NewzIntel.com

Category: Business

  • MIL-OSI Global: Bone broth is hyped by celebrities and hailed as a wellness superfood – here’s what the science says

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Dipa Kamdar, Senior Lecturer in Pharmacy Practice, Kingston University

    AB-7272/Shutterstock

    When someone tells you to “clean your plate”, bones usually aren’t included. But for some people, bones – or rather, what’s inside them – are the best part of a meal. Bone broth, once a humble kitchen staple, has surged in popularity in recent years, championed as a superfood by celebrities and wellness influencers.

    Stars such as Salma Hayek and Gwyneth Paltrow are reported to swear by it for beauty and health, while late basketball legend Kobe Bryant used it as a pre-game meal. But bone broth is far from a new discovery – it’s rooted in prehistoric cooking, traditional Chinese medicine and folk remedies around the world.

    So, what exactly is bone broth – and does it live up to the hype?

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

    This nutrient-dense liquid, also known as stock, is made by simmering animal bones and connective tissues, such as cartilage and tendons, for 12 to 48 hours. This slow cooking process extracts nutrients such as collagen, amino acids and minerals into the liquid. The result is a rich, savoury broth that can be sipped on its own or used as a base for soups, sauces and stews.

    While store-bought bone broth is convenient, homemade versions offer better control over ingredients and often greater nutritional value. Typical ingredients include bones (from chicken, beef or fish), water, vinegar (to help extract minerals) and various herbs and vegetables for flavour.

    Skin benefits

    Bone broth is praised for its collagen content – the protein that forms connective tissue in skin, cartilage, tendons and bones. It’s thought to promote joint flexibility and reduce signs of skin ageing.

    Some studies show that hydrolysed collagen (a broken-down form that’s easier to absorb) may improve skin elasticity and hydration, and reduce wrinkles. Other research suggests it may ease joint pain and stiffness, especially in people with osteoarthritis.

    However, most of these studies focus on collagen supplements and, while it’s often marketed as a collagen-rich superfood, research shows that bone broths don’t contain enough collagen to match the effects seen in clinical studies on supplements. Instead, a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamin C and healthy fats is more reliably linked to collagen production.

    Big claims, little evidence

    Bone broth is a source of amino acids such as glutamine, glycine and arginine that are thought to support gut lining integrity and immune function. Glutamine, in particular, may help repair the intestinal wall and prevent “leaky gut” – a condition where toxins and bacteria pass through a weakened gut barrier, potentially causing inflammation.

    Some scientists even suggest links between gut health and conditions such as autism, ADHD, depression and schizophrenia – though this remains a controversial and under-researched area.

    Bone broth is low in calories but high in protein, making it filling and potentially helpful for weight management. It’s also hydrating, providing electrolytes including sodium, potassium and magnesium that are particularly useful during illness or recovery.

    Some evidence supports the idea that nutrients in bone broth, especially amino acids, can reduce inflammation and support immune function. But overall, there is limited human research on the direct benefits of drinking bone broth. There are, however, potential risks to consider before you add it to your diet.

    Heavy metal

    Because animal bones can accumulate heavy metals such as lead, simmering them for long periods may cause these metals to leach into the broth. While studies on this are mixed, the risk may depend on the source and quality of the bones used.

    Consuming bone broth with high levels of heavy metals can pose health risks, including minor ailments like headaches, vomiting and tiredness. But more dangerously, heavy metals can also cause organ damage in the long term.

    Research on toxic metals in bone broth shows mixed results. Since recipes differ, it’s hard to know the exact nutrition content of each broth. Many shop-bought bone broths contain high levels of sodium, which can raise blood pressure and strain the heart and kidneys. Check labels or make your own to control the salt content.

    Bone broth contains glutamate, a naturally occurring amino acid that may cause anxiety, restlessness or headaches in some people, though evidence for this is largely anecdotal.

    Improper storage or preparation of bone broth can lead to bacterial contamination, which can cause gut infections and symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea. Always refrigerate or freeze broth promptly, then reheat it thoroughly before consumption.

    Bone broth can be a nourishing, tasty addition to your diet, especially when made at home with high-quality ingredients. It’s hydrating, packed with protein and rich in flavour. But it’s not a miracle cure, and the health benefits may be more modest than advertised.

    If you’re looking to boost collagen, your best bet is a healthy, balanced diet. Focus on eating plenty of protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables – all of which provide the nutrients your body needs to naturally produce collagen.

    In addition to what’s on your plate, healthy lifestyle habits also play a key role. Prioritise quality sleep (seven to nine hours a night), manage stress, avoid smoking and protect your skin with sunscreen.

    While bone broth may offer some benefits, the scientific evidence supporting its role in collagen production is still limited. Consider it a nourishing supplement to a healthy lifestyle, not a cure-all.

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

    – ref. Bone broth is hyped by celebrities and hailed as a wellness superfood – here’s what the science says – https://theconversation.com/bone-broth-is-hyped-by-celebrities-and-hailed-as-a-wellness-superfood-heres-what-the-science-says-254520

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Can a 10- or 15-minute workout really help you get fit? A sports scientist explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Andrew Scott, Senior Lecturer in Cinical Exercise Physiology, University of Portsmouth

    Even 15 minutes of cycling a day can improve cardiovascular health. Bohdan Malitskiy/ Shutterstock

    In today’s fast-paced world, finding time for exercise can be challenging. This probably explains why short workouts continue to be so popular. But can workouts of only 10 or 15 minutes really help you get fit? The answer, according to research, is a resounding yes. Short workouts can be very effective – offering numerous health benefits with just a small time commitment.

    Research has consistently demonstrated that short bursts of exercise can yield substantial health benefits. A study published in the European Heart Journal found that engaging in vigorous activity for just 15 minutes per week, broken into several short bouts – as little as two minutes of exercise per day – can significantly lower the risk of heart disease, cancer, and early death.

    Participants who accumulated these brief sessions throughout the week experienced an 18% lower risk of dying during the study period, a 40% lower risk of developing heart disease and a 16% drop in cancer risk. Vigorous-intensity activities (meaning they make you breathe harder and increase your heart rate) can include brisk walking, jogging, cycling, rowing, swimming and dancing.

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

    Research has also consistently found that spreading one-minute bursts of vigorous-intensity activities throughout the course of the day is as effective as one continuous, 30-minute workout of moderate intensity or one 20-minute intense workout.

    This means that performing multiple “exercise snacks” can provide similar benefits to a longer workout – including improvements in blood pressure, cardiorespiratory health, blood fat, insulin and blood sugar levels. These findings suggest that short workouts can be a practical and efficient way to maintain overall health.

    Some examples of easy exercise snacks you can incorporate into your day include using the stairs instead of the lift, walking one or two bus stops away from where you usually get on and taking short, brisk walking breaks every hour or two while at the work.

    Making it count

    While short workouts have many advantages, there are some caveats to consider.

    It’s essential that these brief sessions are of at least moderate-to-vigorous intensity to maximise their benefits. This means that even after a short burst of activity, your heart will be beating more quickly, you’ll be breathing heavier and you’ll feel hot and sweaty.

    For exercise novices, lower intensity workouts can still be beneficial in the short term. But as you become more fit, simply performing light activities without challenging yourself further may not provide the same health improvements as more intense or longer exercise sessions.

    Moreover, while short workouts can be effective, they should be complemented by other forms of physical activity to meet the recommended activity guidelines. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week. They should also perform muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week. Short workouts can contribute to these totals, but it’s crucial to ensure a balanced exercise routine.

    You should aim to do a mix of both cardio and strength training workouts each week.
    PeopleImages.com – Yuri A/ Shutterstock

    Another consideration is the potential plateau effect that can happen with any physical activity programme. Research indicates that improvements in aerobic capacity may level off after a few weeks of exercise. Our body becomes used to our exercise routines. As such, we need to change things up in order to promote further progress. This means varying your exercise routine and incorporating longer or more intense sessions periodically.

    Where long workouts win

    While short workouts offer many benefits, there are certain types of fitness that require longer sessions.

    Endurance training, for example, often necessitates extended periods of exercise to improve high-intensity aerobic performance and cardiovascular health benefits. This is why activities such as long-distance running, cycling and swimming are typically performed over a longer duration. However, short, high-intensity exercise training can still be used alongside your usual, longer workouts to boost endurance benefits in a time-efficient way.

    Strength training also benefits from longer workouts. While short, intense sessions can improve muscle strength and power, longer workouts allow for more comprehensive training targeting different muscle groups and incorporating various exercises. This can lead to greater overall muscle development and strength gains.

    Additionally, flexibility and balance exercises, such as yoga and Pilates, can be added throughout the week to boost the results of your workouts. These activities focus on controlled movements and stretching, and can further improve these fitness components even in short sessions.

    Even still, short workouts can be a valuable addition to your fitness regimen – offering significant health benefits and flexibility for busy schedules. But it’s important to ensure these short workouts are at least moderately intense, and combined with other types of exercise throughout your week to achieve optimal results.

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

    – ref. Can a 10- or 15-minute workout really help you get fit? A sports scientist explains – https://theconversation.com/can-a-10-or-15-minute-workout-really-help-you-get-fit-a-sports-scientist-explains-254415

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Statement on New Report on Impacts of Tariffs on U.S. Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    Released During National Small Business Week, New Report Finds That Small Businesses Are Facing Price Hikes And Layoffs As A Result of Trump’s Tariffs
    WASHINGTON, DC – During National Small Business Week, Senator Rosen released the following statement following the release of a new report highlighting the ways in which President Trump’s across-the-board tariffs and tariff uncertainty are harming small businesses across the country. In April, Senator Rosen highlighted the story of a Reno-based small business being hurt by Trump’s tariffs and demanded that the Trump Administration reverse course on its reckless trade policy.
    “Small businesses are the backbone of Nevada’s economy, and Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs are forcing entrepreneurs in our state and across the nation to make difficult decisions,” said Senator Rosen. “This report makes it clear that President Trump’s trade policies are hurting our small businesses by raising costs and pushing them to lay workers off. I’m going to continue pushing to repeal these misguided tariffs.”
    Read the full report from the Joint Economic Committee here. 
    Key points from the report:
    New Committee analysis of data released on May 2 shows that employment at small businesses with fewer than 10 employees declined by 3 percent – 366,400 jobs – since President Trump took office.
    Price hikes: Recent survey data found that 30 percent of small business owners indicated in March that they plan to increase prices – the highest amount reported over the last year.
    The net percentage of small business owners expecting better business conditions declined for the third consecutive month in March – from 37 percent to 21 percent. This represents the largest monthly decline since December 2020.
    Small businesses in the manufacturing, construction, trucking, and restaurant industries are being hit especially hard by tariffs and tariff uncertainty.
    Five of the 12 Federal Reserve Districts recently reported weakening manufacturing activity – in large part due to trade pressures.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: A promising new approach to treating potentially deadly liver disease

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Maria Teresa Borrello, Lecturer, University of Sunderland

    Jo Panuwat D/Shutterstock

    An experimental new treatment is showing early promise in the fight against liver fibrosis – a serious and often silent condition that affects around 2 million people in the UK.

    Liver fibrosis happens when the liver becomes damaged – often due to long-term issues like alcohol use, obesity or chronic infections – and starts to develop scar tissue. Over time, that scarring can get worse and lead to serious complications such as liver failure or cancer.

    The problem is that most people don’t know they have it until the damage is advanced. And there are no approved drugs to stop or reverse the scarring process.

