-00981-001-PHX-SPL
                                              CR21-00975-002-PHX-SPL
                                              CR21-00975-001-PHX-SPL
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2023-088_Mitchell-Swaringer-Coleman

    # # #

    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Little Rock Woman Pleads Guilty to COVID Relief Fraud

    Source: US FBI

          LITTLE ROCK—A Little Rock woman pleaded guilty to bank fraud this afternoon after fraudulently obtaining nearly $2 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans intended to provide relief for small businesses affected by COVID-19. Cody Hiland, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, and Diane Upchurch, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, announced today the guilty plea of Ganell Tubbs, 41.

          At today’s hearing, Tubbs admitted that she purported to own two businesses: The Little Piglet Soap Company, LLC, and Suga Girl Customs, LLC. According to the Arkansas Secretary of State, neither business is in good standing, and both businesses list Tubbs’ residence and personal phone number as the business contact information.

          On April 30, 2020, Tubbs submitted a PPP application representing that Suga Girl Customs had paid $1,385,903 in wages and compensation during the first quarter of 2020. She was approved for a PPP loan of $1,518,887 and received the funds on May 5, 2020, but two days later, she used the proceeds to make an $8,000 payment on her personal student loan. The following week, Tubbs spent approximately $6,000 in online purchases at retailers including Apple, Michael Kors, Sephora, North Face, Nike, and others.

          Similarly, on May 5, 2020, Tubbs submitted another PPP application, this time regarding The Little Piglet Soap Company. Based on the false representations she made in the loan application, The Little Piglet Soap Company received a PPP loan for $414,375.

          “This defendant took almost two million dollars that were intended to keep small businesses afloat during COVID-related shutdowns,” stated U.S. Attorney Hiland. “Hardworking Arkansans needed these funds to pay their employees and support their families, and we will not tolerate fraudsters who lie to obtain these funds and then use them for their personal enjoyment. We ask anyone with information on suspected PPP fraud to please report it.”

          The indictment, which was returned by a grand jury on July 7, 2020, charges Tubbs with two counts of bank fraud, two counts of making a false statement on a loan application, and one count of engaging in a monetary transaction with proceeds of unlawful activity. Tubbs pleaded guilty today to one count of bank fraud in exchange for dismissal of the remaining charges.

          Tubbs’ plea was accepted this afternoon by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller, who will sentence Tubbs at a later date. The FBI, the Small Business Administration – Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Pat Harris and Jamie Dempsey are prosecuting the case.

    # # #

    This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    Twitter:

    @EDARNEWS

    MIL Security OSI –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Solaris 2025 Presale Gains Momentum with Explosive Growth and Mobile Mining Breakthrough

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TALLINN, Estonia, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the crypto market enters a new phase of innovation and user empowerment, Bitcoin Solaris (BTC-S) is emerging as one of 2025’s most compelling blockchain opportunities. With its ongoing presale generating buzz across the industry, Bitcoin Solaris is redefining accessibility and scalability in Web3, offering everyday users a real shot at building long-term wealth.

    A New Era of Decentralized Accessibility

    Bitcoin Solaris introduces a next-generation hybrid blockchain that merges Proof-of-Work and Delegated Proof-of-Stake (PoW + DPoS) mechanisms, supporting lightning-fast speeds of up to 10,000 transactions per second and 2-second finality. With cross-chain compatibility and seamless integration with Solana’s tech stack, Bitcoin Solaris delivers both performance and flexibility.

    Key features include:

    • Hybrid PoW + DPoS architecture for scalability and decentralization
    • ZK privacy options, DeFi/NFT capabilities, and mobile-first design
    • Cyberscope and Freshcoins-audited smart contracts
    • Freshcoins KYC verification for added transparency

    Most notably, the Solaris Nova App—currently in beta—allows users to mine BTC-S directly from smartphones or laptops without expensive hardware or technical skills, making it one of the most accessible crypto experiences to date.

    And people are noticing. A growing number of influencers and early adopters are joining the conversation. One of the most talked-about reviews is from CryptoChester, who breaks down why Bitcoin Solaris is poised to lead the next market wave.

    Why Work for Money When BTC-S Can Work for You?

    Tokenomics That Build Trust

    Bitcoin Solaris adheres to a deflationary model with a 21 million total token supply, reflecting a long-term vision grounded in utility and scarcity. The distribution model prioritizes community and miner incentives:

    • 66.66% for mining (14 million BTC-S)
    • 20% for presale
    • 5% for liquidity pools
    • 2% each for ecosystem development, community rewards, marketing, and staking
    • 0.33% for team and advisors

    This transparent structure ensures decentralization, trust, and broad-based participation from the ground up.

    Presale Highlights: A 90-Day Opportunity

    The Bitcoin Solaris presale is designed to reward early adopters and generate sustainable momentum. With only 90 days to participate, it’s already breaking records:

    • Current Price: $4
    • Next Phase: $5
    • Launch Price: $20
    • Bonus: 12%

    But what makes it stand out even more?

    • Runs for only 90 days, launch Date: July 31, 2025
    • Over $1,000,000 raised already
    • More than 8,900 unique users onboarded
    • Potential return: 1,900%
    • One of the shortest and most explosive presales of the year

    And that growth isn’t just hype—it’s backed by substance. To stay updated or get involved, explore their Telegram or check the buzz on X.

    This is one of the fastest-growing presales in the 2025 crypto landscape, driven by strong fundamentals and community excitement.

    Double Rewards Referral Program

    Bitcoin Solaris is boosting community growth with a referral program that rewards both you and your invitees. During the presale, you’ll earn 5% in BTC-S tokens for every purchase made through your referral link, while your referrals get a 5% bonus on their token buy. Simply log into your account at bitcoinsolaris.com, grab your referral link, and start sharing it across social media, crypto groups, or directly with friends. It’s a win-win system built to grow the ecosystem and your rewards.

    Join the Bitcoin Solaris Movement

    With a rapidly growing user base, audited infrastructure, and mobile-friendly innovation, Bitcoin Solaris is positioning itself as a cornerstone of the next crypto cycle. Whether you’re new to digital assets or a seasoned investor, BTC-S offers a compelling pathway to participate in—and benefit from—the decentralized future.

    Get involved before July 31, 2025. The clock is ticking.

