Category: Business

MIL-OSI USA: Statement on the Upcoming Executive Compensation Roundtable
Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

When the Commission instituted tabular executive compensation disclosure in 1992,[1] then-Chairman Richard C. Breeden championed an easily comprehensible disclosure regime centered around a graphical presentation of total executive compensation with comparisons against compensation of executives in peer firms and against the issuer’s performance.[2]

In the intervening years, disclosure requirements have been expanded to focus more and more on variations of components of compensation, rather than on total compensation. While it is undisputed that these requirements, and the resulting disclosure, have become increasingly complex and lengthy, it is less clear if the increased complexity and length have provided investors with additional information that is material to their investment and voting decisions.

It is important for the Commission to engage in retrospective reviews of its rules to ensure that they continue to be cost-effective and result in disclosure of material information without an overload of immaterial information. As part of this review of its executive compensation requirements, the SEC will host a roundtable with representatives from public companies and investors, as well as other experts in this field.

Commission staff will provide further details about the roundtable’s agenda and speakers before the event. As the staff develops that agenda, I have asked them to consider the questions outlined below. I also welcome and encourage members of the public to provide their views on these questions, either in advance of or after the roundtable.

Potential Questions for Consideration

Executive compensation decisions: setting compensation and making investment and voting decisions
1. What is the process by which companies develop their executive compensation packages? What drives the development and decisions of compensation packages? What roles do the company’s management, the company’s compensation committee (or board of directors), and external advisors play in this development?
2. Current disclosure requirements seek to unpack these processes for investors. How can our rules be revised to better inform investors about the material aspects of how executive compensation decisions are made?
3. What level of detail regarding executive compensation information is material to investors in making their investment and voting decisions? Is there any information currently required to be disclosed in response to Item 402 of Regulation S-K that is not material to investors or that could be streamlined to improve the disclosure for investors? How do companies’ engagement with investors drive compensation decisions and compensation disclosure?
Executive compensation disclosure: past, present, and future
1. The Commission substantially revised its executive compensation disclosure requirements in 2006 with requirements to provide, among other things, enhanced tabular disclosure of compensation amounts and a compensation discussion and analysis of the company’s compensation practices. The rules were intended to provide investors with a clearer and more complete picture of the compensation earned by a company’s executive officers. Have these disclosure requirements met these objectives? Do the required disclosures help investors to make informed investment and voting decisions? Given the complexity and length of these disclosures, are investors able to easily parse through the disclosure to identify the material information they need? In what ways could disclosure rules be revised to return to a simpler presentation and focus?
2. The Dodd-Frank Act added several executive compensation related requirements to the securities laws, including shareholder advisory voting on various aspects of executive compensation. What types of disclosure do investors find material in making these voting decisions? Are companies able to provide such disclosure in a cost-effective manner? Do the current rules strike the right balance between eliciting material information and the costs to provide such information?
3. With the experience of almost 20 years of implementing the 2006 rule amendments, how can the Commission address challenges that either companies or investors have encountered with executive compensation rules and the resulting disclosures in a cost-effective and efficient manner while continuing to provide material compensation information for investors? For example, are there requirements that are difficult or costly to comply with and that do not elicit material information for investors? Are there ways that we can reduce the cost or otherwise streamline the compensation information required by the rules?
Executive compensation hot topics: exploring the challenging issues
1. The Commission recently adopted rules implementing the requirements of Dodd Frank related to pay-versus-performance and clawbacks. Now that companies have implemented the new rules, are there any lessons we can learn from their implementation? Can these rules be improved? If so, how? For example, which requirements of these rules are the most difficult to comply with and how could we reduce those burdens while continuing to provide investors with material information and satisfy these statutory mandates?
2. Since adoption of the pay-versus performance rules, I have continued to hear concerns regarding the rule’s definition of “compensation actually paid” (CAP). What has been companies’ experience in calculating CAP and what has been investors’ experience in using the information to make investment and voting decisions?
3. What has been companies’ experience in applying the two-part analysis articulated by the Commission in 2006 with respect to evaluating whether perquisites for executive officers must be disclosed? How do disclosure requirements resulting from the test, and whether a cost constitutes a perquisite, affect companies’ decisions on whether or not to provide a perquisite? For example, how has the application of the analysis affected evaluations relating to the costs of security for executive officers? Are there types of perquisites that have been particularly difficult to analyze? How do investors use information regarding perquisites in making investment and voting decisions?
Members of the public who wish to provide their views on executive compensation disclosure requirements may submit comments electronically or on paper. Please submit comments using one method only. Information that is submitted will become part of the public record of the roundtable and posted on the SEC’s website. All comments received will be posted without change. Persons submitting comments are cautioned that we do not redact or edit personal identifying information from comment submissions. You should submit only information that you wish to make publicly available. All submissions should refer to File Number 4-855, and the file number should be included on the subject line if email is used.

Electronic Comments:

Use the SEC’s Internet submission form or send an email to rule-comments@sec.gov with “4-855” included in the subject line.

Paper Comments:

Send paper comments to Vanessa Countryman, Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549-1090.

MIL OSI USA News –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Europe: Philip R. Lane: The communication of monetary policy decisions: incorporating risks and uncertainty

Source: European Central Bank

Remarks by Philip R. Lane, Member of the Executive Board of the ECB, at the Second Thomas Laubach Research Conference

Washington, D.C., 16 May 2025

In my remarks today I will focus on how the ECB communicates its monetary policy decisions, with a particular emphasis on the integration of risks and uncertainty into the monetary policy decision-making process.^[1]^[2]

Monetary policy meetings take place over two days. On Wednesday afternoon, there are presentations by ECB Executive Board members: Isabel Schnabel reports on the latest financial market developments and I review the global environment and the latest economic, monetary and financial developments in the euro area. This is followed by a general discussion of these topics by Governing Council members. On Thursday morning, I present a proposal for the monetary policy decision, which is then discussed by the Governing Council. After the monetary policy decision is made (typically by consensus), the monetary policy statement is finalised by the Governing Council, concluding the Thursday morning session.

In the afternoon, a press release announcing the decision is published at 2:15 p.m. While this press release was quite succinct in the past, a summary explanation for the decision is now included, and — for the quarterly meetings — the main elements of the staff macroeconomic projections are reported.

At the opening of the press conference at 2:45 p.m., President Lagarde reads out the monetary policy statement. The opening section matches the press release, while further sections go into more detail on economic activity, inflation, the risk assessment and monetary and financial developments. This is followed by a question-and-answer session. After the press conference, the quarterly forecast meetings also see the publication of a staff article that explains the new set of macroeconomic projections. About two weeks later, the Economic Bulletin is published, containing summaries of the preparatory analysis that was made available to the Governing Council prior to the meeting. An account of the meeting is published about a month after the meeting.

The aim of the monetary policy statement is not only to explain the immediate decision but also to update the underlying narrative in terms of the overall orientation of the monetary stance, the main forces shaping the dynamics of the economy and the inflation process, the evolving risk assessment and monetary and financial developments. The discipline of limiting the length of the monetary policy statement (it was about 1,500 words in April) puts a premium on identifying the main issues that the Governing Council wishes to emphasise. At the same time, this length offers room for a sufficiently broad survey of these themes to underpin the monetary policy decision. Naturally, at the quarterly meetings, there is also considerable external interest in the details of the new staff macroeconomic projections: it makes sense to publish the staff article after the press conference. In that way, the initial focus in the monetary policy statement and the press conference is on the Governing Council’s overall assessment of the situation, whereas the technical details of the staff work follow thereafter.

The publication of the meeting account summarises the presentations by Isabel and myself and the ensuing discussions among the members of the Governing Council. The account includes a section entitled “Monetary policy considerations and policy options” that provides the main features of the monetary policy proposal that I presented at the meeting. This typically includes considerations of how risk factors were taken into account in the proposal.^[3] Especially since the Governing Council’s monetary policy decisions are typically consensual, the summary of the discussion provides valuable insights into the range of views expressed at the meeting.

Taken together, the press release, the MPS, the press conference, the staff macroeconomic projections article, the Economic Bulletin and the meeting accounts provide a phased sequence of public information releases that helps external audiences to understand how we make our monetary policy decisions. In addition, in pursuing a multi-layered approach to public communication, a visual monetary policy statement is also released, which explains the monetary policy decision in short and easy-to-understand language, accompanied by a set of infographics to illustrate the main messages.^[4]

These decision materials are complemented by speeches and interviews by Executive Board and Governing Council members. The publication of an array of analytical contributions by staff (through the Economic Bulletin, the ECB Blog, working papers and occasional papers) also helps improve understanding of monetary policy formation, including in relation to the staff projections, which form a key analytical input into monetary policy meetings.

In view of this rich information set, would it be a game changer if the Governing Council additionally published its conditional assessment of the most likely future rate path, as practised by some other central banks? Putting aside the logistical challenge of forming a consensus on the conditional future rate path among the twenty-six members of the Governing Council, it is my view that such an exercise would create unwarranted expectations about the future rate path. Moreover, it would distort the monetary policy decision-making process in view of the potential reputational costs associated with deviations of actual decisions from the previously-flagged path.^[5] Procedurally, publishing a conditional rate path would also be awkward in the context of a staff-led projections exercise that is based on the market rate path.

More fundamentally, publishing a conditional baseline for the future rate path would not well capture the sensitivity of future rate decisions to the evolving macroeconomic environment and shifts in the risk assessment. As part of the meeting preparations, the staff analyse a family of plausible future rate paths and it would convey excessive confidence if any one candidate rate path were to be singled out. In particular, staff simulation exercises show the sensitivity of rate paths to both the point-in-time macroeconomic projections and various underlying assumptions that underpin model-based optimal rate paths as well as “robust” rate paths that seek to minimise the risk of a policy error across a range of plausible scenarios. Importantly, all such rate path analyses are sensitive to the assumptions made about the preferences of policymakers.^[6] Even if the rate path simulation exercises are highly valuable inputs into the internal development of the monetary policy proposal, it is preferable to take a meeting-by-meeting approach and focus the public communication on the immediate decision.^[7]

At the same time, to improve external understanding of how we make decisions, it is helpful set out the criteria guiding the reaction function to the main risk factors prevailing at any point in time.^[8] This provides “reaction function” guidance in terms of the key inputs driving monetary policy decisions.^[9] For instance, during the disinflation process over the last two years, the Governing Council has highlighted that measures of underlying inflation and the incoming evidence on the strength of monetary policy transmission were especially important in guiding decisions, in addition to the “standard” role of the inflation outlook (comprising both the baseline and the risks around it). The prominence of these specific risk proxies reflected the high uncertainty about the intrinsic persistence of the inflation surge (such that measures of underlying inflation provided important insights into the persistent component of inflation) and, similarly, the high uncertainty about the impact of the exceptionally fast pace of the cumulative rate hiking over 2022-2023 (such that monitoring the evidence on the strength of monetary transmission was crucial). Since both inflation persistence and the strength of monetary transmission are first order influences on the calibration of the rate path, the prominence given to these factors in our public communication have helped market participants to understand that the incoming information along these dimensions is central to our data-dependent monetary policy decisions. Looking to the future, the exact articulation of reaction function guidance should be periodically updated in line with the evolving risk environment: there is unlikely to be a fixed, timeless list of risk proxies.

The risk assessment section of the monetary policy statement provides additional signals regarding the factors that might shape future rate decisions. The meeting-by-meeting list of upside and downside risks to growth and inflation help to shape market pricing of future rate decisions: as the evolution of these risks become more or less prominent between meetings, market participants can revise their views. Naturally, this risk assessment is informed by considerable staff analysis that identifies and calibrates material threats to the growth and inflation projections.

Finally, alternative scenarios have been included in the staff macroeconomic projections exercise in the context of specific risk constellations. These include the onset of the pandemic in early 2020, the unjustified invasion of Ukraine by Russia in early 2022 and the elevation of geopolitical tensions in the Middle East in autumn 2023. In the near term, the ongoing uncertainty about US tariff policies means that alternative scenarios will also be included in the June macroeconomic projections exercise. These staff exercises are valuable in conveying the scale of revisions to the projected inflation and output paths that would be triggered under the realisation of the alternative scenarios.^[10]

In providing the risk assessment in the monetary policy statement and by staff publishing alternative macroeconomic projection scenarios in the context of specific risk constellations, there is extensive communication on how different risk factors might shape future decisions. Some might wish that the Governing Council lays out specific policy responses to these various risk profiles in order to “fill out” the distribution of future rate paths. However, as outlined above, the rich information set that is attached to each monetary policy decision together with reaction function guidance provides a sufficient foundation for market participants to assess how the realisation of various risks could affect the future rate path.

An additional potential application of scenario analysis is to construct a limited set of specific “curated” alternative scenarios by combining selected alternative calibrations of the primary economic and financial judgements underpinning the baseline projections. Publishing such alternative scenarios can be helpful in conveying the difficult choices embedded in making forecasts and in capturing possible differences in policy preferences across policymakers. From a communications perspective, this can be particularly helpful in systems where policymakers have a collective responsibility to endorse the published forecast but retain individual responsibility in casting votes.

Since the ECB relies on a staff-led projections exercise and has a strong preference for consensual decisions, the set of considerations in publishing such curated scenario analyses is different. In making sure monetary policy decisions are robust to non-baseline realisations, it is also not clear whether such a curated approach would be superior to a “many scenario” internal staff analysis (possibly augmented by machine learning algorithms) that explores robustness across the many combinations of shocks and modelling choices that are considered at each meeting. In addition, if the aim is to capture the main risk concerns of policymakers, selecting a limited set of curated alternative scenarios (out of very many possible scenarios) for each meeting would be logistically taxing for a twenty-six member Governing Council. A basic concern is that the selected curated scenarios might turn out to have shined the spotlight on risk factors that proved to be immaterial and might give the impression that the risk analysis was too narrow in scope.

In any event, the specific methods used to convey how risks and uncertainty are incorporated into the monetary policy decision-making process are less important than the underlying commitment to articulate that policy decisions not only take into account the baseline but also the surrounding risk environment. Moreover, there is an active research agenda in academia and policy organisations on how best to incorporate uncertainty into monetary policy decisions and monetary policy communications: as this research bears fruit over time, central banks should adapt their practices.^[11]

In these remarks, I have focused on how we currently communicate our monetary policy decisions and the associated decision-making framework. How best to integrate risk and uncertainty into our monetary policy decisions and our communication is a key topic for our ongoing assessment of our monetary policy strategy.^[12] We will publish our updated strategy in the second half of the year.