    In a recent study, my colleagues and I found that blocking an enzyme called HDAC6 with new drugs could help reduce liver scarring in people with liver fibrosis.

    This discovery could form the basis of future treatments and offer hope for those living with chronic liver conditions.

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

    Fibrosis occurs when the liver responds to injury by producing too much of the material that normally helps repair tissue, known as the “extracellular matrix”. Over time, this repair process can become unbalanced, leading to a buildup of scar tissue.

    A key part of this process involves hepatic stellate cells. When the liver is injured, these normally inactive cells become activated and turn into scar-producing cells that drive fibrosis.

    HDAC6 helps control how cells respond to stress and inflammation and how they move and organise themselves. Our recent research suggests it also plays an important role in turning on the liver cells that cause scarring after injury. That’s why we’re exploring HDAC6 as a potential target for new treatments that could help prevent or even reverse liver fibrosis.

    In our lab, we developed two new drugs specifically designed to block HDAC6 activity.

    Liver fibrosis explained.

    Liver slices

    To see if these compounds could be useful as treatments, we tested them on precision-cut slices of human liver tissue at Newcastle University. This model keeps the liver’s natural 3D structure and mix of cells, making it a valuable way to study how diseases develop and how drugs might work.

    Our results were striking. Treating the liver slices with HDAC6 inhibitors greatly reduced signs of fibrosis, showing that these compounds can stop – and possibly even reverse – the scarring process at the cellular level.

    The inhibitors showed very little toxicity, suggesting they could be safe for further development.

    This research is a step forward in finding a treatment for liver fibrosis. Unlike previous treatments that targeted broad mechanisms or caused side-effects, our HDAC6 inhibitors provide a more targeted approach. By focusing on a key cause of fibrosis, we may be able to stop the disease before it reaches irreversible stages.

    The implications are enormous. Liver disease is responsible for around 4% of premature deaths globally, and the burden is rising in line with alcohol misuse, obesity, and the use of multiple medications (known as “polypharmacy”). A targeted therapy that interrupts fibrosis at its root could change the lives of tens of thousands of patients annually – not only in the UK but around the world.

    While these early findings are encouraging, more work is needed before HDAC6 inhibitors can be tested in humans.

    Our next steps include refining the experimental drugs, testing their effects in lab animals, and looking at how they might work alongside existing treatments.

    As researchers and healthcare professionals seek new ways to tackle chronic diseases, targeted approaches like this one could redefine how we treat conditions once considered untreatable. For patients with liver fibrosis, this new knowledge could mean a longer, healthier life for millions of people with liver fibrosis.

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

    – ref. A promising new approach to treating potentially deadly liver disease – https://theconversation.com/a-promising-new-approach-to-treating-potentially-deadly-liver-disease-253924

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Natasha Lindstaedt, Professor in the Department of Government, University of Essex

    India has launched military strikes against a number of sites in Pakistan and Pakistan’s side of the disputed region of Kashmir, reportedly killing 26 people and injuring dozens more. India claimed the attacks were on terrorist infrastructure, but Pakistan denied this, and said these were civilians.

    India says another ten people on the Indian side of the Kashmir region have been killed by shelling from Pakistan in the same period.

    The exchange comes two weeks after a terrorist attack in Kashmir killed 26 people. The group Resistance Front (TRF), which India argues is a proxy for the Pakistani-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba, claimed responsibility for the attack.

    India claimed that Pakistan had indirectly supported the terrorist attack, but Pakistan vehemently denies this.

    The escalating conflict between two of the world’s major military powers has the potential to destablise Asia and beyond. Already, many countries around the world, including the UK, France and Russia, have made public their concerns about what happens next.

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

    How do India and Pakistan’s militaries compare?

    India is ranked as one of the world’s top five military nations by Military Watch magazine and Pakistan is ranked ninth. Both countries have nuclear weapons.

    Overall, India is considered to have the military edge with a bigger and more modern military force, while Pakistan has a smaller and more agile force that has been primarily focused on defensive and covert activities.

    While neither country has used nuclear weapons in a conflict, there are always concerns that this norm may be broken. Both countries are nuclear powers with India holding 180 nuclear warheads, and Pakistan possessing about 170.

    Though India has a “no first use” policy, which it claims means the country would never use nuclear weapons first, there have been signs it is reconsidering this policy since 2019.

    Pakistan has never declared a no first use policy and argues that tactical nuclear weapons are important to countering India’s larger conventional forces.

    Details of Indian air strikes.

    The concern is that even if a small nuclear exchange were to take place between the two countries, it could kill up to 20 million people in a matter of days.

    Why are the countries fighting over Kashmir?

    Kashmir has been a source of tension and conflict even before India and Pakistan gained independence from the British empire in 1947. Originally the Muslim-majority Kashmir was free to accede to either India or Pakistan.

    While the local ruler (maharaja), Hari Singh, originally wanted Kashmir to be independent, he eventually sided with India, leading to a conflict in 1947. This resulted in a UN-mediated ceasefire in 1949 and agreement that Kashmir would be controlled partly by Pakistan and partly by India, splitl along what’s known as the Line of Surveillance (or Line of Control).

    As Kashmir is rich in minerals such as borax, sapphire, graphite, marble, gypsum and lithium, the region is strategically important. It is also culturally and historically important to both Pakistan and India.



    Read more:
    India and Pakistan tension escalates with suspension of historic water treaty

    Due to the region’s significance and disagreement over sovereignty, multiple conflicts have taken place over Kashmir, with wars erupting in 1965 and 1999. Tensions were renewed in 2016, after 19 Indian soldiers were killed in Uri, on the Indian side of Kashmir. India responded by launching “surgical strikes” across the Line of Control, targeting alleged militant bases.

    Then in 2019, a bombing in Pulwama (again part of the Indian-administered Kashmir) that killed more than 40 Indian paramilitary personnel led to Indian airstrikes in Balakot which borders Kashmir. This was the first action inside Pakistan since the Indian-Pakistani conflict in 1971 and again led to retaliatory raids from Pakistan and a brief aerial conflict.

    A map of the Kashmir region.
    CIA, CC BY

    These past conflicts never intensified further in part because India applied a massive diplomatic pressure campaign on the US, the UK and Pakistan, warning against escalation, while Pakistan showed a willingness to back down. Both sides as nuclear powers (India gained nuclear weapons in 1974 and Pakistan in 1998) had an understanding that escalating to full-scale war would be incredibly risky.

    What will happen next?

    The question is whether or not cooler heads will prevail this time. The strikes by India, part of Operation Sinhoor, were met with mass approval across many political lines in India, with both the ruling Bharatiya Janata party (BJP) and the opposition Congress party voicing their support for the operation.

    This helps Modi gain more backing, at a time when his popularity has been falling. Modi and the BJP suffered a shocking result in the 2024 election, losing 63 seats out of 543 seats and falling short of a majority in the Lok Sabha (lower house of parliament).

    Under Modi, India has been rapidly becoming more autocratic, another source of concern as such countries are more likely to take risks when it comes to conflict. As power becomes increasingly personalised and dissent is repressed, would-be autocrats may be more likely to take on bold moves to garner more public and elite support.

    Pakistan may also have reason to respond with more force to India’s recent attack than in the past. Pakistan’s powerful military has often stoked fears of a conflict with India to justify its enormous military budget. Regardless of the outcome, it needs a success to sell to its domestic audience.

    Pakistan has been de facto led by its military for decades, which also makes it more likely to engage in conflict. In spite of intervals of civilian rule, the military has always held a lot of power, and in contrast to India (where there is a wider role for a civilian minister of defence), the Pakistani military has more influence over nuclear and security policy.

    Both military regimes and multi-party autocracies may see conflict as a way of gaining legitimacy, particularly if both regimes think their political support is unravelling.

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

    This most recent escalation is also significant because it is the first time in the Kashmir conflict that India has struck at Punjab, considered the heart of Pakistan. Pakistan will face internal pressure to respond, settle the score and restore deterrence.

    Both sides have been resolute in not losing an inch of territory. The question is how quickly diplomatic pressure can work. Neither India nor Pakistan are engaged in security dialogue, and there is no bilateral crisis management mechanisms in place.

    Further complicating matters is that the US’s role as a crisis manager in south Asia has diminished. Under Donald Trump, Washington cannot be counted on. This all makes deescalating this conflict much more difficult.

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

    – ref. Why are India and Pakistan on the brink of war and how dangerous is the situation? An expert explains – https://theconversation.com/why-are-india-and-pakistan-on-the-brink-of-war-and-how-dangerous-is-the-situation-an-expert-explains-256125

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: NC Breaks Tourism Spending Record, Continues to Be #5 Most Visited State

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: NC Breaks Tourism Spending Record, Continues to Be #5 Most Visited State

    NC Breaks Tourism Spending Record, Continues to Be #5 Most Visited State
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    Governor Josh Stein announced today that the overall North Carolina tourism economy held strong against the headwinds of Hurricane Helene. Travelers spent more than $36.7 billion on trips to and within the state in 2024. The previous record of $35.6 billion was set in 2023. 

    “Today’s news underscores what we all know: North Carolina is a fantastic place to visit,” said Governor Josh Stein. “As our mountain economies worked to recover from Helene, our Piedmont and coastal destinations remained popular and contributed to the growth of North Carolina’s tourism economy. We must continue to support tourism and small businesses in western North Carolina to help them come back stronger.”

    Governor Stein’s announcement coincides with National Travel and Tourism Week (May 4-10), when travel and tourism professionals across the country unite to underscore the value of travel to the economy, businesses, communities, and personal well-being. The state’s Welcome Centers will host activities throughout the week.  

    The state’s tourism-supported workforce increased 1.4 percent to 230,338 jobs in 2024.  Tourism payroll increased 2.6 percent to $9.5 billion. As a result of visitor spending, state and local governments saw rebounds in tax revenues to nearly $2.7 billion.   

    The figures are preliminary findings from research commissioned by Visit North Carolina, part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, and conducted by Tourism Economics. In measuring the economic value of the travel sector, the research incorporates a broad range of data sources to ensure that the entire visitor economy is quantified in detail. The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OmniTrak visitor profiles, the U.S. Census, STR, AirDNA and KeyData lodging reports, and the NC Department of Revenue are among the sources included in this comprehensive model. More information about the study can be found online at partners.visitnc.com/economic-impact-studies, which also links to archived reports dating back to 2005.

    The statistics published today report data from a statewide perspective.  Later this year, a supplemental report will provide regional and local visitor data, offering a better perspective on Helene’s impact on western North Carolina’s tourism economy.

    With nearly 40 million visitors from across the United States, North Carolina ranks No. 5 behind California, Florida, Texas, and New York in domestic visitation. The past four years have seen tight competition with Pennsylvania and Tennessee for fifth place. In addition to 2024’s record spending by domestic travelers, North Carolina also saw gains in the international market. With more than 900,000 international travelers, spending rose 16.5 percent to nearly $1.2 billion.  

    “North Carolinians in all 100 counties benefit from the money that visitors spend,” said Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “From our smallest towns to our largest cities, tourism means jobs for more than 50,000 small businesses and our first-in-talent workforce. These workers address travelers’ needs for transportation as well as lodging, dining, shopping, and recreation.”

    As a result of travelers’ contributions to state and local tax revenue, North Carolina households average $593 in yearly savings.   

