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  • MIL-OSI: Lucinity and Creditinfo Partner to Integrate PEP Screening Seamlessly into AI Workflows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REYKJAVIK, Iceland , May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lucinity, a global leader in AI-driven compliance software, has partnered with Creditinfo, a trusted and leading provider of credit and risk intelligence solutions, to integrate access to localized Know Your Customer (KYC) data from Creditinfo directly into Lucinity’s end-to-end compliance platform. This strategic partnership enables financial institutions to automate KYC checks—including PEP screening, watchlist monitoring, reliability assessments, and UBO insights—across onboarding, ongoing monitoring, and investigations, all within a single, intuitive interface.

    Until now, many compliance teams have struggled with fragmented workflows when it comes to Know Your Customer (KYC) checks. They’ve had to rely on standalone systems, manually reconcile KYC data with their case investigations, and perform periodic re-checks without automation.

    Lucinity and Creditinfo are solving these challenges by embedding high-quality, localized KYC data from Creditinfo—including PEP screening, watchlist monitoring, reliability assessments, and UBO information—into Lucinity’s holistic Case Management and Transaction Monitoring systems, powered by AI. Within Lucinity’s AI workflows, KYC data becomes an actionable input—automatically adjusting risk scores, triggering alerts, and adapting recommendations as new information becomes available.

    Through the integration with Creditinfo’s API, financial institutions can automate checks during onboarding, schedule periodic refreshes, and run on-demand lookups for counterparties. Key KYC indicators—such as PEP status—are also flagged directly in Case Management and Customer 360, helping analysts make better-informed decisions without switching between systems.

    Already offering real-time fraud detection through a partnership with Sift and real-time sanctions screening through Neterium and Facctum, Lucinity continues to build a network of integrations that simplify compliance while strengthening effectiveness. By consolidating tools that were previously siloed, Lucinity helps financial institutions cut costs, reduce context-switching, and focus on high-value investigations.

    Guðmundur Kristjánsson, founder and CEO of Lucinity, shared his perspective: “We kept hearing the same story from our customers — they had great separate financial crime tools, but none of them were connected with each other. This integration with Creditinfo brings the data and workflow together so compliance teams can focus on analysis, not data gathering.”

    Creditinfo brings its strengths in reliable, frequently updated, and geographically relevant PEP data, with a special emphasis on regional accuracy in markets like Iceland with their proprietary Icelandic PEP database. This partnership reflects Creditinfo’s growing role as an essential data provider in the global compliance ecosystem. Hrefna Ösp Sigfinnsdóttir, CEO of Creditinfo in Iceland, commented, “We believe compliance shouldn’t be complicated. By partnering with Lucinity, we’re putting the right data exactly where it’s needed.”

    About Lucinity

    ​​Lucinity is an AI software company for financial crime operations, designed to accelerate compliance teams. Lucinity enhances intelligence gathering, analysis, and decision-making, allowing institutions to streamline operations and reduce costs.

    About Creditinfo

    Creditinfo is a global provider of credit information and risk management services, helping financial institutions, businesses, and governments make data-driven decisions with confidence. Its proprietary PEP data service delivers accurate, regularly updated insights tailored to local markets.

    Contact
    celina@lucinity.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Rosneft filling stations across Russia will host the St. George Ribbon campaign on May 8-9

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    Volunteers will hand out about 2 million St. George ribbons to visitors of Rosneft filling stations across Russia on May 8 and 9 as part of a large-scale campaign dedicated to the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. In 20 regions, customers of flagship stations will receive not only ribbons, but also commemorative badges.

    Rosneft actively participates in patriotic events that promote civic responsibility and preserve cultural heritage. The company holds hundreds of events throughout Russia that are designed to pass on to the younger generation the historical memory of the immortal feat of our people who liberated the world from fascism.

    The Company’s employees traditionally take part in the “St. George’s Ribbon” campaign. This year, the symbol of memory and gratitude to the heroes of the Great Patriotic War has already been received by employees of all Rosneft enterprises and their family members, as well as veterans and schoolchildren. Ribbons were distributed, among other things, as part of various campaigns and events, such as “Victory Vernissage”, “Memory Garden”, “Victory Awards”, “Victory Dictation”, “Victory Marathon”, during excursions to military glory museums and motor rallies.

    Also in the coming days, visitors to Rosneft filling stations will be able to listen to songs from the war years – in a unique performance by the Sretensky Monastery Choir: congratulatory video cards with a QR code for listening to pieces from the new music program “Dedicated to the Great Victory” are shown on the screens near the cash registers. This joint project of the Choir and Rosneft is designed to preserve the memory of the heroic events of the Great Patriotic War.

    The program includes the best songs from the war years, including: “Katyusha”, “Svyatnaya Voina”, “Ot Heroy Bygone Times”, “Dorogi”, “Proshanie Slavyanki”, “Smuglyanka”, “Nam Nadla Odno Pobedy” and many others. The production is based on real stories about the fates of heroes who walked the miles of war from Moscow to Berlin. These stories are harmoniously intertwined with great music and poetry of wartime and connect historical memory with the life of a modern person. The tour program includes concerts in 24 cities in the regions where Rosneft operates, and will end on July 3 with a concert in Sochi.

    During the Victory Day celebrations, a field kitchen will also be set up on the territory of a number of Rosneft gas stations, themed photo zones will be organized, an exhibition of civilian vehicles from the 1940s will be held, and artists will perform songs from the war years.

    Reference:

    The retail network of NK Rosneft is the largest in the Russian Federation in terms of geographic coverage and number of stations. It covers 62 regions of Russia and includes about 3,000 stations.