    For more information:
    Website: bitcoinsolaris.com
     Telegram: @Bitcoinsolaris
     X (Twitter): @BitcoinSolaris

    Media Contact:
    Xander Levine
    info@bitcoinsolaris.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e0de5d24-8d39-48ec-9ac3-a58c3ce8fa14

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4812643c-7ca2-4e66-90f4-a08aabbc474c

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7232e923-9a0b-406b-af65-991e2329843e

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dadbff09-25b1-4b4d-98c3-c9e8e643680b

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: RBI imposes monetary penalty on Transactree Technologies Private Limited (‘Lendbox’)

    Source: Reserve Bank of India

    The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has, by an order dated May 23, 2025, imposed a monetary penalty of ₹40 lakh (Rupees Forty Lakh only) on Transactree Technologies Private Limited [also referred to as ‘Lendbox’] (the company), for non-compliance with certain provisions of the ‘Non-Banking Financial Company – Peer to Peer Lending Platform (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2017’ issued by RBI. This penalty has been imposed in exercise of powers conferred on RBI under the provisions of clause (b) of sub-section (1) of Section 58G read with clause (aa) of sub-section (5) of Section 58B of the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934.

    A scrutiny of the company was conducted by RBI in September 2023. Based on supervisory findings of non-compliance with RBI directions and related correspondence in that regard, a notice was issued to the company advising it to show cause as to why penalty should not be imposed on it for its failure to comply with the said directions.

    After considering the company’s reply to the notice, additional submissions made by it and oral submissions made during the personal hearing, RBI found, inter alia, that the following charges against the company were sustained, warranting imposition of monetary penalty.

    The company:

    1. routed the amounts disbursed and collected in loan accounts in the P2P Platform through a ‘co-lending escrow account’ in violation of the laid down ‘Fund Transfer Mechanism’; and

    2. did not: (a) disclose credit assessment and risk profile of the borrowers to the prospective lenders; and (b) disbursed loans to individual borrowers without the specific approval of individual lenders.

    This action is based on deficiencies in regulatory compliance and is not intended to pronounce upon the validity of any transaction or agreement entered into by the company with its customers. Further, imposition of this monetary penalty is without prejudice to any other action that may be initiated by RBI against the company.

    (Puneet Pancholy)  
    Chief General Manager

    Press Release: 2025-2026/404

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Do shorter prison sentences make society less safe? What the evidence says

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Daniel Alge, Senior Lecturer in Criminology & Criminal Justice, Brunel University of London

    The final report of the Independent Sentencing Review has proposed the most significant reform of sentencing and punishment in England and Wales since the 1990s.

    The review, chaired by former Conservative justice secretary David Gauke, calls for a number of changes to address the crisis of overcrowding in prisons. These include using fewer and shorter prison sentences, enhanced opportunities for early release based on good behaviour, and more use of community sentences.

    The government has already accepted most of the recommendations in principle, though many will require legislation to bring them into effect. The justice secretary, Shabana Mahmood, has said that the most serious offenders should not be eligible for an earlier release under the proposals.

    Prisons in England and Wales have been at or near capacity for a number of years, and frequently exceed their safe capacity. Official data shows that the current adult prison population is estimated to be around 87,700, compared with a maximum operational capacity of around 88,800. However, maximum capacity figures are only recorded annually, and the poor conditions of the prison estate mean the usable maximum may often be lower at any given time.

    Without reforms to sentencing, the prison population is projected to increase to up to 105,000 by 2029.

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

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

    In September 2024, prison overcrowding resulted in the emergency early release of around 1,700 prisoners serving sentences of less than five years who had served 40% of their sentence. They would ordinarily have not been eligible for early release until they had served 50% of their sentences.

    The Gauke review was commissioned to create a more sustainable solution to prevent further emergency measures. However, both the review and the emergency measures have come under criticism, namely that dangerous offenders will be released and communities and victims will be at risk. The shadow home secretary, Robert Jenrick, has claimed that the most recent proposals will “spark a crime wave”.

    So, will shorter sentences make communities less safe?

    What does the evidence say?

    A core recommendation is that custody should be used only as last resort. It calls for sentences of less than 12 months to only be given in exceptional circumstances, for example, where the offender is known to pose a high level of risk to a specific victim despite being sentenced for a less serious offence.

    The research on short-term imprisonment consistently shows that it is ineffective for a number of reasons. Short prison sentences are disproportionately expensive, especially when compared with community sentences. The offenders serving them have committed relatively minor offences, so pose a low risk other than in exceptional cases.

    Perhaps the most significant finding is the fact that the shorter the sentence, the higher the reoffending rate. Reoffending is around 55% for prisoners sentenced to less than 12 months, compared with an overall rate of 27.5%. If reoffending can be reduced by using more effective sentences, communities will be safer.



    Read more:
    How a doubling of sentence lengths helped pack England’s prisons to the rafters

    Another key proposal is the “earned progression model”. Under this, most prisoners (except those sentenced for specified serious sexual or violent offences) would be eligible for release after serving one-third of their sentence. They must have engaged constructively with the prison regime.

    They would then be supervised intensively in the community by probation services until they had served two-thirds of their sentence. After this, they would not be actively supervised.

    Prisoners who fail to engage constructively would not be eligible for release until the halfway point of their sentence. Under the early release policy introduced by the government in September 2024, these prisoners would be released after serving just 40% of their sentences.

    There is a sound evidence base for incentivising good behaviour in prison, rather than simply punishing bad behaviour. It is shown to help prisoners develop a sense of autonomy and accountability for their actions. This can help them abstain from reoffending once released.

    A focus on effective rehabilitation, rather than punishment alone, runs through the review. For example, recommendations for improved and targeted substance abuse and mental health treatment.

    There is widespread evidence across jurisdictions which suggests that a focus on rehabilitation, and not longer prisons sentences, is what reduces overall crime levels and makes communities safer. It also makes economic sense.

    The chief inspector of prisons, Charlie Taylor, made clear in his most recent annual report in September 2024 that a fundamental reorientation of prisons towards rehabilitation is needed in order to reduce overall crime levels.

    The Howard League for Penal Reform has also welcomed the proposals in the sentencing review.

    Concerns

    Victims groups have raised concerns about the risk of sex offenders or domestic abusers being released early, even under the current regime. The review recommends strengthening protections for victims, for example by expanding specialist domestic abuse courts and tagging for all perpetrators of violence against women and girls.

    More controversially, it recommends increasing trials into the use of voluntary chemical castration for serious sex offenders. The justice secretary is reported to be considering the use of mandatory chemical castration.