    Learn more about NC tourism:

    • Total spending by domestic and international visitors in North Carolina reached $36.7 billion in 2024. That sum represents a 3.1 percent increase over 2023 expenditures.   
    • Domestic travelers spent a record $35.6 billion in 2024. Spending was up 2.7 percent from $34.6 billion in 2023.   
    • International travelers spent $1.2 billion in 2024, up 16.5 percent from the previous year.   
    • Visitors to North Carolina generated nearly $4.6 billion in federal, state, and local taxes in 2024. The total represents a 2.9 percent increase from 2023.   
    • State tax receipts from visitor spending rose 1.1 percent to nearly $1.4 billion in 2024.   
    • Local tax receipts grew 4.3 percent to nearly $1.3 billion.  
    • Direct tourism employment in North Carolina increased 1.4 percent to 230,338.   
    • Direct tourism payroll increased 2.6 percent to $9.5 billion.   
    • Visitors spend more than $100 million per day in North Carolina. That spending adds $7.3 million per day to state and local tax revenues (about $3.7 million in state taxes and $3.6 million in local taxes).   
    • Each North Carolina household saved $593 on average in state and local taxes as a direct result of visitor spending in the state. Savings per capita averaged $241.  

    About Visit North Carolina:  

    Visit NC, the state’s official destination marketing organization, is part of the Economic Development Partnership of North Carolina, a private nonprofit corporation that serves as North Carolina’s economic development organization. The EDPNC focuses on business and job recruitment, existing industry support, international trade, tourism, and film marketing. 

    The mission of Visit NC is to unify and lead the state in positioning North Carolina as a preferred destination for leisure travel, group tours, meetings and conventions, sports events, and film production. Each year, North Carolina welcomes about 40 million visitors who spend nearly $37 billion during their stay. The tourism industry employs more than 230,000 people and generates nearly $2.7 billion in state and local tax revenues. For travel ideas and inspiration, go to VisitNC.com.

    May 7, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Crapo, Wyden Introduce Bill to Improve Wetland Habitats in the Pacific Northwest

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho Mike Crapo

    Washington, D.C.–U.S. Senators Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) and Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) introduced bipartisan legislation that would improve wetland habitats in the Pacific Northwest.

    “Preserving critical wetland habitat is vital to protecting open landscapes for the diverse species–including numerous varieties of birds and fish–that call Idaho home,” Crapo said.  “Investments in public-private partnerships in Idaho and the Pacific Northwest will help keep wild spaces wild and protect the natural wonders that Idahoans treasure.”

    “Restoring our wetlands is about more than just providing habitat for birds and other wildlife living along the Pacific Northwest coast.  It is about investing in the watersheds where Tribes, farmers and other local Pacific Northwest communities have maintained their way of life for generations,” Wyden said.  “Our bipartisan bill will make sure Oregonians and people across the Pacific Northwest can continue to benefit from healthy landscapes that provide the clean water and habitat that make our region so special.”

    The Northwest Wetlands Voluntary Incentives Program Act would establish a federal grant and assistance program empowering government agencies, tribes, nonprofits and landowners, among other entities, to work together in both restoring and enhancing habitats for wetland-dependent birds living in the Columbia River Basin and along the coast of Oregon and Washington. These projects include water infrastructure and management and enhancement of vegetative habitat, which could be implemented on public, private, Tribal and other land determined by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior.    

    The Northwest Wetlands Voluntary Incentives Program Act is endorsed by Idaho Wildlife Federation, Idaho Sportsmen, Ducks Unlimited, Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture, Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts and Oregon Agricultural Trust.

    “We appreciate Senators Crapo and Wyden introducing the NW Wetlands VIP Act.  Sportsmen and the wildlife we work to conserve–as well as area farmers that are such critical partners in landscape conservation–will benefit from the habitat restoration opportunities and infrastructure improvements that this legislation will provide,” said Nick Fasciano, Executive Director of the Idaho Wildlife Federation.  “As our wetland habitats face long-term threats of degradation and fragmentation, this legislation is all the more critical.”

    “Access and opportunity for the sportsmen and women of Idaho who hunt, fish, trap and recreationally shoot, is paramount.  In a state where water is our most precious resource, Idaho farmers and landowners are working hard to provide more managed wetlands and habitat,” said Benn Brocksome, Founder and Chairman of Idaho Sportsmen, Access & Opportunity.  “Many landowners in Idaho, and across the West, share our conservation goals and work with sportsmen in a pragmatic and collaborative way to meet the needs of Idaho.  These efforts should be supported, bolstered and recognized with the passage of this important bill.”

    “This important legislation will bring much needed resources for improving water infrastructure to provide multi-benefits for agricultural lands and wetland habitats in the Northwest and Columbia River Basin,” said Jeff McCreary, Operations Director for the Western Region of Ducks Unlimited.  “We are thankful to Senators Wyden and Crapo for introducing the Northwest Wetlands VIP Act.”

    “The Northwest Wetlands VIP Act is strongly aligned with the priorities of Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture (Pacific Birds).  The bill supports wetlands conservation on the coast of Oregon and Washington and within the Columbia River Basin; areas that are vital for millions of waterbirds and wetland-dependent species.  The proposal represents a smart federal investment in durable ecosystems, strong partnerships, and natural and working landscapes,” said Glenn Lamb, Vice Chair of the Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture Board of Directors.  “It offers an actionable way to advance Pacific Birds’ priorities and deliver real benefits for wildlife, communities and the economy of the Pacific Northwest.  The NW Wetlands VIP Act emphasizes collaboration among Tribes, nonprofits, local governments and landowners–consistent with Pacific Birds’ partnership-driven approach.  This bill will provide resources for the installation, maintenance and replacement of critical infrastructure, which aligns with Pacific Birds’ goal to support long-term habitat management while emphasizing multi-species benefits and multi-benefit projects, and empowering collaborative on-the-ground action.”

    “The Columbia River?Basin holds critical habitat for migratory birds and other wetland dependent species,” said Joe Buttafuoco, Executive Director at Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts (COLT).  “COLT and our members are thrilled about the bipartisan NW?Wetlands VIP?Act.  This bill would offer grants that land trusts, Tribes, private landowners and nonprofits can use to improve habitat, manage invasive species and restore floodplain connectivity.  Thank you to Senators?Wyden and?Crapo for advancing this important legislation.”

    “The Northwest Wetlands VIP Act would bring critical infrastructure dollars to Pacific Northwest farmers and ranchers. These water management projects not only enhance and restore wetland habitat for migratory birds, but help producers improve agricultural production on parts of their properties,” said Nellie McAdams, Executive Director of Oregon Agricultural Trust.  “The Act also provides funding to support conservation easements (up to 10% of the total grant award) which protect farms and ranches for agriculture and associated habitat.”

    The text of the bill is here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Coface SA: Publication of Group and Standalone SFCR as of 31 December 2024

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    COFACE SA: Publication of Group and Standalone SFCR as of 31 December 2024

    Paris, 7 May 2025 – 17.45

    COFACE SA has published today its Solvency and Financial Condition Report (SFCR) for COFACE SA (Group) and Compagnie française d’assurance pour le commerce extérieur (the « Compagnie »), in compliance with the Solvency II requirements1.

    The Board of Directors of COFACE SA and the Compagnie, respectively approved the SFCR for the financial year 2024. This report is produced on an annual basis:

    • for Coface Group, involving COFACE SA and its main subsidiaries in France and outside France;
    • for the Compagnie, on a standalone basis.

    HIGHLIGHTS

    • To assess its solvency, COFACE SA uses the partial internal model approved by the ACPR in 2019. The Compagnie’s solvency is still assessed using the interpretation of the standard formula.
    • As of 31 December 2024, eligible own funds to cover the Group’s SCR amounted to €2,630 million, which broke down as follows:
      • 75% of Tier 1 capital;
      • 24% of Tier 2 capital;
      • 1% of Tier 3 capital, representing deferred tax assets.
    • The Group’s SCR coverage ratio of 196%2 at the end of 2024 reflects a solvency ratio above its target range (155% -175%). This level supports the Group’s decision to distribute 80% of its net profit for 2024 by a €1.403 dividend per share.
    • The coverage ratio of the Compagnie SCR (Solo) at the end of 2024 is 237%4.

    The full report is available on the website of the Company at the following address:
    https://www.coface.com/investors/regulated-information/annual-reports

    CONTACTS

    ANALYSTS / INVESTORS
    Thomas JACQUET: +33 1 49 02 12 58 – thomas.jacquet@coface.com
    Rina ANDRIAMIADANTSOA: +33 1 49 02 15 85 – rina.andriamiadantsoa@coface.com

    MEDIA RELATIONS
    Saphia GAOUAOUI: +33 1 49 02 14 91 – saphia.gaouaoui@coface.com
    Adrien BILLET: +33 1 49 02 23 63 – adrien.billet@coface.com

    FINANCIAL CALENDAR 2025
    (subject to change)

    Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting: 14 May 2025
    H1-2025 results: 31 July 2025 (after market close)
    9M-2025 results: 3 November 2025 (after market close)

    FINANCIAL INFORMATION
    This press release, as well as COFACE SA’s integral regulatory information, can be found on the Group’s website: http://www.coface.com/Investors

    For regulated information on Alternative Performance Measures (APM), please refer to our Interim Financial Report for H1-2024 and our 2024 Universal Registration Document (see part 3.7 “Key financial performance indicators”).

    Regulated documents posted by COFACE SA have been secured and authenticated with the blockchain technology by Wiztrust.
    You can check the authenticity on the website www.wiztrust.com.
     

    COFACE: FOR TRADE
    As a global leading player in trade credit risk management for more than 75 years, Coface helps companies grow and navigate in an uncertain and volatile environment.
    Whatever their size, location or sector, Coface provides 100,000 clients across some 200 markets with a full range of solutions: Trade Credit Insurance, Business Information, Debt Collection, Single Risk insurance, Surety Bonds, Factoring.
    Every day, Coface leverages its unique expertise and cutting-edge technology to make trade happen, in both domestic and export markets.
    In 2024, Coface employed ~5,236 people and registered a turnover of €1.84 billion.

    www.coface.com

    COFACE SA is quoted in Compartment A of Euronext Paris
    Code ISIN: FR0010667147 / Ticker: COFA

    DISCLAIMER – Certain declarations featured in this press release may contain forecasts that notably relate to future events, trends, projects or targets. By nature, these forecasts include identified or unidentified risks and uncertainties, and may be affected by many factors likely to give rise to a significant discrepancy between the real results and those stated in these declarations. Please refer to chapter 5 “Main risk factors and their management within the Group” of the Coface Group’s 2024 Universal Registration Document filed with AMF on 5 April 2024 under the number D.25-0227 in order to obtain a description of certain major factors, risks and uncertainties likely to influence the Coface Group’s businesses. The Coface Group disclaims any intention or obligation to publish an update of these forecasts, or provide new information on future events or any other circumstance.

    1 The Solvency II Directive (i) formalises and organises information requests, and (ii) clarifies the governance requirements and processes to be followed by insurers. In particular, the regulations provide for the establishment of two narrative reports: one for the Regulator (RSR) and one for the public (SFCR).
    2 Final calculation of the SCR coverage ratio using the partial group internal model. Non audited.
    3 Ex-dividend date is on 20 May 2025 and Payment date is on 22 May 2025. The proposed distribution of €1.40 per share is subject to approval of the Annual Shareholders’ Meeting that takes place on 14 May 2025.
    4 Final calculation of the SCR coverage ratio according to Coface’s interpretation of Solvency II standard formula. Non audited.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: International Petroleum Corporation Announces 2025 Annual General Meeting Voting Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    International Petroleum Corporation (IPC or the Corporation) (TSX, Nasdaq Stockholm: IPCO) is pleased to announce the voting results from the Corporation’s 2025 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders held on May 7, 2025 in Calgary, Alberta.