    Department of Information and Advertising of PJSC NK Rosneft May 7, 2025

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohamed Okash, Founding Director, Institute of Climate and Environment, Simad University

    In the sun-scorched lands of Somalia, farmers and livestock keepers have grown accustomed to the extremes of climate. In 2022, for example, the country suffered the longest drought in 40 years. This affected nearly half the national population of 18 million people. The following year, heavy and widespread flooding devastated the country’s farmlands and infrastructure.

    For a country whose economy breathes through its agriculture and livestock sectors, these extremes have adverse implications. Over 70% of the population relies on farming, herding and pastoral activities for their livelihoods. Despite these climatic shocks, agriculture contributes about 60% of Somalia’s GDP. This is down slightly from 65% two decades ago.

    The agricultural sector is diverse, yet fragile. It is made up of two primary components: crop cultivation (mainly sorghum, maize, sesame and fruit) and livestock rearing (camels, goats, sheep and cattle).

    Somalia’s strongest export offerings have included livestock and animal products, such as hides and skins, along with sesame seeds, bananas and charcoal.

    Livestock has been the cornerstone of exports for decades. It experienced strong growth from the early 2000s through the mid-2010s, but faced notable declines after 2017. This was a result of droughts, disease outbreaks and market disruptions. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman are among Somalia’s biggest trading partners.

    Apart from extremes of climate, the agricultural sector continues to be affected by political instability and conflict. Some of this conflict stems from disputes over water and land. These are common, particularly during times of drought, when competition for natural resources sparks conflict between settled and nomadic pastoralists.

    We are development researchers focused on the intersection of climatic vulnerability, conflict and economic resilience in fragile states. Our recent study set out to examine how the combined effects of climate change and conflict are shaping the country’s trade in agricultural and livestock products. We did this by analysing three decades (1985–2017). We analysed the long-term relationship between environmental stress, conflict events and the country’s export performance in key agricultural sectors.

    We found that erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and conflict have significantly constrained Somalia’s agricultural and livestock export performance over the past decade. While exports have not collapsed entirely, their growth trajectory has been repeatedly disrupted.

    Livestock exports, for instance, peaked in 2015–2016 at over US$530 million, but have since declined due to recurrent droughts, internal conflict and trade restrictions, including a partial import ban by Saudi Arabia in 2016.

    Our analysis confirms that a 1% rise in average temperature reduces agricultural exports by approximately 8.37%. Further, a single-unit increase in internal conflict correlates with a 0.13–0.16% drop in both livestock and crop exports in the long run.

    Although average rainfall boosts exports when available, its unpredictability creates volatility in both the short and long term. The study found that climatic shocks and ongoing conflict are deeply hurting Somalia’s agriculture and livestock exports.

    What the data says

    Our analysis, based on export figures, climate records and conflict datasets (including some from the World Bank), reveals a clear pattern: export performance rises with rainfall and declines with both rising temperatures and internal conflict.

    Banana and sorghum production have dropped by over 50% in some regions since the 1990s. Once a key export crop, bananas have nearly disappeared from Somalia’s export portfolio. Sesame remains a strong export, but yields are becoming more unpredictable.

    Heat stress, compounded by water scarcity, has reduced soil fertility and shortened growing seasons. Maize and groundnuts have been especially affected, with yields declining by up to 40% in recent drought years.

    Many of these crops were once sold in regional markets. They are now primarily consumed locally – or not grown at all.

    Overall, our research showed that Somalia’s competitiveness in global markets has weakened considerably. Livestock exports fell sharply during drought years, particularly 2011 and 2017.

    At the same time, Somalia has started importing basic food items such as maize and flour, which it used to grow domestically. This dependency is both economically and nutritionally dangerous.

    Falling production and exports

    Our analysis shows that internal conflict significantly reduces both agricultural and livestock exports in the long run. It does so by limiting market access and closing vital export corridors.

    This leads to a reliance on circuitous indirect trade routes through adjacent countries at the expense of the export economy. For example, livestock from southern Somalia can no longer reach key export ports due to insecurity.

    Violence over resources – especially water and land – frequently flares up in the central and northern rangelands between agro-pastoralists and nomadic herders. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, between 2012 and 2023, conflict alone forced more than 1.6 million people from their homes. In some of the worst years, like 2017 and 2021, over 400,000 people were displaced from their communities.

    The conflict has displaced rural populations. It has also fractured governance systems and access to international markets, making it harder for Somalia’s farmers and herders to survive.

    Extreme droughts and floods have had a severe impact on yields.

    When the rains are good, exports rise. But those rains are now unpredictable. Erratic precipitation patterns and higher temperatures have led to decreased crop yields and hampered livestock production. This is challenging the nation’s ability to sustain exports.

    What needs to be done

    In response to the challenges posed by climate change and conflicts over agricultural and livestock exports, Somalia needs strategic policy measures.

    First, Somalia should broaden the range of products it exports. Diversification reduces the country’s vulnerability to fluctuations in the market for specific goods. It also minimises risks associated with climate-related and conflict-induced disruptions, and enhances overall economic resilience.

    Second, the country must resolve internal conflicts which disrupt farming operations and displace rural communities.

    Third, the authorities should facilitate market access. Establishing export processing zones can help meet global quality standards. This would reduce the reliance on intermediaries and ensure that producers receive a fair share of profits.

    Finally, measures need to be taken to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture. The government needs to invest in climate-resilient farming systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting farmers in adapting to changing climatic conditions. This adaptation should include:

    • irrigation systems to reduce dependence on erratic rainfall

    • drought-resistant and heat-tolerant crop varieties

    • research, skills building and extension services to support local communities

    • integrated pest management and sustainable land and soil management.