MIL OSI Europe News –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Moody, Baldwin Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Give Tax Relief to Victims of Fraud, Scams, Theft, and Disasters

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Ashley Moody (R-Fla.), and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) this week introduced the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, bipartisan legislation to give relief to those who have been victims of fraud, scams, thefts, accidents, and other personal casualty losses. The Senators’ bill would reinstate the tax deduction for personal casualty and theft losses and ensure victims of scams, robberies, storms, and fires do not have to pay taxes on stolen assets and further wipe out their hard-earned savings and financial security.
“It’s outrageous that folks scammed out of their life’s savings are hit with large tax bills. I’m proud to introduce this bill to reinstate this important tax deduction to provide crucial financial relief to those victimized by scams and theft,” said Senator Welch. “Vermont experienced catastrophic floods in July of 2023 and 2024. We know firsthand that victims of floods, storms, and fires go through so much—the last thing they should worry about is being penalized for a natural disaster.”
“As hurricane season is around the corner, I will continue supporting policies that protect Floridians from scammers and fraudsters,” said Senator Moody. “My Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act will provide commonsense tax relief for victims, often seniors, who have been financially devastated by scams, crimes or destruction from disasters. This legislation will help folks get back on their feet when they experience hardship. When I was Attorney General of Florida, I made sure to fight for Floridians who fell victim to scams, and I will continue bringing this fight to D.C. so that folks have the protections they need.”
“When Wisconsinites fall victim to a fraud or scam, the last thing they should have to worry about is being slapped with an unexpected tax bill once tax season rolls around,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to work with my Republican and Democratic colleagues to introduce this commonsense bill to help make sure if someone is down and out, they have one less thing to worry about than being hit with a tax bill.”
“The Elder Justice Coalition commends Senators Baldwin, Moody and Welch for introducing the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act,” said Bob Blancato, National Coordinator of the Elder Justice Coalition. “It is unconscionable that older scam victims who lose hundreds of thousands of dollars face the compounded misery of having to pay taxes on the money lost. Scams are rampant in this nation and serve to exploit the most vulnerable older adults. We hope Senator Baldwin’s bill can be made part of a future tax package. Tax relief for scam victims is tax fairness.”
“The Financial Services Institute (FSI) is proud to support the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams and Disasters Act,” said Dale Brown, President & CEO of Financial Services Institute. “Owing taxes on stolen retirement funds makes an already painful situation worse. Main Street Americans cannot afford to lose their life savings, which they rely upon for a financially secure retirement. This bill will provide some relief to victims and mitigate damages as they work with their trusted financial advisor to recover losses and regain their financial footing.”
“With widespread financial fraud and scams impacting many Americans’ retirement security and financial livelihoods, CFP Board enthusiastically supports this critical piece of legislation that would lessen the impact of financial loss. We look forward to seeing this bill get to the finish line,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board.
Until 2018, the federal government allowed victims of crimes and unexpected, uninsurable disasters to deduct these losses from their taxes with a provision called the Casualty and Theft Loss Deduction. Today, scam victims and homeowners are on the hook for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in federal taxes unless their misfortunes meet a narrow set of criteria.
The growing sophistication of cybercriminal networks has led to a rapid proliferation in fraud for the past five years. In 2024 alone, American taxpayers reported $16.6 billion in cyber fraud to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The average victim of elder fraud lost $83,000. Natural disasters are also on the rise during a period of increasing insurance premiums and unexpected claim denials.
Without a reinstatement of the casualty and theft loss deduction, Americans who are victims of theft and non-federally declared disasters will continue to face hefty federal tax bills that the IRS is obligated to enforce.
The Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act:
Reinstates the tax deduction for personal casualty loss and provides retroactive coverage to taxpayers who suffered losses in the years that followed.
Ensures that victims who suffered losses since 2017 are able to file an amended tax return accounting for their personal casualty loss.
Companion legislation will be introduced in the U.S. House by Representatives Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08) and Greg Steube (R-FL-17).
The legislation is endorsed by the AARP, The Elder Justice Coalition, the National Association of Consumer Advocates, AICPA-CIMA, National Association of Enrolled Agents, National Association of Realtors, American Land Title Association, CFP Board, Investment Advisers Association, Financial Services Institute, Aspen Institute Financial Security Program, Association of Mature American Citizens, National Association of Government Defined Contribution Administrators, Operation Shamrock, and SPARK Institute.
As a member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Senator Welch voted against the 2017Republican tax bill, which repealed a tax deduction previously available to victims of scams, thefts, accidents, and other property casualty losses. In turn, reporting has revealed a pattern of Americans ending up with a tax bill after losing money through scams, thefts, and other similar events.
Learn more about the Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act.
Read and download the full text of the bill.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 17, 2025
President Droupadi Murmu presents 58th Jnanpith award to Jagadguru Rambhadracharya

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

President Droupadi Murmu on Friday presented the 58th Jnanpith Award to renowned Sanskrit scholar Jagadguru Rambhadracharya at a ceremony held at Vigyan Bhavan in the national capital.

In her address, the President congratulated Jagadguru Rambhadracharya for his outstanding contribution to Indian literature. She also extended her wishes to noted poet and lyricist Gulzar, who could not attend the function due to health reasons, and hoped for his speedy recovery and continued contributions to literature, art, and society.

The President underlined the unifying and transformative power of literature. Referring to the role of writers and poets in the 19th-century social awakening and the 20th-century freedom movement, she said their work has played a pivotal role in inspiring the nation. Citing examples such as Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay’s Vande Mataram and the literary legacy of Valmiki, Vyas, Kalidas, and Rabindranath Tagore, she said their voices continue to reflect the spirit of Indianness.

Praising the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, the President commended its efforts in recognising literary excellence in Indian languages since 1965. She said the institution has preserved the prestige of the award by honouring deserving and outstanding litterateurs over the decades.

Highlighting the contributions of past women recipients of the Jnanpith Award, including Ashapurna Devi, Amrita Pritam, Mahadevi Verma, Qurratul-Ain-Haider, Mahasweta Devi, Indira Goswami, Krishna Sobti, and Pratibha Ray, the President said they have offered unique insights into Indian traditions and social realities. She encouraged women and young girls to actively engage in literary pursuits, drawing inspiration from these iconic writers.

Speaking about Jagadguru Rambhadracharya Ji, the President said he has set an exemplary standard of excellence through his scholarly and social contributions. Despite being visually impaired, he has enriched Indian literature and society through his work and spiritual vision. She expressed confidence that his life and achievements will continue to inspire generations in the fields of literature, social reform, and nation-building.

The Jnanpith Award, instituted by the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, is one of the highest literary honours in the country, awarded annually to authors for their outstanding contribution to literature in Indian languages.

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Students of SPbGASU responded to the challenges of the construction industry

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Marina Malyutina opens the “Challenge Fair”

Students of SPbGASU responded to the challenges of the construction industry in an unusual event. On May 13, the Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career held the “Challenge Fair” at our university for the first time.

Experts from five partner companies set real-life tasks for the students. Over the course of an hour, five teams, under the guidance of their mentors, generated solutions and then presented them to the experts and spectators. In addition, the Challenge Fair featured a Contact Wall, where any student, teacher or company representative could leave information about themselves: contact details, description of an idea or project (if any), who or what they were looking for.

SPbGASU – a growth point for technological entrepreneurship

Vice-Rector for Youth Policy Marina Malyutina spoke about how SPbGASU students are taught innovative entrepreneurial thinking. According to Marina Viktorovna, technological entrepreneurship is a certain challenge for students who want more than just to master the curriculum, they want to develop in the professional sphere.

Experience has shown that our students are capable of technological entrepreneurship: SPbGASU took third place in the TechnoPiter accelerator, and for the second year the university has been developing the Startup as a Diploma project, within the framework of which final qualification theses are defended.

Marina Viktorovna emphasized: “The Challenge Fair” is a “bridge” to the fact that next year some of the participants want to defend their final qualification work in the startup format. This is necessary for the university, which is focused on practice, and this is necessary for the industry. Graduates who think boldly and innovatively are extremely in demand.

Challenges from partner companies

Chief designer of the company “Project Institute No. 2” Andrey Poklad suggested that students think about the idea of a foundation for heavy production on soft soil. The expert told about a real construction project – a one-story industrial building, which is being designed in the Krasnodar region, for which an alternative design solution for the foundation should be developed.

How to create a roofing structure that will tell you when cracks, leaks or moisture appear in it? This question was asked by Rockwool employees: Flat Roofing Development Specialist Anna Lyubimtseva and Leading Design Engineer Andrey Petrov. The speakers proposed developing a concept of “smart” thermal insulation for roofs.

General Director of the Gensey company Artur Roshchupkin invited students to develop a project for a multifunctional public transport stop for the historical center of St. Petersburg, which should be in harmony with the architecture of the city’s historical buildings. The speaker drew attention to the current problem of the lack of public toilets in the center, especially at night. Tourists are left without amenities. In addition, the existing glass stops do not fit well into the architecture.

Ilya Voilokov, a specialist in technical support at INSOLAR and associate professor of the construction organization department, called for assessing the possibility of using heat pumps as the main or backup heating source in a residential complex. Although heat pumps are already used in private homes, they are rarely used in low-rise buildings, especially complex ones.

Dmitry Gladkovsky, Director of the Project Management Unit at GloraX, set a challenge for students: to create an automated documentation verification system. Developers face the problem of checking large volumes of working documentation for compliance with design standards. Manual verification requires a staff of experts, time-consuming work, and is subject to the human factor, which leads to errors and losses. An automated verification system based on a neural network could solve this problem, but its creation is difficult due to the lack of a training documentation base. Existing projects are not yet effective enough for widespread use.

Innovative solutions from students

The Blue Team’s response to the challenge from Design Institute No. 2 was a dynamic borehole filled with crushed stone or concrete mixture.

The Purple Team responded to Rockwool’s challenge by proposing to use sensors that consist of a capsule with a piston filled with a silica gel-type material that expands when in contact with water.

The “red” team responded to the challenge of the “Gensei” company and presented the idea of a multifunctional public transport stop, which consists of a restroom and a waiting area. It includes a baby changing room, containers for separate waste collection, vending machines, an SOS panic button and much more.

The Green Team responded to the challenge from INSOLAR and presented a plan for a residential complex of twenty houses, each with a thermal circuit for the recovery of human heat.

The “orange” team responded to the task from the GloraX company and offered to check the already created digital models of buildings that the developer has.

New challenges lie ahead

When asked if they liked this format of the event, the students answered with a unanimous “yes!” Many expressed a desire to participate again.

Marina Malyutina summed up the results, expressing confidence that in collaboration with partners the university will develop a practice-oriented approach and move forward.

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 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: UPDATE: Man jailed for life after fatal stabbing of mother at Carnival

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

UPDATE: On Friday, 16 May at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou was given a life sentence. He must serve a minimum of 29 years, less the 261 days he has spent on remand, before he will be eligible for release.

The press release issued following his conviction is below.

A man who was caught on camera stabbing a mother in front of her three-year old daughter at last year’s Notting Hill Carnival has been found guilty of murder.

Cher Maximen, who was 32, was with friends and her daughter just off the Carnival parade route on Sunday, 25 August 2024 when she was caught up in a fight involving multiple men. She was stabbed and died in hospital six days later.

On Wednesday, 9 April at the Old Bailey, Shakeil Thibou, 20 (29.05.04), of Masbro’ Road, Hammersmith and Fulham, was convicted of Cher’s murder, attempted GBH with intent and possession of an offensive weapon.

Detective Chief Inspector Alex Gammampila, from the Met’s Specialist Crime Command, said: “My heart goes out to Cher’s family and friends. She was a loving mother who went to Notting Hill Carnival to enjoy what should have been a carefree day in the company of friends and her young daughter. Her life was ended in the most senseless way.

“In stark contrast, Shakeil Thibou went to Carnival not to be part of the celebration, but to engage in violence. Why else would he have arrived armed with a large knife and seeking confrontation?

“His dangerous actions took Cher’s life and narrowly avoided killing a second man too.

“The investigation team has worked diligently and tirelessly to build a case against him. Their work has made sure Cher’s family and friends have been able to get justice.

“They had to go through the pain of witnessing her final moments throughout the trial. I commend their bravery and the dignified way they have handled this tragedy. I hope that today’s result brings some small amount of closure for them.”

Vyleen Maximen, Cher’s grandmother, said: “Cher, my first born grandchild, my friend. I held you in my arms when you were born. 32 years of loving, of laughing, playing, crying and holidaying with you. I will no longer have that pleasure ever again. Not seeing you get married or have more children.

“Life will never be the same. Ever. We just have to live life, the best that we can and I will raise your daughter Cher, until my last breath. I will never hear your key opening my front door and shouting ‘Hello Nanny’.”

TJ Jacobs, relative of Cher and Godmother to Cher’s daughter, said: “We would like to express our deepest gratitude to the jury for helping ensure justice is served for our beloved Cher Maximen – affectionately known to us as Princess Cher, Ri Ri, Churbs, Churburt, Cher Bear and Bear.

“What happened to us has completely turned our lives upside down. Losing Cher has filled our hearts with immeasurable sadness.

“Cher was pure magic – radiant, loving, passionate, and kind. She brought creativity, style and flawless flair to everything she did. She was a dedicated mother, a devoted granddaughter, niece, sister, and friend. This senseless act of violence has cut short a life that had so much more to offer the world and was only just beginning to blossom. Like many young adults, life hadn’t always been easy for Cher, but she was just discovering who she was and who she could become.

“Even when life felt unfair, Cher remained kind, caring, and a fierce protector of those she loved – qualities that were evident even in her final moments. Her smile lit up every corner of every room, and her laugh echoed through hallways. Her journey was an example of resilience against the odds, showing that no matter the challenges, young people can emerge with strength, determination, and the will to strive for better.

“We will never recover from this loss, but we are determined to ensure that Cher’s daughter – now being raised by her beloved great-grandmother (Cher’s much-loved grandmother), along with her village of aunties, uncles, and Godparents – receives the love, support, and care she needs as we navigate life without her. Cher’s four-year-old daughter was her everything – her reason, her drive, and now her legacy. Cher’s unwavering devotion to her role as a mother was evident to all who knew her.