    Number of Directors

    The number of Directors of the Corporation was set at eight.

    Votes For % For Votes Against % Against
    62,055,815 99.98 10,847 0.02

    Election of Directors

    The eight nominees listed in the Corporation’s management information circular dated March 24, 2025 (the Circular) were elected as Directors of the Corporation to hold office until the next annual meeting of shareholders or until their successors are duly elected or appointed, unless the office is earlier vacated, as described in the Circular.

    Nominee Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld
    C. Ashley Heppenstall 60,675,041 97.76 1,391,621 2.24
    William Lundin 61,771,676 99.52 294,986 0.48
    Chris Bruijnzeels 55,217,620 88.97 6,849,042 11.03
    Donald Charter 61,638,931 99.31 427,731 0.69
    Lukas H. (Harry) Lundin 61,665,996 99.35 400,666 0.65
    Emily Moore 61,832,709 99.62 233,953 0.38
    Mike Nicholson 61,665,366 99.35 401,296 0.65
    Deborah Starkman 61,673,369 99.37 393,293 0.63

    Appointment of Auditor

    PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP was appointed as auditor of the Corporation until the next annual meeting of shareholders and the Directors of the Corporation were authorized to fix the auditor’s remuneration.

    Votes For % For Votes Withheld % Withheld
    62,220,145 99.98 12,337 0.02

    International Petroleum Corp. (IPC) is an international oil and gas exploration and production company with a high quality portfolio of assets located in Canada, Malaysia and Europe, providing a solid foundation for organic and inorganic growth. IPC is a member of the Lundin Group of Companies. IPC is incorporated in Canada and IPC’s shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX) and the Nasdaq Stockholm under the symbol “IPCO”.

    For further information, please contact:

    Rebecca Gordon
    SVP Corporate Planning and Investor Relations
    rebecca.gordon@international-petroleum.com
    Tel: +41 22 595 10 50

    Or

    		 Robert Eriksson
    Media Manager
    reriksson@rive6.ch
    Tel: +46 701 11 26 15

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains statements and information which constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” (within the meaning of applicable securities legislation). Such statements and information (together, “forward-looking statements”) relate to future events, including the Corporation’s future performance, business prospects or opportunities. Actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, unless otherwise indicated. IPC does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by applicable laws.

    All statements other than statements of historical fact may be forward-looking statements. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, forecasts, guidance, budgets, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “seek”, “anticipate”, “plan”, “continue”, “estimate”, “expect”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “forecast”, “predict”, “potential”, “targeting”, “intend”, “could”, “might”, “should”, “believe”, “budget” and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be “forward-looking statements”.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Media relations:
    Victoire Grux
    Tel. : +33 6 04 52 16 55
    victoire.grux@capgemini.com

    Investor relations:
    Vincent Biraud
    Tel. : +33 1 47 54 50 87
    vincent.biraud@capgemini.com

    Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025

    Paris, May 7, 2025 – The Shareholders’ Meeting of Capgemini SE, held today at the Pavillon Gabriel in Paris, adopted all the resolutions proposed by the Board of Directors.

    Shareholders approved the proposed distribution of a dividend of 3.40 euros per share in respect to the 2024 financial year, to be paid from May 22, 2025, with an ex-dividend date of May 20, 2025.

    The Shareholders’ Meeting also approved the renewal of the terms of office of Mr. Patrick Pouyanné and Mr. Kurt Sievers, independent directors, and the appointment of Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry as member of the Board of Directors, for a term of four years.

    Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry, a French national, is the President and Chief Executive Officer of STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor company at the heart of the Intelligent Industry, committed to manufacturing sustainable technologies and offering its customers innovative solutions. He also brings to the Board his expertise in technology, artificial intelligence, and industry knowledge, particularly in the automotive and energy sectors. The Board has indicated that it considers Mr. Jean-Marc Chéry to be an independent director in accordance with the criteria of the AFEP-MEDEF Code to which the Company refers.

    At the end of this Shareholders’ Meeting, the Board of Directors of Capgemini SE has 15 directors1, including two directors representing employees and one director representing employee shareholders. Of its members, 83% are independent directors2, 40% are international directors, and 42% are women2.

    Moreover, the Shareholders’ Meeting approved, by a vast majority, the 2024 compensation components and benefits paid or granted to Paul Hermelin, Chairman of the Board, as well as to Aiman Ezzat, Chief Executive Officer. The report on the compensation of corporate officers and the various 2025 compensation policies for executive corporate officers and directors was also approved.

    Finally, the Shareholders’ Meeting approved the amendment of the Company’s bylaws and all the financial delegations granted to the Board of Directors.

    A detailed breakdown of voting results as well as full webcast of the Shareholders’ Meeting can be found on the Capgemini website: https://investors.capgemini.com/en/event/2025-shareholders-meeting/.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.
    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    APPENDIX 1

    Composition of the Capgemini SE Board of Directors and of its committees following the Shareholders’ Meeting of May 7, 2025

    Composition of the Board of Directors:
    Paul Hermelin – Chairman
    Aiman Ezzat – CEO
    Jean-Marc Chéry
    Megan Clarken
    Ulrica Fearn
    Maria Ferraro
    Pierre Goulaieff – Director representing employees
    Siân Herbert-Jones
    Hervé Jeannin – Director representing employees
    Christophe Merveilleux du Vignaux – Director representing employee shareholders
    Belen Moscoso del Prado Lopez-Doriga
    Xavier Musca
    Frédéric Oudéa – Lead Independent Director and Vice-Chairman
    Patrick Pouyanné
    Kurt Sievers

    Composition of the committees of the Board:

    Audit & Risk Committee: Xavier Musca (Chair), Ulrica Fearn, Maria Ferraro, Siân Herbert-Jones. 

    Compensation Committee: Patrick Pouyanné (Chair), Pierre Goulaieff, Christophe Merveilleux du Vignaux, Belen Moscoso del Prado, Kurt Sievers.

    Ethics & Governance Committee: Frédéric Oudéa (Chair), Siân Herbert-Jones, Xavier Musca, Patrick Pouyanné.

    Strategy & CSR Committee: Paul Hermelin (Chair), Jean-Marc Chéry, Megan Clarken, Aiman Ezzat, Hervé Jeannin, Kurt Sievers.

    1 See the composition of the Capgemini SE Board of Directors and its committees in the appendix.
    2 The directors representing employees and employee shareholders are not taken into account in calculating this percentage, in accordance with the provisions of the AFEP-MEDEF Code and the French Commercial Code currently in force.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Societe Generale: shares & voting rights as of 30 April 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NUMBER OF SHARES COMPOSING CURRENT SHARE CAPITAL AND TOTAL NUMBER OF VOTING RIGHTS AS OF 30 APRIL 2025

    Regulated Information

    Paris, 7 May 2025

    Information about the total number of voting rights and shares pursuant to Article L.233-8 II of the French Commercial Code and Article 223-16 of the AMF General Regulations.

    Date Number of shares composing current share capital Total number of
    voting rights
    30 April 2025 800,316,777

    Gross: 888,385,614

    Press contacts:

    Jean-Baptiste Froville_+33 1 58 98 68 00_ jean-baptiste.froville@socgen.com
    Fanny Rouby_+33 1 57 29 11 12_ fanny.rouby@socgen.com

    Societe Generale

    Societe Generale is a top tier European Bank with around 119,000 employees serving more than 26 million clients in 62 countries across the world. We have been supporting the development of our economies for 160 years, providing our corporate, institutional, and individual clients with a wide array of value-added advisory and financial solutions. Our long-lasting and trusted relationships with the clients, our cutting-edge expertise, our unique innovation, our ESG capabilities and leading franchises are part of our DNA and serve our most essential objective – to deliver sustainable value creation for all our stakeholders.

    The Group runs three complementary sets of businesses, embedding ESG offerings for all its clients:

    • French Retail, Private Banking and Insurance, with leading retail bank SG and insurance franchise, premium private banking services, and the leading digital bank BoursoBank.
    • Global Banking and Investor Solutions, a top tier wholesale bank offering tailored-made solutions with distinctive global leadership in equity derivatives, structured finance and ESG.
    • Mobility, International Retail Banking and Financial Services, comprising well-established universal banks (in Czech Republic, Romania and several African countries), Ayvens (the new ALD I LeasePlan brand), a global player in sustainable mobility, as well as specialized financing activities.

    Committed to building together with its clients a better and sustainable future, Societe Generale aims to be a leading partner in the environmental transition and sustainability overall. The Group is included in the principal socially responsible investment indices: DJSI (Europe), FTSE4Good (Global and Europe), Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index, Refinitiv Diversity and Inclusion Index, Euronext Vigeo (Europe and Eurozone), STOXX Global ESG Leaders indexes, and the MSCI Low Carbon Leaders Index (World and Europe).

    For more information, you can follow us on Twitter/X @societegenerale or visit our website societegenerale.com.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Decisions from JLT Mobile Computers ABs (publ) Annual General Meeting Wednesday May 7th , 2025 (Swedish only)

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Växjö, Sverige, 7:e maj 2025 * * * JLT Mobile Computers, informerar att årsstämma i JLT Mobile Computers AB (publ) hölls onsdagen den 7e maj 2025 i Växjö där följande huvudsakliga beslut fattades.

    Årsstämman beslutade att fastställa framlagd resultat- och balansräkning för moderbolaget och koncernen. Årsstämman beslutade, i enlighet med styrelsens förslag, att ingen utdelning lämnas till aktieägarna för räkenskapsåret 2024.

    Styrelseledamöterna och verkställande direktören beviljades ansvarsfrihet för 2024 års förvaltning.

    I enlighet med valberedningens förslag beslutades att styrelsen ska bestå av sex ledamöter utan suppleanter. Till styrelseledamöter för tiden intill slutet av nästa årsstämma omvaldes Ola Blomberg, Jan Sjöwall, Jessica Svenmar, Per Ädelroth och Karl Hill samt nyvaldes Tommy Svensson. Stämman beslutade att omvälja Ola Blomberg till styrelseordförande. Beslutades att ha en revisor utan suppleanter. Luminor Revision AB omvaldes som revisor.

    Årsstämman beslutade, i enlighet med valberedningens förslag, att styrelsearvodet ska utgå med totalt 700 000 kronor, varav styrelsens ordförande ska erhålla 200 000 kronor och övriga ledamöter ska erhålla 100 000 kronor vardera. Årsstämman beslutade även att arvode till bolagets revisor ska utgå enligt godkänd räkning.

    Årsstämman beslutade vidare att bolaget ska ha en valberedning bestående av tre ledamöter, varvid en ledamot ska utses av var och en av de tre största aktieägarna i bolaget. Ordförande i valberedningen ska, om inte ledamöterna enas om annat, vara den ledamot som utses av den största aktieägaren.

    Årsstämman beslutade slutligen, i enlighet med styrelsens förslag, om bemyndigande för styrelsen att under tiden intill nästa årsstämma, vid ett eller flera tillfällen, fatta beslut om nyemission av högst 2 871 200 aktier, vilket motsvarar 10 procent av antalet aktier i bolaget per dagen för årsstämman. Styrelsen ska därvid ha rätt att besluta om avvikelse från aktieägarnas företrädesrätt samt bestämmelse om apport, kvittning eller annat villkor.