    Other questions remain around the implementation of the reforms, not least how they would be funded in the current economic climate. The chief inspector of probation, Martin Jones, has warned that without better funding and other reforms in the probation service, the proposals in the Gauke review would be “catastrophic”. The review recommends investing in the strained probation service, and bringing in third-sector organisations to support it.



    Read more:
    How to stop released prisoners reoffending: what the evidence says

    These are ambitious reforms that would require a considerable investment in the probation service, prisons, community rehabilitation and technology. There are also emerging human rights concerns about the adoption of advanced AI by probation services, as is recommended by the review.

    Ultimately, there is little evidence to suggest that fewer prisoners and shorter sentences will make communities less safe. It is ineffective rehabilitation leading to reoffending which comes at a considerable social and economic cost.

    Daniel Alge 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. Do shorter prison sentences make society less safe? What the evidence says – https://theconversation.com/do-shorter-prison-sentences-make-society-less-safe-what-the-evidence-says-257279

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Baltic Horizon Fund announces a change in the financial calendar

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Annual General Meeting of Baltic Horizon Fund investors will be held on 9 September 2025. Previously the planned time of the general meeting was 2 June 2025. Updated financial calendar is available on Baltic Horizon Fund webpage.

    For additional information, please contact:

    Tarmo Karotam
    Baltic Horizon Fund manager
    E-mail tarmo.karotam@nh-cap.com
    www.baltichorizon.com

    The Fund is a registered contractual public closed-end real estate fund that is managed by Alternative Investment Fund Manager license holder Northern Horizon Capital AS. 

    Distribution: GlobeNewswire, Nasdaq Tallinn, Nasdaq Stockholm, www.baltichorizon.com

    To receive Nasdaq announcements and news from Baltic Horizon Fund about its projects, plans and more, register on www.baltichorizon.com. You can also follow Baltic Horizon Fund on www.baltichorizon.com and on LinkedIn, Facebook, X and YouTube.

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: FRO – Q1 2025 Presentation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Please find enclosed the presentation of Frontline plc´s first quarter 2025 results to be held on the webcast / conference call 23 May, 2025 at 15:00 CET.

    This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5 – 12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

    Attachment

    • Presentation Q1 2025

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Charleswood Limited Navigates Shifting Market Dynamics with Strategic Focus

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Charleswood Limited today released a market commentary in light of the latest financial developments, highlighting both risk and opportunity amid shifting macroeconomic signals.

    Global markets remain broadly supported despite a mixed economic outlook. While rate cuts anticipated in early 2025 have been delayed, strong corporate earnings and robust consumer demand are providing a floor for investor confidence.

    “Staying agile in this environment is critical,” said a Charleswood Limited spokesperson. “Our strategies are evolving to reflect the growing bifurcation between high-growth sectors and more interest-sensitive areas.”

    Charleswood emphasized its commitment to long-term value creation through disciplined capital deployment and active engagement with portfolio companies. Areas of current focus include next-generation infrastructure, digital assets, and private credit.

    About Charleswood Limited:

    Charleswood Limited is an investment and advisory firm focused on delivering sustainable value through strategic allocation across global public and private markets.

    Financial Assets Manager: Fernando McNaughton

    Website: https://charleswoodlimited.com
    Phone: +852 5803 0608
    Email: info@charleswoodlimited.com
    Address: #8 Finance Street, Central, Hong Kong

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Charleswood Limited. 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/90e8a66c-f703-424d-9926-06a311cda23d

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Hola Prime Plans to Enter Futures Trading to Solve One of Finance’s Most Persistent Problems: Complexity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, NY, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Hola Prime, a leading proprietary trading firm, has announced its expansion into futures trading with a clear and ambitious goal: to simplify one of the most complicated and inaccessible segments of the financial markets.

    While interest in futures trading is steadily rising among both retail and professional traders, the industry remains riddled with barriers that discourage newcomers and frustrate even experienced participants. Complexities like sophisticated trading platforms, use of leverage, complex margin requirements, and confusing expiry structures, the current futures market has long been a space reserved for the few.

    “The futures market has long been defined by its complexity, and that complexity has often acted as a barrier to broader participation,” said Somesh Kapuria, CEO and Founder of Hola Prime. “At Hola Prime, we believe access to powerful financial instruments shouldn’t be limited by jargon or structural opacity. Our mission is to strip away unnecessary layers, provide clarity through education, simplify this industry, and offer a trading experience that is both sophisticated and accessible. Futures trading should be seen as an opportunity, not a test of endurance.”

    Despite the strategic leverage and diversification that futures trading offers, the industry remains difficult. The language is opaque – terms like “contango”, “convergence” and “backwardation” leave beginners alienated. Expiry dates and rollovers require precise management, while trading demands advanced tools and precise decisions.

    Most firms don’t offer much guidance or onboarding. They expect traders to already know how everything works. This makes it hard for new traders to get started, and when combined with the stress of fast-moving markets, it often leads to burnout or losses.

    Hola Prime plans to completely reimagine the trading experience by putting education at the core. The vision includes creating simple, easy-to-understand resources, such as visual guides, relatable analogies, and clear comparisons with forex, to help simplify complex trading concepts. To ensure traders receive personalized support, Hola Prime aims to launch one-on-one coaching sessions covering everything from technical strategies to emotional resilience.

    With all of these steps, Hola Prime Academy is set to have a rapid and high-scale expansion.

    Furthermore, Hola Prime TV is set to become a dedicated platform for live market insights, live trading sessions, expert interviews, and step-by-step strategy breakdowns, helping traders stay informed. Additionally, Hola Prime plans to offer global accessibility, industry-first 1-hour payouts, and a transparent trading environment, breaking down the traditional entry barriers often associated with futures prop trading.

    Besides this, Hola Prime has removed the unnecessary complexity and created clear, straightforward rules for successful trading. Their straightforward rulebook simplifies futures trading, making it easy to understand and apply.

    “There’s a fundamental design flaw in how this industry has been built – too much noise, too little clarity,” said Sumedha Sharma, CFO of Hola Prime. “We’re reengineering the trader’s journey to be simple, supportive, and scalable. Futures shouldn’t be a specialist’s game – they should be open to anyone willing to learn.”

    By rethinking how futures trading is taught, executed, and experienced, Hola Prime is positioning itself not just as a futures prop trading firm but as a problem-solver in an industry overdue for change. In doing so, it’s not simply launching a product. It’s setting a new standard for what trader-first futures trading can look like.