“Our family is devastated, but we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the emergency responders, medical professionals, and law enforcement officers involved in this case.

“Knife crime continues to devastate communities across the UK. The government must urgently address the root causes – the systemic failures in education, children’s services, youth services, mental health services impacting the many disengaged and disenfranchised young people. Offering them the tools to overcome challenges rather than fall victim to them. This is not just about reducing crime; it’s about saving lives, restoring hope, and building safer, stronger communities.”

The court heard that Cher had spent the afternoon with her daughter and her friends among a crowd in Golborne Road which was just off the parade route.

Just before 18:00hrs, a fight broke out in the crowd. CCTV and police officers’ body worn video footage shown during the trial shows Shakeil attempting to stab a man in the abdomen. Cher was caught up in the melee and knocked to the floor, grabbing onto Shakeil’s coat as she tried to get back to her feet.

In an effort to defend herself and her daughter, Cher kicked out and was stabbed in the groin as she did so, falling to the ground.

Officers rushed to her aid and provided emergency medical treatment until the arrival of paramedics. She was transported to hospital in a critical condition but despite the efforts of medical teams she died on Saturday, 31 August.

Video footage showed that moments before Cher was stabbed, Shakeil’s brothers – Sheldon Thibou and Shaeim Thibou, along with an unidentified male, fought with one man. Sheldon can be seen wielding an illegal stun gun. An officer who intervened to try to break up the fight was assaulted by both brothers.

The three brothers and an associate fled the scene, but CCTV footage recovered during the investigation showed that Shakeil, when leaving carnival was captured on CCTV changing his outer clothing with an associate and calmly making his way out of the area.

An investigation started immediately after the incident, with officers running images captured on bodyworn video cameras through facial recognition software, revealing a match for Sheldon and Shaeim Thibou. Further research identified Shakeil.

A significant manhunt was launched which saw officers search a number of addresses across west London.

Shakeil was found lying on the floor under a sleeping bag when officers found him in the early hours of Tuesday, 27 August. During a search of the address they found a distinctive bag he’d been seen wearing on footage captured at Carnival.

His jacket had been discarded at the scene after it came off in the struggle. It was sent for forensic testing and DNA found on it was a 1 in a billion match for Shakeil – further proof that he had committed the stabbing.

Detectives would also spend weeks trawling through hundreds of additional hours of CCTV and body worn video footage, as well as messages on mobile phones recovered at the time of the brothers’ arrest.

This helped to further establish a watertight case that Shakeil and his brothers were at Carnival at the time of Cher’s murder.

Sheldon Thibou, 25 (23.01.00), of Star Road, Hammersmith and Fulham and Shaeim Thibou, 22 (20.02.03), of Charleville Road, Hammersmith and Fulham stood trial alongside their brother.

Sheldon was found guilty of violent disorder. He had also previously pleaded guilty to the possession of an illegal stun gun.

Sheldon and Shaeim were both found guilty of assaulting an emergency worker. 

Shakeil and Shaeim will be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Friday, 16 May.

Sheldon will be sentenced in due course at a court that is yet to be confirmed.

TJ Jacobs and Vyleen Maximen added:

“We would also like to say a special thank you to:

“Police officers Alex Gammampila, Charlotte Carter, Andy Miller, Kevin Newton, Dan Hobbs and Dave Davies.

“Emma Currie and Peter Hutton from the Crown Prosecution Service.

“Prosecuting Counsel Edward Brown KC and Phillip McGhee.

“Sharon Macaulay, Ravandeep Khela and Wendy Rixon from Taylor Rose Solicitors.

“Barrister Oliver Wooding from St John’s Chambers.

“Gulizar Candemir from the Children’s Team at Freeman Solicitors.

“Barrister Alison Brooks from Staple Inn Chambers.

“These individuals have supported us tirelessly throughout this unimaginable experience. Their efforts and dedication have been a source of comfort during this dark and painful time.”

MIL Security OSI –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina

Source: US State of North Carolina

Headline: ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina

ICYMI: Governor Stein Announces More Than 700 New Jobs Coming to North Carolina
lsaito
Fri, 05/16/2025 – 09:53

Raleigh, NC

This week Governor Josh Stein and the North Carolina Department of Commerce announced two new economic development projects, bringing more than 700 jobs to North Carolina. Genentech and Prolec GE build on North Carolina’s strong reputation in the life sciences and advanced manufacturing industries. Governor Stein and Secretary Lee Lilley also attended the Select USA Investment Summit in Maryland to highlight North Carolina’s attractive business environment and encourage companies to expand their operations in the state.

“I am excited to see that more than 700 new jobs are coming to North Carolina,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Companies recognize that our strong economy and talented workforce are an asset to their operations, and that is why they are eager to invest here.”

“Genentech and Prolec GE’s investments in North Carolina demonstrate our state’s high-powered business climate,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “Our state’s investments in our workforce and infrastructure are paying off, and companies see the value in calling North Carolina home.”

Governor Stein announced this week that Genentech, one of the world’s premier biotechnology companies, will invest $700 million to build a new manufacturing plant in Holly Springs, creating 420 jobs. The average salary for new positions will be $119,833 as compared to the average wage in Wake County of $76,643, although wages vary depending on the position. This project is expected to grow North Carolina’s economy by more than $3 billion. For every dollar the state invests it is projected to receive $3.30 in state revenue.

The Governor also announced that Prolec-GE Waukesha, Inc., one of the nation’s largest manufacturers of power transformers, will add 330 new jobs as it invests $140 million to build a second manufacturing facility in Goldsboro. This project will build a new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant at the company’s existing site to support a growing demand for power grid capacity across the country. Although wages vary by position, the average salary for new positions will be $71,912. This project is expected to grow North Carolina’s economy by more than $1.05 billion. For every dollar the state invests it is projected to receive $2.06 in state revenue.

Governor Stein is committed to creating a North Carolina that is safer and stronger with opportunity for everyone. North Carolina was recently ranked in the top 10 states for economy and growth by U.S. News and World Report, with the 7th best economy and the 5th best growth in the nation. The Governor’s budget proposal seeks to continue that progress by investing $256 million in workforce development and including free community college for students pursuing credentials in high-demand fields. In 2025, the State of North Carolina has announced more than 2,600 new jobs facilitated by grants and incentives.

May 16, 2025

MIL OSI USA News –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: Interfield Announces Delisting From Cboe Canada Exchange, Provides Update on Status of Failure-to-File Cease Trade Order and Announces Extension of MOU With Abhi Joint Venture

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Interfield Global Software Inc.(the “Company”) announces that, further to its news release dated February 18, 2025, that the common shares of the Company (“Common Shares”) have been delisted from the Cboe Canada Exchange (the “Cboe”) as of the close of trading on May 12, 2025. The Company will remain a reporting issuer in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, and continues to work toward listing the Common Shares on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the “CSE”).

Failure to File Cease Trade Order Update

The Company also announces that due to delays in filing its annual audited financial statements, chief executive officer and chief financial officer certifications of the annual filings, accompanying management discussion and analysis and annual information form for the year ended December 31, 2024 (collectively, the “Annual Filings”), the Company anticipates that it will be delayed in filing its consolidated interim financial reports for the three months ended March 31, 2025 (the “Interim Filings”). On April 4, 2025, as a result of the delay in the Company completing the Annual Filings, the British Columbia Securities Commission as the principal regulator of the Company issued a failure-to-file cease trade order to the Company under ‎National Policy 11-207 Failure-To-File Cease Trade Orders And Revocations In Multiple Jurisdictions.

The delay is a result of the Company’s auditors requiring additional time to complete their audit, which is required to be completed before the Interim Filings can be completed. The Company’s management continues to work diligently with its auditors, to complete the Annual Filings and expects to complete the Annual Filings on or before June 15, 2025. ‎The Company expects that it will complete the Interim Filings contemporaneously with the Annual Filings.

The Company confirms that, other than as disclosed in prior press releases and material change reports, there have been no material business developments since the filing on November 12, 2024 of the Company’s consolidated ‎interim financial reports for the period ended September 30, 2024‎. There are no insolvency proceedings involving the Company.

Abhi Joint Venture Update

Further to its news releases dated November 18, 2024, January 21, 2025 and February 18, 2025, the Company announces that it has made further progress towards the completion of its joint venture with Abhi Fintech Ltd. (“Abhi”), pending which Abhi and Interfield Solutions have extended the term of their previously announced MOU until October 31, 2025.

About Abhi

Abhi is a prominent fintech company, earning recognition as one of the Future 100 companies in the UAE. It was also the first to receive the Technology Pioneer 2023 Award by the World Economic Forum, making fintech history in the MENAP region. Abhi offers a comprehensive suite of products and services, including EWA, payroll solutions, and SME financing.

About Interfield Global Software Inc.

The Company is an unlisted reporting issuer and operates out of Dubai, U.A.E through its wholly owned subsidiary, Interfield Software Solutions LLC (“Interfield Solutions”).

Interfield Solutions is a software company that services numerous industrial segments worldwide including oil and gas, mining and renewables. Interfield Solutions has two operating divisions, E-commerce and Software as a Service. Equipment Hound, the company’s flagship product of its E-commerce division, is an industrial equipment marketplace that connects buyers and suppliers around the globe. Equipment Hound manages a catalogue of equipment from various suppliers and provides procurement solutions for buyers. It includes features such as requests for quotes, logistics support and third-party verification. ToolSuite, the company’s flagship product of its Software as a Service division, is a cloud based data collection and management platform that digitizes industrial processes and provides real-time auditable data for clients.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

“Harold Hemmerich”

Harold Hemmerich, Chief Financial Officer & Director

Phone: +971 50 558 8349

Forward-Looking Statements Disclaimer and Reader Advisory

This news release contains “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable Canadian ‎securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-‎looking information. In particular, this news release contains forward-looking information regarding: the ‎filing of the Annual Filings and Interim Filings, including the timing for the filing of the Annual Filings and Interim Filings and the proposed listing of the Common Shares on the CSE. ‎There can be no assurance that such forward-looking information will prove to be ‎accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such ‎forward-looking information. This forward-looking information reflects the Company’s current beliefs and is based on ‎information currently available to the Company and on assumptions the Company believes are reasonable. These ‎assumptions include, but are not limited to the ability of the Company to complete the Annual Filings in the noted ‎timeframe. Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors ‎that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially ‎different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such risks and other ‎factors may include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social ‎uncertainties; general capital market conditions and market prices for securities; delay or failure to receive ‎board or regulatory approvals; the actual results of future operations; competition; changes in legislation ‎‎affecting the Company; the timing and availability of external financing on acceptable terms; long-term capital ‎requirements and future developments in the Company’s markets and the markets in which it expects to ‎compete;‎ or loss of key individuals. A description of additional risk factors ‎that may cause actual results to differ materially from forward-looking information can be found in the Company’s ‎disclosure documents on the SEDAR+ website at www.sedarplus.com. Although the Company has attempted to identify ‎important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-‎looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or ‎intended. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is not exhaustive. Readers are further ‎cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information as there can be no assurance that ‎the plans, intentions or expectations upon which they are placed will occur. Forward-looking information ‎contained in this news release is expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. The forward-looking ‎information contained in this news release represents the expectations of the Company as of the date of this news ‎release and, accordingly, is subject to change after such date. However, the Company expressly disclaims any ‎intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking information, whether as a result of new ‎information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by applicable securities law.‎

No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved the contents of this news release. The Cboe Canada Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: Bitcoin Breaks $100K — BexBack Launches 100% Deposit Bonus to Help Traders Seize the Volatility with 100x Leverage, No KYC Required
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SINGAPORE, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As Bitcoin prices soar past the historic $100,000 mark and global tariff tensions ease, market sentiment has turned decisively bullish. Analysts now predict a period of heightened volatility, where massive price swings are expected. For traders seeking to amplify their returns during this phase, high-leverage derivatives have become the preferred tool — and BexBack is leading the way.

What Is 100x Leverage and Why It Matters Now?

In simple terms, 100x leverage means a trader can control $100,000 worth of crypto with just $1,000 in capital. During periods of volatility, even a 1% price move can result in 100% profit or loss — providing a powerful tool for seasoned traders to maximize upside with minimal capital.

Example: If BTC moves from $100,000 to $101,000 (a 1% increase)
- With $1,000 and 100x leverage, you control 1 BTC → Profit = $1,000
- With $1,000 spot investment, you hold 0.01 BTC → Profit = $10
However, with higher potential rewards come higher risks, so proper risk management is essential.

Double Your Capital with BexBack’s 100% Deposit Bonus

To help traders unlock the full potential of leveraged trading, BexBack is offering a 100% deposit bonus:
- Deposit 0.001 BTC or 100 USDT or more
- Submit a bonus request
- Instantly receive the same amount in bonus funds, usable as trading margin
- Bonus funds cannot be withdrawn, but profits generated from them can be fully withdrawn
This gives traders a bigger buffer against liquidation and the ability to open larger positions with the same capital.

Why Trade Futures on BexBack?

BexBack has rapidly gained popularity among crypto traders due to its innovative features and user-friendly approach:
- 100x leverage on 50+ crypto contracts including BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, ADA, and more
- Zero spread & no slippage — execute trades at the price you see
- No KYC required — register instantly with just an email
- $50 Welcome Bonus for new users who deposit（Deposit greater than 0.001 BTC） and complete their first trade
- Demo account with 10 BTC or 1M USDT virtual funds
- Global access, 24/7 multilingual support, and mobile/web compatibility
Who Is BexBack?

BexBack is a next-generation cryptocurrency derivatives exchange headquartered in Singapore, with offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the U.S., and the U.K. It currently serves over 500,000 users worldwide. With its focus on speed, security, simplicity, and trader empowerment, BexBack is becoming the platform of choice for traders looking to profit in both bull and bear markets.

Don’t Miss the Moment — Trade the Bull Run with Power

If you’ve been waiting to enter the market or scale your trading, now is the time. With Bitcoin surpassing $100K and volatility on the rise, BexBack gives you the tools to trade fast, trade smart, and trade big — all with unmatched flexibility.

Register today, claim your 100% deposit bonus and $50 welcome bonus, and experience the adrenaline of high-leverage crypto futures trading.

Website: www.bexback.com

Contact: business@bexback.com

Contact:
Amanda
business@bexback.com

Disclaimer: This content is provided by BexBack. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.

Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

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

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/73f0f943-b3d1-4704-81c9-7d34d1b89461

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4d6b1a9c-f30b-4199-9c98-7e506c337f44

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4dd67d09-2355-464b-88ba-b2268f670d0b

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/df470d7f-840e-4646-930d-6149f0297a7e

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0f50e696-bf42-41e1-b97e-0ae60370dfee

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/fe424fb9-64b3-4277-8289-e1fa9b89a410

The MIL Network –
May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI: Form 8.3 – Primary Health Properties Plc

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

8.3

PUBLIC OPENING POSITION DISCLOSURE/DEALING DISCLOSURE BY
A PERSON WITH INTERESTS IN RELEVANT SECURITIES REPRESENTING 1% OR MORE
Rule 8.3 of the Takeover Code (the “Code”)

1. KEY INFORMATION

(a) Full name of discloser:	Rathbones Group Plc
(b) Owner or controller of interests and short positions disclosed, if different from 1(a): The naming of nominee or vehicle companies is insufficient. For a trust, the trustee(s), settlor and beneficiaries must be named.
(c) Name of offeror/offeree in relation to whose relevant securities this form relates: Use a separate form for each offeror/offeree	Primary Health Properties Plc
(d) If an exempt fund manager connected with an offeror/offeree, state this and specify identity of offeror/offeree:
(e) Date position held/dealing undertaken: For an opening position disclosure, state the latest practicable date prior to the disclosure	15/05/2025
(f) In addition to the company in 1(c) above, is the discloser making disclosures in respect of any other party to the offer? If it is a cash offer or possible cash offer, state “N/A”	Yes – Assura Plc

2. POSITIONS OF THE PERSON MAKING THE DISCLOSURE

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

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

Class of relevant security:	12.5p Ord
	Interests		Short positions
	Number	%	Number	%
(1) Relevant securities owned and/or controlled:	71,538,319	5.35%
(2) Cash-settled derivatives:
(3) Stock-settled derivatives (including options) and agreements to purchase/sell:
TOTAL:	71,538,319	5.35%

All interests and all short positions should be disclosed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

(a) Purchases and sales

Class of relevant security	Purchase/sale	Number of securities	Price per unit
12.5p Ordinary Shares	Sale	2,800	98.62p
12.5p Ordinary Shares	Sale	25,880	99.1403p
12.5p Ordinary Shares	Sale	42,645	99.1403p
12.5p Ordinary Shares	Sale	10,588	99.0289p
12.5p Ordinary Shares	Sale	8,000	99.122p

(b) Cash-settled derivative transactions

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

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

(i) Writing, selling, purchasing or varying

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

(ii) Exercise

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

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

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

4. OTHER INFORMATION

(a) Indemnity and other dealing arrangements

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

None

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

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

None

(c) Attachments

Is a Supplemental Form 8 (Open Positions) attached?

Date of disclosure:	16/05/2025
Contact name:	Chinwe Enyi – Compliance Department
Telephone number:	0151 243 7053

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

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

The Code can be viewed on the Panel’s website at.

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI Economics: ICON retains lead as most active CRO in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

ICON retains lead as most active CRO in Q1 2025, reveals GlobalData

Posted in Pharma

ICON maintains its place as the most active contract research organization (CRO) for Q1 2025 and Russia keeps its spot with the most clinical trials initiated in Europe despite the ongoing war with Ukraine, according to a report by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

GlobalData’s latest report “Q1 2025 Clinical Trials: CRO, Sponsor & Country Winners,” reveals that France moved up its position from fourth place in Q1 2024 to second in the region.

Kathryn Kinch, Pharma Product Manager at GlobalData, comments: “AstraZeneca led among large- and mega-cap sponsors of drug trials. Oncology trials dominated the landscape, making up the largest share of new trials, with solid tumors as the most studied indication and pain leading in central nervous system research.”

The report also identifies the top 10 trial sites in North America, Europe, and the rest of the world based on the number of trials initiated. On a global scale, oncology was the leading therapeutic area of focus. 1,513 oncology-related clinical trials were either launched or scheduled to commence in Q1 2025. Following closely behind, central nervous system (CNS) diseases accounted for 1,421 trials, reflecting a robust commitment to addressing complex neurological challenges.

However, the quarter did see a slight dip in both oncology and CNS trials compared to the previous year, where 1,573 and 1,438 trials were recorded, respectively. Within oncology, solid tumors dominated the landscape with 1,194 trials, while pain management emerged as the most studied indication in the CNS category, boasting 671 trials.

The CRO Activity and Intel report is published on a quarterly basis. The data presented in this report reflects the database as of April 10, 2025.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: GlobalData highlights potential impact of US tariffs on medical tourism

Source: GlobalData

GlobalData highlights potential impact of US tariffs on medical tourism

Posted in Medical Devices

US trade policy has seen notable changes recently, particularly with regard to import tariffs on countries such as China. Though these policies are usually justified by economic and geopolitical considerations, they also impact other areas, including the medical device industry and, more specifically, medical tourism. One growing outcome is how these tariffs are affecting medical tourism—the practice of traveling to another country to receive healthcare services. As medical expenses continue to climb in the US, a growing number of patients are looking overseas for more cost-effective treatment options, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

The US has imposed steep tariffs on a range of medical products imported from China, including syringes and needles, rubber medical and surgical gloves, and facemasks. These items are integral to a wide variety of medical procedures and daily healthcare operations. The imposition of tariffs on such goods has disrupted supply chains, constrained hospital procurement strategies, and driven up the cost of healthcare delivery across the US.

In response to these rising costs, a growing number of Americans are turning to medical tourism. Popular destinations include Mexico, India, Thailand, and Costa Rica, which offer competitive pricing and internationally accredited healthcare facilities. For example, the average cost of a knee replacement surgery in the US can exceed $50,000, but the same procedure in India or Mexico can be performed for $8000-$12,000. As US healthcare providers face increased operational costs due to tariffs – especially on imported surgical instruments, diagnostic equipment, and protective gear – the price gap between domestic and international care continues to widen, creating a financial incentive for patients to consider treatment overseas.

Alexandra Murdoch, Senior Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While the intended impact of tariffs may not have been to effect healthcare, they do shape patient behavior. The rise in the cost of medical devices ultimately leads to more out-of-pocket expenses for patients.”

US tariffs on medical imports are reshaping not only international trade relationships but also domestic healthcare economics. The direct result is an increase in the cost of medical care, which disproportionately affects uninsured and underinsured populations. One of the most notable responses to these price pressures has been a rise in outbound medical tourism. Patients are seeking high-quality, affordable care in countries that are not impacted by these tariffs — a trend that is likely to continue if current trade and healthcare cost trajectories remain unchanged.

Murdoch concludes: “This dynamic highlights a deeper connection between global trade policy and patient access to care. As the US continues to adjust its economic strategy, it will be important for policymakers and healthcare leaders to consider the downstream impacts on medical accessibility, affordability, and patient behavior.”

For further information on trade and tariff developments, GlobalData’s Strategic Intelligence platform offers comprehensive insights.

MIL OSI Economics –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Coinbase’s S&P 500 inclusion sparks optimism among influencers about cryptocurrency future, reveals GlobalData
Source: GlobalData

Coinbase’s S&P 500 inclusion sparks optimism among influencers about cryptocurrency future, reveals GlobalData

Posted in Business Fundamentals
Coinbase Global Inc. has garnered significant attention among social media influencers in the middle of May 2025, following the announcement of its upcoming inclusion in the S&P 500 index, marking the first instance of a cryptocurrency company being represented in this widely followed market benchmark. The shift from niche status to institutional recognition reflects a broader trend of digital assets gaining traction within established financial frameworks. Influencers widely regard this development as a pivotal endorsement of the cryptocurrency sector’s legitimacy and its progressive integration into mainstream financial markets, reveals the Social Media Analytics Platform of GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Shreyasee Majumder, Social Media Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The overall sentiment remains notably optimistic, with influencers expressing strong confidence in Coinbase’s strategic positioning and long-term potential. Several influencers interpret Coinbase’s milestone as indicative of the broader technological disruption reshaping traditional finance.”

Below are a few popular influencer opinions captured by GlobalData’s Social Media Analytics Platform:

Jason Yanowitz, Co-Founder at Blockworks:

“Coinbase is now the first crypto company in the S&P. My favorite line: “Since going public… Coinbase has become a bigger part of the U.S. financial system” It makes me happy knowing that starting Monday, even people who despise crypto will now own a piece of the industry.”

Nick Tomaino, Founder at 1confirmation:

“Coinbase now in the S&P 500 stacking ETH with its L2. Robinhood acquired an L2 that hasn’t launched yet. Every serious dev and company thinking about app chains. Now watch the VC chains all pivot to an L2 strategy.”

Simon Taylor, Head of Strategy & Content at Sardine:

“Let’s unpack what this actually means:1. Institutional adoption just hit warp speed Every S&P 500 index fund must now buy Coinbase shares. Vanguard, BlackRock, Fidelity all buy crypto exposure through the index.”

Aftab Hossain, Private Cryptocurrency Investor:

“Coinbase joining the S&P 500 will spur a new wave of interest in crypto and they’re all going to see that Coinbase is building the future of their business on Ethereum, and hold ETH as a substantial treasury asset but it’s probably nothing…”
MIL OSI Economics –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: SPbGASU became a venue for a meeting of participants of the international patriotic expedition “Unconquered”

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

Source: Saint Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering – Pavel Doroshenko, Marina Malyutina, Victoria Motorenko, Victoria Boginskaya and Marina Grigorenko

SPbGASU became a stop on the route of the international patriotic expedition “Unconquered”. The expedition’s partner is the All-Russian student project “Your Move”, which is part of the presidential platform “Russia – the Land of Opportunities” and is implemented by the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh) with the support of the Ministry of Science and Higher Education of the Russian Federation.

Expedition of friendship and creation

As explained by Pavel Doroshenko, a representative of the directorate of the all-Russian student project “Your Move”, the patriotic expedition “Unconquered” was launched in Russia as part of the Year of the Defender of the Fatherland in honor of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War. The selection of participants took place through the platform of the project “Your Move”. More than 2.5 thousand applications were received, each was studied in detail, after which 60 participants were admitted to the expedition during a personal interview.

“During the two-week expedition, students will travel more than five thousand kilometers, visit 14 cities in Russia and Belarus. Travel, communication, and the educational program are filled with meetings with interesting speakers and various events. The time spent together will allow students to become friends, learn about opportunities for self-development, outline plans for joint work and the creation of public projects,” Pavel Doroshenko specified.

Vice-Rector for Youth Policy at SPbGASU Marina Malyutina reported that our university is pleased to join the project “Your Move” and the patriotic expedition “Unconquered”, as it considers them important in the comprehensive education of young people, their advancement in professional and social activities, and the formation of a civic position.

“It is significant that the program began at our university, and this is not surprising, because the results of our graduates’ work are visible throughout Russia: starting from the 19th century, our engineers, architects, and builders created the cities where we live, which educate us, which we preserve and protect, and which we are proud of. It is important to emphasize that our university combines academic tradition with modern trends in Russian science, so it can be said about us that we preserve our traditions, our history, and create the future,” Marina Malyutina noted.

Irina Peretokin, a second-year student at the construction faculty and a representative of the SPbGASU volunteer club, said that volunteers participate in various events at both the university and federal levels and not only complete assigned tasks, but also help organize events.

“The Unconquered Project is a socially significant project aimed at developing patriotism. We consider it our duty to promote such events and participate in them, because they are necessary to strengthen the correct civic position and realize the potential of modern youth,” Irina explained.

Great opportunities for young people

Opening the plenary session, Marina Malyutina emphasized that the activities of our university are aimed at forming a full-fledged student personality, which has both professional and project competencies, as well as soft skills.

“The ecosystem of youth policy of SPbGASU includes various initiatives at all levels: the world, the country, the university, the faculty, the student environment. The Center for Student Entrepreneurship and Career of our university closely cooperates with the industry, organizes joint events and competitions, develops entrepreneurial competencies and creates conditions for further employment of students and graduates. Through the platform “Russia – the Country of Opportunities”, students successfully participate in the international engineering championship CASE-IN. We support the project “Startup as a Diploma” and the TIM movement. The youth policy of SPbGASU takes into account the needs of the region: students participate in the improvement of small towns, designing spaces and objects for them. Thus, we create conditions in which students can try themselves in various directions and choose their own,” the vice-rector noted.

At the plenary session

Director of the St. Petersburg State Budgetary Institution “Youth Spaces “PROSTO”” Victoria Motorenko agreed that today students have huge opportunities, and now is the best time to try to find the right direction for themselves.

“All industries offer enormous opportunities for self-realization of a specialist. There are many options for development in public life. “PROSTO” is the flagship project in the field of work with youth of the Government of St. Petersburg. We work in two directions. The infrastructure one involves a network of free modern and fully equipped youth spaces. Now there are seven of them, this year we plan to open 15 more and cover all districts of St. Petersburg. The spaces have areas from one hundred to one thousand square meters. Each has comfortable workplaces, high-speed Internet, all the necessary office equipment, so, for example, you can print, laminate, order a meeting room for free. In the intellectual direction, we focus on the development of youth entrepreneurship, competencies in the field of information technology, creative industries, fine arts, design. We are constantly expanding cooperation. Today we have already discussed common ground with SPbGASU,” said Victoria Motorenko.

Find something you enjoy doing

The founder of the YARUS design center, member of the Union of Architects of Russia Victoria Boginskaya called student time ideal for finding an occupation to your liking and, using her own example, told how, having professional competencies and a desire to develop, you can turn an idea into your own company.

“Today, the state provides great opportunities not only for students, but also for young people. In 2018, I completed my Master’s degree at the University of Yaroslavl and realized that I didn’t want to just draw projects, but also build, including something useful for the city. I asked myself: what do I need to do for this? While searching for an answer, I saw grant competitions. I applied and won 100 thousand rubles to implement my idea. Cool! Thanks to the grants, I got the opportunity to implement my idea and subsequently expand the level and geography of implementation. With the grant, I also published a book on the methodology for designing improvements in the Arctic zone and, as I found out today, I consulted students of St. Petersburg State University of Architecture and Civil Engineering on this topic. This is how grants can introduce you to successful professional activity,” noted Victoria Boginskaya.

Deputy Director of the Competence Center for Urban Environment Development and Smart City, graduate of SPbGASU Marina Grigorenko reminded that many students are worried about their professional future, their income, and industrial practices and internships help them avoid uncertainty, after which employment is possible. The organization builds such cooperation with students and graduates.