    For Somalia, investing in agricultural exports is not merely an economic imperative. It is a development challenge that demands a multifaceted approach encompassing climate resilience, institutional strengthening and inclusive economic growth.

    – Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us
    – https://theconversation.com/somalias-exports-are-threatened-by-climate-change-and-conflict-what-30-years-of-data-tell-us-254146

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Digital government can benefit citizens: how South Africa can reduce the risks and get it right

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Busani Ngcaweni, Visiting Adjunct Professor, Wits School of Governance, University of the Witwatersrand

    The digital revolution is reshaping governance worldwide. From the electronic filing of taxes to digital visa applications, technology is making government services more accessible, efficient and transparent.

    South Africa is making progress in its digital journey. In 2024 it climbed to 40th place out of 193 countries, from 65th place in 2022, in the United Nations e-Government Index. This improvement makes the country one of Africa’s digital leaders, surpassing Mauritius and Tunisia.

    South Africa has identified more than 255 government services for digitisation. Already, 134 are available on the National e-Government Portal. This achievement is remarkable. Nevertheless, the shift to digitisation comes with challenges and risks.

    Some countries have weakened the state’s role by rapidly outsourcing key government functions. But South Africa has the opportunity to build a model of digital transformation that strengthens public institutions rather than diminishes them.

    New technologies must bring tangible benefits for citizens. Digital transformation can improve public administration. But, if mismanaged, it could burden taxpayers with costs.

    Benefits

    Digital transformation comes at a cost. This is particularly true if the state fails to use its procurement power to negotiate reasonable prices. Infrastructure upgrades, cybersecurity measures, software licensing and system maintenance require substantial financial investment.

    The question is whether these expenses are a necessary step towards a more efficient and accessible government.

    Two South African examples illustrate that digital transformation can save money and enhance service delivery quality.

    The first is the South African Revenue Service. Its goal is to ensure that taxpayers and tax advisers can use the service from anywhere and at any time. The changes made more than a decade ago show that digital systems can yield substantial financial gains. After introducing e-filing in 2006, the revenue service streamlined tax processes, reduced inefficiencies and led to higher compliance rates. Ultimately this led to improved revenue collection.

    Similarly, digitising social grant payments has had a number of positive effects. In a chapter of a recent edited volume on public governance, my colleagues and I wrote a case study about how the South African Social Security Agency used basic technologies and platforms like WhatsApp and email to process a grant during the COVID pandemic. It allowed over 14 million people to apply, paid grants to over 6 million beneficiaries during the first phase of the project.

    South African Social Security Agency annual reports show that over 95% of grant beneficiaries receive their payouts electronically through debit cards, instead of going to cash points. This improves security and lets beneficiaries decide when to get and spend their money.

    There are fears that automation could result in massive job losses. But global experience has shown that digitalisation does not necessarily lead to large-scale retrenchments. Instead it can shift the nature of work to other responsibilities.

    The South African Social Security Agency provides a compelling case. Its transition to digital grant payments did not lead to job losses. Similarly, the expansion of e-filing at the revenue service has not resulted in workforce reductions. In both cases efficiencies improved.

    These cases highlight that digital transformation is reshaping roles rather than displacing employees. Public servants are moving into areas such as cybersecurity, data analysis and AI-driven decision-making.

    Shortcomings and pitfalls

    A number of inefficiencies are at play in government services.

    Firstly, most government digital operations still work with outdated paper-based systems. The lack of a uniform digital identity creates bureaucratic inefficiencies and delays.

    Secondly, fragmented procurement of equipment in government has led to duplicated efforts, increased costs and fruitless expenditure.

    Thirdly, different departments often use isolated and incompatible digital systems. This reduce the mutual benefits of digital transformation. The State IT Agency has been blamed for inefficiencies, procurement failures and questionable spending.

    Fourthly, South Africa’s public service remains fragmented. Citizens still struggle to access government services seamlessly. They often move between departments to complete what should be a single transaction.

    Without a centralised system, departments operate in isolation, duplicating efforts, increasing costs and eroding public trust.

    Read more: South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report

    Fifth, a lack of skills. Increasing reliance on digital tools requires expertise in data analytics, cloud computing and automation. Many public servants lack the training to take on these new roles. The National Digital and Future Skills Strategy was introduced in September 2020 to bridge this gap, but its effectiveness depends on its implementation.

    Introducing it in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic forced government to make digital leaps which otherwise might have taken longer. To sustain services, technology had to be rapidly adopted, including basic things like holding Cabinet meetings online, using a system rapidly developed by the State Information Technology Agency.

    Sixth, security concerns complicate the transformation. As government systems become digital, they become vulnerable to cyberattacks. South Africa must put in place cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent identity theft, data breaches and service disruptions. A cyberattack on one department could affect the entire public sector.

    What needs to be done

    Government must streamline procurement, improve coordination and eliminate inefficiencies to ensure interdepartmental collaboration.

    A single, integrated e-government platform would:

    • cut red tape

    • reduce queues

    • increase efficiency.

    Government needs to upskill civil servants and improve their digital literacy.

    Government must create a seamless e-government system that connects services while protecting citizens’ personal information. The success of digitalisation depends on technological advancements as well as the level of trust citizens have in government systems. Without strong security measures, transparency and accountability, even the most sophisticated digital tools will fail to gain public confidence.

    South Africa has the chance to demonstrate that a strong, capable state can successfully integrate technology while safeguarding public interests. It should take full advantage of offers by Microsoft, Amazon and Huawei to support digital skills training in the public sector in a way that does not advantage one company’s technologies over others. Choices of technology must be user-centric, not based on preferences of accounting officers and chief information officers. Leaders of public institutions must be measured on their ability to digitally transform their organisations.