    About Hola Prime

    Hola Prime is a global proprietary trading firm with offices in the UK, Hong Kong, Cyprus, Dubai, and India. It supports a diverse community of traders across 175+ countries, offering access to over 150 financial instruments across multiple trading platforms. The firm is known for its structured approach to risk management, transparency, and trader-centric operations. Learn more at holaprime.com.

    Social Links

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holaprime_global/

    YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtVEJa1Ml132Be7tnk-DjeQ

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hola-prime/?viewAsMember=true

    X: https://x.com/HolaPrimeGlobal

    Discord: https://discord.gg/TJ7TcHPXBf

    Quora: https://www.quora.com/profile/HolaPrime/

    Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/HolaPrime/

    Medium: https://medium.com/@social_46267

    Media Contact

    Company: Hola Prime

    Contact: Media Team

    Email: marketing@holaprime.com

    Website: https://holaprime.com/

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UKSPF adds £39 million to local economy

    Source: City of York

    City of York Council is celebrating the success of its UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) investment programme, which has delivered significant benefits to businesses, communities, and residents.

    The funding has added £6.30 to York’s economy for every £1 invested – a total of £39 million. 

    City of York Council invested £5,507,510 from the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, in addition to £384,817 from the Rural England Prosperity Fund. The funds aimed to boost productivity and living standards, increase pride in place and build strong communities.

    The funding has been invested through a wide-ranging programme of grant and support schemes, aimed at supporting businesses and local communities.

    You can find out more about the achievements of the fund by watching our video.

    Cllr Pete Kilbane, Executive Member at City of York Council for Economy and Culture, said:

    The impacts of this investment have touched all parts of our city – from supporting entrepreneurs to turn their dreams into reality and enabling people to gain employable skills, to regenerating Acomb’s Front Street and bringing diverse cultural opportunities to York. 

    “I’m extremely proud to see that 125 jobs have been created or safeguarded as a direct result of this funding, with hundreds more people benefiting from opportunities to build the skills and confidence they need to secure rewarding, well-paid employment. 

    “The fact that this investment has contributed £39 million to York’s economy, is due in no small part to the energy and passion that I’ve seen demonstrated time and again by the people and organisations, who we’ve worked with throughout this programme and who have turned this funding into real change and opportunity for our people, places and communities.”

    One of the 41 providers funded through the UKSPF programme was Next Door But One, which has delivered new and accessible performances for all ages, and offered free career development support for early-career creatives in York.

    Matt Harper-Hardcastle, CEO and Artistic Director of Next Door But One, said: 

    As a small but rapidly growing theatre company in York, the UK Shared Prosperity Fund has been central to our ability to strengthen the infrastructure of our work, respond to local need and take brave steps forward with initiatives that make the arts accessible, meaningful and relevant to the diverse communities we serve. 

    “Through this funding, we’ve been able to reach new audiences and support early-career performing arts professionals to develop their businesses and practice.”

    Since the launch of the programme in 2022, City of York Council has supported 41 programmes across three priority investment areas: Communities and Place, People and Skills and Supporting Local Businesses.

    The Fund provided £2.6 billion of new funding for local investment between April 2022 and March 2025, and allowed Local Authorities to target funding where it was needed most, building pride in place, supporting high quality skills training, supporting pay, employment and productivity growth and increasing life chances.

    A single-year UKSPF extension has been announced by Government, covering the 2025 to 2026 financial year. Due to changes in the way government funding is allocated, the UKSPF programme will now be delivered at the wider York and North Yorkshire level, via the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.  

    York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority will receive £8,782,899 (£2,914,393 capital and £5,868,506 revenue) of investment to be committed in the 2025 to 2026 financial year, and the Combined Authority is currently working to allocate the funding to projects spread across the region.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fitch affirms HK’s credit rating

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today said that Fitch recognised Hong Kong’s strong credit fundamentals, including large fiscal buffers, robust external finances and a low level of fiscal debt.

    The statement was made in response to the Fitch report today on maintaining Hong Kong’s  AA- credit rating and stable outlook.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that the city’s banking sector is resilient, with solid funding and liquidity.

    Hong Kong’s financial system remains robust, with a consistently healthy level of overall asset quality in the banking sector according to international standards. Bank deposits have continued to grow.

    As of the end of March this year, the total amount of bank deposits in Hong Kong was near $18 trillion, marking an 11% year-on-year increase.

    The capital markets in the city are active. For the stock market, the Hang Seng Index rose 18% last year and has increased by over 15% since the beginning of this year.

    The total market capitalisation of Hong Kong stocks has exceeded $41 trillion. The average daily turnover in the first four months of 2025 surpassed $250 billion, representing a 144% increase compared to the same period last year.

    The initial public offering (IPO) market is also thriving, with cumulative funds raised exceeding $60 billion. This week, Hong Kong Exchanges & Clearing welcomed the world’s largest IPO activity so far this year.

    The fiscal situation of the Hong Kong SAR Government has remained robust. In the 2025-26 Budget, reinforced fiscal consolidation was set out.

    The Operating Account is expected to be largely balanced in this financial year and will return to surplus in the next financial year, ie 2026-27.

    The Capital Account mainly involves capital works expenditure, which represents investments for the future, such as the development of the Northern Metropolis. Therefore, the Government will make flexible use of market resources, including increasing the scale of bond issuance, to fast-track the related projects.

    Even if so, the level of deficit in the Capital Account will gradually decrease starting from the 2026-27 financial year.

    Overall, after counting the proceeds from bond issuance, the Consolidated Accounts will return to surplus in the 2028-29 financial year.

    The tariff war has increased global economic uncertainty and the world economy is facing broad challenges. However, international trade tensions have recently eased to a certain extent, and the Mainland’s economy has continued to grow steadily, supported by more proactive fiscal policies and moderate expansionary monetary policies. These will benefit the trade performance in Hong Kong and the region.

    Meanwhile, the Mainland’s high-level two-way opening up, as well as its pursuit of green transition, innovation and technology, and digital economy, will continue to create business and investment opportunities for Hong Kong.

    Leveraging its unique advantages of connecting with both the Mainland and the rest of the world under the “one country, two systems” arrangement, Hong Kong attracted more Mainland and international companies to establish international headquarters, research and development centres and regional offices in the city to expand their global business. In 2024, the number of companies in Hong Kong with parent companies located outside the city increased to nearly 10,000, reaching a new historical high.

    As a “super connector” and “super value-adder”, Hong Kong will continue to actively link the Mainland with the world. While reinforcing connections with traditional markets, Hong Kong will also forge more economic and investment networks with new markets, particularly those in the Global South.