“Our team is young, the architects are young professionals. We are engaged in a variety of activities, one of the important aspects of which is working with young people. There are 36 small towns in the Leningrad Region; unfortunately, there is a large outflow of young people to St. Petersburg. Among the reasons for this is the lack of leisure and places for recreation. Taking into account the comments, we not only improve parks, embankments, public spaces, but also support educational activities, within the framework of which we organize competitions and implement the best submitted projects. We have already held three architectural competitions, 350 people took part in them, seven were invited to the bureau as part of the expert council, 18 projects have been implemented. There are also competitions, the winners of which receive grants,” said Marina Grigorenko.

Master classes from a teacher, architect and welding queen

Lecture by Marina Khramova

The expedition participants’ further stay at SPbGASU was equally interesting. Senior lecturer of the Department of Architectural Environment Design Marina Khramova gave a lecture on the architecture of St. Petersburg.

The master classes were conducted by Victoria Boginskaya and the artist, sculptor, and curator of the creation of art objects for public spaces, Alexandra Weld Queen.

Alexandra Weld Queen has gained recognition as a professional, highly skilled welder and has elevated her work to the level of art. Her objects are unique: even a park bench turns into an amazing, but functional creation. “Working with metal, I convey to people certain meanings that help them live, develop, and feel stronger. A durable material, steel allows me to create works for urban spaces that serve people for many years,” she said.

Master class by Alexandra Weld Queen (center) and Victoria Boginskaya

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 17, 2025
India’s forex reserves surge by $4.5 billion to cross $690.6 billion mark

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

India’s foreign exchange reserves jumped by $4.5 billion to reach $690.62 billion for the week ended May 9, according to data released by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on Friday.

Foreign currency assets, the largest component of the reserves, rose by $196 million to $581.37 billion. These assets, expressed in US dollar terms, reflect the impact of appreciation or depreciation in other currencies such as the euro, pound, and yen that are part of the reserves.

Gold reserves also saw a modest increase, rising by $4.5 million to $86.33 billion during the reporting week.

However, special drawing rights (SDRs) declined by $26 million to $18.53 billion, while India’s reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) fell by $134 million to $4.37 billion, the RBI data showed.

A strengthening foreign exchange reserve position bolsters the rupee against the US dollar and reflects the strong fundamentals of the Indian economy. It also provides the RBI with greater flexibility to manage volatility in the currency markets.

A robust forex kitty allows the central bank to intervene in the spot and forward markets by releasing dollars to curb excessive depreciation of the rupee. On the other hand, a declining reserve base limits the RBI’s ability to defend the currency during turbulent periods.

Meanwhile, India’s external sector continues to gain momentum, with total exports of goods and services registering a strong 12.7% growth in April, reaching $73.80 billion, compared to $65.48 billion in the same month last year. This growth comes despite global economic uncertainties triggered by US tariff hikes, according to data released by the Commerce Ministry on Thursday.

Merchandise exports alone grew by 9.03% to $38.49 billion, driven largely by high-value electronics and engineering goods, underscoring the expansion of India’s manufacturing sector.

Electronic goods exports rose sharply by 39.51% to $3.69 billion in April, up from $2.65 billion a year ago. Engineering goods exports climbed by 11.28% to $9.51 billion, compared to $8.55 billion last April. Exports of gems and jewellery also increased by 10.74% to $2.5 billion, up from $2.26 billion in the corresponding period last year.

— IANS

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Two California Businesses and Their Owners Resolve Allegations They Misrepresented Businesses’ Size to Obtain Paycheck Protection Program Loans

Source: United States Attorneys General

JEV&B Services LLC and D4 Inc., two entities with their principal places of business in California, and their owners — William Nelson and Vicki Rollins — have agreed to pay $153,598.90 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false statements and certifications to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for which the entities were not eligible.

The PPP, an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), was intended to support small businesses struggling to pay employees and other businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. In addition to the SBA’s guarantee, the PPP protected and supported financial institutions by reimbursing the lender’s costs of processing PPP applications. Regulations and legislation passed by Congress set various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the size of eligible businesses, so that the limited PPP funds would reach small businesses. In 2021, when Congress authorized a second round of PPP loans, it imposed even stricter size limits. The second-draw PPP loans were limited to businesses with 300 employees or less, including the employees of the applicant’s affiliated businesses.

On their PPP loan applications, borrowers were required to disclose their affiliated companies and to state the combined number of employees. Borrowers also certified that they were eligible for the PPP loan and that the information provided was accurate.

The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 are companies that, through Nelson and Rollins, have common ownership and management with numerous other companies. Like several of Nelson’s and Rollins’ other businesses, JEV&B Services and D4 obtained first-draw PPP loans, which the SBA later forgave in full. JEV&B Services and D4 also obtained second-draw PPP loans. The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 were not eligible for any second-draw PPP loans because they far exceeded the size limits that Congress placed on second-draw PPP loans. The United States further contended that JEV&B Services and D4 knowingly misled their lender to get the second-draw loans, including by under-reporting the total number of employees, not disclosing their affiliated companies to the lender, falsely certifying that they were eligible for the second-draw PPP funds, and certifying that the information on their applications was accurate when, in fact, it was not.

JEV&B Services, D4, Nelson, and Rollins will pay $153,598.90 to redress these allegations, including paying the SBA for the processing fees that the lender incurred and that were reimbursed by the SBA. The companies have also agreed to repay the loans in full, relieving the SBA of liability to the lender for the federal guaranty of the improper loans.

The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Ashwani Chawla. Under those provisions, private parties may initiate an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The lawsuit is captioned U.S. ex rel. Ashwani Chawla v. Agathos Support Service, Inc., et al., Civil No. LACV 22-2798 KK (JCx) (C.D. Cal.). Chawla will receive $11,519.92 in connection with this settlement.

The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the SBA Office of the Inspector General, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of Capital Access.

Trial Attorney Christopher Belen of the Justice Department’s Civil Division handled the matter.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

MIL Security OSI –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: LHV Group’s own share acquisition transactions

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

AS LHV Group announces that on 13 May 2025, it has acquired the company’s own shares on the Nasdaq Tallinn Stock Exchange as follows:

Date Aggregated volume Weighted average price per day (EUR)

13.05.2025 19,627 3.565197

LHV Group is acquiring its own shares based on the resolution of the company’s general meeting of shareholders held on 26 March 2025, and under the conditions decided by the Supervisory Board. The authorized agent for the transactions is AS LHV Pank. Summary data of the acquisitions will be disclosed no later than on the seventh trading day after the transaction and will be made available to the Financial Supervision and Resolution Authority, via the Nasdaq Tallinn system, and on LHV Group’s investor website.

LHV Group is the largest domestic financial group and capital provider in Estonia. LHV Group’s key subsidiaries are LHV Pank, LHV Varahaldus, LHV Kindlustus, and LHV Bank Limited. The Group employs over 1,150 people. As at the end of April, LHV’s banking services are being used by 468,000 clients, the pension funds managed by LHV have 113,000 active clients, and LHV Kindlustus protects a total of 176,000 clients. LHV Bank Limited, a subsidiary of the Group, holds a banking licence in the United Kingdom and provides banking services to international financial technology companies, as well as loans to small and medium-sized enterprises.

Priit Rum
Communications Manager
Phone: +372 502 0786
Email: priit.rum@lhv.ee

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI: HashFly Empowers Space and Time (SXT) Crypto Holders with Profitable Cloud Mining

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York City, NY, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

As the digital asset ecosystem matures, Space and Time (SXT) token holders increasingly turn to innovative strategies to grow their portfolios, without liquidating their assets. In response to this evolving demand, HashFly, a global leader in secure and scalable cloud mining, is proud to introduce ded

Let Your SXT Work Smarter — Not Harder

SXT, the native utility token of Space and Time, a decentralised data warehouse enabling trustless data services for blockchain and AI-powered applications, continues to gain momentum as a critical infrastructure asset in the Web3 economy.

As interest grows in holding SXT for the long haul, more users are seeking non-custodial, capital-efficient ways to generate passive income. Hicated mining opportunities for SXT holders.

With passive income’s growing importance in the blockchain landscape, HashFly is positioning itself as the most trusted mining partner for long-term SXT investors seeking returns without trading exposure.ashFly’s cloud mining platform offers a seamless solution, enabling token holders to earn daily rewards without the complexity or risks of traditional mining.

Maximize Passive Income Through Secure Cloud Mining

HashFly offers an all-in-one platform for profitable and secure cloud mining, enabling users to earn daily rewards without the need for hardware, technical skills, or electricity costs. Whether you’re holding SXT or other cryptocurrencies, HashFly empowers you to:

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How to Earn Daily Passive Income with HashFly

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HashFly Mining Plans: Maximize Your Earnings

HashFly offers flexible mining plans tailored to different investment levels. Each plan provides daily returns and a guaranteed return on investment.

Contract Price	Duration	Daily Interest Rate	Daily Income	Total Payout (Principal + Profit)
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$4,600	1 Day	4.5%	$207	$4,600 + $207
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$16,000	3 Days	5%	$800	$16,000 + $2,400
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MEDIA CONTACT
Name: Scott Joseph
Email: info@hashfly.com
Job Title: Director
City/Country: New York, USA

Attachment

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI Global: Touch can comfort and heal, but also harm − a psychologist explains why gestures don’t always land as intended
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Brian N. Chin, Assistant Professor of Psychology, Trinity College

Touch is not always received the way it’s intended. Olga Pankova/Moment via Getty Images

A hug from a friend. A squeeze of the hand. A steady arm around your shoulders. Many of us are taught to think of touch as comforting – an instinctive way to offer or receive comfort and express a sense of connection.

But comfort is not always the outcome.

For some, that same gesture can feel intrusive – even jarring. In moments of stress or vulnerability, even a caring touch can miss the mark, leaving someone feeling unseen, misunderstood or more alone than before.

As a social-health psychologist, I study how close relationships shape emotional well-being, especially through the ways people give and receive support. Decades of research in psychology and neuroscience show that touch is more than just a physical act – it’s a form of communication. Whether it lands as comforting or off-putting depends on timing, context and the emotional safety of the underlying relationship.

When touch lands well

When touch provides comfort, it’s because it communicates safety, understanding and care. It works best when grounded in clarity, respect and emotional timing.

Trust also matters. Comfort comes most naturally when we feel safe – when we know that someone truly sees us and wants to ease our distress. A hug from a friend after you’ve shared bad news feels good not just because of the gesture itself but because of what it says: “I’m here, and you’re not alone.”

Sitting quietly next to a partner or child after they’ve had a hard day at school and offering them a steady hand and gentle presence can do more than any question or explanation. It provides a moment of connection that says: “You’re safe. I’ve got you.”

Over time, attuned touch can do more than provide comfort in the moment – it can strengthen relationships, regulate our stress responses and promote well-being. Recent research highlights how affectionate touch may even support better sleep by reducing stress and increasing feelings of emotional safety. These benefits aren’t limited to romantic or parent-child relationships; many people also find comfort through physical closeness with trusted friends or pets. When it’s offered with care and sensitivity to the moment, touch can build connection, both immediately and over time.

But even in safe relationships, consent and receptivity are essential. Comforting touch should be honest and clear – not ambiguous, not tentative and never assumed. Simple gestures, such as asking “Would a hug help right now?” or offering “It’s OK if you’d rather not” can turn an awkward moment into one that feels safe and seen. And respecting someone’s “no” is just as important as offering touch in the first place. Hearing and honoring that boundary isn’t rejection; it’s attunement.

Ultimately, the most comforting touch communicates care for the person receiving it, not just the intentions of the person offering it. Small shifts in awareness such as paying attention to body language, asking first or simply waiting for the right moment can be the difference between discomfort and feeling understood. When offered with clarity, warmth and respect, physical closeness can do more than just comfort: It can restore.

A pediatrician discusses the importance of teaching kids consent from an early age, including for hugs.

Why touch sometimes backfires

If touch is a form of communication, it can miscommunicate too. A gesture meant to convey comfort might instead land as pressure, intrusion or something you want to escape.

Sometimes the issue is timing. One person reaches out with genuine care, while the other just needs space. A partner’s hand on your shoulder mid-argument might feel more like control than comfort. A hug meant to soothe can instead feel jarring, coming across as emotionally tone-deaf or misaligned.

Research shows that support is effective only when it’s grounded in mutual understanding and appreciation. If the gesture isn’t wanted or the moment is wrong, even well-intended touch can do more harm than good.

People’s attachment styles also shape how they respond to touch. People with avoidant tendencies often find physical closeness intrusive and may pull away from even small gestures. In contrast, people with more anxious attachment styles may crave the closeness of touch but remain on high alert, wondering whether it’s sincere, if it’s enough or if it will still be there in the future.

In addition, the COVID-19 pandemic led many people to renegotiate their comfort with touch and spatial boundaries. For some of us, keeping our distance became comforting – a new kind of safety that we’re not ready to give up just yet. And a handshake or hug might not feel like a return to normal – it might feel like crossing a boundary you didn’t know you’d built.

Ultimately, what makes touch comforting isn’t just the gesture – it’s emotional attunement: how well it fits the moment, the relationship and the person on the receiving end. When that alignment is off, even the most well-meaning touch can fall flat or make things worse.

The COVID-19 pandemic shifted many people’s level of comfort around space and touch.
Cheryl Bronson/Moment via Getty Images

Want your next touch to land as you intended it?

Like any form of care, how touch is received depends on how, when and why it’s offered. If you want your touch to feel truly supportive, here are a few ways to stay attuned:
- Who is this for? Ask yourself: Is this really for them or mostly for me? The most comforting touch comes from meeting another person’s need, not your own.
- Notice what’s unspoken. Physical cues – leaning in, pausing or pulling away – can sometimes tell us more than words. Discomfort doesn’t always need to be spoken to be understood.
- Offer choice. A simple question like “Would a hug help right now?” is more comforting than reaching out before checking in. And hearing a respectful no doesn’t disrupt connection – it builds trust.
We don’t have to give up on hugs, hand squeezes or reassuring pats. But comfort doesn’t automatically follow from physical closeness – it comes from the understanding and care behind it.