    – Digital government can benefit citizens: how South Africa can reduce the risks and get it right
    – https://theconversation.com/digital-government-can-benefit-citizens-how-south-africa-can-reduce-the-risks-and-get-it-right-254089

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Calloway County Kentucky Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay $1,470,000 in Restitution for Defrauding Employer

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Paducah, KY – A Calloway County, Kentucky woman was sentenced this week to 2 years and 1 month in federal prison for six counts of wire fraud.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Acting Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office made the announcement.

    Amanda S. Robertson, 34, was sentenced to 2 years and 1 month in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for six counts of wire fraud. According to court documents, between May 2020 and May 2023, Robertson was employed as a bookkeeper for a construction company in western Kentucky. She embezzled over $1,000,000 from her employer. She used the stolen money to finance the operations of several businesses that she owned and to pay personal expenses.

    Robertson was also ordered to pay $1,470,000 in restitution.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    This case was investigated by the FBI Hopkinsville Satellite Office and the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.

    ###

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Global: TikTok in Egypt: where rich and poor meet – and the state watches everything

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Gabriele Cosentino, Assistant Professor, American University in Cairo

    After being released from detention in 2011, Egyptian engineer and activist Wael Ghonim told the media:

    If you want to liberate a society, all you need is the internet.

    He’d been taken into custody for his role in the revolution that toppled the regime of Hosni Mubarak. Part of the success of this unprecedented popular uprising was due to the role of social media in mobilising citizens around a common political cause.

    In 2025, after a decade under the repressive government of Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, it’s fair to say that little has remained of Ghonim’s vision. Social media use in Egypt is closely guarded by the authorities to detect signs of opposition. Citizens are routinely detained, even for the slightest criticism of the government.

    In 2018 Egypt introduced a new law, apparently to curb the problem of online misinformation and disinformation. This law is, in reality, often used to stifle dissent. Egyptians today operate within unclear boundaries of what is permissible to say online. The result is widespread self-censorship for fear of arrest.

    As a scholar of political communication and new media I’ve written books on global social media. I teach students about the social and political impact of digital and social media in Egypt. The video sharing platform TikTok is a frequent subject in my classes because it reveals both the liberating and the repressive effects of social media use in Egypt.

    TikTok stands out for its ability to create viral videos and sudden micro-celebrities. This has made it a lightning rod for government crackdowns. But it has also connected people across socio-economic divides and bred a lively new cultural and political debate – one that’s not as easy for the government to police.

    TikTok in Egypt

    Since 2020, TikTok has become immensely popular in Egypt, with an estimated 33 million users over 18 years old.

    While TikTok hasn’t taken on the explicit political dimension that Facebook or Twitter did over a decade ago, it has already become the theatre of a series of incidents that have landed its users in the crosshairs of the authorities. This has exposed political rifts and tensions.

    Most of the incidents are related to the ability of TikTok to work as a “virality engine” – even users with few followers can gain a sudden and sometimes problematic celebrity.

    But while Egyptian authorities have evidently been cracking down on TikTok users, there have been no concrete plans to ban the platform. In fact, some government branches have used it to advance their own initiatives. The Ministry of Youth and Sports, for example, signed an agreement with TikTok to launch the Egyptian TikTok Creator Hub, designed to educate youth on using social media responsibly.

    Women targeted

    Since 2020, Egyptian authorities have arrested TikTok users under charges ranging from the violation of family values to the spread of false information and allegations of belonging to terrorist organisations. Most of these TikTokers didn’t post explicit sexual or political content, making the charges against them appear exaggerated. These cases suggest the authorities are closely monitoring the platform, following strict moral and political considerations.

    The most high profile cases have involved young women, most notably Haneen Hossam and Mawada Eladham, who were arrested in 2020 for violating family values. Article 25 of Egypt’s anti-cybercrime law states that content “violating the family principles and values upheld by Egyptian society may be punished by a minimum of six months’ imprisonment and/or a fine”. It leaves the definition of family values purposefully vague.

    Observers have noted that this vagueness has allowed the law to be applied in a range of different cases. More than a dozen women have faced similar charges, endured pretrial detention and been handed lengthy prison sentences.

    The arbitrary nature of many of the charges suggests a possible deeper motive: policing the presence of young women in digital spaces where they can gain influence and financial independence outside traditional family or work structures.

    TikTok has given ordinary users in Egypt unprecedented visibility, in some cases allowing them to challenge social norms, often through humour. This appears to have unsettled authorities, who appear to have sought to send a message to the broader population.

    Arrests

    TikTok-related arrests have not been limited to family values. In 2022, three users were arrested for criticising rising food prices. They were charged with spreading fake news, despite the fact that inflation in Egypt was rising sharply.

    In 2023, a parody skit of a fake jail visit by a TikToker went viral. The creators were arrested and charged with belonging to a terror organisation, spreading fake news and misusing social media.



    Read more:
    Why some governments fear even teens on TikTok

    Such arrests indicate that TikTok content that touches on politically sensitive matters, even in jest, is posing a new type of challenge for the Egyptian government. The state is particularly concerned with viral content that might bring attention to its poor human rights record. This includes notoriously bad conditions in jails.

    ‘Egypt’ and ‘Masr’

    At the same time, the platform is proving able to connect people from very different social and economic backgrounds, as it is seen to do globally.

    Egypt is very hierarchical. Small, affluent elite groups live in a separate and secluded socio-economic reality from the majority of the population. Thirty percent of Egyptians live under the poverty line.

