Category: Business

MIL-OSI Russia: The Polytechnic University summed up the results of the competition of entrepreneurial and business ideas of students

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

The award ceremony of the fifth youth competition of entrepreneurial and business ideas The Blue Ocean Open Polytech Entrepreneurship Competition took place at the Boiling Point – Polytech. The competition was announced at the beginning of February this year and attracted a large number of participants.

The event was organized by the Polytech Innovation Support and Development Fund, the Higher School of Industrial Management of the Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade, and the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the Advanced Engineering School Digital Engineering.

This year, 12 teams reached the final. In addition to the awards for first, second and third places, the jury members presented diplomas “For creativity”, “For creativity and desire for knowledge”, “For the promotion of a healthy lifestyle”, “For creativity and uniqueness of the project”, “For the promotion of sports and beauty”.

The first place and the prize “For the most technologically advanced project” were awarded to the team of masters of the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the PIS “Digital Engineering”. Daria Kuzmenkova, Yaroslav Plokhikh and Denis Shatalov presented the project “ProjectAR – interactive VR projector”.

The second and third places were taken by teams of bachelors of the Management program of the Higher School of Industrial Management of IPMEiT. The project “Interactive theater “The Storyteller’s Den”” was presented by Andrey Ponomarev, Zaur Guseinov, Pavel Kasyanik and Dmitry Rusnak. The project “”Nomads” – a mobile recreation center” was defended by Diana Yakimenko, Vitaly Trofimov, Maria Belova and Maria Platonova.

The jury members noted that this year there were many projects with a social focus, supporting a healthy lifestyle and sports.

The general partner of the competition, which provided cash prizes to the teams, was the company “Profilans IT”.

The chairman of the jury, associate professor of the Higher School of Industrial Management Anastasii Klimin presented letters of gratitude from the Foundation for Support and Development of Innovations “Polytech” to the general director of the company “Profilans IT” Mark Stramousov. Gratitude was also received by the head of the company’s development team Elizaveta Mokhova, who has been judging the competition for the third year.

It is great that we have talented students who repeatedly participate in the competition and win. Each success for bachelors is additional points in the portfolio when entering a master’s program, as well as an opportunity to develop their business ideas in the future, – emphasized Anastasii Klimin.

The “Star Captain” diploma and a special prize were received by Daria Kuzmenkova from the General Director of the PSS company Pavel Balobanov.

This year we gave a special prize to the captain of the BOSS winning team to emphasize the importance of a leader. Congratulations to Daria on her great achievement. I would also like to congratulate all the participants who reached the end of the competition. This is the most important condition for success: to try and see things through, sometimes by the skin of your teeth, but to the end, demonstrating a strong will. This is exactly what you all showed today, – said Pavel Balobanov.

Executive Director of the Foundation for Support and Development of Innovations “Polytech”, Associate Professor of the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship of the PIS “Digital Engineering” Alexey Efimov wished further success and professional development to all participants of the competition.

There are now many opportunities to develop your ideas and startups, many funds finance student entrepreneurship. Don’t stop there. Come to our Peter the Great startup center, and we will help you finalize and correctly design your project and grant application, – said Alexey Efimov.

The sixth edition of The Blue Ocean Open Polytech Entrepreneurship Competition is scheduled for February-May of the next academic year.

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 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Transfer of Oma Savings Bank Plc’s own shares for incentive scheme reward payment

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE, 25 MAY 2025 AT 11.30 AM EET, CHANGES IN COMPANY’S OWN SHARES

Transfer of Oma Savings Bank Plc’s own shares for incentive scheme reward payment

The Board of Directors of Oma Savings Bank Plc (OmaSp or Company) has resolved to transfer 4 819 own shares held by the company without consideration to participants of the share-based incentive scheme 2022-2023 for payment of the reward instalment 2025 in accordance with the plan terms and conditions. The shares will be transferred as a reward from the plan on 21 May 2025.

The transfer of own shares is based on the authorisation granted by the Annual General Meeting held on 8 April 2025.

After the transfer of shares, Oma Savings Bank Plc holds 132 200 own shares in treasury.

Oma Savings Bank Plc

Additional information:

Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi

DISTRIBUTION:

Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
www.omasp.fi

OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 500 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Proposed Offering of US$500 Million Convertible Senior Notes

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced the proposed offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$500 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”), subject to market conditions and other factors, only to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”). The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering an option to purchase up to an additional US$75 million principal amount of the Notes, exercisable for settlement within a 30-day period beginning on, and including, the date on which the Notes are first issued.

The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.

When issued, the Notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of the Company. The Notes will mature on June 1, 2030, unless repurchased, redeemed or converted in accordance with their terms prior to such date. Holders may convert their Notes at their option at any time prior to the close of business on the seventh scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date. Upon conversion, the Company will cause to be delivered the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share. Holders may elect to receive the Company’s American depositary shares (“ADS”), each representing one Class Z ordinary share, in lieu of Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion, subject to certain procedures and conditions set forth in the terms of the notes. The interest rate, initial conversion rate and other terms of the Notes will be determined at the time of pricing of the Notes.

The Company may redeem for cash all or any part of the Notes on or after June 6, 2028 if the last reported sale price of the Class Z ordinary shares has been at least 130% of the conversion price for the Notes then in effect for at least 20 trading days, whether or not consecutive, during any 30 consecutive trading day period preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (including the last trading day of such period) ending on, and including, the trading day immediately preceding the date on which the Company provides notice of redemption (the “Optional Redemption”). In addition, the Company may redeem for cash all but not part of the Notes at any time if less than 10% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes originally issued remains outstanding at such time (the “Cleanup Redemption”). The Company may also redeem the Notes upon the occurrence of certain tax-related events (the “Tax Redemption”). Holders of the Notes may require the Company to repurchase for cash all or part of their Notes in cash on June 1, 2028, or in the event of certain fundamental changes. In connection with certain corporate events or if the Company issues a notice of Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption, it will, under certain circumstances, increase the conversion rate for holders who elect to convert their Notes in connection with such corporate event or such Optional Redemption, Cleanup Redemption or Tax Redemption.

Concurrently with the Notes Offering, a certain number of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares are proposed to be borrowed from third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”). The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering will be determined at the time of pricing of the Concurrent Delta Offering, and is expected to generally correspond to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. Any securities sold in the Concurrent Delta Offering will be offered and sold through a concurrent SEC-registered offering pursuant to a separate prospectus supplement and an accompanying base prospectus. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

The Company also intends to purchase a number of its Class Z ordinary shares offered in the Concurrent Delta Offering for an amount expected to be up to US$100 million at the offering price (the “Concurrent Repurchase”) pursuant to its existing share repurchase program.

The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled. It is generally expected that the Concurrent Repurchase will help offset some of the potential dilution for the Company’s shareholders upon conversion of the Notes.

Other Matters

The Notes, the Class Z ordinary shares deliverable upon conversion of the Notes or the ADSs deliverable in lieu thereof, have not been registered under the Securities Act, or any state securities laws. They may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. persons, except in reliance on the exemption from registration under the Securities Act.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

This press release contains information about the pending Notes Offering, and there can be no assurance that the Notes Offering will be completed.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

About Bilibili Inc.

Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

For more information, please visit: http://ir.bilibili.com.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Bilibili Inc.
Juliet Yang
Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
Email: ir@bilibili.com

Piacente Financial Communications
Helen Wu
Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

In the United States:

Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: -1-212-481-2050
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bilibili Inc. Announces Proposed Offering of Class Z Ordinary Shares in Connection with Hedging Transactions of Certain Convertible Notes Investors and Concurrent Repurchase

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHANGHAI, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bilibili Inc. (“Bilibili” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: BILI and HKEX: 9626), an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, today announced a separate SEC-registered underwritten offering of its Class Z ordinary shares, par value US$0.0001 per share (the “Concurrent Delta Offering”).

Concurrently with such offering, the Company announced the proposed offering (the “Notes Offering”) of US$500 million in aggregate principal amount of convertible senior notes due 2030 (the “Notes”) pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The proposed Notes Offering is subject to market conditions and other factors. The Company intends to grant the initial purchasers in the Notes Offering a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional US$75 million in principal amount of the Notes. The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to enhance its content ecosystem to facilitate user growth, facilitate IP asset creation, and unleash its inherent potential. The Company also plans to use the net proceeds from the Notes Offering to improve its overall monetization efficiency, fund the Concurrent Repurchase (as defined below), fund future repurchases (from time to time) under its share repurchase program, and for other general corporate purposes.

In connection with the offering of the Notes, the Company announced the Concurrent Delta Offering, under which certain number of the Company’s Class Z ordinary shares are proposed to be borrowed from third parties and offered in a separate underwritten offering by Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C. and Morgan Stanley Asia Limited (the “Underwriters”), each acting severally on behalf of itself and/or its respective affiliates. The Underwriters will use the resulting short position to facilitate hedging transactions by certain investors subscribing for the Notes, who employ a convertible arbitrage strategy (the “Convertible Arbitrage Investors”). The Company has been advised that each Underwriter is concurrently entering into privately negotiated derivative transactions relating to the Class Z ordinary shares, enabling Convertible Arbitrage Investors to establish their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes. The number of Class Z ordinary shares subject to the Concurrent Delta Offering will be determined at the time of pricing of the Concurrent Delta Offering, and is expected to generally correspond to such initial short positions of the Convertible Arbitrage Investors. No new Class Z ordinary shares will be issued in the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Company will not receive any proceeds from the Concurrent Delta Offering. The Notes Offering and the Concurrent Delta Offering are contingent upon each other.

In addition, the Company intends to purchase a number of its Class Z ordinary shares offered in the Concurrent Delta Offering for an amount expected to be up to US$100 million at the offering price (the “Concurrent Repurchase”) pursuant to its existing share repurchase program.

The Company will use part of the proceeds from the Notes Offering for the Concurrent Repurchase. The Concurrent Repurchase enables investors to establish some of their initial short positions in the Class Z ordinary shares to hedge market risk in the Notes and reflects the Company’s confidence in its long-term strategy and growth. The repurchased shares will be cancelled.

The Company has filed an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 (including a prospectus) with the SEC. The Concurrent Delta Offering will be made only by means of a prospectus supplement and an accompanying prospectus. Before you invest, you should read the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus and other documents that the Company has filed with the SEC for more complete information about the Company and the Concurrent Delta Offering. You may obtain these documents by visiting EDGAR on the SEC website at www.sec.gov. Alternatively, a copy of the prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained from Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, 200 West Street, New York, New York 10282, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: Prospectus-ny@ny.email@gs.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 471-2526; or Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, c/o Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, New York, New York 10014, Attention: Prospectus Department, Email: prospectus@morganstanley.com, Telephone: 1 (866) 718-1649.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to purchase any of these securities, nor shall there be a sale of the securities in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful.

This press release contains information about the pending Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase, and there can be no assurance that the Concurrent Delta Offering and Concurrent Repurchase will be completed.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “aims,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident,” “potential,” “continue,” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the terms of the Notes, whether the Company will complete the Notes Offering, whether the Concurrent Delta Offering and/or Concurrent Repurchase will be completed, a description of various hedging activities, and statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, contain forward-looking statements. Bilibili may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange”), in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Bilibili’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: results of operations, financial condition, and stock price; Bilibili’s strategies; Bilibili’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Bilibili’s ability to retain and increase the number of users, members and advertising customers, provide quality content, products and services, and expand its product and service offerings; competition in the online entertainment industry; Bilibili’s ability to maintain its culture and brand image within its addressable user communities; Bilibili’s ability to manage its costs and expenses; PRC governmental policies and regulations relating to the online entertainment industry, general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Hong Kong Stock Exchange. All information provided in this announcement and in the attachments is as of the date of the announcement, and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

About Bilibili Inc.

Bilibili is an iconic brand and a leading video community with a mission to enrich the everyday lives of young generations in China. Bilibili offers a wide array of video-based content with All the Videos You Like as its value proposition. Bilibili builds its community around aspiring users, high-quality content, talented content creators and the strong emotional bonds among them. Bilibili pioneered the “bullet chatting” feature, a live comment function that has transformed our users’ viewing experience by displaying the thoughts and feelings of audience members viewing the same video. The Company has now become the welcoming home of diverse interests among young generations in China and the frontier for promoting Chinese culture across the world.

For more information, please visit: http:/ir.bilibili.com.