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

– ref. Touch can comfort and heal, but also harm − a psychologist explains why gestures don’t always land as intended – https://theconversation.com/touch-can-comfort-and-heal-but-also-harm-a-psychologist-explains-why-gestures-dont-always-land-as-intended-255725
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Why we fall for fake health information – and how it spreads faster than facts
Source: The Conversation – USA – By Angshuman K. Kashyap, PhD candidate in Health Communication, University of Maryland

Should you share that health-related Instagram post? Catherine McQueen/Moment via Getty Images

In today’s digital world, people routinely turn to the internet for health or medical information. In addition to actively searching online, they often come across health-related information on social media or receive it through emails or messages from family or friends.

It can be tempting to share such messages with loved ones – often with the best of intentions.

As a global health communication scholar studying the effects of media on health and development, I explore artistic and creative ways to make health information more engaging and accessible, empowering people to make informed decisions.

Although there is a fire hose of health-related content online, not all of it is factual. In fact, much of it is inaccurate or misleading, raising a serious health communication problem: Fake health information – whether shared unknowingly and innocently, or deliberately to mislead or cause harm – can be far more captivating than accurate information.

This makes it difficult for people to know which sources to trust and which content is worthy of sharing.

The allure of fake health information

Fake health information can take many forms. For example, it may be misleading content that distorts facts to frame an issue or individual in a certain context. Or it may be based on false connections, where headlines, visuals or captions don’t align with the content. Despite this variation, such content often shares a few common characteristics that make it seem believable and more shareable than facts.

For one thing, fake health information often appears to be true because it mixes a grain of truth with misleading claims.

For example, early in the COVID-19 pandemic, false rumors suggested that drinking ethanol or bleach could protect people from the virus. While ethanol or bleach can indeed kill viruses on surfaces such as countertops, it is extremely dangerous when it comes into contact with skin or gets inside the body.

Stopping to check the facts helps stem the spread of misinformation.
World Health Organization adaptation from Siouxsie Wiles and Toby Morris in The Spinoff, CC BY-SA

Another marker of fake health information is that it presents ideas that are simply too good to be true. There is something appealingly counterintuitive in certain types of fake health information that can make people feel they have access to valuable or exclusive knowledge that others may not know. For example, a claim such as “chocolate helps you lose weight” can be especially appealing because it offers a sense of permission to indulge and taps into a simple, feel-good solution to a complex problem. Such information often spreads faster because it sounds both surprising and hopeful, validating what some people want to believe.

Sensationalism also drives the spread of fake health information. For instance, when critics falsely claimed that Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the chief medical adviser to the president at the time, was responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, it generated a lot of public attention.

In a study on vaccine hesitancy published in 2020, my colleagues and I found that controversial headlines in news reports that go viral before national vaccination campaigns can discourage parents from getting their children vaccinated. These headlines seem to reveal sensational and secret information that can falsely boost the message’s credibility.

The pull to share

The internet has created fertile ground for spreading fake health information. Professional-looking websites and social media posts with misleading headlines can lure people into clicking or quickly sharing, which drives more and more readers to the falsehood. People tend to share information they believe is relevant to them or their social circles.

In 2019, an article with the false headline “Ginger is 10,000x more effective at killing cancer than chemo” was shared more than 800,000 times on Facebook. The article contained several factors that make people feel an urgency to react and share without checking the facts: compelling visuals, emotional stories, misleading graphs, quotes from experts with omitted context and outdated content that is recirculated.

Visual cues like the logos of reputable organizations or photos of people wearing white medical coats add credibility to these posts. This kind of content is highly shareable, often reaching far more people than scientifically accurate studies that may lack eye-catching headlines or visuals, easy-to-understand words or dramatic storylines.

But sharing content without verifying it first has real-world consequences. For example, studies have found that COVID-19-related fake information reduces people’s trust in the government and in health care systems, making people less likely to use or seek out health services.

Unfounded claims about vaccine side effects have led to reduced vaccination rates globally, fueling the return of dangerous diseases, including measles.

Check it out before you share.

Social media misinformation, such as false claims about cinnamon being a treatment for cancer, has caused hospitalizations and even deaths. The spread of health misinformation has reduced cooperation with important prevention and treatment recommendations, prompting a growing need for medical professionals to receive proper training and develop skills to effectively debunk fake health information.

How to combat the spread of fake health information

In today’s era of information overload in which anyone can create and share content, being able to distinguish between credible and misleading health information before sharing is more important than ever. Researchers and public health organizations have outlined several strategies to help people make better-informed decisions.

Whether health care consumers come across health information on social media, in an email or through a messaging app, here are three reliable ways to verify its accuracy and credibility before sharing:
- Use a search engine to cross-check health claims. Never rely on a single source. Instead, enter the health claim into a reputable search engine like Google and see what trusted sources have to say. Prioritize information from established organizations like the World Health Organization, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, United Nations Children’s Fund or peer-reviewed journals like The Lancet or Journal of the American Medical Association. If multiple reputable sources agree, the information is more likely to be reliable. Reliable fact-checking websites such as FactCheck.org and Snopes can also help root out fake information.
- Evaluate the source’s credibility. A quick way to assess a website’s trustworthiness is to check its “About Us” page. This section usually explains who is behind the content, their mission and their credentials. Also, search the name of the author. Do they have recognized expertise or affiliations with credible institutions? Reliable websites often have domains ending in .gov or .edu, indicating government or educational institutions. Finally, check the publication date. Information on the internet keeps circulating for years and may not be the most accurate or relevant in the present context.
- If you’re still unsure, don’t share. If you’re still uncertain about the accuracy of a claim, it’s better to keep it to yourself. Forwarding unverified information can unintentionally contribute to the spread of misinformation and potentially cause harm, especially when it comes to health.
Questioning dubious claims and sharing only verified information not only protects against unsafe behaviors and panic, but it also helps curb the spread of fake health information. At a time when misinformation can spread faster than a virus, taking a moment to pause and fact-check can make a big difference.

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

– ref. Why we fall for fake health information – and how it spreads faster than facts – https://theconversation.com/why-we-fall-for-fake-health-information-and-how-it-spreads-faster-than-facts-250718
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Cultivating obedience: Using the Justice Department to attack former officials consolidates power and deters dissent

Source: The Conversation – USA – By Joe Wright, Professor of Political Science, Penn State

Miles Taylor, center, a Homeland Security official during the first Trump administration, wrote an op-ed in September 2018 that criticized Trump. AP Photo/Alex Brandon

During President Donald Trump’s first three months in office, his administration has targeted dozens of former officials who criticized him or opposed his agenda.

In April 2025, Trump directed the Department of Justice to investigate two men who served in his first administration, Miles Taylor and Chris Krebs, because they spoke out against his policies and corrected his false claims about the 2020 election that he lost.

Further, Trump revoked the security clearances for advisers and retired generals who publicly criticized him during the 2024 election campaign.

On their face, such moves appear to be a coordinated campaign of personal retribution. But as political science scholars who study the origins of elected strongmen, we believe Trump’s use of the Justice Department to attack former officials who stood up to him isn’t just about revenge. It also deters current officials from defying Trump.

More than revenge

Like all presidents, Trump needs allies who will faithfully implement his policy agenda. For most presidents, this means surrounding themselves with longtime friends.

For example, Don Evans, George W. Bush’s commerce secretary and close confidant, worked with Bush for decades before becoming a fixture in his White House.

But to carry out a power grab, incumbent leaders also need allies who will stay silent or, better yet, endorse their attempts to consolidate control.

In El Salvador, for example, President Nayib Bukele’s legislative allies gave him free rein in 2023 to run for president a second time despite constitutional provisions banning reelection.

Recall that Trump only left office in January 2021 because key Republican officials defied his attempts to overturn an election he lost.

Former Vice President Mike Pence, facing violent threats from a Trump-fueled mob, refused Trump’s request to overturn the election he lost. And Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger refused Trump’s entreaties to stuff the ballot boxes in Georgia with another 11,000 votes for Trump.

An audio recording of President Donald Trump talking to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger is played in Washington, D.C., on Oct, 13, 2022.
Alex Wong/Getty Images

Notably, both men first won political office on their own, without an endorsement from Trump. This means they were less reliant on Trump for access to political power. Therefore, they were more likely to prioritize their loyalty to the Constitution over their loyalty to Trump.

Attacks enforce loyalty

In authoritarian contexts, loyalty is not an intrinsic quality. Authoritarian leaders do not necessarily select those with whom they have long work experience that leads to mutual trust.

For instance, during Rafael Trujillo’s dictatorship in the Dominican Republic from 1930 to 1961, the head of intelligence, Johnny Abbes, was plucked from obscurity in Mexico and in 1958 began to lead the dictator’s repression machine.

Instead, the challenge for authoritarian leaders is finding people to do their bidding. And the best people for this job are those who never would have earned their position in politics without the leader’s influence.

Unqualified appointees who can’t ascend to political power based on their merits have little choice but to stick with the leader. These people appear loyal, but only because their careers are tied to the leader staying in power.

A litany of failed politicians

This logic, where people with few career prospects outside of the leader express the most loyalty, explains why Trump has appointed a number of political candidates who have lost elections.

The head of the Small Business Administration, Kelly Loeffler, though briefly appointed as a U.S. senator from Georgia, lost her first Senate election to Raphael Warnock in 2021.

Doug Collins, Trump’s secretary of Veterans Affairs, lost to Loeffler in a Georgia Senate primary during the same election cycle.

Dan Bongino, the deputy director of the FBI, lost a 2016 primary contest for a congressional seat in a heavily Republican district in Florida.

And don’t forget Jeanine Pirro, Trump’s nominee to head a politically crucial federal judicial office. Her political career derailed 20 years ago when she came under federal investigation for “scheming to catch a cheating spouse in the act.” She lost an attorney general race in New York in 2006 to Andrew Cuomo.

Jeanine Pirro lost the 2006 New York attorney general race.
AP Photo/Dima Gavrysh

Trump also picked two politicians who had failed presidential runs as Democrats – Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. – to act as director of national intelligence and secretary of Health and Human Services.

For appointees who can’t win elections, the only shot at power is steadfast alignment with the leader. This dynamic, in turn, provides a strong incentive for these officials to remain loyal, even when the leader breaks the law or orders them to do the same.

When leaders place loyalists in charge of federal law enforcement, attempts to conjure votes for the president out of thin air or to seize ballot boxes in opposition districts are more likely to succeed.

The Trump administration’s attacks on former Republican officials who criticized him, such as Taylor and Krebs, reinforces this dynamic. It sends a signal of future punishment to current Justice Department officials should they speak out against Trump or refuse to carry out illegal orders.

Attacks also target opposition power

Of course, the Trump administration’s political attacks haven’t stopped with officials in his previous administration who have fallen out of favor.

They have expanded to include independent institutions such as universities, not-for-profit media and law firms.

As research on authoritarian regimes shows, the goal of attacking independent institutions this way is to sap their capacity to resist the incumbent government’s attempts to cheat in future elections.

After Hungary’s leader, Viktor Orban, had rewritten his country’s Constitution and reined in the courts, he changed the electoral rules to ensure he won reelection in 2022. Along the way, Orban forced an entire university into exile after failing to subdue it.

In these ways, incumbents’ acts of retribution toward people and organizations that oppose their agenda reinforce loyalty among their allies. They also undermine and weaken their opponents and ultimately facilitate incumbents’ efforts to consolidate power.

Joe Wright has received funding from the National Science Foundation, the Office of Naval Research, and private foundations.

Erica Frantz has received funding from the US Agency for International Development and private foundations.

– ref. Cultivating obedience: Using the Justice Department to attack former officials consolidates power and deters dissent – https://theconversation.com/cultivating-obedience-using-the-justice-department-to-attack-former-officials-consolidates-power-and-deters-dissent-256397

MIL OSI – Global Reports –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Life sciences consultancy picks Birmingham for new Research Centre of Excellence
Source: City of Birmingham

Life sciences consultancy Cambridge Healthcare Research has chosen Birmingham as the location for its new Research Centre of Excellence, where it plans to create up to 40 research analyst roles.
Life sciences consultancy Cambridge Healthcare Research picks Birmingham as the location for its new Research Centre of Excellence, where it plans to create up to 40 research analyst roles by the end of 2025.

New facility at The Lewis Building in Birmingham’s city centre officially opened by Councillor John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council.

Investment reinforces region’s rise as a dynamic investment alternative to traditional life sciences ‘golden triangle’ of London, Oxford and Cambridge.

The new facility at The Lewis Building in Birmingham’s City Centre was officially opened by Councillor John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council.

Cambridge Healthcare Research’s new Research Centre of Excellence will focus on delivering strategic research projects for a range of UK and international clients operating within the life sciences sector. The facility represents the consultancy’s first office outside of Cambridge and London, reinforcing the West Midlands’ growing reputation as a diverse and dynamic life sciences investment hub. The region’s thriving life sciences sector incorporates a diverse, static population of 4.7 million, four medical schools and the West Midlands Health Tech Innovation Accelerator [WMTHIA], which recently received £4 million additional funding for 2025/26.

The region will seek to capitalise on the growth potential of its life sciences cluster through its flagship Investment Zone. In particular, the 210-hectare Birmingham Knowledge Quarter [B-KQ] will build on the region’s globally recognised strengths in diagnostics, digital and data-driven healthcare, providing a centre of excellence for advanced manufacturing aligned to health and life sciences.

Matteo Perucchini, CEO at Cambridge Healthcare Research, said:

“Combining a deep STEM talent pool, unrivalled connectivity and affordable office space, Birmingham ticked all our boxes when it came to selecting a location for our first office outside of the traditional life sciences ‘golden triangle’.

“We’re looking forward to contributing to the rise of the West Midlands’ life sciences ecosystem while delivering exceptional research projects for our clients from our new Birmingham base.”

The West Midlands Growth Company [WMGC] – the region’s official investment promotion agency – supported the investment.

Councillor John Cotton, Leader of Birmingham City Council, said:

“From companies advancing pioneering drug development to manufacturers of next-generation medical devices, Birmingham has established a reputation as an attractive destination for life sciences focused occupiers.

“As the region’s vision for Birmingham Knowledge Quarter gathers pace, its offer to healthcare innovators will strengthen even further, with companies like Cambridge Healthcare Research exemplifying the innovation taking place here.