    On TikTok, the more privileged, cosmopolitan section of society is referred to as “Egypt”. The poor and disenfranchised are “Masr” (مصر), the Arabic word for Egypt.

    TikTok is aimed at generating viral content more than it is a networking site, like Facebook, that’s based on pre-existing social connections. The result is a virtual common space where the two sides can interact in new ways. This engenders unique social and cultural dynamics also observed in other countries.



    Read more:
    TikTok in Kenya: the government wants to restrict it, but my study shows it can be useful and empowering

    “Egypt” watches “Masr” create all kinds of content – from singing and dancing routines to live begging. “Masr” gets to peek into the otherwise inaccessible world of the wealthy.

    In the current climate of an economic crisis, this divide can be glaring. While most Egyptians are struggling with inflation, the cost of living and unemployment, the wealthy flaunt their lifestyles on TikTok.

    When wealthy TikTokers post content complaining about relatively petty issues like a long wait for valet parking at a luxury restaurant or boast about their weekly allowance, it reveals their disconnect from the everyday hardships faced by the less privileged.

    Users are able to comment freely on each other’s videos, sharing their unvarnished opinions. A student boasting about their weekly allowance of 3,000 EGP (US$60) might be told, “This is some people’s monthly salary.”

    Political consequences

    Since it first appeared in 2020, TikTok in Egypt has evolved from a platform mainly geared towards silly and entertaining content by teenagers. It’s become an outlet for people of all ages interested in gathering information, keeping abreast of current trends and events, and also a space for political engagement, especially on the issue of Palestine.



    Read more:
    Young Nigerians are flocking to TikTok – why it’s a double-edged sword

    There hasn’t been an obvious politicisation of TikTok in Egypt yet and there might never be, given the strict policing by authorities. But TikTok’s ability to expose divisions in Egyptian society and connect citizens across demographic cleavages could potentially have unexpected political consequences in the near future.

    Shahd Atef contributed to the research for this article

    Gabriele Cosentino 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. TikTok in Egypt: where rich and poor meet – and the state watches everything – https://theconversation.com/tiktok-in-egypt-where-rich-and-poor-meet-and-the-state-watches-everything-253278

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Mohamed Okash, Founding Director, Institute of Climate and Environment, Simad University

    In the sun-scorched lands of Somalia, farmers and livestock keepers have grown accustomed to the extremes of climate. In 2022, for example, the country suffered the longest drought in 40 years. This affected nearly half the national population of 18 million people. The following year, heavy and widespread flooding devastated the country’s farmlands and infrastructure.

    For a country whose economy breathes through its agriculture and livestock sectors, these extremes have adverse implications. Over 70% of the population relies on farming, herding and pastoral activities for their livelihoods. Despite these climatic shocks, agriculture contributes about 60% of Somalia’s GDP. This is down slightly from 65% two decades ago.

    The agricultural sector is diverse, yet fragile. It is made up of two primary components: crop cultivation (mainly sorghum, maize, sesame and fruit) and livestock rearing (camels, goats, sheep and cattle).

    Somalia’s strongest export offerings have included livestock and animal products, such as hides and skins, along with sesame seeds, bananas and charcoal.

    Livestock has been the cornerstone of exports for decades. It experienced strong growth from the early 2000s through the mid-2010s, but faced notable declines after 2017. This was a result of droughts, disease outbreaks and market disruptions. Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Oman are among Somalia’s biggest trading partners.

    Apart from extremes of climate, the agricultural sector continues to be affected by political instability and conflict. Some of this conflict stems from disputes over water and land. These are common, particularly during times of drought, when competition for natural resources sparks conflict between settled and nomadic pastoralists.

    We are development researchers focused on the intersection of climatic vulnerability, conflict and economic resilience in fragile states. Our recent study set out to examine how the combined effects of climate change and conflict are shaping the country’s trade in agricultural and livestock products. We did this by analysing three decades (1985–2017). We analysed the long-term relationship between environmental stress, conflict events and the country’s export performance in key agricultural sectors.

    We found that erratic rainfall, rising temperatures and conflict have significantly constrained Somalia’s agricultural and livestock export performance over the past decade. While exports have not collapsed entirely, their growth trajectory has been repeatedly disrupted.

    Livestock exports, for instance, peaked in 2015–2016 at over US$530 million, but have since declined due to recurrent droughts, internal conflict and trade restrictions, including a partial import ban by Saudi Arabia in 2016.

    Our analysis confirms that a 1% rise in average temperature reduces agricultural exports by approximately 8.37%. Further, a single-unit increase in internal conflict correlates with a 0.13–0.16% drop in both livestock and crop exports in the long run.

    Although average rainfall boosts exports when available, its unpredictability creates volatility in both the short and long term. The study found that climatic shocks and ongoing conflict are deeply hurting Somalia’s agriculture and livestock exports.

    What the data says

    Our analysis, based on export figures, climate records and conflict datasets (including some from the World Bank), reveals a clear pattern: export performance rises with rainfall and declines with both rising temperatures and internal conflict.

    Banana and sorghum production have dropped by over 50% in some regions since the 1990s. Once a key export crop, bananas have nearly disappeared from Somalia’s export portfolio. Sesame remains a strong export, but yields are becoming more unpredictable.

    Heat stress, compounded by water scarcity, has reduced soil fertility and shortened growing seasons. Maize and groundnuts have been especially affected, with yields declining by up to 40% in recent drought years.

    Many of these crops were once sold in regional markets. They are now primarily consumed locally – or not grown at all.

    Overall, our research showed that Somalia’s competitiveness in global markets has weakened considerably. Livestock exports fell sharply during drought years, particularly 2011 and 2017.