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

In China:

Bilibili Inc.
Juliet Yang
Tel: -86-21-2509-9255 Ext. 8523
Email: ir@bilibili.com

Piacente Financial Communications
Helen Wu
Tel: -86-10-6508-0677
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

In the United States:

Piacente Financial Communications
Brandi Piacente
Tel: -1-212-481-2050
Email: bilibili@tpg-ir.com

The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Oma Savings Bank Plc – Managers’ transactions – Liiri

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

OMA SAVINGS BANK PLC, STOCK EXCHANGE RELEASE 21 MAY 2025 AT 11.35. A.M. EET, MANAGERS’ TRANSACTIONS

Oma Savings Bank Plc – Managers’ transactions – Liiri
____________________________________________

Person subject to the notification requirement
Name: Liiri, Sarianna
Position: Chief Financial Officer
Issuer: Oma Savings Bank Plc
LEI: 743700LE1ECAPXC5UT18

Notification type: INITIAL NOTIFICATION
Reference number: 743700LE1ECAPXC5UT18_20250509141654_45
____________________________________________

Transaction date: 2025-05-21
Venue not applicable
Instrument type: SHARE
ISIN: FI4000306733
Nature of the transaction: RECEIPT OF A SHARE-BASED INCENTIVE

Transaction details
(1): Volume: 1047 Unit price: 0.00 EUR

Aggregated transactions
(1): Volume: 1047 Volume weighted average price: 0.00 EUR

Oma Savings Bank Plc

Additional information:
Karri Alameri, CEO, tel. +358 45 656 5250, karri.alameri@omasp.fi

DISTRIBUTION:
Nasdaq Helsinki Ltd
Major media
www.omasp.fi

OmaSp is a solvent and profitable Finnish bank. About 500 professionals provide nationwide services through OmaSp’s 48 branch offices and digital service channels to over 200,000 private and corporate customers. OmaSp focuses primarily on retail banking operations and provides its clients with a broad range of banking services both through its own balance sheet as well as by acting as an intermediary for its partners’ products. The intermediated products include credit, investment and loan insurance products. OmaSp is also engaged in mortgage banking operations.

OmaSp core idea is to provide personal service and to be local and close to its customers, both in digital and traditional channels. OmaSp strives to offer premium level customer experience through personal service and easy accessibility. In addition, the development of the operations and services is customer-oriented. The personnel is committed and OmaSp seeks to support their career development with versatile tasks and continuous development. A substantial part of the personnel also own shares in OmaSp.

The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Statement of the Monetary Policy Committee 21 May 2025

Source: Central Bank of Iceland

The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Central Bank of Iceland has decided to lower the Bank’s interest rates by 0.25 percentage points. The Bank’s key interest rate – the rate on seven-day term deposits – will therefore be 7.50%. All Committee members voted in favour of the decision.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 21, 2025

MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK House Price Index for March 2025

Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government Non-Ministerial Departments

Press release

UK House Price Index for March 2025

The UK HPI shows house price changes for England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The March data shows:

on average, house prices have risen 1.1% since February 2025
there has been an annual price rise of 6.4% which makes the average property in the UK valued at £271,000

England

In England, the March Data shows on average, house prices rose by 1.3% since February 2025. The annual price rise of 6.7% takes the average property value to £296,000.

The North East experienced the most significant monthly increase with a movement of 4.2%
London saw the greatest monthly price fall, with a fall of -0.3%
The North East experienced the greatest annual price rise, up by 14.3%
London saw the lowest annual price growth, with a rise of 0.8%

The regional data for England indicates that:

Price change by region for England

Region	Average price March 2025	Annual change % since March 2024	Monthly change % since February 2025
East Midlands	£244,000	7.1	0.7
East of England	£344,000	6.5	1.4
London	£552,000	0.8	-0.3
North East	£168,000	14.3	4.2
North West	£217,000	9.4	2.5
South East	£386,000	5.3	0.7
South West	£311,000	5.3	0.7
West Midlands	£250,000	7.8	1.2
Yorkshire and the Humber	£211,000	9.5	2.0

Repossession sales by volume for England

The lowest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the South West.

The highest number of repossession sales in January 2025 was in the North East.

Repossession sales	January 2025
East Midlands	6
East of England	5
London	15
North East	20
North West	11
South East	12
South West	1
West Midlands	6
Yorkshire and the Humber	14
England	90

Average price by property type for England

Property type	March 2025	March 2024	Difference %
Detached	£471,000	£448,000	5
Semi-detached	£291,000	£268,000	8.5
Terraced	£247,000	£228,000	8.4
Flat/maisonette	£231,000	£222,000	3.9
All	£296,000	£277,000	6.7

Funding and buyer status for England

Transaction type	Average price March 2025	Annual price change % since March 2024	Monthly price change % since January 2025
Cash	£282,000	6	1.2
Mortgage	£301,000	7.1	1.3
First-time buyer	£250,000	7.7	1.9
Former owner occupier	£356,000	5.6	0.5

Building status for England

Building status*	Average price January 2025	Annual price change % since January 2024	Monthly price change % since December 2025
New build	£416,000	17.4	-1.1
Existing resold property	£285,000	3.6

*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

London

London shows, on average, house prices decreased by 0.3% since Jan 2025. House prices have shown an annual price increase of 0.8% meaning the average price of a property is £552,000.

Average price by property type for London

Property type	March 2025	March 2024	Difference %
Detached	£1,097,000	£1,099,000	-0.3
Semi-detached	£694,000	£669,000	3.7
Terraced	£620,000	£606,000	2.2
Flat/maisonette	£444,000	£447,000	-0.7
All	£552,000	£547,000	0.8

Funding and buyer status for London

Transaction type	Average price March 2025	Annual price change % since March 2024	Monthly price change % since February 2025
Cash	£583,000	-2.1	-0.7
Mortgage	£546,000	1.7	-0.2
First-time buyer	£477,000	1.4	0.5
Former owner occupier	£677,000	-0.1	-1.6

Building status for London

Building status*	Average price January 2025	Annual price change % since January 2024	Monthly price change % since December 2024
New build	£564,000	11.9	-0.7
Existing resold property	£561,000	1.5	1.2

*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

Wales

Wales shows, on average, house prices fell by 0.2% since February 2025. An annual price increase of 3.6% takes the average property value to £208,000

There were 3 repossession sales for Wales in January 2025.

Average price by property type for Wales

Property type	March 2025	March 2024	Difference %
Detached	£321,000	£318,000	0.9
Semi-detached	£208,000	£198,000	4.9
Terraced	£166,000	£158,000	4.9
Flat/maisonette	£133,000	£129,000	3.1
All	£208,000	£201,000	3.6

Funding and buyer status for Wales

Transaction type	Average price March 2025%	Annual price change % since March 2024	Monthly price change % since December 2024
Cash	£208,000	2.7	0.3
Mortgage	£208,000	4.1	0.2
First-time buyer	£180,000	4.6	0.6
Former owner occupier	£247,000	2.4	-0.3

Building status for Wales

Building status*	Average price January 2025	Annual price change % since January 2024	Monthly price change % since December 2024
New build	£355,000	19.9	-0.5
Existing resold property	£206,000	4.9	0.9

*Figures for the 2 most recent months are not being published because there are not enough new build transactions to give a meaningful result.

UK house prices

UK house prices rose by 6.4% in the year to March 2025, up from the revised estimate of 5.5% in the 12 months to Feb 2025. On a non-seasonally adjusted basis, average house prices in the UK increased by 1.1% between February 2025 and March 2025, compared with a increase 0.2% from the same period 12 months ago (February 24 and March 2024).

The UK Property Transactions Statistics showed that in March 2025, on a seasonally adjusted basis, the estimated number of transactions of residential properties with a value of £40,000 or greater was 177,000. This is 104.3% higher than a year ago (March 2025). Between February 2025 and March 25, UK transactions increased by 61.7% on a seasonally adjusted basis.

House price monthly increase was highest in The North East where prices increased by 4.2% in the year to March 2025. The highest annual growth was in the The North East, where prices increased by 14.3% in the year to March 2025.

See the economic statement.

The UK HPI is based on completed housing transactions. Typically, a house purchase can take 6 to 8 weeks to reach completion. As with other indicators in the housing market, which typically fluctuate from month to month, it is important not to put too much weight on one month’s set of house price data.

Access the full UK HPI

Background

We publish the UK House Price Index (HPI) on the second or third Wednesday of each month with Northern Ireland figures updated quarterly. We will publish the April 2025 UK HPI at 9:30am on Wednesday 18 June 2025. See calendar of release dates.
We have made some changes to improve the accuracy of the UK HPI. We are not publishing average price and percentage change for new builds and existing resold property as done previously because there are not currently enough new build transactions to provide a reliable result. This means that in this month’s UK HPI reports, new builds and existing resold property are reported in line with the sales volumes currently available.
The UK HPI revision period has been extended to 13 months, following a review of the revision policy (see calculating the UK HPI section 4.4). This ensures the data used is more comprehensive.
Sales volume data is available by property status (new build and existing property) and funding status (cash and mortgage) in our downloadable data tables. Transactions that require us to create a new register, such as new builds, are more complex and require more time to process. Read revisions to the UK HPI data.
Revision tables are available for England and Wales within the downloadable data in CSV format. See about the UK HPI for more information.
HM Land Registry, Registers of Scotland, Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency and the Valuation Office Agency supply data for the UK HPI.
The Office for National Statistics (ONS) and Land & Property Services/Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency calculate the UK HPI. It applies a hedonic regression model that uses the various sources of data on property price, including HM Land Registry’s Price Paid Dataset, and attributes to produce estimates of the change in house prices each month. Find out more about the methodology used from the ONS and Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency.
We take the UK Property Transaction statistics from the HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) monthly estimates of the number of residential and non-residential property transactions in the UK and its constituent countries. The number of property transactions in the UK is highly seasonal, with more activity in the summer months and less in the winter. This regular annual pattern can sometimes mask the underlying movements and trends in the data series. HMRC presents the UK aggregate transaction figures on a seasonally adjusted basis. We make adjustments for both the time of year and the construction of the calendar, including corrections for the position of Easter and the number of trading days in a particular month.
UK HPI seasonally adjusted series are calculated at regional and national levels only. See data tables.
The first estimate for new build average price (April 2016 report) was based on a small sample which can cause volatility. A three-month moving average has been applied to the latest estimate to remove some of this volatility.
The UK HPI reflects the final transaction price for sales of residential property. Using the geometric mean, it covers purchases at market value for owner-occupation and buy-to-let, excluding those purchases not at market value (such as re-mortgages), where the ‘price’ represents a valuation.
HM Land Registry provides information on residential property transactions for England and Wales, collected as part of the official registration process for properties that are sold for full market value.
The HM Land Registry dataset contains the sale price of the property, the date when the sale was completed, full address details, the type of property (detached, semi-detached, terraced or flat), if it is a newly built property or an established residential building and a variable to indicate if the property has been purchased as a financed transaction (using a mortgage) or as a non-financed transaction (cash purchase).
Repossession sales data is based on the number of transactions lodged with HM Land Registry by lenders exercising their power of sale.
For England, we show repossession sales volume recorded by government office region. For Wales, we provide repossession sales volume for the number of repossession sales.
Repossession sales data is available from April 2016 in CSV format. Find out more information about repossession sales.
We publish CSV files of the raw and cleansed aggregated data every month for England, Scotland and Wales. We publish Northern Ireland data on a quarterly basis. They are available for free use and re-use under the Open Government Licence.
HM Land Registry is a government department created in 1862. Its vision is: “A world-leading property market as part of a thriving economy and a sustainable future.”
HM Land Registry’s purpose is: “We protect your land ownership and provide services and data that underpin an efficient and informed property market.”
HM Land Registry safeguards land and property ownership valued at £8 trillion, enabling over £1 trillion worth of personal and commercial lending to be secured against property across England and Wales. The Land Register contains more than 26.5 million titles showing evidence of ownership for more than 89% of the land mass of England and Wales.
For further information about HM Land Registry visit www.gov.uk/land-registry.
Follow us on @HMLandRegistry, our blog, LinkedIn and Facebook

Contact

Press Office

Trafalgar House
1 Bedford Park
Croydon
CR0 2AQ

Email HMLRPressOffice@landregistry.gov.uk

Phone (Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:30pm) 0300 006 3365

Mobile (5:30pm to 8:30am weekdays, all weekend and public holidays) 07864 689 344

Published 21 May 2025

MIL OSI United Kingdom –

May 21, 2025

MIL-OSI Russia: Conference “IQ Project 2025”: new ideas, large-scale geography and best practices

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

The IV All-Russian educational and scientific conference “IQ Project 2025” was held at the Higher School of Project Activity and Innovations in Industry of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of SPbPU. This year, the conference broke its own records in the number of participants and expanded its geography. Representatives of SPbPU, NSU, LETI, RUT, MISiS, ISU, MFUA, SFU, KNITU, HSE, GUU, SPbGUP, KU, RUDN, Moscow Polytechnic University, OSU, GUAP took part in it.