    Furthermore, Hong Kong will deepen integration with the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, enabling the city to open up new growth points and inject greater impetus into its economy.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Statement on behalf of the thirteenth Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Statement on behalf of the thirteenth Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board

    • English
    • Cymraeg

    The thirteenth Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board met on 22nd May 2025.

    The Secretary of State for Wales, Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, in her role as Chair of the Transition Board sought endorsement from the Board for three regeneration projects, which will be supported with over £21.2million of Transition Board funding. These projects include:

    • Advanced Manufacturing Production Facility/National Net Zero Centre of Excellence
    • Redevelopment of business premises at Metal Box and Sandfields Business Centre

    Today’s release of money is the sixth announcement from the UK Government’s £80m Tata Steel / Port Talbot Transition Board fund and should support over 270 jobs and add a total of over £119m Gross Value Added to the local economy over the next decade. This latest major investment means more than £70 million has been announced by the Transition Board in the last nine months.  

    Investment from the Transition Board compliments UK Government’s action to secure new trade deals with the US and India, including seeking agreement to eradicate tariffs on core steel products imported into the US. This will protect tens of millions of pounds worth of steel exports from Wales every year.

    The Board also received updates on:

    • Tata Steel UK’s decarbonisation programme;
    • The Department of Business and Trade’s plans for a steel strategy;
    • Mental health and well-being interventions;
    • The Transition Board funds that have already been announced, including applications received for the Supply Chain fund, and support being provided from the Employment and Skills fund.

    Those in attendance included: Rt Hon Jo Stevens MP, Secretary of State for Wales; Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy & Planning in the Welsh Government; Cllr Alun Llewelyn, Deputy Leader of Neath Port Talbot Council; Frances O’Brien, CEO of Neath Port Talbot Council; Stephen Kinnock, MP for Aberafan Maesteg; David Rees, MS for Aberavon; Anne Jessopp CBE & Katherine Bennett CBE, independent members of the Board; Alun Davies, National Officer for Steel & Metals, Community Union; Tom Hoyles, Politics, Press and Research Officer, GMB Wales & Jason Bartlett Regional Officer of Unite the Union Wales.

    -ends-

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    Published 23 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Trade booms, investment accelerates as China, Latin America deepen ties

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

    NANJING, May 23 — In the early hours of last Saturday morning, the international express parcel supervision center at Wuxi Shuofang Airport in east China’s Jiangsu Province buzzed with activity, with customs officers swiftly clearing parcels bound for Mexico.

    The cargo plane carrying these cross-border e-commerce parcels, packed with apparel and small furnishings, was the 164th trans-Pacific flight since the route’s launch in April last year. Over the past 12 months, the service has delivered Chinese goods worth around 2 billion yuan (about 278.1 million U.S. dollars) to Latin America.

    The route epitomizes the deepening economic ties between China and Latin America. Surging demand for Chinese products is fueling a boom in cross-border e-commerce, which is now a new driver of foreign trade.

    “The route offers three flights weekly and goods can arrive in Latin America within two days. It has established an ‘air bridge’ connecting Jiangsu to Latin America,” said Wang Weihua, a Wuxi Customs official.

    China and Latin America are highly complementary in economy. China is Latin America’s second-largest trading partner and the top trading partner for countries like Chile, Brazil and Peru.

    According to China’s Ministry of Commerce, the bilateral trade hit a record high of 518.47 billion U.S. dollars in 2024, surpassing China’s 10-year target of 500 billion U.S. dollars that was set a decade ago.

    However, trade is only part of the story, with direct investment also growing as industrial collaboration booms.

    In 2024, China’s direct investment in Latin America reached 14.71 billion U.S. dollars, while Latin American companies had established 37,000 enterprises in China as of March this year, according to the ministry. China and Latin America have strengthened industrial cooperation in sectors like high-end manufacturing and the green economy.

    A prime example of industrial collaboration is the XCMG Brazil Industrial Park in the city of Pouso Alegre in Brazil, where rows of yellow engineering machinery vehicles stand out against the backdrop of the tropical rainforest.

    As China’s first overseas economic and trade cooperation zone for engineering machinery, the park produces over 10,000 units of machinery annually and serves as a core supplier to global mining giant Vale.

    “In recent years, we have invested heavily in R&D for new energy and smart equipment to meet local demand for green mining transformation,” said Gu Chong, chief culture officer of XCMG Brazil Industrial Park.

    A leading Chinese heavy machinery manufacturer, XCMG established its wholly-owned Brazilian production base in Pouso Alegre in 2014, expanding it into an industrial park later in 2019.

    “By strengthening localization, XCMG Brazil is accelerating green transformation and digital innovation to build high-value-added supply chains tailored to local demand,” said Gu.

    He added that XCMG is forging an integrated industrial ecosystem spanning R&D, manufacturing, service and finance, aiming to deepen cooperation with the whole Latin America region with Brazil serving as the regional hub.

    While Chinese firms go global, Latin American companies are also deepening their presence in China.

    At the production facility of WEG (Jiangsu) Electric Equipment Co., Ltd., robotic arms deftly assemble motor equipment with precision on automated assembly lines, blending Chinese automation with Brazilian engineering.

    The products will soon be transported to Europe and Oceania. “We invested over 2 million yuan in this robotic line, boosting per-worker productivity by about 40 percent,” said Zhang Pengfei, an engineer at WEG Jiangsu.

    WEG Jiangsu, as a key China-based subsidiary of Brazilian company WEG, has rapidly expanded since its establishment in 2014.

    “Our factory’s production capacity doubles every five years, making China a core of WEG’s global supply chain,” said Zong Xin, general manager of WEG Jiangsu, adding that WEG’s development in China has far exceeded expectations, with a total of six factories and about 3,000 employees.

    Zong highlighted that amid global economic volatility, China’s stable market environment and healthy competition environment can help Latin American firms mitigate risks and strengthen innovation.

    “China offers consistent policies, a skilled workforce, robust industrial chains and well-developed infrastructure,” he said, noting that WEG plans to invest an additional 1 billion yuan in new facilities to meet booming Chinese demand.

    “China will remain a pivotal hub for WEG’s production expansion, innovation and global competitiveness,” Zong added.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: China reports strong increase in online sales of digital products

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

    Online sales of digital products in China increased 8.4 percent year on year in the first four months of 2025, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce on Friday.

    Sales of smart robots and smart home systems rose by 87.6 percent and 16 percent year on year respectively, the data showed.