    Further financial information can be found on JLT’s investor pages

    This information is information that JLT Mobile Computers AB (pub) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and the Securities Markets Act. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person set out above, at 6:00 pm CET Wednesday May 7, 2025.

    About JLT Mobile Computers

    JLT Mobile Computers is a leading developer and supplier of rugged mobile computing devices and solutions for demanding environments. 30 years of development and manufacturing experience have enabled JLT to set the standard in rugged computing, combining outstanding product quality with expert service, support and solutions to ensure trouble-free business operations for customers in warehousing, transportation, manufacturing, mining, ports and agriculture. JLT operates globally from offices in Sweden, France, and the US, complemented by an extensive network of sales partners in local markets. The company was founded in 1994, and the share has been listed on the Nasdaq First North Growth Market stock exchange since 2002 under the symbol JLT. Eminova Fondkommission AB acts as Certified Adviser. Learn more at jltmobile.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: AKITA Drilling Welcomes Senator Cruz and EPA Administrator Zeldin to Permian Basin Operations

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: AKITA Drilling Welcomes Senator Cruz and EPA Administrator Zeldin to Permian Basin Operations

    AKITA Drilling Ltd., an IADC Member company, recently hosted U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin, and IADC Senior Director of Government & Industry Affairs Operations Thad Dunham at AKITA Rig 801 in Midland, Texas.

    Cruz and Zeldin first toured a gas operating facility before arriving at the AKITA drilling site. The visit marked Administrator Zeldin’s first experience on a drilling rig, providing him a valuable opportunity to witness safe operations firsthand, including observing a pipe connection procedure. The AKITA crew demonstrated professional excellence while engaging with their guests and showcasing the facility’s operations.

    These site visits play a crucial role in educating government officials who shape industry regulations, allowing them to gain practical understanding of drilling operations and safety protocols. The AKITA visit represented just one stop during Cruz and Zeldin’s press tour throughout the region.

    Following their industry tours, Senator Cruz and Administrator Zeldin held a press conference where they discussed the strategic importance of American energy, among other key policy matters.

    IADC extends sincere appreciation to AKITA Drilling for their exceptional representation of the drilling industry and for fostering meaningful connections with government leadership that benefit our entire sector.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Northern Arabian Gulf Chapter Sees Great Turnout for Annual Golf Tournament

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: Northern Arabian Gulf Chapter Sees Great Turnout for Annual Golf Tournament

    On Friday 25 April, the IADC Northern Arabian Gulf Chapter hosted its annual golf tournament at the Royal Golf Club in Bahrain. There was a fantastic turnout with 52 participating teams, the highest amount in the event’s history. The tournament was followed by dinner and a prize awarding ceremony. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI: Flipido Trading Center Launches ‘Flipido Learn’ Platform to Empower Crypto Investors Through Education

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Arvada, CO, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Flipido Trading Center has launched a dedicated educational platform, Flipido Learn, to help users better understand digital assets, trading strategies, and market dynamics. This new initiative reflects the company’s ongoing commitment to responsible trading and financial literacy in the fast-growing crypto sector.

    Flipido Learn offers a structured curriculum of multimedia resources, including video tutorials, interactive quizzes, market explainers, and live webinars hosted by industry experts. Topics range from blockchain fundamentals and asset security to advanced technical analysis and decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols.

    “Education is the cornerstone of a healthy trading environment,” said Valerie, Head of Community Engagement at Flipido Trading Center. “Flipido Learn is designed to give users the tools they need to make informed decisions and navigate crypto markets with confidence.”

    To meet the needs of a global user base, the platform is multilingual and segmented into beginner, intermediate, and advanced learning tracks. Users can progress at their own pace and earn digital certificates upon completion of each module.

    In addition to self-paced courses, Flipido Learn includes weekly live sessions with analysts, portfolio managers, and fintech researchers. These sessions offer real-time insights into market trends, regulatory developments, and emerging technologies shaping the crypto landscape.

    The launch of Flipido Learn complements the platform’s existing security and trading infrastructure, which includes an AI-powered risk control engine, institutional-grade custody, and millisecond-level order matching. By integrating education with technology, Flipido aims to bridge the knowledge gap and promote long-term user engagement.

    Flipido also plans to collaborate with universities, nonprofit organizations, and regional fintech associations to extend access to blockchain education in underserved communities. The company has announced an upcoming scholarship program for students pursuing careers in digital finance and data science.

    With scams and misinformation still prevalent in the crypto space, Flipido Learn provides a reliable and neutral knowledge base for both novice and experienced investors. As digital asset adoption expands, the initiative is expected to enhance user trust and market participation.

    Flipido Trading Center continues to position itself as more than just a trading platform—it is a gateway to the broader digital economy, built on transparency, innovation, and user empowerment.

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: IADC Lexicon Featured Term for May 2025

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: IADC Lexicon Featured Term for May 2025

    The IADC Lexicon is an oil and gas dictionary of upstream-related terms, which, unlike conventional glossaries, are official definitions drawn from legislation, regulation and regulatory guidance, standards (global, national and regional), IADC guidelines, and Well Control Institute. Terms often have multiple definitions from different sources.

    This month’s featured term is:

    Return Flow Control

    MPD technique which diverts returned fluid flow away from the rig floor in order to handle any formation fluid influx, thereby avoiding closing of a BOP, with the subsequent well control steps that are customarily required. RFC is drilling with a closed annulus return system (RCD) immediately under the rig floor for complete assurance of the total diversion of any rapidly developing kick.

    Source: ABS Guide for Classification and Certification of Managed Pressure Drilling Systems, September 2017. Global Standards

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Innovation Saskatchewan Making an Impact at Uniting the Prairies Tech Conference

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on May 7, 2025

    Innovation Saskatchewan is proud to support Saskatchewan’s tech sector through a $25,000 investment in Uniting the Prairies (UP), the Prairies’ premier startup-focused tech conference hosted by Co.Labs. 

    The conference’s unique focus on connecting tech founders with active investors and industry leaders attracts more than 650 investors, startups and community members from across the country. This event aims to showcase the province’s rapidly evolving tech hub in Saskatoon.  

    “Saskatchewan has a thriving tech sector that is advancing world class technologies and generating significant growth across our province,” Minister Responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan Warren Kaeding said. “Uniting the Prairies provides a unique opportunity to showcase both the innovators and the environment that support our renowned innovation ecosystem.”  

    UP facilitates networking opportunities, potential funding through pitch competitions and insightful discussions with tech experts that catalyze tangible results for startup attendees. For example, in 2024, four women-led startups received a combined $135,000 from angel investors at the event, including $25,000 for Battleford, Sask.-based Combine Settings.  

    “Uniting the Prairies has grown into the largest annual gathering of the Saskatchewan tech community and a place to showcase the best and fastest growing prairie startups on the National stage,” Uniting the Prairies and Executive Director of Co.Labs Jonathan Lipoth said. “We are all set for our biggest and best conference yet.”  

    The province’s tech sector is on track to surpass Saskatchewan’s Growth Plan goal of tripling the tech sector by 2030, according to a report commissioned by Innovation Saskatchewan in 2024.  

    Notably, the report shows Saskatchewan’s tech sector experienced a 108.6 per cent increase in employment growth rate since 2019 – the largest employment growth rate out of all prairie provinces, outpacing both Alberta and Manitoba.  

    In addition to funding programs and incentives like the Saskatchewan Technology Startup Incentive (STSI) and the Agtech Growth Fund (AGF), tech incubators such as Co.Labs have helped reduce technical risk and incentivize local investments in Saskatchewan companies, fueling growth.  

    UP participants can visit Innovation Saskatchewan’s booth on site to learn how the agency helps Great Ideas Grow Here and enter to win a Work to Play Getaway in partnership with Tourism Saskatchewan.  

    The conference takes place May 7-8 at the Remai Modern in Saskatoon.  

    -30-

    For more information, contact:

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Opens New Business Recovery Center in McCracken County

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    ATLANTA – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the opening of a Business Recovery Center (BRC) in McCracken County to assist small businesses, nonprofits and residents affected by severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes, flooding, landslides and mudslides occurring April 2.

    Beginning Wednesday, May 7, SBA customer service representatives will be on hand at the BRC to answer questions about SBA’s disaster loan program, explain the application process and help individuals complete their application. Walk-ins are accepted, but you can schedule an in-person appointment in advance at appointment.sba.gov.

    The BRC’s hours of operation are listed below.

    Business Recovery Center (BRC)

    McCracken County

    McCracken County Rescue Vehicle Building Entrance

    3700 Coleman Road

    Paducah, KY 42001

    Opening: Wednesday, May 7, 1 p.m. to 6 p.m.

    Hours:     Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

    Saturday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

    Closed: Sunday

    “SBA’s Business Recovery Centers have consistently proven their value to business owners following a disaster,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “Business owners can visit these centers to meet face-to-face with specialists who will guide them through the disaster loan application process and connect them with resources to support their recovery.”

    The SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations with financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.

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

    Businesses and nonprofits are eligible to apply for business physical disaster loans and may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace disaster-damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory, and other business assets.

    Homeowners and renters are eligible to apply for home and personal property loans and may borrow up to $100,000 to replace or repair personal property, such as clothing, furniture, cars, and appliances. Homeowners may apply for up to $500,000 to replace or repair their primary residence.  

    Applicants may also be eligible for a loan increase of up to 20% of their physical damage, as verified by the SBA, for mitigation purposes. Eligible mitigation improvements include strengthening structures to protect against high wind damage, upgrading to wind rated garage doors, and installing a safe room or storm shelter to help protect property and occupants from future damage.  

    Interest rates are as low as 4% for businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.750% for homeowners and renters, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    The filing deadline to return applications for physical property damage is June 23, 2025. The deadline to return economic injury applications is January 26, 2026.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Kvika banki hf.: Financial Results for Q1 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    At a board meeting on 7 May 2025, the Board of Directors and the CEO approved the condensed interim consolidated financial statements of Kvika banki hf. (“Kvika” or “the bank”) group for the first quarter of 2025.

    Highlights of performance in the first quarter (Q1 2025)

    • Post-tax profit of the group amounted to ISK 2,086 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 1,083 million in Q1 2024, an increase of ISK 1,003 million or 92.6% from previous year.
    • Pre-tax profit from continuing operations, adjusted for non-recurring items, amounted to ISK 1,590 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 1,215 million in Q1 2024, and increases by ISK 375 million or 31% from previous year. Unadjusted pre-tax profit for the quarter was ISK 701 million.
    • Net interest income amounted to ISK 2,917 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 2,326 million in Q1 2024, an increase of ISK 590 million or 25.4% from previous year.
    • Net interest margin was 4.4% in Q1 2025, compared to 3.8% in Q1 2024. Year-on-year increase is largely due to strong liquidity, improved funding terms, and a growing loan book.
    • Net fee and commission income was ISK 1,520 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 1,633 million in Q1 2024, a decrease of ISK 113 million or 6.9% from previous year.
    • Other net operating income amounted to ISK 12 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 110 million in Q1 2024, a decrease of ISK 98 million or 89.1% from previous year.
    • Administrative expenses amounted to ISK 3,090 million in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 2,666 million in Q1 2024, an increase of ISK 424 million or 15.9% from previous year. Adjusted for one-off items, operating expenses were ISK 2,865 million in Q1 2025.
    • Pre-tax return on tangible equity (RoTE), adjusted for one-off items, was 17.7%. Unadjusted pre-tax RoTE per the income statement was 7.8%.
    • Earnings per share were ISK 0.45 in Q1 2025, compared to ISK 0.23 in Q1 2024.