For the first time, representatives of companies took part in the scientific part of the conference.

The guests and speakers of the first day of the conference were:

Gleb Subbotin (business analyst at Gazpromneft ITO); Oleg Suvorov (head of corporate clients at 1C:North-West); Dinara Kamolova (ambassador of the process approach); Oksana Murzaeva (head of project portfolio at Norilsk Nickel).

The day ended with a quiz, in which participants could demonstrate their erudition, compete and win prizes. A round table on the topic of “The Image of a 1C Specialist in the Eyes of Employers and Students” was also held.

On the second day of the conference, the speakers were Igor Vlasov (senior product manager at Yandex Technologies, previously Avito, Toyota, VW) and Marina Bolsunovskaya (head of the Industrial Stream Data Processing Systems laboratory).

Next, a plenary session was held, at which the best reports of the conference were presented:

Dinara Kamolova, “Application of quality management tools in the IT industry” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Zhanna Burlutskaya, “Modeling multi-agent interactions in the process of conducting intonation activities in network associations of technology companies” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Kapiton Pospelov, “Method for assessing the limited rationality of agents in the problems of managing innovative projects” Assistant of the Higher School of Psychology and Information Technologies Salbek Beketov, “Algorithm for forming a portfolio of projects taking into account the optimal distribution of labor resources on individual projects”.

The day ended with presentations by participants in the conference sections.

The best reports in the sections this year were:

Section “Corporate Information Systems” — Natalia Ilyina, report “Personalization of the educational process in an inclusive school using an information and analytical system developed on the “1C:Enterprise 8.3” platform. Section “Mathematical models of decision-making” — Liya Khabibullina, report “Algorithm for calculating crews to fulfill an airline schedule, taking into account legislative restrictions”. Section “Product management and advanced practices in training management personnel” — Irina Romanova, report “Research of product backlog prioritization methods”. Section “Management in organizational systems” — Polina Sharko, report “Application of a multi-agent approach in managing decentralized organizational systems”. Section “Innovation management” — Gleb Subbotin, report “Integration of physically informed neural networks and hydrodynamic models to improve the accuracy of reservoir situation forecasting”. Section “Quality Management” — Artem Nigmatulin, report “The concept of a simulation model of inventory management processes at an enterprise in the field of electronics”. Section “Project Management and Project Activities” — Alexey Nikitin, report “From Risk to Opportunity: Managing Positive Risks in Project Activities”, and Vadim Bulushev, report “Multi-agent neural network approach to improving project content management processes in the company “UNISTORY.LLC”.

All abstracts of reports that have passed the review will be published in a collection indexed in the Russian Science Citation Index. The best ones will be recommended for publication in VAK journals.

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 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Rapidly shifting geopolitical environment could test euro area financial stability
Source: European Central Bank

21 May 2025
- Shifts in global trade policy lead to sharp increase in uncertainty, causing large spikes in financial market volatility
- Stretched valuations and low non-bank liquidity buffers leave financial markets vulnerable to further shocks
- Escalating trade tensions could adversely affect euro area firms and households, entailing credit risk for banks and non-banks
- Government finances may be negatively impacted by increased defence spending, although boost to growth cannot be excluded
A marked spike in uncertainty across global trade, defence, international cooperation and regulation policies could prove challenging for financial stability, according to the May 2025 Financial Stability Review, published today by the European Central Bank (ECB). Frequent shifts and reversals in tariff policy, alongside significant changes in the geopolitical environment, could have major economic and financial impacts. While global macroeconomic imbalances remain a long-standing issue in the policy debate, it is not clear that tariffs are the best-placed policy instrument to address them.

“Rising trade frictions and related downside risks to economic growth are weighing on the outlook for financial stability”, said ECB Vice-President Luis de Guindos.

The significant increase in trade policy uncertainty and trade frictions triggered large spikes in financial market volatility and raised the risk of an economic slowdown.

Financial markets across the globe sold off at an unsettling speed in early April, and financial conditions tightened notably. While risky assets had fully recovered their initial losses by mid-May, markets are still highly sensitive to tariff-related news. Equity markets in particular remain vulnerable to sudden and sharp adjustments as valuations are still high and concerns over risk concentrations persist. In an environment of heightened market volatility, euro area non-banks’ liquidity and leverage weaknesses could be revealed, amplifying market shocks.

Euro area firms and households have seen their balance sheets improve in recent years, but trade tensions and a weaker growth outlook imply future headwinds. The euro area is a very open economy, and trade frictions will affect those companies that rely on foreign trade, with potential knock-on effects for households if trade-related corporate vulnerabilities are exposed and result in lay-offs. In such an environment, credit risk exposure may rise for euro area banks and non-banks, although banks’ ability to absorb further asset quality deterioration should be supported by strong profitability and sizeable capital and liquidity buffers.

While sovereign debt-to-GDP ratios in the euro area have declined considerably after surging during the pandemic, fiscal fundamentals remain fragile in some countries. Plans to increase defence spending have the potential to boost economic growth if focused on productive investment, but could also pose risks given higher issuance needs at a time of rising funding costs. This higher defence spending, together with weaker growth and other structural challenges, such as those posed by climate change, digitalisation and ageing populations, could compound the already strained fiscal positions of some euro area governments.

In the current highly uncertain macro-financial and policy environment, preserving and strengthening the resilience of the financial system is key. In this context, macroprudential authorities should maintain existing capital buffer requirements and borrower-based measures to ensure sound lending standards. In addition, the growing market footprint and interconnectedness of non-banks calls for a comprehensive set of policy measures that will increase the resilience of the non-bank financial intermediation sector. Such resilience across the sector would also help to advance the integration of euro area capital markets.

For media queries, please contact Ettore Fanciulli, tel.: +49 69 1344 95012.
MIL OSI Europe News –
May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – Depositor Compensation Scheme Transitional Provisions Standard published – Reserve Bank of NZ

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua

21 May 2025 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua has published a Transitional Standard, outlining how deposit takers must collect and store customer information in the event of a deposit taker failure so that they can ensure timely payments.

The Deposit Takers (Depositor Compensation Scheme Transitional Provisions) Standard 2025 comes into force on 1 July 2025 and sets out how deposit takers should gather alternate bank details from depositors in the event of a failure, so that Depositor Compensation Scheme (DCS) payments can be made as quickly as possible.

Deposit takers that provide online software for their depositors to view or manage their accounts, such as internet or mobile applications, must have a pre-positioned DCS depositor page that can be easily accessed on these platforms in the event of a failure. This requirement comes into effect on 1 July 2025 for non-mobile based platforms, and on 31 December 2025 for mobile-based applications.

The DCS depositor page will be used to collect customers’ alternate bank account details so that DCS payments can be made into an active bank account at another deposit taker.

Having a prepositioned DCS depositor page improves the user experience in the event of a failure as depositors will be able to verify their identity through their normal online process and enter their alternate account details. This should make the payment process faster and reduce risks associated with having to verify the identity of depositors on a separate platform.

The Transitional Standard also sets out an alternate model for collecting customer data if deposit takers can collect the required information more efficiently using a different approach. Deposit takers have the option to submit a written proposal to the RBNZ that outlines their proposed alternate method for collecting depositor information securely from authorised individuals other than via a DCS depositor page.

The RBNZ consulted on a draft of this Transitional Standard between 6 December 2024 and 7 February 2025 and received 10 submissions from a combination of deposit takers and industry bodies.

You can find the Transitional Standard and Guidance here: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=6911a962bd&e=f3c68946f8

More information

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Government decision to abandon proposed Digital Services Tax disappointing – Better Taxes

Source: Better Taxes for a Better Future

The decision by the Government to abandon the proposed Digital Services Tax has been described as very disappointing by the Better Taxes for a Better Future campaign, raising questions about how the Government intends to fill the revenue gap left by this move. It also raises questions about how the Government will ensure digital services companies are paying a fair rate of tax on their earnings in New Zealand.

The Digital Services Tax Bill, which was introduced by the previous Labour Government has been sitting on Parliament’s order paper since August 2023. It would have instituted a 3% tax on digital services revenue earned from New Zealand customers by large digital services companies. Treasury had already included the revenue from the proposed tax in its latest forecasts and estimated it would contribute $479m between 2027 and 2029.

“We need to know how the Government intends to plug the $479m revenue gap left by their decision to drop the Digital Services Tax, at a time when our public services, particularly health, are in crisis because of underfunding,” says Glenn Barclay spokesperson for the Better Taxes campaign.

“The digital economy has proven very difficult to tax and the absence of a digital services tax has allowed multi-national tech companies to avoid paying their fair share of tax in Aotearoa New Zealand.”

“Around 18 countries already operate digital services taxes, and while the American administration doesn’t like them, we are not aware of any countries repealing these laws in response to threats from the Trump administration,” says Glenn Barclay.

“Instead of giving in to such threats,the Government should have proceeded with the Bill, or at the very least left it on the Parliamentary Order Paper until it could be implemented or an alternative developed.”

“If the Government is stepping away from the Bill then we need to know how it intends to progress the taxation of multi-national tech companies in this country, to ensure that these companies contribute to this country, rather than just exploiting their privileged position.” says Glenn Barclay.

“We don’t share the Minister’s optimism about an enforceable agreement on minimum corporate tax rates at the OECD in the medium term in the face of opposition from the Trump Administration. New Zealand needs another solution.”

“In addition it leaves another big question mark over how the Government will ensure advertising-dependent news local media will survive when their news and advertising is being taken by the social media giants who don’t pay a fair rate of tax,” says Glenn Barclay.

ENDS

Media spokesperson: Glenn Barclay – 027 295 5110

The Better Taxes for a Better Future Campaign is a coalition of over 20 organisations led by Tax Justice Aotearoa.

We believe that tax reform is the only solution to the current challenges facing Aotearoa NZ. We need the tax system to:

be transparent
raise more revenue to enable us address the challenges we face
make sure people who have more to contribute make that contribution: that we gather more revenue from wealth, gains from wealth, all forms of income, and corporates
make greater use of fair taxes to promote good health and environmental health
address the tax impact on the least well off in our society.

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI New Zealand: Economy – RBNZ Stats Alert Business Expectations Survey: June quarter results published

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand

21 May 2025 – Today marks the launch of Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey (BES), with our publication of results for the June quarter (Table M15). BES is a quarterly release that will be published ahead of each Monetary Policy Statement.

The initial publication includes our Stats Insight, a background note as a guide to interpret the new survey results, and a description of our survey methodology.

BES includes several hundred businesses from different sectors around the country, from small to large firms. It is separate from the existing Survey of Expectations focusing on expert forecasters, economists and industry leaders (Table M14, from 1987 onwards), which will continue.

The sample size and design enable new breakdowns by business size and industry, which are published in the data file accompanying Table M15. To facilitate the publication of detailed results by business size and industry, along with common measures of statistical uncertainty, we are using a new file format for the M15 data file. This intentionally differs from the file format of our other statistical releases. A description of the variables published in the M15 data file is available in the background notes to this release.

Background information

Inflation expectations are important because households and businesses reflect their expectations in their price- and wage-setting decisions. Improving the quality of our expectation surveys is part of the wider response to our 2022 review of how we formulate and implement our monetary policy. In this review, we identified several areas where better data could support high quality monetary policy decision-making.

For further information please see: Tara-ā-Umanga Business Expectations Survey: Survey design and development: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=ce329fb983&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI New Zealand News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: View from The Hill: Coalition split puts Victorian and NSW Nationals Senate seats at high risk

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

The Victorian and NSW Nationals senators due to face the voters at the 2028 election will struggle to hold their seats if the former partners do not re-form the Coalition before then.