    An official of the ministry’s e-commerce department attributed the growth to the e-commerce sector’s sound integration between domestic and foreign trade, as well as its strong global industrial and supply chain coordination capacity.

    From January to April, online sales of 15 categories of home appliances and digital products covered by trade-in programs rose 11.5 percent year on year.

    Services consumption also saw a notable increase, with online entertainment and travel sales rising 31.9 percent and 25.4 percent year on year.

    MIL OSI China News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Cardinal Tagle at the Pontifical Mission Societies Assembly: let us learn from the Apostles, made missionaries by the encounter with the Risen Christ

    Source: Agenzia Fides – MIL OSI

    VaticanMedia

    Rome (Agenzia Fides) – The missionary work of the Church has its source in the wonder of those who encountered the Risen Jesus, “and were sent by Him”. And even today, the people and entities involved in missionary work can persevere and renew their zeal only through a personal encounter with the Risen Christ, “who changes lives”. Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle reminded the National Directors of the Pontifical Mission Societies (PMS), gathered in Rome for their annual General Assembly, that the experience witnessed of the first disciples of Jesus during the early Church, remains the benchmark for every authentic missionary work and initiative.Who “animates” the “animators”The meeting between Cardinal Tagle and the National Directors of the PMS took place in the late afternoon of Wednesday, March 21, at the International Center of San Lorenzo da Brindisi. In his addres, the Cardinal began by defining the task and responsibilities entrusted to his interlocutors in the audience. He recalled that the PMS National Director can be seen as “the sign, symbol and instrument of the Church’s missionary identity, according to the teachings of the Second Vatican Council.”For this reason, the Mission Director is called to be “the face, voice, hands, feet and heart of a Church that makes mission and mission that makes the Church in his/her local Church”.Since their origin – the Cardinal recalled – the Pontifical Missionary Societies “have been expressions of the Catholic faithful’s fidelity to Christ, transformed into missionary co-responsibility, i.e. missionary discipleship”.However, apostolic zeal is never a self-generated impulse nor the result of the mechanical application of a “missionary method.””To animate others to mission,” the Cardinal repeated several times, “we must be animated for mission, just like the first disciples.” He added, “we often forget that only the encounter with the Risen One made them missionaries. The gift of the Holy Spirit sealed their missionary zeal, their courage and creativity in proclaiming the good things God had done in Jesus Christ”. Therefore, insisted the Pro Prefect of the Missionary Dicastery “missionary animation is not just a task but a spiritual encounter with the Risen Lord that transforms one’s life, making one search for people with whom to share the Good News”. In this regard, the Cardinal suggested that valuable insights could be drawn from the readings proposed by the Church’s liturgy during the Easter season, the “time of the Risen One.”The apostolic foundations of missionary cooperationIn the accounts of the beginning of missionary work, the inherent nature and genetic traits of missionary work are revealed: the universal destination of the Gospel’s message of liberation, care for the poor, and the solicitude for cooperation and sharing of goods, gifts, charisms, and ministries. Cardinal Tagle highlighted these aspects through suggestive examples. For instance – the Cardinal reminded the National Directors of the PMS gathered in Assembly – when disputes arose over the requirement for non-Jews converting to Christianity to undergo circumcision, Paul and Barnabas went to Jerusalem and “convened an assembly with the apostles and elders.” This became the first Council, the Council of Jerusalem, where they held a “conversation in the Holy Spirit,” involving the apostles and elders, listening to God’s Word and discerning the movements of the Spirit. “Thus, an ‘organization’ of universal scope but deeply spiritual in nature was taking shape.”From those early steps of the nascent Church – noted Cardinal Tagle – it emerges that prayer, listening to the Word of God, discernment, mutual respect are distinctive traits that characterize every form of organized universal missionary cooperation. This – added the Cardinal – is “the ‘soul’ of the ‘organization.’”The Apostle – continued the Cardinal Pro-Prefect, choosing other events of the first Christian communities immediately linked to the mission of the PMS – also initiated a fundraising campaign among the new Gentile Churches in Macedonia and Achaia to support the poor Church in Jerusalem. The Apostle of the Gentiles praised the Churches of Macedonia for sharing what they could, despite their poverty, testifying to the “circulation of love” between young and older Churches, which also drives the activities of the PMS. “Whoever sows sparingly,” as stated in the Second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians, “will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully…for God loves a cheerful giver.”Common prayer, sharing of the Eucharist and also of material goods accompanied the life of the early Christian communities. The community sold their possessions and laid the proceeds at the apostles’ feet, who distributed them according to the need of each. In this regard, Cardinal Tagle recalled the story of Ananias and Sapphira, narrated in the Acts of the Apostles. They sold a piece of land but kept part of the proceeds for themselves. Peter rebuked them, saying, “You have not lied to men but to God.” After this, both Ananias and Sapphira died. In the Church of Christ, the Cardinal remarked, such events occurred “even shortly after the Resurrection and Pentecost.” However, the essential traits accompanying and characterizing the first apostolic work were those of prayer, mutual respect, listening, and sharing. These are all elements that today characterize and make every authentic missionary cooperation recognizable.The Cardinal reiterated that even the Pontifical Mission Societies draw “from this first Easter experience.” The work of the PMS National Directors can also be seen and lived as an extension of that of the first Apostles. “We too,” the Cardinal concluded, “can animate mission and animate our organization by learning from them who had encountered the Risen Lord and had been sent by Him in the power of the Holy Spirit.” (GV) (Agenzia Fides, 23/5/2025)
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    MIL OSI Europe News –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: MINT Income Fund Announces Normal Course Issuer Bid

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, May 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MINT Income Fund (the “Fund”) (TSX: MID.UN) announced that it has filed a notice with the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) and received its approval to make a normal course issuer bid (“NCIB”). Purchases pursuant to the NCIB will be made in the open market through the facilities of the TSX and Alternative Canadian Trading Systems. This NCIB will commence on May 27, 2025 and will terminate on May 26, 2026. In accordance with the Declaration of Trust by which the Fund is governed, market purchases pursuant to its NCIB may be effected by the Fund.

    The Fund had 10,052,580 units issued and outstanding as at May 13, 2025, including 10,031,982 units in the public float. The Fund may, during the 12 month period commencing May 27, 2025 purchase on the TSX up to 1,003,198 units, being 10% of the public float and may not, in any 30 day period, purchase more than 201,051 units, being 2% of the units issued and outstanding. The Fund will hold in treasury for resale all units purchased pursuant to the bid. As at May 13, 2025 the Fund had purchased 18,700 units on the TSX and Alternative Canadian Trading Systems at an average price of $6.96 per unit under its previously approved normal course issuer bid. The Fund had the ability to purchase up to 1,089,755 units under its last NCIB. The manager of the Fund believes that such purchases are in the best interest of the Fund and are a desirable use of its available funds.