    At the same time, Somalia has started importing basic food items such as maize and flour, which it used to grow domestically. This dependency is both economically and nutritionally dangerous.

    Falling production and exports

    Our analysis shows that internal conflict significantly reduces both agricultural and livestock exports in the long run. It does so by limiting market access and closing vital export corridors.

    This leads to a reliance on circuitous indirect trade routes through adjacent countries at the expense of the export economy. For example, livestock from southern Somalia can no longer reach key export ports due to insecurity.

    Violence over resources – especially water and land – frequently flares up in the central and northern rangelands between agro-pastoralists and nomadic herders. According to the Internal Displacement Monitoring Centre, between 2012 and 2023, conflict alone forced more than 1.6 million people from their homes. In some of the worst years, like 2017 and 2021, over 400,000 people were displaced from their communities.

    The conflict has displaced rural populations. It has also fractured governance systems and access to international markets, making it harder for Somalia’s farmers and herders to survive.

    Extreme droughts and floods have had a severe impact on yields.

    When the rains are good, exports rise. But those rains are now unpredictable. Erratic precipitation patterns and higher temperatures have led to decreased crop yields and hampered livestock production. This is challenging the nation’s ability to sustain exports.

    What needs to be done

    In response to the challenges posed by climate change and conflicts over agricultural and livestock exports, Somalia needs strategic policy measures.

    First, Somalia should broaden the range of products it exports. Diversification reduces the country’s vulnerability to fluctuations in the market for specific goods. It also minimises risks associated with climate-related and conflict-induced disruptions, and enhances overall economic resilience.

    Second, the country must resolve internal conflicts which disrupt farming operations and displace rural communities.

    Third, the authorities should facilitate market access. Establishing export processing zones can help meet global quality standards. This would reduce the reliance on intermediaries and ensure that producers receive a fair share of profits.

    Finally, measures need to be taken to mitigate the impact of climate change on agriculture. The government needs to invest in climate-resilient farming systems, promoting sustainable agricultural practices and supporting farmers in adapting to changing climatic conditions. This adaptation should include:

    • irrigation systems to reduce dependence on erratic rainfall

    • drought-resistant and heat-tolerant crop varieties

    • research, skills building and extension services to support local communities

    • integrated pest management and sustainable land and soil management.

    For Somalia, investing in agricultural exports is not merely an economic imperative. It is a development challenge that demands a multifaceted approach encompassing climate resilience, institutional strengthening and inclusive economic growth.

    This research is funded by SIMAD University in Mogadishu, Somalia.

    This research is funded by SIMAD University in Mogadishu, Somalia.

    – ref. Somalia’s exports are threatened by climate change and conflict: what 30 years of data tell us – https://theconversation.com/somalias-exports-are-threatened-by-climate-change-and-conflict-what-30-years-of-data-tell-us-254146

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Digital government can benefit citizens: how South Africa can reduce the risks and get it right

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Busani Ngcaweni, Visiting Adjunct Professor, Wits School of Governance, University of the Witwatersrand

    The digital revolution is reshaping governance worldwide. From the electronic filing of taxes to digital visa applications, technology is making government services more accessible, efficient and transparent.

    South Africa is making progress in its digital journey. In 2024 it climbed to 40th place out of 193 countries, from 65th place in 2022, in the United Nations e-Government Index. This improvement makes the country one of Africa’s digital leaders, surpassing Mauritius and Tunisia.

    South Africa has identified more than 255 government services for digitisation. Already, 134 are available on the National e-Government Portal. This achievement is remarkable. Nevertheless, the shift to digitisation comes with challenges and risks.

    Some countries have weakened the state’s role by rapidly outsourcing key government functions. But South Africa has the opportunity to build a model of digital transformation that strengthens public institutions rather than diminishes them.

    New technologies must bring tangible benefits for citizens. Digital transformation can improve public administration. But, if mismanaged, it could burden taxpayers with costs.

    Benefits

    Digital transformation comes at a cost. This is particularly true if the state fails to use its procurement power to negotiate reasonable prices. Infrastructure upgrades, cybersecurity measures, software licensing and system maintenance require substantial financial investment.

    The question is whether these expenses are a necessary step towards a more efficient and accessible government.

    Two South African examples illustrate that digital transformation can save money and enhance service delivery quality.

    The first is the South African Revenue Service. Its goal is to ensure that taxpayers and tax advisers can use the service from anywhere and at any time. The changes made more than a decade ago show that digital systems can yield substantial financial gains. After introducing e-filing in 2006, the revenue service streamlined tax processes, reduced inefficiencies and led to higher compliance rates. Ultimately this led to improved revenue collection.

    Similarly, digitising social grant payments has had a number of positive effects. In a chapter of a recent edited volume on public governance, my colleagues and I wrote a case study about how the South African Social Security Agency used basic technologies and platforms like WhatsApp and email to process a grant during the COVID pandemic. It allowed over 14 million people to apply, paid grants to over 6 million beneficiaries during the first phase of the project.

    South African Social Security Agency annual reports show that over 95% of grant beneficiaries receive their payouts electronically through debit cards, instead of going to cash points. This improves security and lets beneficiaries decide when to get and spend their money.

    There are fears that automation could result in massive job losses. But global experience has shown that digitalisation does not necessarily lead to large-scale retrenchments. Instead it can shift the nature of work to other responsibilities.

    The South African Social Security Agency provides a compelling case. Its transition to digital grant payments did not lead to job losses. Similarly, the expansion of e-filing at the revenue service has not resulted in workforce reductions. In both cases efficiencies improved.