Under usual Coalition arrangements, Bridget McKenzie, from Victoria, who is Nationals Senate leader, and Ross Cadell, from NSW, would have been set to be number two on the joint Senate ticket in their respective states. This would have assured them of re-election.

But if they have to run on separate Nationals Senate tickets, it will be hard for them to garner enough votes to be re-elected. One reason is the Nationals would not have candidates in urban lower house seats, and so their Senate how-to-vote tickets wouldn’t be handed out in those areas.

As Liberals reeled after the Nationals’ sudden desertion of the Coalition on Tuesday, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley is working on her all-Liberal opposition frontbench, to be announced Thursday or Friday.

Senior Victorian Liberal Dan Tehan said: “We’re all still in a state of shock of the outcome. I don’t think people have really come to terms with it.”

Nationals MP Darren Chester, from Victoria, urged negotiations between the parties to continue. He warned “if we go to the next sitting of parliament being two divided party rooms we are giving a free pass to the prime minister”.

Nationals leader David Littleproud continued to defend his party’s shock decision to split the Coalition.

He told the ABC “plenty of political commentators” were taking potshots.

“Well, good luck, they don’t understand what it is to be a Nat. What it is to live and to know and to hear the stories of people who are in danger because of mobile phone towers. Young families that can’t afford their mortgage because they can’t go back to work, because they can’t find a childcare place, because there are none.”

Asked if the Nationals were prepared to stay on the backbench indefinitely if the Liberals didn’t meet their demands, Littleproud said, “Well, if we get to a juncture after the next election where we can form a government with the Liberal Party, then obviously we’re going to support the Liberal Party. But there will be conditions, and the conditions are about those things that are core to making the lives of those people that we represent better”.

Former prime minister Tony Abbott joined John Howard in urging an early rapprochement. Abbott said, “I deeply regret the Coalition split and hope that it can be re-formed as soon as possible. History shows that the Liberals and the Nationals win together and fail separately.” On Tuesday Howard warned of the negative consequences of the split.

Liberal deputy leader Ted O’Brien said the Nationals’ decision was “more than disappointing”.

He said the parties were “stronger together” and he hoped over time the Nationals will “draw the same conclusion that we are better together than we are apart”.

With three-cornered contests one issue now the parties are not in coalition, McKenzie was asked whether she would be relaxed about the Liberals running in all Nationals seats.

“This is one of the serious risks of the decision we took yesterday,” she said, adding it had been “part of our thinking as went forward”.

“We also see it as an opportunity to put a very strong proposition for rural and regional Australia to those communities.

“At the end of the day, though, Coalition arrangements are matters for our state parties – so the LNP in Queensland, the NSW state Nationals and also the Victorian Nationals.”

Michelle Grattan 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. View from The Hill: Coalition split puts Victorian and NSW Nationals Senate seats at high risk – https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-coalition-split-puts-victorian-and-nsw-nationals-senate-seats-at-high-risk-256456

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: The 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition Kicks Off in 2025: Diverse Creativity Envisions the Future

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The opening ceremony of the 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition (YODEX) 2025, was held on May 9 at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 2, Mr. Chin-Tsang Ho, the Deputy Minister of Ministry of Economic Affairs and other distinguished guests are officially opening the events. The exhibition, running from May 9 (Friday) to May 12 (Monday), is jointly guided by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) and the Ministry of Education (MOE), and organized by the Industrial Development Administration (IDA), and executed by the Taiwan Design Research Institute (TDRI).

With the theme “Preferred Future”, YODEX 2025 presents a rich woven tapestry of perspectives on future living through the lens of design. This year’ s events feature participation from 59 domestic schools, 122 departments, nearly 10,000 young designers, and approximately 3,500 design works. Additionally, 10 schools from seven countries- including the United States, Thailand, Japan, Mexico, India, and Australia-have joined the showcase. The event also highlights the outcomes of 11 industry-academia cooperation projects, emphasizing the interwoven synergy between design talents and industry. The public is warmly invited to experience firsthand the bold yet pragmatical imagination and creativity of Taiwan’ s next generation of designers.

Beyond an exhibition, YODEX is also a key platform for industry-academia cooperation and a talent pipeline for enterprises seeking outstanding creatives. This year’ s YODEX Industry-Academia Collaboration Program features participation from seven companies and institutions-including Gamania Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd., FAMICA INTERNATIONAL CO. LTD., and the NEW TAIPEI CITY DESIGN CENTER-under the themes of “Future Education”, “Future Health”, and “Future Entertainment”. A total of 365 student teams submitted proposals, with 19 teams selected for six months of co-creation with industry partners.

To promote regional talent development, this year also witnessed the expansion of YODEX Industry-Academia Cooperation, with four companies-YEE CHAIN INTERNATIONAL CO., Ltd., Tair Chu Enterprise Co, Ltd, KENDA RUBBER INDUSTRIAL Co.,Ltd. and SLICETHINNER MANUFACTURING COMPANY Ltd.-partnering with nine universities. A total of 105 students worked on solutions tailored to local industry needs, encouraging local employment and retention of design talent.

This year’ s upgraded Professional Day features cross-disciplinary professionals, student pitch sessions, and corresponding matchmaking. A record of 14 industry forums cover topics like IP licensing, packaging, education, sustainability, and tech, deepening industry-academia collaboration.

The 2025 44th Young Designers’ Exhibition gathers Taiwan’s design schools and industry resources to explore the future of design. Through cross-disciplinary collaborations and international exchanges, it showcases diverse aspects of design education and practice. Welcome to this events from May 9 to May 12 to eyewitness how the young designers creatively imagine and project the issues like environment, technology, and humanity while exploring the possible future living.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Foreign businesses deepen roots in Chinese market through intl trade fair

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

Crowds gathered at the Hokkaido booth during the 34th Harbin International Economic and Trade Fair, drawn by live demonstrations of handcrafted rice balls and an array of regional delicacies from the northern Japanese prefecture.

“This year, 14 Hokkaido-based enterprises are showcasing 36 specialty products, with 12 companies and 34 products making their debut at the fair,” said Takayuki Kano, Vice Governor of Hokkaido, expressing hopes that the event would help Hokkaido businesses secure local distributors and expand their footprint across China.

Held in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, this year’s fair, which concluded on Wednesday, attracted over 1,500 enterprises from 38 countries and regions, including the United States, Japan and Switzerland, alongside participants from 23 Chinese provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities.

During the fair, foreign officials and corporate representatives highlighted Heilongjiang’s growing appeal as an investment destination and pledged to deepen their engagement with the Chinese market.

Jonathan Pauwels, director of product development and branding for agricultural equipment manufacturer Case IH’s Asia-Pacific division, spoke about his company’s more-than-two-decade journey in the region.

“We established our first factory in Harbin as early as 1999 and set up an agricultural machinery product development and research center in 2013. Over the past decade, we have continuously invested approximately 1 billion yuan (about 139 million U.S. dollars) in Heilongjiang to promote smart manufacturing. Now, many of our new agricultural machinery products have been introduced to the entire Chinese market,” he said.

With 40 global production facilities and 49 R&D centers, Case IH plans to expand its investments in Heilongjiang over the next five years by localizing components, developing advanced combine harvesters, and expanding exports from its Harbin base, according to Pauwels.

Cao Jingheng, senior vice president of Nestle Greater China, attributed the renewed confidence of foreign companies to Heilongjiang’s “revitalization through opening up” strategy. The province’s fertile black soil, premium dairy pastures, and business-friendly policies prompted Nestle to establish its first Chinese mainland factory in Harbin’s Shuangcheng district in 1987. To date, the Swiss conglomerate has invested 3 billion yuan in the province, supporting 33,000 dairy households and creating 10,000 jobs.

“China is now Nestle’s second-largest global market. We look forward to further strengthening our cooperation with Heilongjiang by introducing Swiss technologies and managerial experience, while bringing more premium local products to international markets,” Cao said.

The fair also attracted new entrants like Canadian athletic apparel brand Lululemon. Since opening its first store in Heilongjiang in 2022, sales have surged, according to Kang Tai, the company’s general manager of government affairs.

“We are confident about our development in Heilongjiang and plan to expand our presence and collaborate with the province to promote winter sports development,” Kang said.

Ren Hongbin, chairman of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade, emphasized China’s enduring appeal to global investors, adding that the fair and the concurrent events serve as a vital platform for international businesses to explore opportunities in Heilongjiang and beyond.

MIL OSI China News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: SPC May 21, 2025 0600 UTC Day 1 Convective Outlook

Source: US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

SPC AC 210553

Day 1 Convective Outlook
NWS Storm Prediction Center Norman OK
1253 AM CDT Wed May 21 2025

Valid 211200Z – 221200Z

…THERE IS A SLIGHT RISK OF SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS IN THE OZARKS TO
MID-SOUTH AND FAR EASTERN NC…

…SUMMARY…
The most likely corridors for severe storms are across parts of far
eastern North Carolina this afternoon, and the Ozarks into the
Mid-South this evening.

…Eastern NC and southern VA…
Ongoing convection over parts of western NC/VA into the Piedmont is
largely expected to move offshore by 12Z this morning. The surface
cold front that lags well behind this morning activity should
progress towards the South Atlantic Coast into the afternoon.
Secondary cyclogenesis is expected across central to eastern NC,
downstream of a fast mid-level jetlet centered on KY to southern WV
this afternoon. Despite weak mid-level lapse rates, low 70s surface
dew points along the Carolina Coastal Plain will support moderate
buoyancy with a plume of MLCAPE from 1500-2500 J/kg. A couple
supercells may develop ahead of the cyclone, most likely across far
eastern NC and the Outer Banks. A tornado or two, isolated large
hail, and localized strong gusts are the expected hazards.

…Ozarks/Mid-South…
While rich boundary-layer moisture will remain confined across south
TX/LA, a strengthening low-level baroclinic zone is expected during
the afternoon to evening near the KS/OK border east-southeast into
the Mid-South. Guidance is rather consistent in developing at least
elevated convection to the cool side of this zone by evening. This
will be coincident with an intensifying mid-level jetlet merging
into the basal portion of the broad North-Central to Northeast CONUS
trough. Forecast soundings depict potentially very strong mid to
upper-level speed shear within the slightly north of west flow
regime. Coupled with steep mid-level lapse rates, this setup could
yield a few fast-moving elevated supercells. Primary uncertainty is
with the degree of buoyancy given typically overdone MUCAPE in
NAM-influenced guidance. But a focused corridor of large hail
potential seems plausible.

…Upper OH Valley…
A confined corridor of modest boundary-layer heating may occur
downstream of the primary surface cyclone drifting across northern
OH to Lake Erie. Coupled with cooling mid-level temperatures, weak
surface-based buoyancy is expected by midday into the afternoon.
Deep-layer shear will not be strong given proximity to the mid-level
trough, but should be adequate for weak/transient mid-level
rotation. With numerous thunderstorms expected, small to marginally
severe hail and isolated damaging winds are anticipated. A brief
tornado is also possible with storms crossing the warm front before
convection weakens abruptly eastward.

…North FL and south GA…
Along the southeastward-moving cold front, moderate buoyancy is
expected ahead of the front. A veered low-level wind profile will
limit effective bulk shear, but scattered thunderstorms could yield
multicell clustering as updrafts congeal. Isolated damaging winds
and marginally severe hail are anticipated this afternoon.

…Deep South TX…
Very large buoyancy will develop amid strong heating of rather rich
western Gulf moisture. While large-scale signals for ascent are
nebulous, convection will likely develop in northeast Mexico over
the higher terrain this afternoon. Some of this activity may spread
east across the Lower Rio Grande this evening. Weak winds through
the lower half of the buoyancy profile will be a limiting factor to
more organized storms, but any multicell clusters could pose an
isolated severe hail/wind risk.

..Grams/Weinman.. 05/21/2025

CLICK TO GET WUUS01 PTSDY1 PRODUCT

NOTE: THE NEXT DAY 1 OUTLOOK IS SCHEDULED BY 1300Z

MIL OSI USA News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: St. Petersburg International Legal Forum: Vladimir Stroev spoke about training personnel for the modern economy

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: State University of Management – Official website of the State –

On May 20, 2025, the rector of the State University of Management Vladimir Stroyev took part in the session “Strategic planning and management of science: normative dimension”, which was held as part of the XIII St. Petersburg International Legal Forum.