    The Fund trades on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol “MID.UN”.

    For further information visit our website at www.middlefield.com or contact the undersigned:

    Nancy Tham
    Managing Director, Sales and Marketing
    (416) 847-5349

    May 23, 2025

    This press release may contain forward-looking information, including with respect to future purchases of Units by the Fund. The forward-looking information contained in this press release constitutes current expectations, as of the date of this press release, with respect to the matters covered hereby. Investors and others should not assume that any forward-looking statement contained in this press release represents an estimate as of any date other than the date of this press release.

    The MIL Network –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: US solar manufacturers lag skyrocketing market demand

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mojtaba Akhavan-Tafti, Associate Research Scientist, University of Michigan

    Americans continue to want solar energy. AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki

    U.S. consumer demand for renewable energy continues to grow, with more solar panel capacity installed in 2024 than in 2023, which saw more than in 2022. But U.S. trade policy is in flux, and high tariffs have been imposed on imported solar panels, which may cause shortages.

    I am a scholar who studies the Sun, as well as an entrepreneur who is working to harness its power here on Earth by creating new designs for generating solar electricity. As part of that effort, I’ve studied market trends and manufacturing capabilities in the U.S. and abroad. Right now, U.S. manufacturers do not produce enough solar panels to meet the nation’s demand, but industry investments and federal tax incentives have been making progress, though recent federal moves have created uncertainty.

    In 2024, U.S. installers put up enough solar panels to generate 50 gigawatts of electricity – enough to power New York City for a year.

    U.S. manufacturers made only a small fraction of that – 4.2 GW of solar modules in the first half of 2024. That was a big boost, though – a 75% increase compared with the same period in 2023. And the prices were roughly three times the cost of imports.

    A look at recent imports

    In 2024, the U.S. imported far more panels than the country needed, suggesting developers may be stockpiling panels for future projects.

    Most of those imported panels were made in Asia, particularly Malaysia, Vietnam and Thailand. In fact, nearly all of the U.S.-made panels used at least some components from overseas. China currently makes about 97% of the world’s supply of photovoltaic wafers, which are building blocks of solar panels.

    The effects of proposed U.S. trade policies on the solar industry remain unclear. Through 2024, manufacturing continued a yearslong ramp-up to take advantage of government policies favoring domestic manufacturing. And imported panels seem slated to suffer from ever-increasing tariffs, which drive up costs.

    Domestic production rises

    Since 2010, U.S. solar panel production has increased about eightfold. But U.S.-made panels are more expensive than imported alternatives. In 2024, U.S.-made panels typically cost 31 cents per watt, but imported panels, even including tariffs that existed before President Donald Trump’s second term, cost about one-third of that: 11 cents per watt.

    But domestic manufacturers are bringing costs down by ramping up production while relying on the government to maintain or increase tariffs on imports, which may make U.S. panels more competitive domestically in the future.

    Reliance on overseas sources

    Despite that increase in domestic production, U.S. demand for solar panels has grown even faster. To meet demand, the U.S. imports a substantial portion of its solar photovoltaic modules.

    Tariffs, including a 30% tariff on solar cells and solar panels starting in 2018, aimed to boost domestic manufacturing.

    But those tariffs and falling global prices made solar installations more costly in the U.S. than in the rest of the world. The average global cost of installed solar systems dropped from $1.15 per watt in 2012 to $0.72 per watt in 2016, nearly half that of U.S. installations.

    The 2018 tariffs, as well as earlier rounds in 2012 and 2014, have shifted the source of U.S. imports of solar panels – from China and Taiwan to Malaysia and South Korea. Manufacturers are also building solar panels in Singapore and Germany to maintain access to the U.S. market. And Chinese companies are even investing in U.S. solar manufacturers to take advantage of federal incentives and avoid tariffs.

    New tariffs emerge

    Trump’s proposal for new tariffs on foreign-made solar goods, including panels and components, particularly target Chinese-owned companies in Southeast Asia.

    They could include a potential 375% tariff on Thai products – nearly quadrupling prices – and a 3,500% tariff on products from Cambodia.

    In contrast, U.S.-made solar panels will be cheaper. But a reduced supply of solar panels will raise prices even of domestic-made panels, at least until U.S. manufacturing can catch up with the demand. Some developers have begun to delay or cancel solar installations to address rising costs.

    Domestic investment

    Due in large part to the Biden administration’s Inflation Reduction Act, enacted in 2022, the U.S. solar panel industry has seen significant investments.

    Since the law’s enactment, more than 95 GW of manufacturing capability have been added across the solar supply chain in the U.S., including new facilities that in a year can construct enough solar panels to produce nearly 42 GW, beyond existing manufacturing levels. This growth in manufacturing capabilities is largely located in Texas and Georgia.

    Still, the new administration’s shifting priorities and trade policies make the landscape uncertain. Before Trump began discussing various solar-related trade policies, the industry projected it would install an average of 45 GW of solar panels every year for the next decade.

    Mojtaba Akhavan-Tafti owns shares in APT Solar Solutions Inc. in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He receives funding from public and private organizations to develop and commercialize three-dimensional solar modules.

    – ref. US solar manufacturers lag skyrocketing market demand – https://theconversation.com/us-solar-manufacturers-lag-skyrocketing-market-demand-256944

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 27, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Like many populist leaders, Trump accuses judges of being illegitimate obstacles to safety and democracy

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Michael Gregory, Assistant Professor of Philosophy, Clemson University

    The front entrance of the E. Barrett Prettyman United States Court House, the workplace of Judge James Boasberg, along with other federal and appeals court judges, is seen in Washington, D.C. Philip Yabut/Getty Images

    Federal judges and at times Supreme Court justices have repeatedly challenged – and blocked – President Donald Trump’s attempts to reshape fundamental aspects of American government.

    Many of Trump’s more than 150 executive orders, including one aimed at eliminating the Department of Education, have been blocked by injunctions and lawsuits.

    When a majority of Supreme Court justices ruled on May 16, 2025, that the Trump administration could not deport a group of Venezuelan immigrants without first giving them the right to due process in court, Trump attacked the court.

    “The Supreme Court of the United States is not allowing me to do what I was elected to do,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “This is a bad and dangerous day for America!” he continued in the post.