“It’s brilliant to be welcoming another new and enterprising company to our city, which will help boost the economy and create jobs for local people.”
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Two California Businesses and Their Owners Resolve Allegations They Misrepresented Businesses’ Size to Obtain Paycheck Protection Program Loans

Source: US State of Vermont

JEV&B Services LLC and D4 Inc., two entities with their principal places of business in California, and their owners — William Nelson and Vicki Rollins — have agreed to pay $153,598.90 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false statements and certifications to obtain Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans for which the entities were not eligible.

The PPP, an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA), was intended to support small businesses struggling to pay employees and other businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic. Under the PPP, eligible businesses could receive forgivable loans guaranteed by the SBA. In addition to the SBA’s guarantee, the PPP protected and supported financial institutions by reimbursing the lender’s costs of processing PPP applications. Regulations and legislation passed by Congress set various eligibility requirements for the PPP, including limitations on the size of eligible businesses, so that the limited PPP funds would reach small businesses. In 2021, when Congress authorized a second round of PPP loans, it imposed even stricter size limits. The second-draw PPP loans were limited to businesses with 300 employees or less, including the employees of the applicant’s affiliated businesses.

On their PPP loan applications, borrowers were required to disclose their affiliated companies and to state the combined number of employees. Borrowers also certified that they were eligible for the PPP loan and that the information provided was accurate.

The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 are companies that, through Nelson and Rollins, have common ownership and management with numerous other companies. Like several of Nelson’s and Rollins’ other businesses, JEV&B Services and D4 obtained first-draw PPP loans, which the SBA later forgave in full. JEV&B Services and D4 also obtained second-draw PPP loans. The United States alleged that JEV&B Services and D4 were not eligible for any second-draw PPP loans because they far exceeded the size limits that Congress placed on second-draw PPP loans. The United States further contended that JEV&B Services and D4 knowingly misled their lender to get the second-draw loans, including by under-reporting the total number of employees, not disclosing their affiliated companies to the lender, falsely certifying that they were eligible for the second-draw PPP funds, and certifying that the information on their applications was accurate when, in fact, it was not.

JEV&B Services, D4, Nelson, and Rollins will pay $153,598.90 to redress these allegations, including paying the SBA for the processing fees that the lender incurred and that were reimbursed by the SBA. The companies have also agreed to repay the loans in full, relieving the SBA of liability to the lender for the federal guaranty of the improper loans.

The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Ashwani Chawla. Under those provisions, private parties may initiate an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The lawsuit is captioned U.S. ex rel. Ashwani Chawla v. Agathos Support Service, Inc., et al., Civil No. LACV 22-2798 KK (JCx) (C.D. Cal.). Chawla will receive $11,519.92 in connection with this settlement.

The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the SBA Office of the Inspector General, with assistance from the SBA’s Office of Capital Access.

Trial Attorney Christopher Belen of the Justice Department’s Civil Division handled the matter.

The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: At Hearing, Warren Stresses Importance of Right-to-Repair, Highlights How Restrictions Limit International Cooperation

US Senate News:

Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren

May 16, 2025

Repair restrictions limit service members’ abilities to fix their weapons even in the middle of life-and-death missions

Warren successfully pushed the Army to get rid of right-to-repair restrictions, urges the rest of the military to follow

Video of Exchange (YouTube)

Washington, D.C. – At a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee, U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) uplifted how right-to-repair can help the U.S. military and allied forces promote innovation and reduce costs.

As Senator Warren explained, the Department of Defense (DoD) spends billions of dollars buying equipment, but contractors impose repair restrictions preventing servicemembers from fixing their weapons, even in the middle of dangerous missions, and often at the expense of innovation. She highlighted how important innovation has been in Ukraine’s ability to continue to defend itself against Russia.

Dr. Lisa Saum-Manning, Associate Director, International Security and Defense Policy Program for RAND, testified to the importance of servicemembers’ ability to repair their own weapons without unnecessary contractor interference, stating, “When it comes to life and death decisions, I think you sort of overlook policy… that’s what I would do if I were on the battlefield.”

This month, Secretary of the Army Daniel Driscoll announced that the Army will ensure right-to-repair provisions are included in future Army contracts and will identify and propose contract modifications for right-to-repair provisions in current contracts.

“Army Secretary Driscoll has taken a necessary and overdue step, but we need all of the services and DOD to prioritize lethality. And that means commanders in the field should never have to beg a contractor to come repair a plane that the Air Force owns or that soldiers could fix themselves,” said Senator Warren.

Senator Warren argued that right-to-repair can help strengthen American allied forces and enhance their capabilities, allowing them to work better with our troops, take missions off the military’s plate, and support U.S. jobs. If U.S. contractors limit our allies and partners’ ability to sustain equipment, that can hurt the ability of those companies to win contracts. Dr. Saum-Manning expressed support for adopting a right-to-repair policy across the military, stating that RAND researchers agreed on a need for change.

Senator Warren has been a leader on right-to-repair, including in the military. In January 2025, Senator Warren secured a commitment from Secretary Driscoll during his nomination hearing about enhancing the Army’s right to repair its own equipment. Senator Warren also pushed for commitments from the Navy Secretary and Military Transportation Command Chief on allowing servicemembers to repair their own equipment.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues on this committee to make sure that we aren’t letting bad contracting practices limit our soldiers’ ability to win on the battlefield,” concluded Senator Warren.

Transcript: Hearings to examine the Department of Defense responsibilities related to Foreign Military Sales system and international armaments cooperation
Senate Armed Services Committee
May 15, 2025

Senator Elizabeth Warren: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. So, being lethal on the battlefield means being scrappy. And when Russia first invaded Ukraine, we sat in the briefings when we were told by experts that Ukraine would only be able to hold out for a few weeks maximum. But over the past three years, Ukrainians have been incredibly innovative, especially in the deployment of drones to keep Russian forces at bay.

The U.S. military may not be nearly as agile. One problem: soldiers are not allowed to repair many of their own weapons. DoD spends billions of dollars buying all sorts of equipment, but then contractors impose restrictions on who can maintain systems and who can produce spare parts. Contractors rake in billions, but service members are not allowed to fix their own weapons when they break, even in the middle of life-and-death missions. That is the opposite of scrappy.

Dr. Saum-Manning, you are an expert on building military capacity. How important is it for readiness for service members just to be able to repair their own weapons?

Dr. Lisa Saum-Manning: I mean, they are on the front lines and critical. When it comes to life and death decisions, I think you sort of overlook policy. That would—, that’s what I would do if I were on the battlefield. Again, this is my personal opinion, not an opinion of RAND.

Senator Elizabeth Warren: But I take it. You think the right to repair is important to being able to do your job?

Dr. Saum-Manning: I do think it’s important, that said, you have to know how to do it. And so I would want to make sure that they actually knew what they were doing.

Senator Elizabeth Warren: Okay. The problem we’ve got is that too often, when the U.S. military goes to contractors, they are told when something is broken, they’re going to have to wait months for critical parts. In just one case that we have, the Army discovered that instead of waiting months, they could actually just use a 3D printer to print the safety clip they needed in less than an hour and for 1/100th of the cost that was being charged by the contractor.

So, this month, the Trump administration took an important step toward making sure that U.S. soldiers can be just as scrappy as the Ukrainians. The Army’s new transformation initiative requires new contracts to include a right to repair their own equipment, and they’re also going back to review old contracts to add similar protections. I want to give a shout-out to the new Secretary of the Army, Dan Driscoll, for pushing this initiative.

So, Dr. Saum-Manning, would adopting this policy across the military services enhance innovation and help reduce costs?

Dr. Saum-Manning: Well, as all RAND researchers say, we have to study that. This is very new. It’s very exciting to see, when we were doing our study, the Army was in the midst of their sort of transformation, and there was a consensus of opinion that it needed to change. And so it’s exciting that they’re innovating. We’re watching it. It’s definitely a great experiment to see if it happens and to see if we can apply these lessons elsewhere.

Senator Warren: Well, you know, I would argue here on right-to-repair that it can also be used to help strengthen American allied forces as well. When our closest allies buy U.S. weapons, it can help enhance their capabilities, help them work better with our troops. We really like all of that. They can take missions off our plate, and they can support U.S. jobs. But our allies and partners have a lot of other companies that they can choose from, and they are willing to drive a harder bargain than we are. For example, a Canadian task force found that failing to acquire data rights hurt their ability to independently support their own equipment— right to repair—and they recommended prioritizing sustainability and competition. The bottom line? Lockheed Martin’s higher repair costs meant that Lockheed Martin just wasn’t competitive for the contract.

So Dr. Saum-Manning isn’t the best outcome for us, is not only if we can repair our own equipment, but also if our allies, who are buying from us contractors, can repair their weapons in the field and have those weapons made in America?

Dr. Saum-Manning: Well, we have not studied that, but I would say that if we are, sort of, part of that process and can help train, help equip, help be there to help sustain—our partners need to actually be able to sustain the equipment that we give them. Those are priority decisions that need to be made prior to them actually getting on the battlefield.

Senator Warren: Yeah, well, Army Secretary Driscoll has taken a necessary and overdue step, but we need all of the services and DOD to prioritize lethality. And that means commanders in the field should never have to beg a contractor to come repair a plane that the Air Force owns or/and that soldiers could fix themselves. Our Navy should never have to wonder if an ally won’t show up because they’re waiting months for a contractor to fix a fuel gauge. I look forward to working with my colleagues on this committee to make sure that we aren’t letting bad contracting practices limit our soldiers’ ability to win on the battlefield. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.

MIL OSI USA News –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Refunds still available for 4,000 people who didn’t submit their debt relief order application
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

News story

Refunds still available for 4,000 people who didn’t submit their debt relief order application

People who started a debt relief order application before April 2024 but did not complete the process are being offered refunds for any fees paid
Almost 4,000 people are still due a refund for debt relief order applications they paid for but did not submit

The Insolvency Service has written to those due a refund and £65,000 has already been reimbursed since March

Refunds worth a total of £500,000 are still available going back to 2016 for those who did not finish the application process

The Insolvency Service is trying to refund money to 4,000 people who made payments towards a debt relief order (DRO) but did not submit their application.

Before April 2024, a £90 fee was payable when making a DRO application.

Applicants could choose to pay in full or in instalments.

However, many thousands of people made a payment towards the fee, but did not submit their application.

The £90 fee was scrapped by the Government in April 2024 to make things easier for people with debts to access the help they need.

The Insolvency Service still has £500,000 to return to individuals who paid towards these incomplete applications, going back to 2016.

The agency has already written to 5,000 people due a refund, with around 1,000 responding and £65,000 being reimbursed since March so far.

Another letter is due to be sent out in the coming days.

Caroline Shanahan, senior leader in the Personal Insolvency Team at the Insolvency Service, said: “We sent letters to all 5,000 people who are due a refund, but many of them have not come back to us. There are still about 4,000 people who have not responded.

We want to return their money as soon as possible, but they need to contact us after receiving the letter.

In some cases, people may have changed their email address or moved home, meaning we do not have their current details to contact them. Those people can still apply for a refund if they paid towards a debt relief order that was not submitted, they just need to get in touch and let us know.

Applications for DROs are made through authorised intermediaries. Up until April 2024, payments were made by the individual as part of the application process, either in full or in instalments.

The Insolvency Service is keen to provide refunds directly to the individuals who made payments towards the application fee but did not complete their application for whatever reason.

If you are owed a refund

If you feel you are due a refund after making a payment but not submitting a debt relief order application, please contact dro.preorder@insolvency.gov.uk

To request payment into your bank account or building society, please include the following details:

Debt Relief Order application number (if known)

Your name

Your address

Your telephone number

Bank/building society Name

Account name (as shown on bank statement)

Bank account number (full 8 numbers)

Bank sort code (full 6 numbers)

Building Society roll number (if applicable)

All applications will be fully verified against system inform to prevent fraudulent claims.

If you would like to request a cheque instead, please state this in your email.

If your contact details have changed since making the application, please include your previous name and address alongside your current details.

If payment was made by a charity or third party on your behalf, please provide the details of the organisation that made the payment.

You can also write to us, including the above information in your correspondence, at: The Insolvency Service DRO Team, C/O Met Office, Fitzroy Road, Exeter, EX1 3PB.

ENDS

Further information

Letters were sent to individuals this week, dated May 2025.

Any interested parties with further questions can call the Insolvency Service customer service helpline on 0300 678 0016. It is open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5pm and on Fridays from 9am to 3pm

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Published 16 May 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: ODS demonstrates significant economic and social impact
Source: City of Oxford

Published: Friday, 16 May 2025

ODS, the City Council wholly owned provider of essential and commercial services in Oxford and Oxfordshire, has released its 2023/24 Economic Impact Assessment.
It reveals a total contribution of £65.6 million Gross Value Added (GVA) to the local economy and the support of over 1,150 jobs.

Established in 2018, the organisation provides a wide range of statutory and commercial services, including waste management, property maintenance, highways and fleet services.

The report, commissioned from SQW, details ODS’s economic, environmental, and social contributions to Oxford and the wider region. SQW are experts in public policy and work with clients to research, implement and evaluate social and economic development. For more details please visit their website.

Key findings include:

employment and economic output: In 2023/24, ODS employed 560 people, generating £35.1m in direct GVA. The company’s operations supported a total of 1,154 jobs, including 728 in Oxford

Social value and community engagement

ODS embeds social impact through a clear commitment to inclusivity, workforce development, and local partnerships. Highlights include:

community partnerships with local schools, charities, and rehabilitation programmes, including employment support for individuals with convictions.

Environmental leadership

As a holder of ISO 14001 and PAS2030 certifications, ODS is accelerating Oxford’s low-carbon future. Key initiatives include:

maintenance of 900 acres of green spaces, and community education on sustainability through schemes like Podback, which collects and recycles Oxford residents’ coffee pods as part of their kerbside recycling and waste collections, and the Waste Education Programme.

Comment

“ODS is more than a service provider – it’s an engine for inclusive, sustainable growth in Oxford. This report shows how ODS is delivering economic value while putting social and environmental purpose at the heart of what it does.”

“ODS”s sustainability work is essential to support the ambition to make Oxford a greener city. Of course there is more to do. ODS’ Carbon Management Plan charts a path to net zero for the company through investment in clean energy, building decarbonisation, and cultural change.”
Councillor Nigel Chapman, Cabinet Member for Citizen Focused Services and Council Companies

“It’s great to see the excellent contribution ODS makes across a range of measures in Oxford and beyond as set out in this report by SQW. Our strap line is ODS – Doing Good – and we mean it.”
Simon Howick, Managing Director, ODS

To read the full report visit the ODS website.