Also participating in the discussion were First Deputy Chairman of the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation Petr Serkov, State Secretary – Deputy Minister of Agriculture of the Russian Federation Maxim Uvaidov, representatives of scientific and higher educational institutions. The meeting was moderated by Deputy Head of the Presidential Administration for Scientific and Educational Policy Elena Nechaeva.

The first issue of the meeting was an assessment of the prospects for eliminating barriers to the implementation of research and development results. The rector of the State University of Management noted that for research to be effective, it is important to involve industrial partners in the formation of the scientific agenda and R&D plan in the interests of specific customers, as well as the digitalization of research processes and the introduction of digital platforms for automated reporting.

Speaking about the practice of conducting research in universities, Vladimir Stroyev spoke about the innovations being implemented at the State University of Management in the scientific sphere and the educational process, which are aimed at solving the problem of achieving technological sovereignty of the country and training personnel for specific industrial partners.

“Over the past few years, there have been significant changes within the country, including in science and education, as well as in the attitude of business towards interaction with educational organizations. If earlier entrepreneurs preferred to order scientific developments abroad or from private companies, and to select employees directly on the labor market, today they have a different approach. Every week we have one or two meetings with representatives of different levels of business regarding personnel training, scientific and applied developments, which are often associated with the need to repair foreign equipment, develop analogs of parts and other reverse engineering tasks, which our specialists are engaged in,” the rector of the State University of Management noted.

Vladimir Vitalyevich also emphasized the importance of interaction between universities, which could be facilitated by digital platforms for collaboration. As an example, the rector cited the Design Bureau of the State University of Management, which, thanks to network interaction with design bureaus of other universities, fulfills orders for large corporations.

Vladimir Stroev named project-based learning, which is successfully implemented at the State University of Management, as another opportunity to unite employers and universities to train the necessary specialists.

“For three years now, 100% of our students have been participating in project activities, starting from their first year. That is, they are divided into groups and spend 1 day a week developing a project provided by a partner company, under the supervision of a representative of this organization. This is both professional practice and practicing soft skills. Moreover, these projects are posted on a special platform, where they are also purchased. As a result, students not only receive practical skills and a portfolio, but also have a completed project and their first income,” the rector shared.

In conclusion of his speech, Vladimir Stroyev recalled that the State University of Management was an engineering and economics university until the 1990s and for most of its history trained engineering personnel, something it is returning to today.

Elena Nechaeva noted that she is ready to come to the State University of Management in the near future “for a more detailed discussion of the practice of university science, because the personnel aspects of the development of science and technology are the foundation of foundations.”

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 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Prosafe SE: Operational update – April 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

21 May – Fleet utilisation for April 2025 was 58 per cent.

Safe Zephyrus and Safe Eurus operated at full capacity during April, achieving 100 per cent commercial uptime.

Safe Notos had 92 per cent commercial uptime due to required repairs.

Safe Caledonia has been re-activated for UK contract with start 01 June. Safe Boreas is in process of being transported to Singapore ahead of contract in Australia.

Safe Scandinavia has been sold for recycling and been delivered to the buyer.

Prosafe is a leading owner and operator of semi-submersible accommodation vessels. The company is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with ticker code PRS. For more information, please refer to https://www.prosafe.com

For further information, please contact:

Terje Askvig, CEO

Phone: +47 952 03 886

Reese McNeel, CFO

Phone: +47 415 08 186

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.

The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: Nokia sole company recognized as a Champion, Market Momentum Leader in Omdia’s 2025 Private 5G Market Radar report
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press Release
Nokia sole company recognized as a Champion, Market Momentum Leader in Omdia’s 2025 Private 5G Market Radar report
- Nokia private wireless portfolio, edge AI capabilities, segment blueprints, and global partner ecosystem recognized for accelerating Industry 4.0 transformation.
21 May 2025
Espoo, Finland – Nokia today announced that it is the sole company recognized as a Champion and a Market Momentum Leader in Omdia’s Market Radar: E2E Private 5G Networks Vendors – 2025. The report highlights Nokia’s 5G Private Wireless vision, strong product portfolio, and continued investment in mission-critical connectivity solutions tailored for industrial enterprises in multiple verticals, including manufacturing, mining, ports, airports, utilities, public safety, and railways.

Omdia’s Private 5G Market Radar report provides comprehensive analyses of the private 5G vendor landscape, while discussing partnerships, market trends, and strategic insights. According to Omdia, the Market Leader category represents leading vendors that provide advanced capabilities across six areas explored and which Omdia believes is worthy of a place on most technology selection shortlists. Nokia was the only vendor cited as a Champion in the report for “jump starting the market to exploring opportunities in the mission-critical edge where the connectivity at OT world are merging.”

At a time when private wireless networks have become essential for industries seeking secure, reliable, and high-performance connectivity to support their digital transformation, Nokia’s leadership in the sector is recognized for being the first company to identify the private networks opportunity and engage with the ecosystem to drive market adoption, having already deployed 890 private 4G and 5G networks worldwide as of Q1 2025.

Omdia highlights Nokia’s evolving its private wireless solutions beyond connectivity to an edge compute and AI platform for industries, verticalized solutions built on years of research, testing, and validation through segment blueprints, as well as a rich ecosystem of applications and partners such as Kyndryl, Telefonica Tech and Verizon.

“Nokia’s continued leadership in the private 5G market is underpinned by its comprehensive and forward-looking approach to industrial connectivity. By offering an integrated platform that benefits an array of industries, Nokia is setting the pace for Industry 4.0 transformation,” said Pablo Tomasi, Principal Analyst, Private Networks and Enterprise 5G at Omdia.

“Omdia’s recognition reflects our commitment to delivering robust, scalable, and intelligent networks that meet the demanding needs of industrial environments. From our MX Industrial Edge platform to our vertical blueprints, Nokia is helping enterprises accelerate their digital transformation journeys,” said Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia.

Nokia’s portfolio supports both campus and wide-area networks, including private wireless solutions such as Nokia Digital Automation Cloud (DAC), Modular Private Wireless (MPW), and Core Enterprise Solutions. It also features patented innovations like MX Industrial Edge (MXIE), Nokia MX Boost, and AI-powered solutions including Nokia MX Grid, MX Workmate, Visual Position and Object Detection (VPOD), and MX Context.

Some of Nokia’s most notable private network customer references include Southern California Edison, British Sugar, Husky Terminals, Sociedad Portuaria Puerto Bahia, Butachimie, Lufthansa Technik, Dow Chemical, Chevron Phillips Chemical, Hola Oulu Hospital, and Carrix.

About Nokia
At Nokia, we create technology that helps the world act together.

As a B2B technology innovation leader, we are pioneering networks that sense, think and act by leveraging our work across mobile, fixed and cloud networks. In addition, we create value with intellectual property and long-term research, led by the award-winning Nokia Bell Labs, which is celebrating 100 years of innovation.

With truly open architectures that seamlessly integrate into any ecosystem, our high-performance networks create new opportunities for monetization and scale. Service providers, enterprises and partners worldwide trust Nokia to deliver secure, reliable and sustainable networks today – and work with us to create the digital services and applications of the future.

About Omdia
Omdia, part of Informa TechTarget, Inc. (Nasdaq: TTGT), is a global analyst and advisory leader that helps you connect the dots across the technology ecosystem. Now joined by Canalys, Enterprise Strategy Group and Wards Intelligence, our deep knowledge of tech markets combined with our actionable insights empower organizations to make smart growth decisions.

Multimedia, technical information and related news
Product Page: DAC private wireless
Web Page: Industries
Web Page: Omdia

Media inquiries
Nokia Press Office
Email: Press.Services@nokia.com

Follow Nokia on social media
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The MIL Network –
May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China calls US bid to ban Chinese chips ‘unilateral bullying and protectionism’ /more/

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

BEIJING, May 21 (Xinhua) — China’s Ministry of Commerce on Wednesday described the U.S. attempt to impose a global ban on advanced Chinese computer chips as a typical act of “unilateral bullying and protectionism” that seriously undermines global semiconductor production and supply chains.

The Chinese side took into account that the US Department of Commerce recently issued a guideline that, under the pretext of so-called “violations of US export controls,” was intended to impose a ban on the use of advanced Chinese computer chips, including Huawei Ascend-specific chips, worldwide, an official representative of the Chinese Ministry of Commerce said.

The move by the United States deprives other countries of the right to develop advanced computer chips and high-tech industries such as artificial intelligence, a statement from a spokesman for China’s Ministry of Commerce said.

By abusing export controls to contain and oppress China, the United States violates international law and basic norms of international relations, seriously harms the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, and harms China’s development interests, the official said.

The Chinese side draws special attention to the fact that such measures by the United States may constitute restrictions of a discriminatory nature against Chinese companies. And any organizations and individuals who implement or assist in the implementation of these measures will certainly be held legally liable on suspicion of violating Chinese laws and regulations, the Ministry of Commerce warned.

As the official representative of the department noted, innovative development and mutually beneficial cooperation are the dominant global trends. The Chinese side urges the United States to immediately correct its erroneous actions, comply with international trade and economic rules, and respect the right of other countries to scientific and technological development, the official representative emphasized.

The Chinese side will closely monitor the development of the situation regarding the US measures and take decisive measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests, the official representative added. -0-

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ5: Accelerating the implementation of railway projects

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Michael Tien and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 21):

Question:

There are views that as the Government is currently making vigorous efforts to develop the Northern Metropolis, it should expedite the implementation of various railway projects, such as the “Hung Kong Railway” linking Hung Shui Kiu to Hong Kong Island and the new cross-harbour railway between the coastal areas of Tuen Mun and Hong Kong Island. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) as the Government has indicated earlier on that the co-ordination of railway projects by one single entity is conducive to maintaining cost-efficiency, and that splitting part of the railway project works into a public works project may not be able to help enhance the efficiency of such a project, but there are views that adopting the public-private-partnership (PPP) approach in taking forward the railway projects (e.g. handing over to the Government the infrastructure portion, which accounts for about 70 per cent of the overall works, while the MTR Corporation Limited will take charge of the remaining portion of the electrical and mechanical works, which accounts for about 30 per cent) may expedite the progress of such works, and the Government may also raise funds through bond issuance, and even if the debt-to-Gross Domestic Product (debt-to-GDP) ratio rises to 16 per cent in the future, Hong Kong’s debt-to-GDP ratio will still rank around 160 among some 170 economies, whether the Government will proactively explore and implement the PPP option in this regard; and

(2) whether it will consider formulating a labour importation scheme specifically for the railway projects, under which Mainland workers who travel on a same-day-return basis and are not entitled to any local benefits will be imported and exempted from the restriction that their wages should not be less than the median monthly wages of local workers in comparable positions, so as to reduce the cost of such projects; if so, of the timetable; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:

President,

Following the principles of “infrastructure-led” and “capacity-creating”, the Government is pressing ahead with a series of major transport infrastructure projects in the Northern Metropolis (NM) to strengthen the connectivity among the various new development areas and with other districts, as well as to facilitate Hong Kong’s better integration into the national development through the construction of cross-boundary infrastructure.

The Government is carrying out preliminary planning and study for the development of the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands (KYCAI) and related strategic railway. The proposed strategic railway is primarily intended to enhance the connectivity of the artificial islands with the NM and the western part of Shenzhen, and its alignment and programme will have to tie in with the planning of the artificial islands. After reviewing the priorities and overall strategy of the various land creation and infrastructure projects, the Government considers that the development pace of the KYCAI could be eased. Separately, relevant departments are conducting a planning and engineering study on the near-shore reclamation in Lung Kwu Tan and the re-planning of Tuen Mun West area, and the transport connectivity of the said area with other districts will be examined in the process.

In consultation with the Financial Services and the Treasury Bureau, the Development Bureau and the Labour and Welfare Bureau, our reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Michael Tien is as follows:

(1) To ensure that the NM and other strategic infrastructure projects can proceed on schedule and benefit the economy and people’s livelihood at an early juncture, the Government will leverage market resources in a more flexible manner and adopt more diverse development models. All along, the Government would formulate the most suitable implementation and financing arrangements of individual new railway project taking into account the distinct characteristics and specific circumstances of each project. Currently, railway projects are mainly implemented under the “Rail-plus-Property” model which has proven to be effective. The Government grants property development rights having regard to the funding gap of the project, while the railway company bears the commercial risks associated with the design, construction, operation and maintenance of the railway. Under this arrangement, the railway company would co-ordinate the works for the property development as well as those for the railway, which could enable synergy among the stations, depots and the property development, and also create incentive for the railway company to complete the railway project and thus enhance the value of the property development as early as possible. Where circumstances warrant, the Government does not preclude the possibility to provide financial support for new railway projects through or in combination with other means. In fact, there were railway projects being taken forward using other approaches.