    These cases highlight that digital transformation is reshaping roles rather than displacing employees. Public servants are moving into areas such as cybersecurity, data analysis and AI-driven decision-making.

    Shortcomings and pitfalls

    A number of inefficiencies are at play in government services.

    Firstly, most government digital operations still work with outdated paper-based systems. The lack of a uniform digital identity creates bureaucratic inefficiencies and delays.

    Secondly, fragmented procurement of equipment in government has led to duplicated efforts, increased costs and fruitless expenditure.

    Thirdly, different departments often use isolated and incompatible digital systems. This reduce the mutual benefits of digital transformation. The State IT Agency has been blamed for inefficiencies, procurement failures and questionable spending.

    Fourthly, South Africa’s public service remains fragmented. Citizens still struggle to access government services seamlessly. They often move between departments to complete what should be a single transaction.

    Without a centralised system, departments operate in isolation, duplicating efforts, increasing costs and eroding public trust.



    Read more:
    South Africa’s civil servants are missing skills, especially when it comes to technology – report

    Fifth, a lack of skills. Increasing reliance on digital tools requires expertise in data analytics, cloud computing and automation. Many public servants lack the training to take on these new roles. The National Digital and Future Skills Strategy was introduced in September 2020 to bridge this gap, but its effectiveness depends on its implementation.

    Introducing it in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic forced government to make digital leaps which otherwise might have taken longer. To sustain services, technology had to be rapidly adopted, including basic things like holding Cabinet meetings online, using a system rapidly developed by the State Information Technology Agency.

    Sixth, security concerns complicate the transformation. As government systems become digital, they become vulnerable to cyberattacks. South Africa must put in place cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent identity theft, data breaches and service disruptions. A cyberattack on one department could affect the entire public sector.

    What needs to be done

    Government must streamline procurement, improve coordination and eliminate inefficiencies to ensure interdepartmental collaboration.

    A single, integrated e-government platform would:

    • cut red tape

    • reduce queues

    • increase efficiency.

    Government needs to upskill civil servants and improve their digital literacy.

    Government must create a seamless e-government system that connects services while protecting citizens’ personal information. The success of digitalisation depends on technological advancements as well as the level of trust citizens have in government systems. Without strong security measures, transparency and accountability, even the most sophisticated digital tools will fail to gain public confidence.

    South Africa has the chance to demonstrate that a strong, capable state can successfully integrate technology while safeguarding public interests. It should take full advantage of offers by Microsoft, Amazon and Huawei to support digital skills training in the public sector in a way that does not advantage one company’s technologies over others. Choices of technology must be user-centric, not based on preferences of accounting officers and chief information officers. Leaders of public institutions must be measured on their ability to digitally transform their organisations.

    Busani Ngcaweni is affiliated with the National School of Government, Wits and Johannesburg Universities.

    – ref. Digital government can benefit citizens: how South Africa can reduce the risks and get it right – https://theconversation.com/digital-government-can-benefit-citizens-how-south-africa-can-reduce-the-risks-and-get-it-right-254089

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Digital clones of real models are revolutionizing fashion advertising

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Luana Carcano, Lecturer, Beedie School of Business, Simon Fraser University

    Driven by advances in artificial intelligence (AI) and metaverse technologies, digital clones are transforming fast-fashion marketing. Always available, ageless and adaptable to any setting, these virtual figures enable brands to create immersive, cost-effective campaigns that resonate with today’s digital-first consumers.



    Read more:
    Fake models for fast fashion? What AI clones mean for our jobs — and our identities

    Virtual influencers — digitally created personas used to provide entertainment, generate content and endorse brands — are becoming increasingly influential, especially among Gen Z and digital-first audiences.

    These virtual figures vary in form: some, like Lil Miquela and Shudu, are entirely computer-generated, while others, such as Hatsune Miku, incorporate human elements like voice or motion.

    Hybrid influencers blend real and virtual components, allowing for brand-specific customization. These virtual influencers boost brand visibility, drive engagement and influence market performance.

    Real persons, virtual personas

    The estimate for global influencer market size for 2024 was valued at over US$24 billion and is projected to grow to over US$32 billion in 2025. The rise of virtual influencers is particularly prominent in Asia.

    This trend is also reshaping the US$2.5 trillion modelling industry, according to The Business of Fashion. AI-generated avatars and digital clones enable brands to cut production costs and accelerate campaign development. As a result, companies such as Levi Strauss & Co. are partnering with AI modelling firms to integrate these virtual personas into their marketing strategies.

    Digital twins

    Digital twins — virtual replicas of real people — are gaining traction in marketing to enhance personalization, streamline content creation and deepen customer engagement.

    In the fashion world, they provide a means to maintain a sense of human connection while using AI for precision and volume purposes. Fast-fashion retailer H&M recently introduced AI-generated digital twins of real-life models for advertising and social media content. Positioned as a creative and operational aid rather than a replacement for human talent, the initiative has ignited industry-wide debate.



    Read more:
    AI clones made from user data pose uncanny risks

    While the brand highlights the advantages — lower production costs and faster catalogue development — some critics have raised ethical concerns regarding representation and transparency.

    These digital twins fall into the category of “front-of-camera” tools: static avatars used in visual content without independent personas or social media presence. Unlike virtual influencers, they do not interact with audiences or build followings. Instead, they function strictly as visual stand-ins for traditional models, who are compensated for the use of their likenesses, similar to conventional campaigns.

    As these avatars do not speak, endorse or engage directly with consumers, they remain subject to traditional advertising regulations — not influencer marketing laws.