About ODS

ODS is comprised of ODS Limited (ODSL) and ODS Trading Limited (ODSTL). ODSL delivers statutory services and maintains Oxford City Council’s housing stock. ODSTL offers commercial services to businesses and organisations across the Thames Valley. Together, ODS is a vital contributor to Oxford’s economic resilience, environmental goals, and inclusive community ambitions.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: Champion Safe Company Supports Inaugural Buckeye Blast Benefiting The Light Foundation

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Delaware, OH, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Champion Safe Company, a leading manufacturer of premium safes and wholly-owned subsidiary of American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), America’s Patriotic Brand (americanrebel.com), proudly participated in the inaugural Buckeye Blast sporting clay fundraiser, held at Black Wing Shooting Center in Delaware, Ohio. The event benefited The Light Foundation, a nonprofit founded by former New England Patriots offensive tackle and Ohio native Matt Light.

As a sponsor of the event, Champion Safe donated one of its top-tier safes as the grand prize for the raffle drawing, helping raise funds to support the Foundation’s mission of empowering young people to reach their highest potential.

“We’re proud to support the Light Foundation and its mission to build stronger young leaders,” said Tom Mihalek, CEO of Champion Safe Company. “It was a privilege to contribute to such a meaningful event, and we’re thrilled that one of our safes could help generate excitement and support for a great cause.”

The Buckeye Blast brought together outdoor enthusiasts, community leaders, and supporters of youth development for a day of camaraderie and competition. The funds raised will help The Light Foundation continue its impactful leadership programs, outdoor camps, and mentorship initiatives.

Matt Light, who grew up in Greenville, Ohio, expressed his gratitude: “Having Champion Safe on board as a sponsor was a huge win for us. Their donation of a safe for the grand prize raffle added excitement to the event and helped us raise critical funds. It’s always great to see Ohio-based events supported by companies that share our values.”

The event was hosted at Black Wing Shooting Center, a premier firearms and training facility and a proud American Rebel safe dealer.

For more information about Champion Safe Company, visit championsafe.com. To learn more about The Light Foundation, visit mattlight72.com.

Contact: ir@americanrebel.com

About Champion Safe Company

Champion Safe Company has been at the forefront of safe manufacturing for over 25 years, offering a range of high-quality safes designed for ultimate security and fire protection. With a commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, Champion Safes are trusted by homeowners, gun owners, and businesses across the nation. To learn more, visit: championsafe.com

About American Rebel Holdings, Inc.

American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) has operated primarily as a designer, manufacturer and marketer of branded safes and personal security and self-defense products and has recently transitioned into the beverage industry through the introduction of American Rebel Beer. The Company also designs and produces branded apparel and accessories. To learn more, visit americanrebel.com and americanrebelbeer.com. For investor information, visit americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc., (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of participating in the event, actual revenues for fiscal 2025, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2023. Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025
MIL-OSI: Svitlana Buriak wins the 11th IBFD Frans Vanistendael Award
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Amsterdam, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At a ceremony this afternoon, Svitlana Buriak was announced as the winner of the award for her publication titled “International Taxation of Global Value Networks“, published by IBFD Doctoral Series.

The ongoing discussions regarding the allocation of taxing rights between countries in the digital age have primarily centered around concepts such as permanent establishments (PE) and substantive economic presence. In her book, Svitlana Buriak addresses a crucial yet often overlooked aspect: the increasing trend of ‘servicification’ in the global economy. Adopting a multi-disciplinary approach, the author brings into focus the role of intangibles and non-equity modes of internationalization, shedding light on the challenges associated with the division of economic rent that arises from these developments. Overall, an eminently readable and thought-provoking work.

For these reasons, the jury concluded that the publication deserved to win the award, which was personally conferred by Rosa Vanistendael, the widow of Frans Vanistendael.

About the author

Dr. Svitlana Buriak is a tax advisor specializing in transfer pricing at Loyens & Loeff (Amsterdam), assistant professor at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), and director of the UvA Centre for Transfer Pricing and Income Allocation. With around 10 years of experience combining practice and policy-oriented academic work, Dr. Buriak focuses on addressing complex international tax and transfer pricing challenges through innovative and practical solutions. Her approach is grounded in legal research, economics, and policy considerations, taking into account evolving economic and business realities, as well as international relations, aiming to deliver legal analyses that are both legally sound and relevant in today’s global landscape.

Applications and Nominations are welcome for the 12th IBFD Frans Vanistendael Award 2026

Submissions are accepted until 31 December 2025 at ibfd.award@ibfd.org. Competition rules for 2026 will be available on the website as of next week. The 12th Frans Vanistendael Award will be conferred at IBFD’s headquarters in Amsterdam in May 2026.

About IBFD
IBFD is a leading international provider of cross-border tax expertise, with a long-standing history of supporting and contributing to tax research and academic activities. As an independent foundation, IBFD utilizes its global network of tax experts and its Knowledge Centre to serve Fortune 500 companies, governments, international consultancy firms and tax advisers.

Attachment
- Svitlana Buriak wins the 11th IBFD Frans Vanistendael Award
The MIL Network –
May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI: Eightco Announces First Quarter 2025 Financial Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Quarter Driven by Focus on Deploying Capital into the Refurbished Apple Products Business and Prioritizing Financial Stability for Long-Term Growth

First quarter 2025 revenue growth of 25% to $9.9mn compared to $8.0mn for the prior year quarter, due to focus on refurbished apple products sales
First quarter 2025 operating loss of $1.4mn, a reduction of 55% compared to an operating loss of $3.2mn for the prior year quarter, due to lower SG&A and absence of restructuring and severance expenses in the first quarter of 2025

Easton, PA, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Eightco Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ: OCTO) (the “Company” or “Eightco”) today announced financial results for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

Paul Vassilakos, CEO of Eightco and President of Forever 8 Fund, LLC, the Company’s primary operating subsidiary (“Forever 8”), stated “In order to improve our cost structure to deliver long-term value to shareholders, we continue to reduce operating costs and address selling and administrative expenses. Our goal is to remain on this path to further support the Company’s growth as it continues to explore funding options.”

Mr. Vassilakos continued, “Our current operations provide the infrastructure to significantly scale revenues with a relatively modest increase in expenses. I continue to witness substantial progress within Eightco and believe our accomplishments provide a strong foundation to scale revenues rapidly. The demand for our inventory capital, especially in the refurbished apple products business, continues to underscore the value we believe we can bring to clients. We have now emerged from a transformative period, where I am confident in our ability to accelerate growth and drive sustained success for Eightco and our stakeholders.”

Financial Highlights and Commentary

Reallocation of capital back into the refurbished apple products business resulted in revenue growth. This also resulted in a reduction in gross margins from 8.2% for the first quarter of 2025, compared to 17.5% in the first quarter of 2024. The Company also saw a 28% decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses this quarter compared to the prior year quarter, which helped in improving operating losses of $1.4mn compared to a $3.2mn loss in the first quarter of 2024.

First quarter 2025 revenues of $9.9mn representing a 25% improvement on the first quarter 2024 revenue of $8.0mn
First quarter 2025 gross profit of $0.8mn compared to a gross profit $1.4mn in the first quarter of 2024
First quarter 2025 gross profit margin of 8.2%, compared to 17.5% in the first quarter of 2024, due to shift in product mix back into cell phones
A 55% improvement in operating losses, down to a $1.4mn loss in the first quarter of 2025, compared to a $3.2mn loss in the first quarter of 2024
First quarter 2025 SG&A of $2.2mn, down 29% from $3.1mn in the first quarter of 2024, as a result of continued streamlining and operating costs reduction across all areas of the business
First quarter 2025 net loss of $2.5mn compared to a net income of $1.9mn in the first quarter of 2024
First quarter 2025 Adjusted EBITDA loss from continuing operations of $0.8mn, compared to Adjusted EBITDA loss from continuing operations of $1.2mn for the first quarter of 2024

	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2025		2024
Revenues, net	9,913,987		7,958,697
Cost of revenues	9,100,728		6,569,687
Gross profit	813,259		1,389,010

Operating expenses:
Selling, general and administrative expenses	2,229,425		3,127,943
Restructuring and severance	–		1,414,838
Total operating expenses	2,229,425		4,542,781
Operating loss	-1,416,166		-3,153,771

Non-operating income (expense):
Interest income (expense), net	-1,288,804		-1,198,771
Gain on forgiveness of earnout	–		6,100,000
Other income	21,898		26,677
Total non-operating income (expense)	-1,266,906		4,927,906

Net income (loss) before income tax expense	-2,683,072		1,774,135

Income tax expense (benefit)	-28,793		–

Net income (loss) from continuing operations	-2,654,279		1,774,135
Net income from discontinued operations, net of tax	105,553		166,828
Net income (loss)	-2,548,725		1,940,963
Net loss attributable to non-controlling interest	–		-12
Net income (loss) attributable to Eightco Holdings Inc.	-2,548,725		1,940,975


	For the Three Months Ended
	March 31,
	2025		2024
Net income (loss)	(2,654,279	)	1,774,135
Interest (income) expense, net	1,288,804		1,198,771
Gain on forgiveness of interest	–		–
Income tax expense	-28,793		–
Depreciation and amortization	574,642		556,299
EBITDA	(819,626	)	3,529,205
Stock-based compensation	0		0
Loss on issuance of warrants	–		–
Restructuring			1,414,838
Gain on extinguishment of liabilities	–		-6,100,000
Adjusted EBITDA	(819,626	)	(1,155,957	)

Reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA

EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA are non-GAAP performance measures. Management believes EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA, in addition to operating profit, net (loss) income and other GAAP measures, are useful to investors to evaluate the Company’s results because they exclude certain items that are not directly related to the Company’s core operating performance. Investors should recognize that EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA might not be comparable to similarly-titled measures of other companies. These measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute for or superior to, any measure of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP.

Reconciliations of the non-GAAP measures used in this press release are included in the table below. Because GAAP financial measures on a forward-looking basis are not accessible, and reconciling information is not available without unreasonable effort, we have not provided reconciliations for forward-looking non-GAAP measures. Items excluded to arrive at forward-looking non-GAAP measures may have a significant, and potentially unpredictable, impact on our future GAAP results.

A reconciliation of EBITDA and Adjusted EBITDA to the most directly comparable GAAP measure in accordance with SEC Regulation G as above.

About Eightco

Eightco (NASDAQ: OCTO) is committed to growth of its subsidiaries, made up of Forever 8, an inventory capital and management platform for e-commerce sellers, and Ferguson Containers, Inc., a provider of complete manufacturing and logistical solutions for product and packaging needs, through strategic management and investment. In addition, the Company is actively seeking new opportunities to add to its portfolio of technology solutions focused on the e-commerce ecosystem through strategic acquisitions. Through a combination of innovative strategies and focused execution, Eightco aims to create significant value and growth for its portfolio companies and stockholders.

For additional information, please visit www.8co.holdings

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements in this press release other than statements of historical fact could be deemed forward looking. Words such as “plans,” “expects,” “will,” “anticipates,” “continue,” “expand,” “advance,” “develop” “believes,” “guidance,” “target,” “may,” “remain,” “project,” “outlook,” “intend,” “estimate,” “could,” “should,” and other words and terms of similar meaning and expression are intended to identify forward-looking statements, although not all forward-looking statements contain such terms. Forward-looking statements are based on management’s current beliefs and assumptions that are subject to risks and uncertainties and are not guarantees of future performance. Actual results could differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement as a result of various factors, including, without limitation: Eightco’s ability to maintain compliance with the Nasdaq’s continued listing requirements; unexpected costs, charges or expenses that reduce Eightco’s capital resources; Eightco’s inability to raise adequate capital to fund its business; Eightco’s inability to innovate and attract users for Eightco’s products; future legislation and rulemaking negatively impacting digital assets; and shifting public and governmental positions on digital asset mining activity. Given these risks and uncertainties, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. For a discussion of other risks and uncertainties, and other important factors, any of which could cause Eightco’s actual results to differ from those contained in forward-looking statements, see Eightco’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including in its Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on April 15, 2025. All information in this press release is as of the date of the release, and Eightco undertakes no duty to update this information or to publicly announce the results of any revisions to any of such statements to reflect future events or developments, except as required by law.

For further information, please contact:
Investor Relations
investors@8co.holdings

The MIL Network –

May 17, 2025

MIL-OSI: Mercurity Fintech’s Subsidiary Grows Cross-Border Business Advisory Services with New Asia-Pacific Healthcare Client Engagement
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

New York, NY, May 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “our company,” or “MFH”) (NASDAQ: MFH), a digital fintech group, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, Chaince Securities, Inc. (“Chaince Securities”), has secured a new engagement to serve as corporate advisor for a prominent Asia-Pacific healthcare company seeking strategic access to U.S. capital markets.

Growing Cross-Border Advisory Practice

Chaince Securities leverages its expertise in executing complex cross-border transactions for international companies seeking to access the U.S. capital market. This corporate advisory engagement reflects Chaince Securities’ commitment to cross-border advisory mandates.

Cross-Border Business Advisory Service Capabilities

Chaince Securities offers comprehensive cross-border business advisory services, such as:
- Strategic planning and execution support for the listing process
- U.S. regulatory and exchange compliance coordination
- Capital market positioning and investor outreach
- Coordination with legal, auditing, and underwriting teams to support a seamless listing process
“We are honored to serve as a trusted cross-border advisor in this important transaction,” said Shi Qiu, CEO of Mercurity Fintech Holding. “This mandate demonstrates the strength of our advisory platform and validates our commitment to supporting innovative companies as they expand their footprint into U.S. capital markets. Our growing track record establishes Chaince Securities as the go-to partner for Asian companies seeking strategic access to U.S. investors and capital.”

About Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc.

Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (NASDAQ: MFH) is a fintech group powered by blockchain infrastructure, offering technology and financial services. Through its subsidiaries including Chaince Securities, LLC, MFH aims to bridge traditional finance and digital innovation, offering services spanning digital assets, financial advisory, and capital markets solutions.

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

Contacts:

International Elite Capital Inc.
Vicky Chueng
Tel: +1(646) 866-7928
Email: mfhfintech@iecapitalusa.com

The MIL Network –
May 17, 2025

Date	Aggregated volume	Weighted average price per day (EUR)
13.05.2025	19,627	3.565197

Category: Business

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