The current practice of having a single entity to implement a railway project ensures seamless co-ordination across all aspects of the project, from design to construction. This also helps ensure that the design of the works fully takes into consideration cost-effectiveness, meeting operational needs while keeping cost under control. Splitting part of the works of a railway project into public works of the Government might not be able to help enhance the efficiency of the works due to interfaces between the works, and would also increase the Government’s fiscal burden. With projects related to the NM being rolled out progressively, as well as other infrastructure projects with socio-economic benefits, the Government will expand the scale of bond issuance correspondingly. Over the five years covered by the current Medium Range Forecast, the ratio of government debt to Gross Domestic Product is expected to rise from the current 9.5 per cent to 16.5 per cent, which remains to be a prudent and manageable level. The actual amount of bonds to be issued by the Government will take into consideration the prevailing fiscal position, market response and works progress. We will continue to adhere strictly to fiscal discipline and ensure the fiscal prudence of our overall bond issuance programmes and sustainability of our public finances.

The MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) has been playing a pivotal role in driving Hong Kong’s development. We are aware of public concerns about the possible pressure on the MTRCL’s manpower and resource when taking forward multiple new railway projects simultaneously. The Government has reminded the MTRCL’s management of the need to strategically plan its treasury management, and make financing arrangements through appropriate means such as bond issuance having regard to its liquidity needs, so as to support the corporation’s operation and continuous development. At the same time, the MTRCL must strictly control the costs and compress the programmes of its railway projects in order to enhance the financial viability of the projects.

To enhance speed and efficiency in implementing railway projects, the Government will continue to optimise and streamline procedures through “dual innovation” in policy and technology, so as to save construction time and manpower. Subject to local circumstances and existing legal framework, the Government is also actively exploring ways to facilitate the use of Mainland’s construction methods and capabilities in constructing cross-boundary railway projects. In addition, when taking forward independent new railways or transport infrastructure projects, the Government will consider introducing new entities in their implementation. This would not only help relieve the pressure on the MTRCL, but also enable new entities to introduce innovative technologies and bring in more diverse financing sources.

(2) The existing Labour Importation Scheme for Construction Sector (Construction Sector Scheme) allows principal contractors of eligible works contracts to apply for importation of labour. The requirements for importing labour under the Construction Sector Scheme are formulated by the Government in accordance with Hong Kong’s labour policy. Principal contractors of railway projects may also apply for importation of labour under this scheme as needed.

In the case of cross-boundary railway projects, the adoption of Mainland construction teams would work better with the above-mentioned idea of leveraging the Mainland’s construction methods and capabilities and achieve maximum effectiveness. Taking the subsea railway tunnel of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link at the Deep Bay as an example, it would be more efficient and cost-effective for the Shenzhen side to construct the tunnel by unidirectional tunneling method. The Government will seriously study the implementation of specific arrangements for employment of Mainland labour in cross-boundary railway projects in light of the projects’ unique nature.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Supporting freight and logistics sector

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Following is a question by the Hon Frankie Yick and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 21):

Question:

There are views pointing out that although the United States (“US”) has seen its ranking as Hong Kong’s major important trading partner decline in recent years, the imposition of high tariffs on Hong Kong goods and the elimination of the duty-free de minimis treatment for small parcels continue to have a significant impact on Hong Kong’s freight and logistics sector. Members of the sector have predicted that the US tariff trade war against China will lead to a sustained decline in Hong Kong’s freight volumes and could trigger an immediate supply chain disruption crisis, and the measures taken under the five major strategies as indicated earlier on by the Secretary of Transport and Logistics will be difficult to see results in the short term. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it has assessed the specific impact of the tariff trade wars launched by US to date on Hong Kong’s freight and logistics sector (including sea, land, and air transport);

(2) in order to make up for the shortfall resulting from the loss of the US market and to consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a regional logistics hub, of the short-term measures taken by the authorities to assist the logistics sector in accelerating the development of new markets; and

(3) in response to cash flow problems faced by logistics companies due to shipment delays or cancellations caused by the tariff trade wars, of the support measures put in place by the Government, such as the consideration of providing low-interest loans to these companies to address their immediate needs?

Reply:

President,

Hong Kong has long supported and upheld the multilateral trading system. The imposition of tariffs and other trade protectionist measures by certain countries not only disregards Hong Kong’s status as a free port with zero tariffs, but also damages the global multilateral trading system. Such measures disrupt global supply chains, harming all parties involved including the implementing countries themselves.

As previously announced by the Chief Executive, in response to the relevant developments, the Government will strengthen its strategy in seven areas, including to fully seize the opportunities in our country, China’s development, and actively integrate into the national development; to strengthen international exchanges and deepen regional ties and co-operation; to accelerate industrial transformation; to intensify efforts to develop technological innovation; to vigorously advance international financial co-operation; to proactively attract foreign companies and capital to establish in Hong Kong; and to provide various support to help Hong Kong enterprises.

Having consulted the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), our reply to the Hon Frankie Yick’s question is as follows:

(1) Hong Kong recorded a 3.2 per cent year-on-year increase in air cargo volume in thefirst quarter of 2024, reaching 1.16 million tonnes. Container throughput of our port also grew by 2.7 per cent year-on-year to approximately 3.4 million twenty-foot equivalent units. The observed growth in cargo volumes is believed to be attributable to shippers’ urgency to ship goods ahead of the anticipated implementation of reciprocal tariffs. Recently, our country and the United States (US) have reached a provisional agreement to reduce bilateral tariffs for 90 days. It is expected that shippers will maximise shipments during this window. However, it is expected such volume growth is unlikely to be sustained. In fact, the negative impact of the reckless imposition of tariffs by the US on global trade will be far-reaching. The overall global trade volume is expected to fall, and the logistics industry will inevitably be affected.

(2) In light of the new international trade environment, we must make preparations to avoid and mitigate risks while seizing new opportunities arising from the changing landscape. To this end, the Transport and Logistics Bureau will closely monitor developments, maintain proactive engagement with the trade, and lead Hong Kong’s logistics sector to cope with challenges by adopting five major strategies.

Firstly, we will explore emerging markets including the Middle East and the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), while continuing our collaboration with the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council (LOGSCOUNCIL) to promote Hong Kong’s logistics advantages by conducting promotional visits to and exploring other markets along the “Belt and Road”. Secondly, we will strengthen collaboration with ports located in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and establish a comprehensive “rail-sea-land-river” intermodal transport system, thereby developing new cargo sources. Thirdly, we are actively studying the exemption of the import and export licence requirements for certain products to attract more transhipment cargoes. Fourthly, we will deepen international port and shipping co-operation by pursuing digitalisation and green and smart transformation of our port to enhance Hong Kong’s port competitiveness. Fifthly, we will further expand Hong Kong’s maritime and aviation networks to diversify our markets and reduce reliance on the US market.

(3) The HKSAR Government has been assisting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in addressing challenges and maintaining competiveness amid a complicated and ever-changing economic environment through various funding schemes and support measures. As regards alleviating cash flow pressure, the Government has kept on enhancing the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme (SFGS) so as to meet the financing needs of SMEs during the economic downturn. Borrowing enterprises under the SFGS (including enterprises in the logistics sector) are now allowed to apply for principal moratorium arrangement for up to 12 months (the application period will last until November 17, 2025), and the maximum loan guarantee periods of the 80% and 90% Guarantee Products be extended to ten years and eight years respectively. At the same time, the partial principal repayment options will be offered to new loans so as to provide more repayment flexibility.

The HKMA, together with the banking sector, introduced in April 2025 additional support measures to further assist SMEs in obtaining bank financing and in their upgrade and transformation. In addition, all the 18 participating banks in the Taskforce on SME Lending have reaffirmed their commitment to actively implementing the “9+5” SME support measures launched by the HKMA and the banking sector in 2024. Referencing the principles under the Pre-approved Principal Payment Holiday Scheme, the banking sector will continue offering flexible repayment arrangements and deferment of repayment period. The total amount of dedicated funds for SMEs set aside by these banks in their loan portfolio has increased from $370 billion in October 2024 to more than $390 billion at present.

As regards export credit insurance, further to the 2024 Policy Address initiative on increasing the maximum indemnity percentage of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation (ECIC) to 95 per cent, ECIC already launched three more support measures on April 10, 2025, including extending the free pre-shipment cover for holders of the Small Business Policy (SBP); offering a 50 per cent discount on pre-shipment risks to cover premiums for non-SBP holders; and aligning the premium rates for new markets with those for traditional markets to assist exporters in tapping into the new markets. ECIC will also provide 20 additional free credit assessment service on the buyers in the Mainland, ASEAN and Middle East, collaborate with various financial institutions to provide financing support for e-commerce, and providing credit insurance for export services relating to multinational supply chain to support Hong Kong export trade.

Thank you, President.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA: Approved prospectus – 21 May 2025
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Reference is made to the stock exchange announcements issued by IDEX Biometrics ASA (the “Company”) on 11 March and 11 April 2025 regarding the successful loan financing of NOK 30 million and the subsequent conversion of such debt to shares in the Company at a subscription price of NOK 0.01 per share, resulting in the issuance of 3,000,000,000 new shares (“Debt Conversion” and “Debt Conversion Shares”), the subsequent offering of up to 600,000,000 new shares at a subscription price equal to the subscription price in the Debt Conversion (“Subsequent Offering” and the “Offer Shares”), and the amendment of a certain senior convertible bond (the “Convertible Bond”) issued by an affiliate of Heights Capital Management (“Heights”) to the Company, whereby, among other things, the principal amount of the Convertible Bond was reduced to an aggregate principal amount of NOK 49,980,000.

The listing of the Debt Conversion Shares, the Subsequent Offering and the listing of the Offer Shares remain subject to approval of a prospectus (“Prospectus”) by the Financial Supervisory Authority of Norway (“FSA”), and the subsequent publication of such Prospectus by the Company. Further, the future listing of shares that may be issued by the Company upon conversion of the Convertible Bond (the conversion price currently being NOK 0.065, but which conversion price is subject to customary adjustment provisions) also remains subject to approval and publication of a Prospectus.

The FSA has today approved the Prospectus. As a result of the above, the subscription period for the Subsequent Offering starts on 22 May 2025 and expires on 5 June 2025 at 16:30 CET. For further information on the Subsequent Offering, please refer to the Prospectus.

Further, by reason of the approval and publication of the Prospectus, the Debt Conversion Shares will be transferred to the Company’s ordinary ISIN and be admitted to trading on Oslo Børs.

The Prospectus is enclosed with this announcement. It will also be available in electronic format at www.idexbiometrics.com/investors/share-information/prospectuses .

Printed copies of the Prospectus may be obtained free of charge at the office of IDEX Biometrics ASA, Dronning Eufemias gate 16, NO-0191 Oslo, Norway, telephone +47 6783 9119 or by e-mail: companysecretary@idexbiometrics.com.

Arctic Securities AS acts as financial advisor and bookrunner in connection with the Subsequent Offering (the “Manager”). Ræder Bing advokatfirma AS acts as the Company’s legal advisor.

For further information, please contact:

Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel: +47 95092322

E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

About IDEX Biometrics:

IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

About this notice:

This notice was issued by Kristian Flaten, CFO, on 21 May 2025 at 08:45 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.

Attachment
- 2025-05-21 Prospectus incl subscription form- IDEX Biometrics ASA
The MIL Network –
May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: IDEX Biometrics ASA: First quarter 2025 report
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

IDEX Biometrics ASA’s first quarter 2025 report is attached to this notice.

Recent highlights:

On 11 March 2025 IDEX Biometrics announced a new strategy with a fundamental shift in how the company would take its unique technology and products to market

New CEO appointed – Anders Storbråten

Securing a new debt facility of NOK 30 million, converted to shares

Heights convertible bond renegotiated and amended

Range of operational improvement initiatives under way – target quarterly run rate OPEX from end Q3 2025 in the range of $1.5-1.7 million.