    Income from assets held for sale:

    • Post-tax profit from assets held for sale consists of profit from the sale of TM tryggingar hf. and related income and expenses.

    Key balance sheet figures as at 31.3.2025:

    • Deposits from customers amount to ISK 168 billion, compared to ISK 163 billion at year-end 2024, an increase of 2.8% during the quarter.
    • Loans to customers amount to ISK 161 billion, compared to ISK 150 billion at year-end 2024, an increase of 6.9% during the quarter.
    • Total assets amount to ISK 343 billion, compared to ISK 355 billion at year-end 2024, a decrease of 3.4% during the quarter.
    • Total equity of the group was ISK 68 billion, compared to ISK 90 billion at year-end 2024, materially reduced following the sale of TM. On the reporting date, shareholder approval for a special dividend, not yet paid out, had been granted. The dividend is recorded as unpaid dividend under other liabilities.
    • The capital adequacy ratio (CAR) was 23.9%, compared to 22.8% at year-end 2024, as determined on the basis of the unaudited net earnings in the quarter. Kvika’s capital ratio as calculated under the Financial Undertakings Act No. 161/2002 was 23.0% at the end of March 2025.
    • Total liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) of the group was 279%, compared to 360% at year-end 2024.
    • Total assets under management were ISK 441 billion, compared to ISK 456 billion at year-end 2024.

    Ármann Þorvaldsson, CEO of Kvika:

    “The bank delivered strong performance in the first quarter, when adjusted for non-recurring items. Net interest income increased by 25%, while overall cost growth was more moderate, with wage expenses increasing by just under 5%. However, other expenses rose year-on-year, partly driven by non-recurring costs related to the sale of TM.

    The sale of the insurance company TM to Landsbankinn was successfully completed during the quarter. A large part of the sale proceeds, totaling over ISK 32 billion, was returned to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks. A considerable portion, however, remains as equity in the bank, providing a solid foundation for growth in the coming years.

    The acquisition of the remaining management stake in Ortus Secured Finance was also finalized, making the bank the sole owner of the company. This acquisition allows for further integration of the UK operations, cost reductions, refinancing of inefficient debt, and lays the groundwork for continued growth in the UK.

    Non-recurring items related to these transactions had a significant impact on the bank’s operating results in the quarter. Excluding these, the profit from the bank’s core operations before tax was very good.

    Net interest income increased substantially year-on-year, rising by over 25%. This growth was driven by an expanding loan portfolio, reduced funding costs, and a temporarily elevated liquidity position following the sale of TM, which was reduced after the dividend payout in April. The portion of the sale proceeds retained by the bank will continue to generate returns, and interest income is expected to remain strong going forward.

    Fee and investment income reflected challenging conditions in the securities markets, leading to a slight year-on-year contraction. Concurrently, efforts to contain cost increases, excluding non-recurring items, have been successful, and the number of employees remain unchanged from the previous quarter.

    Kvika is now in an enviable position to advance and expand in line with its business plan. Following the sale of TM, the bank enjoys a very strong capital and liquidity position, and steady interest income has replaced the more volatile insurance-related income. The bank’s infrastructure, which has been adapted to TM’s departure from the group, is both robust and scalable, providing a solid foundation for continued growth in Iceland and the UK.”

    Presentation for shareholders and market participants

    A presentation for shareholders and market participants will be held on Thursday, 8 May, at 08:30 at Kvika’s headquarters on the 9th floor at Katrínartún 2, 105 Reykjavík. The presentation will be conducted in Icelandic and a live stream can be accessed at:

    https://kvika.is/kynning-a-uppgjori-3m-2025/

    Questions can be sent before or during the meeting via ir@kvika.is or through the Slido app here.

    An investor presentation is attached. Additionally, a recording with English subtitles will be made available on Kvika’s website.

    Attachments

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: NEURONES: 3.9% increase in organic growth in the 1st quarter of 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PRESS INFORMATION
    Heading: 1st quarter revenues 2025        Nanterre, May 7, 2025 (after trading)

    3.9% increase in organic growth in the 1stquarter of 2025

    (in millions of euros) Q1 2024 Q1 2025 Growth of which organic
    Revenues 204.9 214.1 + 4.5% + 3.9%

    Achievements

    Driven by its cloud, digital and data activities, the Group’s organic growth increased by 3.9% over the first three months of the year.

    Operating profit (*) totaled 8.2% of revenues. The increase in taxation (the fixed social security charge on bonus shares rose from 20% to 30%) represented an expense of one million euros, entirely entered into the books at the start of the year (i.e. 0.5% of 1st quarter revenues).

    Compared to the 2024 Universal Registration Document (www.neurones.net – Investors), the financial position has not changed significantly.

    Outlook

    Taking into account limited visibility, NEURONES’ forecasts for the full financial year 2025 are as follows:

    • revenues between €840 and €850 million,
    • operating profit between 8.5% and 9% of revenues.

    These forecasts may be adjusted when the Group publishes its revenues for the first half of the year.

    (*) not audited and after inclusion of 1.2% of expenses related to bonus shares.

    About NEURONES
    With 7,250 experts, and ranking among the French leaders in management consulting and digital services, NEURONES helps large companies and organizations make their transition to a digital and sustainable economy, implement their digital projects, transform their IT infrastructures and adopt new uses.

    Euronext Paris (compartment B – NRO) – Euronext Tech Leaders – DSS mid-caps – PEA-PME eligible
    www.neurones.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Statement by IMF Deputy Managing Director Nigel Clarke at the Conclusion of His Visit to Zambia

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 7, 2025

    Lusaka, Zambia: Mr. Nigel Clarke, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement at the conclusion of his visit to Zambia from May 4-6:

    “I would first like to thank H.E. President Hakainde Hichilema, Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane, and Central Bank Governor Denny H. Kalyalya for their warm hospitality and constructive discussions on my first visit to Zambia as Deputy Managing Director of the IMF.

    “Progress on Zambia’s economic reform program supported by the IMF’s Extended Credit Facility has been strong, despite repeated external shocks. Since the program was approved in August 2022 and augmented in 2024 (See Press Release 24/242), it has provided critical support—both financial and policy-based—and helped to anchor Zambia’s landmark debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework and navigate last year’s severe drought.

    “Zambia’s remarkable progress has centered on restoring macroeconomic stability, including fiscal and debt sustainability, and implementing reforms. Notable reforms include the removal of fuel subsidies, strengthened debt management, and the roll-out of a reformed agricultural input subsidy—the e-voucher system—which increased competition in input delivery, reduced costs, and supported job creation.

    “These achievements have been particularly impressing given the challenging external and domestic environment. In my discussions with the authorities, I also welcomed their commitment to strengthen governance and anti-corruption policies.

    “Going forward, the policy environment remains challenging. As in many sub-Saharan African economies, Zambia must navigate weaker global trade, elevated uncertainty, and declining external assistance. Continued reform momentum will be essential to build resilience, mobilize domestic revenues, and create fiscal space to support inclusive growth. Structural reforms to improve productivity and support private sector activity will help boost inclusive growth, delivering the much-needed jobs for Zambia’s vibrant youth.

    “I am also grateful for the opportunity to engage with University of Zambia students and faculty, representatives of the private and banking sectors, and Zambia’s development partners. I appreciated the candid discussions on the impact of recent global and domestic economic developments on Zambia and exchanged views on how we can best partner with Zambia on its journey towards a more resilient and inclusive future.

    “I leave Zambia optimistic about the country’s future—encouraged by the authorities’ determination to continue on their reform path, and reassured by the Zambian people’s resilience. The IMF remains a close partner in supporting the country’s journey to lift the living standards of the Zambian people.”

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Wafa Amr

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/07/pr-25131-zambia-statement-by-imf-deputy-managing-director-nigel-clarke-after-his-visit

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: On Mother’s Day, Congresswoman Torres Reintroduces Pink Tax Repeal Act to End Unfair Price Hikes on Women

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

    May 11, 2025

    Bill would protect women from paying more than men for the same products and services

    Washington, D.C. –  On Mother’s Day, Congresswoman Norma J. Torres reintroduced the Pink Tax Repeal Act, legislation that would prohibit gender-based price discrimination on consumer goods and services that are substantially similar. The legislation targets unjust pricing practices that disproportionately impact mothers and women.

    “It’s outrageous that in 2025, women, especially mothers, are still paying more than men for everyday items like razors, shampoo, and dry cleaning — simply because they’re marketed to women. This Mother’s Day, we need to acknowledge that the Pink Tax isn’t just about price tags — it’s a matter of respect, equality, and economic justice. No woman, mother, or family should be forced to pay more for the same products and services just because they are a woman.”

    “With this bill, we are sending a strong message: pricing that discriminates against women is unfair, and we will no longer stand by while companies exploit their gender for profit. Women are already suffering under Trump’s economy — facing wage gaps, rising costs, and financial insecurity. We shouldn’t be adding insult to injury by making them pay more simply because they are women.”

    “The attacks on women, mothers, and families are real, and they need to end. This bill is about holding companies accountable and ensuring that all consumers, regardless of gender, are treated fairly. It’s time to end the Pink Tax, once and for all.”

    The Pink Tax Repeal Act would:

    • Prohibit manufacturers and service providers from charging different prices for substantially similar products or services based on gender.
    • Direct the Federal Trade Commission to enforce the legislation as an unfair or deceptive act or practice.
    • Empower state attorneys general to take civil action against violators on behalf of consumers.

    Studies have shown the existence of gender-based pricing disparities, costing women and girls hundreds of thousandsmore over their lifetimes compared to their male counterparts. Women make up as much as 85 percent of consumer purchases in the United States, but pay more for products marketed to women and girls 42 percent of the time. From toys to toiletries, the price differences are often hidden in plain sight and result in economic burden for women.