    As the Trump administration faces other orders blocking its plans, the president and his team are framing judges not just as political opponents but as enemies of democracy.

    Trump, for example, has called for the impeachment of James Boasberg, a federal judge who also issued orders blocking the deportation of immigrants in the U.S. to El Salvador. Attorney General Pam Bondi has said that Boasberg was “trying to protect terrorists who invaded our country over American citizens,” and Trump has also called Boasberg and other judges who ruled against him or his administration “left-wing activists.”

    “We cannot allow a handful of communist, radical-left judges to obstruct the enforcement of our laws and assume the duties that belong solely to the president of the United States,” Trump said at a rally in April 2025. “Judges are trying to take away the power given to the president to keep our country safe.”

    As a scholar of legal and political theory, I believe this kind of talk about judges and the judicial system is not just misleading, it’s dangerous. It mirrors a pattern seen across many populist movements worldwide, where leaders cast independent courts and judges as illegitimate obstacles to what they see as the will of the people.

    By confusing the idea that the people’s will must prevail with what the law actually says, these leaders justify intimidating judges and their sound legal rulings, a move that ultimately undermines democracy.

    President Donald Trump shakes hands with Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts at his inauguration on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
    Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

    Thwarting ‘the will of the American people’?

    In the face of judicial rulings against them, Trump and other administration officials have suggested on multiple occasions that judges are antagonistic to what the American people voted for.

    Yet these rulings are merely a reflection of the rule of law.

    Trump and supporters such as Elon Musk have characterized the rulings as a sign that a group of elite judges are abusing their power and acting against the will of the American people. The rulings that enforce the law, according to this argument, stand in opposition to the popular mandate American voters give to elected officials like the president.

    “If ANY judge ANYWHERE can stop EVERY Presidential action EVERYWHERE, we do NOT live in a democracy,” Elon Musk posted on X in February 2025. “When judges egregiously undermine the democratic will of the people, they must be fired,” Musk added.

    And U.S. Rep. Mike Johnson, the Republican speaker of the House of Representatives, said in March 2025, “We do have the authority over the federal courts, as you know. We can eliminate an entire district court.”

    Framing judges as enemies of democracy or as obstacles to the people’s will departs sharply from the traditional view – held across political lines – that the judiciary is an essential, nonpartisan part of the American constitutional system.

    While previous presidents have expressed frustration with specific court decisions or judges’ political leanings, their critiques mostly focused on specific legal reasoning.

    Supreme Court Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson warned against the Trump administration’s charge that judges were actively undermining democracy. In late April 2025, she said during a conference for judges that “relentless attacks on judges are an attack on democracy.”

    So, are judges obstructing democracy – or protecting it?

    Are unelected judges a sign of democracy?

    The U.S. Constitution established an independent judiciary as a coequal branch of government, alongside the legislative and executive branches. Federal judges are appointed for life and cannot be removed for political reasons. The country’s founders thought this protection could insulate judges from political pressures and ensure that courts uphold the Constitution, not the popularity of a given policy.

    Yet as the federal judiciary has expanded in size and power, the arguments about the relationship between democracy and judicial independence have become louder among some political scientists and legal philosophers.

    Some critics take issue with the fact that federal judges are appointed by politicians, not elected to their positions – a fact that others argue contributes to their independence.

    Federal judges often serve longer on the bench than many elected officials.

    Why, some critics argue, should a small group of unelected experts be allowed to overturn decisions made by elected officials?

    Other democratic theorists, however, say that federal judges can act as a check on elected leaders who may misuse or abuse their power, or pass laws that violate people’s legal rights. This indirectly strengthens democracy by giving people a meaningful way to have recourse against laws that go against their rights and what they actually voted for.

    A common story across countries

    The argument that judges are an enemy to democracy is not unique to the U.S.

    Authoritarian leaders from across the world have used similar language to justify undermining the courts.

    In the Philippines, then-President Rodrigo Duterte in 2018 told Maria Lourdes Sereno, a top judge who was an outspoken critic of Duterte’s war on drugs, “I am now your enemy.” Shortly after, the Philippines Supreme Court voted to oust Sereno from the court. These judges cited Sereno’s failure to disclose personal financial information when she was first appointed to the court as the reason for her removal.

    Filipino protesters and outside critics alike viewed Sereno’s removal as politically motivated and said it undermined the country’s judicial independence.

    El Salvador President Nayib Bukele’s allies in the legislative assembly similarly voted in May 2021 to remove the government’s attorney general as well all five top judges for obstructing Bukele’s plans to imprison, without proper due process, large numbers of people. Bukele replaced the attorney general and judges with political loyalists, violating constitutional procedure.

    Kamala Harris, then vice president of the U.S., was among the international observers who said the removal of judges in El Salvador made her concerned about El Salvador’s democracy. Bukele justified the judges’ removal by saying he was right and that he refused to “listen to the enemies of the people” who wanted him to do otherwise.

    And in April 2024, a minister in Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Cabinet called Attorney General Gali Baharav-Miara an “enemy of the people,” blaming her for protests outside Netanyahu’s home. This disparagement was part of Netanyahu’s broader efforts to weaken judges’ role and independence and to remove judicial constraints on executive power.

    Judge James Boasberg is one example of a judge who was personally attacked by President Donald Trump for issuing various rulings on the administration’s plans to deport Venezuelan immigrants.
    Drew Angerer/AFP via Getty Images

    Pushing against democracy

    In the name of weakening what they call undemocratic institutions, these and other leaders try to discredit independent judges. This attempt helps these leaders gain power and silence dissent.

    Their attempts to disparage and discredit judges misrepresent judges’ work by asserting that it is political in nature – and thus subject to political criticism and even intimidation. But in the U.S., judges’ constitutionally mandated work takes place in the realm of law, not politics.

    By confusing the idea that the people’s will must prevail with what the law actually says, these leaders justify intimidating judges and their rulings, a move that ultimately undermines democracy.

    Independent judges may not always make perfect decisions, and concerns about their interpretations or potential biases are legitimate. Judges sometimes make decisions that are objectionable from a moral and legal standpoint.

    But when political leaders portray judges as the problem, I believe it’s crucial to ask: Who truly benefits from silencing judges?

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

    – ref. Like many populist leaders, Trump accuses judges of being illegitimate obstacles to safety and democracy – https://theconversation.com/like-many-populist-leaders-trump-accuses-judges-of-being-illegitimate-obstacles-to-safety-and-democracy-255472

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 27, 2025
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