Production order in Japan from the manufacturing partner Beautiful Card Corporation (BCC). The order has a value of approx. USD 50,000

Order received from DigAware to deliver biometric sensor solution for access cards with sensor systems from IDEX

IDEX Biometrics receives IDEX Pay order for VISA biometric cards in the Middle East & Africa region of 10,000 units

KONA I granted Mastercard Letter of Approval for IDEX Pay biometric cards

Completed debt conversion, launching subsequent offering allowing investors to participate at the same terms as shareholders participating in the debt conversion

Financial results Q1 2025:

Revenues of $0.1 million in the quarter.

Ordinary operating expenses amounting to $2.4 million.

Net loss was $4.1 million.

Cash balance per 31 March 2025 at $1.1 million

IDEX Biometrics CEO Anders Storbråten will host a presentation at Arctic Securities at 12:00 CET today. The presentation will be published to the stock exchange.

IDEX Biometrics’ reports and presentations are available on our website: www.idexbiometrics.com/investors

For further information, please contact:

Kristian Flaten, CFO, Tel: +47 95092322

E-mail: ir@idexbiometrics.com

About IDEX Biometrics:

IDEX Biometrics ASA (OSE: IDEX) is a global technology leader in fingerprint biometrics, offering authentication solutions across payments, access control, and digital identity. Our solutions bring convenience, security, peace of mind and seamless user experiences to the world. Built on patented and proprietary sensor technologies, integrated circuit designs, and software, our biometric solutions target card-based applications for payments and digital authentication. As an industry-enabler we partner with leading card manufacturers and technology companies to bring our solutions to market. For more information, visit www.idexbiometrics.com

About this notice:

This notice was issued by Kristian Flaten, CFO, on 21 May 2025 at 08:52 CET on behalf of IDEX Biometrics ASA. This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to the Norwegian Securities Trading Act section 5-12.

Attachment
- IDEX BIOMETRICS Q1 2025 REPORT
The MIL Network –
May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI China: Announcement on Open Market Operations No.95 [2025]

Source: Peoples Bank of China

Announcement on Open Market Operations No.95 [2025]

(Open Market Operations Office, May 21, 2025)

The People’s Bank of China conducted reverse repo operations in the amount of RMB157 billion through quantity bidding at a fixed interest rate on May 21, 2025.

Details of the Reverse Repo Operations

Maturity

Rate

Bidding Volume

Winning Bid Volume

7 days

1.40%

RMB157 billion

RMB157 billion

Date of last update Nov. 29 2018

2025年05月21日

MIL OSI China News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI China: China offers global consumers fresh shopping experiences

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

Mok Jin Jin, a Malaysian student at Nankai University in north China’s Tianjin Municipality, has observed a shift in his family’s lifestyle since they received a Chinese-made blender.

His mother now frequently tries new healthy breakfast beverages like soy milk, milkshakes and freshly made juices. She particularly appreciates the one-button self-cleaning function, which saves her time and effort.

Not long ago, Mok purchased the blender through a Chinese e-commerce platform as a gift for his family. “Chinese-made products excel in performance and design. They not only improve the living quality but also fulfill consumers’ expectations of modern consumption,” Mok said.

The notion that Chinese products were “cheap and low-quality” was for long a common stereotype. However, in recent years, China has made significant strides in technological innovation and industrial upgrades, resulting in a remarkable improvement in the competitiveness of Chinese products.

At the same time, China’s increasingly diverse consumer market has provided foreign consumers with a more international, fashionable and multifaceted shopping experience.

“International brands are ubiquitous in China’s major cities, and global products are easily accessible through online shopping platforms. This has made shopping in China extremely convenient,” Mok said. He was also pleasantly surprised to find several Malaysian food brands available in Chinese supermarkets and on e-commerce platforms. “It’s wonderful to be able to enjoy familiar tastes while abroad,” he said.

Phan Dinh Thang, a Vietnamese student studying Chinese at Nankai University, echoed this sentiment. “Shopping in China feels like ‘global shopping’ with an incredibly wide range of options,” he said. As more Vietnamese people learn Chinese, they find it easier to purchase quality products on Chinese e-commerce platforms.

Thanks to China’s robust supply chain system and efficient logistics network, goods shipped from China to Vietnam not only arrive quickly but are also cost-effective and often more affordable than local options in Vietnam. “This has made ‘Chinese shopping’ a new trend in Vietnam and highlights the increasingly close consumer ties between China and Vietnam,” Phan explained.

With China continuously optimizing its international consumption environment, such as offering visa exemptions for some countries, enhancing departure tax refund policies and expanding international credit card payment channels — making shopping trips to China a new trend in cross-border tourism.

Maltseva Varvara, a Russian visitor, shared her experience: “The best thing about shopping in China is how fast, convenient and hassle-free it is.” After linking her international credit card to Alipay, Varvara found it easy to pay as she simply needed to scan via her phone by using a quick tap on its screen. “The recent improvements in the departure tax refund policy have made shopping and traveling in China even more convenient and welcoming.”

Some overseas consumers have formed “shopping groups” and flown long distances to China to purchase popular products. According to data from China’s Ministry of Commerce, the number of foreign visitors to Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou, Tianjin and southwest China’s Chongqing in 2024 was nearly double the figure of the previous year. These five cities are home to almost 70 percent of China’s tax refund stores, while their imports of consumer goods accounted for over half of China’s total last year.

Foreign consumption in China has seen a noticeable increase. The National Immigration Administration reported that, since the implementation of a 240-hour visa-free transit policy, the number of foreign visitors has grown by 40.2 percent year on year, with 71.3 percent of them entering visa-free.

The recent signing of a visa exemption agreement between China and Malaysia has made travel for Malaysian tourists more convenient. “It’s much easier for my friends and family to visit China now, and they get to experience firsthand the increasingly convenient living environment and vibrant consumer market here,” Mok said.

China’s Vice Commerce Minister Sheng Qiuping recently stated that China will continue to improve its international consumption environment, increase the supply of high-quality products, and create more diversified consumption scenarios to boost inbound consumption.

Li Wei, dean of the Honor College of Tianjin Foreign Studies University, said that China is fostering an open, inclusive and diverse consumption environment that appeals to foreign visitors. “This offers more opportunities for global consumers and businesses.”

MIL OSI China News –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI: BAYC#7537 AI computing satellite was successfully launched! Web3 interstellar computing era officially started

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

LONDON, May 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — On May 14, 2025, 12:12 p.m. (Beijing Time), Adaspace successfully launched 12 satellites of the Space Computing Constellation 021 Mission from Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center through the Long March 2D launch vehicle. The successful entry of the satellites into the intended orbit marks the successful launch of the world’s first space computing constellation, which will open a new chapter of the global “space computing era”. Space Computing Constellation 021 Mission is not only the first constellation of “Star-Compute” program initiated by Adaspace, but also the first constellation of “Three-Body Computing Constellation” of Zhejiang Lab. The constellation consists of 12 computing satellites in one orbit invested by different entities and developed by Adaspace. The launch and orbiting of BAYC#7537 computing satellite marks Web3’s transformation from the virtual economy to the space computing network.

According to the introduction, the “protagonist” of this launch consists of 12 computing satellites in one orbit invested by different entities and developed by Adaspace, including Neijiang (Star Era-27), Neijiang High-Tech (Star Era-28), Taizhou (Star Era-29), Haikou (Star Era-30), Ma’anshan Intelligent Computing-1 (Star Era-31), Chongzhou (Star Era-32), Tiantie Technology (Star Era-33), BAYC #7573 (Star Era-34), Yukongzhe (Star Era-35), “Grand Neobay”(Star Era-36), Zhejiang-1 (Star Era-37) and Zhejiang-2 (Star Era-38). After the assembly of 12 satellites in one orbit, the on-orbit verification and application of the basic functions of space-based computing, such as chain building, networking and cloud formation, will be finished through interstellar laser high-speed interconnection, stable constellation networking and distributed computing management.

What is a computing constellation? In the past, satellites were only used for communication, navigation and remote sensing. Computing satellites are defined as the fourth type of satellites, which will become the basis of the first three satellites, and then form a new network system called computing constellation through the interconnection of satellites.

According to Wang Jian, academician of Chinese Academy of Engineering and director of Zhejiang Lab, the constellation can raise the computing power of a single satellite from level T to level P and realize interconnection between satellites like the Internet connects different computers together. “The construction of space computing constellation enables the single satellite to be of greater value and has far-reaching implications for the transformation of the aerospace industry.”

“The primary mission of this launch is to realize the transformation from ‘computing on Earth’ to ‘computing in space’ for specific scenarios to meet the growing demand for space-based instant computing and to help China take the lead in building a space computing infrastructure in the world.” The relevant official of Adaspace said. In short, support computing power with space power.

As a representative sign in the series, the holder of BAYC #7573 has repeatedly promoted the innovative application of AI. Naming the satellite after BAYC #7573 AI not only recognizes its cultural value, but also symbolizes the Web3 community’s deep involvement in cutting-edge technology. Both AI computing and Web3 have empowered the future.

Media Contact:

Organization: BAYC

Contact Person: David

Website: bayc.io

Email: bd@bayc.io

Disclaimer: This press release is provided by BAYC. 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. 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. 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. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. 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.

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 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

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The MIL Network –

May 21, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Why do I procrastinate? And can I do anything about it?
Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Catherine Houlihan, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology, University of the Sunshine Coast

Dima Berlin/Shutterstock

Can you only start a boring admin task once your house is clean? Do you leave the trickiest emails to the end of the day?

Delaying a goal or task – usually to do something less important instead – is known as procrastination and it affects many of us. Most people report procrastinating some of the time, but for others it can be chronic.

While procrastination is common, it can be frustrating and lead to feelings of shame, guilt and anxiety.

Here’s why you might be avoiding that task – and five steps to get on top of it.

Am I procrastinating?

You might find yourself putting off starting something, abandoning it before it’s finished or leaving it to the very last minute.

Thoughts such as “I can catch up later” or “I’ll turn it in late” can be telltale signs of procrastination. Maybe you’ve Googled “Why do I procrastinate?” while procrastinating and have come across this article.

Other times, you might not even be aware you’re doing it. Perhaps you look up and realise you’ve been scrolling online shopping and kitten videos for the past hour, instead of doing your assignment.

Procrastination is not a character flaw, and it doesn’t mean you’re lazy or even bad at managing time. Framing it this way can make you feel even worse about the behaviour, and stops you learning the real reasons behind it.

If you want to stop procrastinating, it’s important to understand why you do it in the first place.

You may find yourself doing another, less urgent task, without even realising you’re procrastinating.
Daenin/Shutterstock

Why do I procrastinate?

Procrastination can be a way of dealing with tricky emotions. Research shows we put off tasks we find boring or frustrating, as well as those we resent or that lack personal meaning.

We may avoid tasks that create stress or painful emotions, such as completing a tax return where you owe a lot of money, or packing up a parent’s house after their death.

There a few deeper reasons, too.

Procrastination can be a sign of perfectionism. This is when an intense fear of failure – of getting something wrong – creates so much pressure to be perfect that it stops us from even getting started.

People with low self-esteem also tend to procrastinate, whether or not they experience perfectionism. Here, it’s a negative self-view (“I’m not good at most things”) coupled with low confidence (“I probably won’t get it right”) that gets in the way of beginning a task.

Distraction can be a factor, too. Most of us battle constant interruptions, with pings and alerts designed to redirect our attention. But being very easily distracted can also be a sign you’re avoiding the task.

For some people, difficulty completing tasks could be a sign of an underlying issue such as attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder. If you’re worried procrastination is affecting your day-to-day life, you can speak to your doctor to seek help.

Distraction can be a factor.
F8 Studio/Shutterstock

Is procrastination ever helpful?

It depends.

Some people enjoy the pressure of a deadline. Leaving a task to the last minute can be a strategy to improve motivation or get it done in a limited time.

Procrastination can also be a coping mechanism.

Delaying unpleasant tasks may make us feel better in the moment. Avoiding the task may mean we don’t have to face the possibility of getting it wrong, or the negative emotions or consequences it involves.

But this usually only works in the short term, and in the long term it’s more likely to cause problems.

Procrastination can trigger self-criticism as well as negative emotions such as guilt and shame.

In the long term it can also lead to mental health problems including anxiety and depression. Procrastinating has even been linked to poor outcomes in education – such as being caught copying in exams – and at work, including lower salaries and higher likelihood of unemployment.