    Full bill text

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall on Fox Business: No Tax on Overtime Is Good for Hardworking Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) today joined Kudlow on Fox Business to discuss the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act, the bill he introduced today to cut taxes on overtime wages and deliver on one of President Donald Trump’s key promises to give tax relief to lower and middle-class American workers.
    Senator Marshall also discussed the “No Tax on Tips” proposal and the timeline for the Senate to get President Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful” budget reconciliation bill across the finish line.
    Click HERE to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:        
    On the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act:
    “We have to get his One Big, Beautiful Bill across the floor, and we have to prioritize President Trump’s priorities, which includes this no tax on overtime. This is something good for hard-working Americans, those people who bring a lunch pail to work.
    “Look, we’re going to limit it to their first $10,000 for an individual, $20,000 for a couple. What that could mean is $4,000 more of take-home pay for those people out there who are working extra hard to make this economy grow.
    “I think it could be something that actually improves the growth of America. We have numerous jobs back home that we can’t fill because we don’t have enough people, at least, who are qualified to do them. This will give us a chance for them to make a little extra money and also put some money back into the economy.”
    On ensuring Americans can keep more of their hard-earned money:
    “I remember my first job. I was actually working in a sale barn, sorting heifers and steers. We would work 12-16 hours a day, and we got that overtime check. And to my surprise, the government was taking out more than they did on the other part of it, and it never made any sense to me. So, it is a big chunk of change. Again, a person may be making $80,000-$100,000 a year if they get to keep $4,000 more of their hard-earned money, then that’s a win for hard workers across the country.”
    On No Tax on Tips:
    “We’re going to get that one across the finish line… We need to keep the price tag, I think, on my overtime wages, under $100 billion over 10 years. And I’m going to guess the no tax on tips is the same place as well, but President Trump wants it. He is the person that’s signing this bill, so we get to use his priorities, and I’m looking forward to making that happen.”
    On getting President Trump’s “One, Big, Beautiful Bill” across the finish line:
    “I think the next step is for the House to give us what they can get passed. I think the big issue for them is, how much are they willing to cut on the spending. They need to probably get to $2 trillion of… savings for Americans in order for us to accomplish all of President Trump’s goals.
    “When we see that, then we can move much more quickly. We got to be prepared, though, for whatever different softballs or fastballs they throw at us. I still think our goal is to get something to the president’s desk by July the fourth.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall Leads Press Conference on His Bill to Codify Trump’s Key Promise – No Tax on Overtime

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington –U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), member of the U.S. Senate Finance Committee, today led a press conference alongside U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), and Jim Justice (R-West Virginia) to highlight their bill, the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act. 
    This legislation thoughtfully puts pen to paper to deliver on President Donald Trump’s key campaign promise to give tax relief to American workers. Specifically, the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act creates an income tax deduction for overtime wage earners, targeted to help lower and middle-income Americans. Senator Marshall is advocating for this legislation to be included in the FY2025 budget reconciliation package. 
    Click HERE watch Senator Marshall’s full press conference
    Highlights from the press conference include:
    What inspired Senator Marshall to introduce the legislation:
    “I was born and raised on a farm. My first job off the farm was at a sale barn outside of El Dorado, Kansas. Every Saturday, the farmers bring in their cattle. We would sell 1,000 head, 2,000, or 3,000 head on a Saturday. A 12-hour day would be a short day there. Many days my brother and I worked 24 – 36 hours at a time. But the greatest thing I looked forward to was that time and a half after eight hours.
    “And I just remember like it was yesterday – I was making $2.30 an hour, that was the standard wage there at the sale barn… that time and a half overtime really incentivized a young person who was looking forward to buying his first car. But to my surprise, that first time I got my paycheck with that overtime, I was shocked to see how much money the government was taking out of my paycheck…”
    Senator Marshall shares stories of Kansans who would benefit from this legislation:
    “I want to share the story of a couple other people here from back home. The first is Steve Hewitt, and Steve is here in his UPS uniform. He works for the Teamsters local 696, in Topeka, Kansas, obviously a UPS driver. And this is a quote from Steve, ‘Working overtime means I’m spending more time on the road and away from my family. But thanks to this bill, being able to keep more my paycheck in my pocket would be life changing – not just for me, but for blue collar workers across the nation.’
    “The other one is from Brandon Switzer – a corrections officer at the Shawnee County Department of Corrections. Teamsters, local 696 in Topeka, Kansas, again. And this is a quote from Brandon, ‘As the Chief Steward and a corrections specialist at the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, I believe being able to deduct overtime pay from taxes would allow workers to better afford day-to-day living. New legislation like this would also allow workers like me to possibly contribute more to our deferred compensation plan.’
    “The people that were constantly reaching out to me were hard working men and women saying we need someone fighting for us, someone fighting for Main Street, not just Wall Street. And I’m so proud of President Trump that he’s made this a priority, to be the President for the hard-working Americans, for people who carry a lunch pail to work.”
    On why this legislation is critical:
    “This is one of President Trump’s priorities, and it’s one of my priorities as well. You know what this would mean to a family, and I’ll turn it over to Coach Tuberville. Look, the Trump tax cuts – if we don’t make that permanent, families back home are going to get a tax increase of $2,000 a year. So, if we let this go off the books, that’s going to cost Kansas taxpayers $2,000 a year. Potentially, for a person that’s working overtime, they could save another $4,000 on taxes if this legislation is signed into law by the president. So, to me, this is like a $6,000 opportunity for hard-working folks back home. If you’re making 80, 90, or $100,000 a year back home, $6,000 is nothing to sneeze at. That will go a long way in taking care of Joe Biden’s inflation.”
    On the additional benefits of the Overtime Wages Tax Relief Act:
    “I think that we should incentivize hard work, like several of us have said, addressing work shortages. I don’t know back in your states, but all I hear is we don’t have enough employees for the jobs we have. And I see American manufacturing companies starting to really spike back home as well. And again, their big challenge is a lack of people for the jobs we have. The Tax Foundation estimates this will increase economic growth by 0.2 to 0.5% annually. So, I think it actually will help grow the economy and pay for itself in its own way.”
    On how this legislation would be paid for:
    “We should never look at any issue just in a silo. I look at this one, big, beautiful bill, and think that we need to come up with $2 trillion in savings for American taxpayers. And then I think if there’s an opportunity to take some of those savings and reward hard-working men and women that we should do that. And much like the Trump tax cuts, I really think that this will accelerate the economy and add to the GDP.”
    On government revenues and spending:
    “I still think, to me, there’s even a bigger discussion here, is when the appropriation process is starting, is America willing to go on a diet and get off this sugar high that we’ve been on the last four years. We need to reprioritize where we’re spending money. We have a spending problem, much more so than a tax revenue problem.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: RENEW Energy Partners Named 2025 Climate Finance Innovator by U.S. Department of Energy Better Buildings Initiative

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BOSTON, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RENEW Energy Partners has been named a 2025 Climate Finance Innovator Award recipient by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Better Buildings Initiative. This annual award recognizes organizations pioneering new approaches to financing that accelerate decarbonization across the built environment.

    RENEW was honored for its creative use of an Energy Services Agreement (ESA), a funding structure that allows organizations to move forward with comprehensive energy upgrades without the need for upfront capital. By converting capital expenditures into operating expenses, RENEW’s model makes it possible for clients to implement energy solutions while preserving their balance sheet for core business investments.

    “Receiving this award for the second time is a powerful validation of the model and team we’ve built,” said Charlie Lord, Managing Principal and Co-Founder at RENEW Energy Partners. “We’re proud to bridge the gap between ambition and action by making it financially possible to get started on energy optimization today.”

    Through its ESA structure, RENEW funds, builds, owns, and operates energy infrastructure, offering clients a turnkey solution that aligns financial outcomes with sustainability goals.

    RENEW Energy Partners joins a distinguished group of organizations honored for advancing the financial tools that will drive the next generation of climate solutions.

    Media Contact:
    Nicole Wilson
    Senior Business Development Associate
    978-496-6867
    nwilson@renewep.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Zoom and ServiceNow Announce Strategic Integration to Elevate Customer and Employee Experiences

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LAS VEGAS, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zoom Communications Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) and ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW), the AI platform for business transformation, today announced plans to integrate Zoom CX with ServiceNow CRM and IT Service Management (ITSM). The integration, announced as part of Knowledge 2025, ServiceNow’s annual customer and partner event, will deliver a turnkey, AI-first solution for customer service and IT support in the contact center.

    “This integration unites the power of Zoom’s AI-first omnichannel contact center platform with ServiceNow’s CRM and Industry workflows, bringing voice, video, and digital interactions directly into the flow of work for service teams, making the experience more seamless and robust,” said Kentis Gopalla, head of product for Zoom CX. “This partnership underscores our commitment to providing solutions that drive business success and simplify customer and employee interactions.”

    “Customer experiences should be easy, personalized, and fast — not stalled by disconnected systems or unhelpful bots,” said Michael Ramsey, GVP, Product Management, CRM and Industry Workflows at ServiceNow. “With ServiceNow CRM and Zoom CX coming together in one unified experience, we’re eliminating the need to swivel between tools and giving CX teams the context, data, and AI they need to resolve issues faster and create deeper customer connections.”

    Key Benefits of the Zoom + ServiceNow Integration

    • A Unified Workspace That Puts Agents in Control
      With Zoom CX embedded inside the ServiceNow Agent Workspace, agents manage every interaction, whether voice, video, or chat, without leaving the platform. Instead of toggling between systems, they can stay focused on the customer, supported by real-time access to CRM data, interaction history, entitlements, and open cases.

      Combined with ServiceNow’s Industry workflows, agents can take action in context, triggering the right processes, resolving issues faster, and delivering a more tailored experience, whether it’s helping a patient reschedule an appointment, a banking client check on a loan application, or a retailer process a return.

    • Personalized, AI-First Experiences That Scale
      Combining Zoom’s AI capabilities with ServiceNow’s automation and CRM intelligence enables organizations to scale support without sacrificing personalization. Zoom Virtual Agent can handle customer issues with context-aware responses. Agents benefit from AI Expert Assist to provide real-time sentiment analysis, smart note-taking, and automatic call dispositioning, keeping them focused on high-value interactions instead of repetitive tasks.

      Additionally, Zoom’s AI-first quality management can automatically score every interaction and generate coaching opportunities to drive continuous optimization.

    • Accelerate Resolution Through Seamless Collaboration
      Support doesn’t always end with the first agent. Sometimes it takes a team, from billing to field service to engineering. With Zoom’s collaboration tools accessible within ServiceNow, agents can bring in the right expert without switching tools or losing context, helping them resolve issues faster and with the right team.

    Availability

    Unified Engagement from Zoom CX and ServiceNow will be available later this year through the ServiceNow Store.

    About Zoom

    Zoom’s mission is to provide an AI-first work platform for human connection. Reimagine teamwork with Zoom Workplace — Zoom’s open collaboration platform with AI Companion empowers teams to be more productive. Together with Zoom Workplace, Zoom’s Business Services for sales, marketing, and customer experience teams, including Zoom Contact Center, strengthen customer relationships throughout the customer lifecycle. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Get more information at zoom.com.

    About ServiceNow 
    ServiceNow (NYSE: NOW) is putting AI to work for people. We move with the pace of innovation to help customers transform organizations across every industry while upholding a trustworthy, human centered approach to deploying our products and services at scale. Our AI platform for business transformation connects people, processes, data, and devices to increase productivity and maximize business outcomes. For more information, visit: www.servicenow.com.   

    © 2025 ServiceNow, Inc. All rights reserved. ServiceNow, the ServiceNow logo, Now, and other ServiceNow marks are trademarks and/or registered trademarks of ServiceNow, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other company names, product names, and logos may be trademarks of the respective companies with which they are associated.

    Zoom Public Relations
    Karen Modlin
    press@zoom.us

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: EMGS: Result of Written Resolution of Bondholders

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Reference is made to the stock exchange notification published by Electromagnetic Geoservices ASA (“EMGS” or the “Company”) on 6 May 2025 pertaining to EMGS’ proposal to extend the maturity date for, and amend certain terms of, the Company’s outstanding bond issue Elec ASA 18/25 FRN USD FLOOR STEP C CONV (“EMGS03”).

    EMGS has today been notified by Nordic Trustee AS, as trustee for EMGS03, that the proposed resolution has been resolved and adopted.

    The notice from the written bondholders’ resolution is attached to this release.

    Contact
    Anders Eimstad, CFO, +47 948 25 836

    This information is published in accordance with the Norwegian Securities Trading Act § 5-12.

    About EMGS
    EMGS, the marine EM market leader, uses its proprietary electromagnetic (EM) technology to support oil and gas companies in their search for offshore hydrocarbons. EMGS supports each stage in the workflow, from survey design and data acquisition to processing and interpretation. The Company’s services enable the integration of EM data with seismic and other geophysical and geological information to give explorationists a clearer and more complete understanding of the subsurface. This improves exploration efficiency and reduces risks and the finding costs per barrel. CSEM technology can also be used to detect the presence of marine mineral deposits (primarily Seabed Massive Sulphides) and in other offshore construction and exploration activity.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: From the Chairman: With a focus on collaboration, everything else becomes possible

    Source: International Association of Drilling Contractors – IADC

    Headline: From the Chairman: With a focus on collaboration, everything else becomes possible

    In a thought-provoking editorial from the May/June issue of Drilling Contractor, IADC Chairman Kevin Neveu offers a fresh perspective on collaboration within the drilling industry, challenging companies to reconsider how they approach working relationships in today’s complex energy landscape.

    Neveu argues that the industry should shift its mindset to view collaboration not merely as a means to an end, but as the primary goal itself. He suggests that when teamwork becomes the central focus, other critical objectives—from safety improvements to operational efficiency—naturally follow.

    According to Neveu,

    “When teamwork, mutual respect and cooperation are the main objectives, everything else becomes easier, and success becomes more attainable. By prioritizing working as a team, with honest collaboration, we can weave in every other important outcome—safety, efficiency, less nonproductive time, KPIs, etc.”

    The Chairman shares a personal example from his earlier career at National Oilwell that demonstrates how a collaborative approach to problem-solving with new technology led to faster resolution than when facing an adversarial stance. He extends this concept beyond individual companies, suggesting that the entire energy sector would benefit from breaking down competitive barriers.

    Neveu highlights IADC itself as “a fantastic example of collaboration for the benefit of all,” where competitors regularly come together to address industry challenges, create technical resources, establish safety standards, and organize vital knowledge-sharing events.

    As the industry faces complex challenges, Neveu’s message is unambiguous: true collaboration leads to collective success. He encourages all industry professionals to reconsider what collaboration means to them and how embracing this mindset could accelerate careers, companies, and the industry at large.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Global: The UK government wants to expand the sugar tax to milkshakes and plant-based drinks – here’s what you need to know

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By David M. Evans, Professor of Sociotechnical Futures, University of Bristol Business School, University of Bristol

    Luis Molinero/Shutterstock

    The UK government is considering expanding its sugar tax on fizzy drinks to include milkshakes and other sweetened beverages, as part of new proposals announced in April 2025. The soft drinks industry levy (SDIL), to give it its official name, was introduced in 2018 to reduce people’s sugar intake and help tackle obesity. For soft drinks containing 5-8g of sugar per 100ml, a levy of 18p per litre is applied. This rises to 24p per litre for soft drinks containing over 8g per 100ml.

    The Treasury confirmed it plans to move forward not only with broadening the tax but also with lowering the sugar threshold that triggers it from 5g to 4g of sugar per 100ml. The changes, dubbed by critics as the “milkshake tax”, would end the current exemption for dairy-based drinks, as well as plant-based alternatives such as oat and rice milk.

    Based on our research into dietary change, conducted as part of the H3 project on food system transformation, we see this as a welcome and timely development.

    Not everyone shares this optimism. Opponents of what they see as “nanny state” interventionist policies argue that the SDIL has failed to deliver any real improvements to public health. In a UK newspaper’s straw poll, for example, 88% of respondents claimed the sugar tax has not significantly reduced obesity rates. Shadow Chancellor Melvyn Stride described the proposed expansion as a “sucker punch” to households, particularly given the ongoing cost of living crisis.

    Scepticism around these proposals is not surprising. Many people, regardless of political affiliation, are wary of additional taxation. And indeed, there is evidence suggesting that fiscal tools such as taxes and subsidies can be blunt instruments. They are also often regressive, placing a disproportionate burden on lower-income households.

    These concerns are valid – but they don’t quite apply to the SDIL.

    Crucially, the SDIL is not a tax on consumers. It is levied on manufacturers and importers, who are incentivised to reduce the sugar content of their products to avoid the charge. Many have done exactly that. For instance, the Japanese multinational brewing and distilling company group Suntory invested £13 million in reformulating drinks like Ribena and Lucozade, removing 25,000 tonnes of sugar, making the products exempt from the levy.

    According to Treasury figures, since the introduction of the SDIL, 89% of fizzy drinks sold in the UK have been reformulated to fall below the taxable threshold. This means households aren’t priced out of buying soft drinks – they can simply choose reformulated and presumably cheaper versions.

    It’s true that the UK is still grappling with a serious obesity problem. In England alone, 29% of adults and 15% of children aged two to 15 are obese.

    But the SDIL is having an effect. There has been a clear reduction in the sales of sugar from soft drinks, and the SDIL is reported to have generated £1.9 billion in revenue since its introduction in 2018.



    Read more:
    Sugary drinks are a killer: a 20% tax would save lives and rands in South Africa

    Early signs suggest health benefits, too. One study found a drop in obesity rates among 10 to 11-year-old girls following the levy’s implementation. Another analysis suggests that the greatest health benefits will be seen in more deprived areas, and that it may actually help to narrow some health inequalities for children in England.

    Shifting responsibilty

    Of course, the SDIL is no silver bullet. Excessive sugar consumption is consistently associated with rising obesity rates in the UK and globally. However, there are many contributing factors to the obesity epidemic, ranging from genetic predisposition to “obesogenic” environments – social contexts that promote unhealthy eating and sedentary behaviour, such as areas with a lot of fast food restaurants, limited access to healthy food options and a lack of pavements, parks, or safe places to exercise.

    Questions remain about the negative health effects of reformulated drinks, some of which still contain high levels of sweeteners or additives. And in the broader context of the need for food system transformation, focusing solely on soft drinks may be too narrow an approach.



    Read more:
    Are artificial sweeteners okay for our health? Here’s what the current evidence says

    But the SDIL’s success lies not just in outcomes but in its design. It shifts responsibility from individuals to industry, encouraging systemic change rather than simply blaming people for making “bad” choices. The government’s 2016 announcement of the levy gave manufacturers a two-year head start, allowing them to reformulate and get their products to market before it took effect in 2018.

    The government’s 2016 announcement of the sugar tax gave manufacturers time to reformulate products before the tax’s introduction in 2018.

    It’s also telling that the idea of taxing milkshakes has sparked such outrage, while most people now accept the high taxation of tobacco. That’s because smoking, as a public health issue, has matured: its risks are well understood and widely acknowledged. Obesity, meanwhile, is still catching up, despite posing similar health threats, including as a leading cause of cancer.

    In the UK, there’s still a strong social stigma around discussing diet and weight. But given the scale and urgency of the obesity crisis, it could be time to overcome this reluctance. Effective change will require bold, systemic policies – not just public awareness campaigns – but multipronged and targeted interventions that reshape the economic and cultural environments in which people make food choices.

    Expanding the SDIL may not be a cure-all, but the evidence so far suggests it’s a smart step in the right direction.

    David M. Evans receives funding from the UKRI Strategic Priorities Fund (grant ref: BB/V004719/1).
    He is affiliated with Defra (the Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) as a member of their Social Science Expert Group.

    Jonathan Beacham receives funding from the UKRI Strategic Priorities Fund (grant ref: BB/V004719/1).

    – ref. The UK government wants to expand the sugar tax to milkshakes and plant-based drinks – here’s what you need to know – https://theconversation.com/the-uk-government-wants-to-expand-the-sugar-tax-to-milkshakes-and-plant-based-drinks-heres-what-you-need-to-know-255646

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Cabo Verde’s Digital Transformation in full expansion with African Development Bank Support

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

    PRAIA, Cabo Verde, May 7, 2025/APO Group/ —

    • Technology Park positioned to make Cabo Verde a global digital hub with world-class facilities 
    • AfDB President honored with Cabo Verde’s highest public service award for a decade of transformative leadership 

    Cabo Verde marked a significant milestone in its digital transformation journey on Monday, 5 May, with the official inauguration of TechPark CV (https://apo-opa.co/4iSRdLU), a strategic infrastructure project backed by the African Development Bank Group (www.AfDB.org).  

    The island nation’s Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and African Development Bank Group head Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, led the inauguration of the facility at a ceremony attended by hundreds of government officials, international partners, entrepreneurs, and academia. The celebration, held at TechPark CV’s main campus in Praia, continued in Mindelo on Tuesday. 

    The EUR 51.85 million project, developed in two phases with EUR 45.5 million in African Development Bank financing, has rapidly evolved from concept to a thriving technology center since operations began in November 2023. Within just 18 months, the park now hosts 23 companies from 7 countries, employs 311 young professionals, and has reached full occupancy of its 52 office spaces. 

    Prime Minister Correia e Silva emphasized the park’s world-class facilities: “The tech park is a good environment to connect startups and more mature companies. I have visited many tech parks around the world, and this one is not behind any of them. In fact, it is one of the best. With 311 professionals employed here across 23 companies serving international markets, and state-of-the-art infrastructure, this speaks directly to our vision of turning Cabo Verde into a Digital Island for the globe.”  

    He outlined two main objectives – the first, to position Cabo Verde as a digital hub for Africa and the rest of the world, exporting quality digital services, and the second, to create quality jobs and attract diaspora talents. He highlighted the fact of Cabo Verde’s strong diaspora, which cannot be ignored, and the government’s role in leveraging its skills to build and reinforce capabilities at the Tech Park.    

    The Prime Minister added, “We also know that the state is an important economic agent. We can either facilitate or complicate it. So, we choose to facilitate, not complicate it. We would like to build a very solid foundation to sustain this digital ecosystem, reinforcing education and strengthening our informal economy with digital commerce and skills because we know that Digital is transversal.” 

    Dr. Adesina, who led a delegation from the African Development Bank Group to the event, highlighted the strategic importance of the technology park. 

    “This is a great day for Cabo Verde, to celebrate the success of your vision to transform the country into a ‘Cyber Island,’ a digital hub, a digital gateway to West Africa — an important digital hub to attract tech businesses from around the world. The future is very bright for innovative young entrepreneurs in Africa. This is driven by the rapid expansion of the digital economy, which will add $180 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025 and $712 billion by 2050,” he said. 

    “You had doubters, with some questioning the rationale of a small country like Cabo Verde having a technology park. Some even said this was going to be a white elephant project. But you were undaunted. You stayed true to your vision. Well, time has proven you right! The white elephant is running, full steam,” he added. 

    The TechPark CV includes fully equipped facilities such as a Data Centre, Disaster Recovery Site, Business Center, Incubation Center, Civic Event Center, and Training and Qualification Center across its Praia and Mindelo campuses. Operating as a special economic zone, it offers tax exemptions on technology imports and income tax to attract companies. 

    The park has expanded its training programs from 6 in 2023 to 50 in the first quarter of 2025, upskilling 2,769 people in cutting-edge fields such as Artificial Intelligence, cybersecurity, and software development. Since opening, the park’s operational revenue has grown by more than 4,300%. 

    The African Development Bank is the largest development partner in ICT in Cabo Verde through the Praia Technology Park, for which it has provided $57 million for Phases 1 and 2 project.   

    The Bank’s investment in Cabo Verde’s Technology Park aligns with its Digital Transformation Action Plan, focusing on scaling inclusive digital infrastructure, investing in digital entrepreneurship and skills, and driving sectoral adoption of digitalization. 

    During the ceremony Adesina was awarded Cabo Verde’s highest public service medal in recognition of his decade of transformative leadership at the African Development Bank and his unwavering support for Cabo Verde’s development initiatives.   

    The three-day program will include panel discussions on digital transformation, workshops on emerging technologies, and a startup pitch competition, showcasing Cabo Verde’s pioneering role in Africa’s digital landscape. 

    MIL OSI Africa –