So what can we do about it?

5 steps to tackling procrastination
1. Face it – you’re procrastinating. Being able to identify and name these patterns is the first step to overcoming procrastination.
2. Explore why. Understanding the underlying causes is key. Are you afraid of getting it wrong? Is your to-do list unrealistic? Or do you just love a tight deadline? If your procrastination results from perfectionism or low self-esteem you may wish to explore evidence-based treatments such as cognitive behavioural therapy, with a therapist or through self-guided activities.
3. Start prioritising. Take a good look at your to-do list. Are the most urgent or important things at the top? Have you given yourself enough time to complete the tasks? Breaking a task into smaller chunks and taking regular breaks will help prevent you from becoming overwhelmed. If you’re not sure what’s the most important, try talking it through with someone. If you tend to leave the most boring things to the last minute and then never get around to them, set some time aside at the start of each day to get these tasks done.
4. Avoid distractions. Set your phone to “do not disturb”, hang a sign on the door, tell those around you you’ll be “offline” for a little while. Setting a clear start and end time can help you stick to this rule.
5. Build in rewards. Life is hard work – be kind to yourself. Whenever you complete a difficult task or cross something off your to-do list, balance this by doing something more enjoyable. Building in rewards can make facing the to-do list a little bit easier.
Catherine Houlihan 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. Why do I procrastinate? And can I do anything about it? – https://theconversation.com/why-do-i-procrastinate-and-can-i-do-anything-about-it-255770
MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –
May 21, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Counts in Bradfield and Calwell become clearer, while Jacqui Lambie faces a possible problem in the Tasmanian Senate

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Adrian Beaumont, Election Analyst (Psephologist) at The Conversation; and Honorary Associate, School of Mathematics and Statistics, The University of Melbourne

Counting in several extremely close seats continues, but some results have become clearer. In Liberal-held Bradfield, Teal candidate Nicolette Boele has taken the lead, while the Calwell distribution of preferences indicates an independent is on track to pass the Liberals and benefit from their preferences against Labor. Meanwhile, Jacqui Lambie may have a problem in the Tasmanian Senate contest.

Labor has won 93 of the 150 House of Representatives seats, the Coalition 43, all Others 12 and two remain undecided (Bradfield and Calwell). After Tuesday’s split between the Liberals and Nationals, the ABC has the Liberals on 28 seats and the Nationals on 15, with the Liberals to form the official opposition.

The Australian Electoral Commission has 18 Liberals, nine Nationals and 16 seats won by Queensland’s Liberal National Party. LNP members can caucus with either the Liberals or Nationals, so they are splitting 10–6 to the Liberals.

I will continue to use Coalition in my coverage of this election, as the Liberal and National parties contested the election as the Coalition. It would be difficult to split the LNP vote into its Liberal and National components.

In the close seats, Boele leads the Liberals by 43 votes in Bradfield. She had trailed by 43 votes before the final votes were counted on Monday. The Poll Bludger said the last 181 formal postals counted favoured Boele by 125–56, giving her 69% of that batch.

Of the just over 14,000 total formal postal votes counted in Bradfield, the Liberals have won by 56.4–43.6. But late postals are often much better for the left than early ones.

What’s happening now in Bradfield is a full distribution of preferences, in which candidates are excluded from the bottom up on primary votes. If the margin after this distribution is complete is under 100 votes, there will be an automatic recount.

In Goldstein, Teal incumbent Zoe Daniel’s late surge has fallen short, as she trails Liberal Tim Wilson by 135 votes with everything counted, in from a 292-vote deficit last Thursday.

As with Bradfield, there will now be a full distribution of preferences in Goldstein. If the margin after this distribution is under 100 votes, there will be a recount. Daniel could also request a recount, but even if there is a recount, Wilson is very likely to win.

In Labor-held Calwell, which has 13 candidates, final primary votes were 30.5% Labor, 15.7% Liberals, 11.9% for independent Carly Moore, 10.7% for independent Joseph Youhana, 8.3% for the Greens and 6.9% for independent Samim Moslih.

The danger for Labor is that either Moore or Youhana overtake the Liberals on the distribution of preferences, then beat Labor at the final count on Liberal preferences. The AEC has a page that is updated with each exclusion in the preference distribution.

After six exclusions, the totals are 32.8% Labor, 17.1% Liberals, 14.7% Moore, 12.1% Youhana, 9.9% Greens, 7.9% Moslih and 5.6% One Nation (to be excluded next). Analyst Kevin Bonham says Moore needs 7.5% more than the Liberals to make the final two, and 67% of overall preferences to beat Labor. For Youhana, these figures are 13.4% and 69%.

Lambie may have a problem in the Tasmanian Senate contest

I have previously covered the Senate count. There have only been minor changes to the primary votes since that May 9 article. The Poll Bludger has modelled the state Senate contests using 2022 election preference flows.

According to this model, Labor will win the last seat in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia and Western Australia, but only narrowly in WA. In Tasmania, Jacqui Lambie and the Liberals would edge out Labor. As I wrote previously, this result would give Labor 30 of the 76 total senators, the Coalition 27, the Greens 11, One Nation two and others six.

For a state a quota is one-seventh of the vote or 14.3%. In Tasmania Labor has 2.48 quotas, the Liberals 1.65, the Greens 1.13, Jacqui Lambie 0.51, One Nation 0.35 and Legalise Cannabis 0.24. One Nation will be the last exclusion, and whichever of Labor, the Liberals or Lambie is last after One Nation’s preferences are distributed loses.

There’s evidence that One Nation’s preferences have become better for the Coalition at this election than in 2022. In Capricornia, which had a One Nation primary vote of 15.5%, the LNP share of overall preferences increased nine points since 2022 to 62%.

Lambie wants the salmon farming industry to stop farming in Macquarie Harbour and says they should move offshore. This stance could cost her preferences from One Nation and other right-aligned parties.

I expect One Nation and other right-wing preferences in Tasmania to go strongly enough to the Liberals to give the Liberals one of the last two undecided seats, with the final seat between Labor and Lambie.

Labor is pro-salmon farming, so perhaps Lambie could benefit from Greens and Animal Justice preferences (the Greens have a small surplus over one quota and Animal Justice has 0.09 quotas).

Tasmanian poll and upper house elections

A Tasmanian state EMRS poll, conducted May 13–17 from a sample of 1,000, gave Labor 31% of the vote (up one since February), the Liberals 29% (down five), the Greens 14% (up one), the Jacqui Lambie Network 6% (down two), independents 17% (up five) and others 4% (up one).

Tasmania uses a proportional system for its lower house elections, so a two-party estimate is not applicable. Incumbent Liberal Premier Jeremy Rockliff’s net favourability was down four points to +6, while Labor leader Dean Winter’s was down one to +5. Rockliff led Winter by 44–32 as preferred premier (44–34 previously).

Every May two or three of Tasmania’s 15 upper house seats are up for election for six-year terms. The Poll Bludger said Tuesday that current upper house standings are four Liberals, three Labor, one Green and seven independents. On Saturday there will be elections in Liberal-held Montgomery, Labor-held Pembroke and independent-held Nelson.

European elections wrap

I covered Sunday’s European elections in Romania, Portugal and Poland for The Poll Bludger. In Romania the centrist defeated the far-right candidate by 53.6–46.4, but the left had a dismal result in Portugal. I also covered recounts in the April 28 Canadian election and polls ahead of the June 3 South Korean presidential election.

Adrian Beaumont 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. Counts in Bradfield and Calwell become clearer, while Jacqui Lambie faces a possible problem in the Tasmanian Senate – https://theconversation.com/counts-in-bradfield-and-calwell-become-clearer-while-jacqui-lambie-faces-a-possible-problem-in-the-tasmanian-senate-257122

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

May 21, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Pay bills and register an ATV: DIT reminds about useful services and services of the mos.ru portal for summer residents

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

Moscow’s digital ecosystem allows city residents to solve most everyday issues from anywhere in Russia. You can transmit readings of water, heat and electricity meters, pay utility bills, make an appointment for your pets to see a veterinarian and do other everyday things even while at your dacha.

“The mos.ru portal offers more than 450 online services, many of which will be useful during the summer season, and they can be used using a mobile device, which is very convenient when staying outside the city. Everyday services are also available in the Moscow State Services and My Moscow applications,” the capital’s

Department of Information Technology.

Submit meter readings

It is recommended to transmit data on water consumption from the 15th of the current month to the third of the following month inclusive. This can be done using the service “Transmission of water and heat readings”, telegram bot or through specialists of the unified service department by phone: 7 495 539-25-25. Those who leave the city for a long time can indicate the minimum water meter readings for one or two months in advance. This data will be included in the unified payment document (UPD).

The portal also offers the following service: “Receiving readings and paying for electricity”. It allows you to transmit readings of electricity meters, view the verification status of electricity meters, pay for electricity consumption, receive information on the current balance and debt. It is necessary to send meter data from the 15th to the 26th inclusive. If the device is equipped with an automated information and measuring system for commercial electricity metering, the information will be loaded into the system automatically.

Pay the bills

Summer residents can pay for housing and communal services, home telephone bills and other receipts remotely in the My Payments service on the mos.ru portal, as well as in the city mobile applications Moscow State Services and My Moscow. All unpaid bills are automatically loaded here if the user has a standard or full account and the necessary information is specified in the personal account, including the payer code, apartment address, personal account of JSC Mosenergosbyt and other data. If there is not enough information, quick search widgets will help. In addition, here you can connect autopayment or create a template, as well as top up the personal account of the transponder for travel on toll sections of roads. More information about the My Payments service – in the instructions.

Those who pay for utilities online, may refuse from receiving paper unified payment documents. In this case, after returning to the city, you will not need to empty your mailbox. Receipts will stop coming from the next billing month after submitting the application. Instead, an electronic EPD will be loaded into your personal account.

Take care of your pets’ health

To prepare your pet for a trip and make its vacation enjoyable and safe, super service “My pet”. It contains tips on caring for pets, as well as information on all city veterinary services. An early visit to specialists at state veterinary clinics it is possible to planto vaccinate or chip your pet, complete accompanying documents and receive other services.

Register self-propelled equipment

Summer residents who have a tractor, ATV or other self-propelled equipment can use the state online service on the mos.ru portal “Registration of self-propelled vehicles and trailers for them”. Detailed information — in the instructions.

Take part in the general meeting of owners

To communicate with neighbors and management organizations during a trip out of town, Muscovites can use the “Electronic House” platform. It helps to receive up-to-date information about your home and area, publish messages on the electronic bulletin board, participate in general meetings of owners online and much more. The platform’s capabilities will become available after confirming the specified address. Its full functionality is also available in the mobile application “Electronic House Moscow”.

Take an interesting book

It will be useful for book lovers at their dacha service “Moscow Libraries”. With its help, you can not only find and reserve the necessary publications in city libraries, but also extend the return period for 30 days. This can be done in the reader’s account. To use the service, you will need a standard account on mos.ru andsingle library card. It can be obtained at any of the city’s 440 libraries or online. The electronic version of the ticket is easy to use. in the mobile application “My id”.

On mos.ru you can set up notifications about new invoices from the Unified Payment Document for non-residential premises The core of the digital ecosystem: how to quickly register with the required department or government services center on the mos.ru portal

You can learn about how the mos.ru portal turned from a news feed with a book of reviews into a resource where today more than 450 electronic services are presented from a popular science film “Moscow in Digital”.

The creation, development and operation of the e-government infrastructure, including the provision of mass socially significant services, as well as other services in electronic form, corresponds to the objectives of the national project “Data Economy and Digital Transformation of the State” and the regional project of the city of Moscow “Digital Public Administration”.

Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

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

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

https: //vv.mos.ru/nevs/ite/154097073/

MIL OSI Russia News –

May 21, 2025

Maturity	Rate	Bidding Volume	Winning Bid Volume
7 days	1.40%	RMB157 billion	RMB157 billion

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Updates to this page

Am I procrastinating?

Why do I procrastinate?

Is procrastination ever helpful?

5 steps to tackling procrastination

Lambie may have a problem in the Tasmanian Senate contest

Tasmanian poll and upper house elections

European elections wrap

Submit meter readings

Pay the bills

Take care of your pets’ health

Register self-propelled equipment

Take part in the general meeting of owners

Take an interesting book