    Digital models are used for operational efficiency: testing and refining creative strategies before rollout, reducing costs and potentially offering immersive digital experiences to enhance customer connection and brand loyalty.

    Authenticity and other challenges

    In July 2024, fast-fashion retailer Mango launched its first advertising campaign featuring AI-generated avatars to promote a limited-edition collection for teenaged girls.

    These AI-generated influencers and digital twins introduce numerous ethical and legal challenges. These innovations raise difficult questions about the displacement of human talent — including models, make-up artists, hairstylists and photographers — and broader implications for creative industries.

    Key concerns centre on consent and compensation. The unauthorized use of an individual’s likeness, even in digital form, poses a risk of exploitation and underscores the importance of clear standards and protections. The legal landscape regarding image rights and intellectual property is still evolving, which makes compliance both essential and complex.

    As the lines between reality and digital fabrication blur, brands risk eroding consumer trust. The authenticity that audiences value can be undermined if AI-generated content seems deceptive or inauthentic.

    Companies must tread carefully, balancing innovation with transparency.

    Diversity is another critical issue. While AI offers customization, it can also perpetuate biases or create an illusion of inclusivity without genuine representation.

    An Associated Press report on AI models and diversity.

    As the use of AI proliferates, ensuring that digital models support, rather than hinder, meaningful advancement in representation will be essential.

    Ultimately, brands must implement ethical frameworks to ensure that AI enhances creativity while maintaining integrity, inclusivity and legal accountability.

    Strategic considerations

    Digital clones provide fast-fashion brands with a powerful tool to create personalized shopping experiences and enable greater representation of diverse body types and style preferences. This degree of customization can significantly enhance customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

    To ensure ethical integration, transparency is crucial. Brands must clearly disclose when digital models appear in campaigns. These digital representations should encompass a wide variety of demographics to genuinely promote inclusivity and engage with a broader audience.

    Establishing ethical and legal safeguards is equally important. Creating digital clones requires explicit consent and careful attention to intellectual property rights. Without clear guidelines and permissions, brands risk violating privacy, misusing likenesses and facing legal repercussions.

    Luana Carcano 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. Digital clones of real models are revolutionizing fashion advertising – https://theconversation.com/digital-clones-of-real-models-are-revolutionizing-fashion-advertising-254244

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Griffith Statement on FDA Expansion of Unannounced Inspections at Foreign Manufacturing Facilities

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

    The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently announced the agency’s intent to expand unannounced inspections at foreign manufacturing facilities that produce foods, medicines and other medical products intended for American consumers and patients. In response to this announcement, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) released the following statement:

    “Through my oversight work in the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, I outlined serious inadequacies with the FDA’s foreign drug inspection program. American patients and consumers deserve access to products that are safe and reliable. They should always be protected from products that are dangerous and harmful. As President Trump works to secure domestic manufacturing of products like pharmaceutical drugs, I welcome Commissioner Makary’s pledge to further evaluate the foreign drug inspection program and improve the quality and safety of products for American consumers.”

    BACKGROUND

    On May 6, the FDA issued a press release describing its intent to expand the use of these unannounced inspections.

    Rep. Griffith introduced a bill that was signed into law in 2022, H.R. 7006 – the INSPECTIONS Act, that requires the FDA to consider the compliance history of establishments in the country or region in which the establishment is located as a factor in their risk-based inspections schedule.

    In the 118th Congress, Rep. Griffith chaired the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Oversight & Investigations.

    Rep. Griffith chaired hearings on various issues, including but not limited to FDA’s foreign drug inspections program. 

    Additionally, Rep. Griffith helped lead multiple letters to the FDA.

    Rep. Griffith’s e-newsletter on this topic can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Seitlholo to lead SA delegation to ORASECOM Climate Resilient Investment Conference in Lesotho

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Water and Sanitation Deputy Minster, Sello Seitlholo will lead the South African delegation to the upcoming Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) Climate Resilient Investment Conference, scheduled to take place at the Avani Maseru Hotel, Lesotho.

    The ORASECOM Investment Conference is a critical platform for uniting stakeholders in advancing water infrastructure projects that drive socio-economic development, improve water quality and access, and build climate resilience across Southern Africa.

    Established in November 2000, ORASECOM is the custodian of one of the largest river systems in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

    The Orange-Senqu River Basin spans approximately one million square kilometres, covering all of Lesotho and significant parts of South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia.

    The Commission was established to promote integrated water resource development and management across this vital transboundary basin.

    The conference, which is taking place on Thursday, aims to raise awareness and mobilise investments to implement priority actions outlined in the Climate Resilient Investment Plan, which promotes sustainable development and water security within the Orange-Senqu River Basin.

    “The event will provide a high-level platform for dialogue and collaboration between private investors, government representatives, ORASECOM member states, international financial institutions, and water resource experts to drive funding and partnerships in support of vital water infrastructure projects.,” the department said in a statement on Wednesday.

    The conference is hosted by ORASECOM, in collaboration with government of Kingdom of Lesotho, through the Ministry of Natural Resources and the four basin states, including Lesotho, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana.

    The department noted that South Africa strongly values its longstanding and strategic partnerships with fellow ORASECOM member states.

    These regional collaborations reflect a collective commitment to climate resilience, sustainable water management, and regional integration.

    Through ORASECOM, the region has developed an Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) Plan, followed by the Climate Resilient Investment Strategy.

    The strategy identifies 36 priority infrastructure projects that are critical to the basin’s future.

    Highlighted projects include:

    •    Orange River Project and Noordoewer-Vioolsdrift (NVD) Intervention Options 
    •    Lesotho to Botswana Water Transfer Scheme 
    •    Integrated Vaal River Intervention System 
    •    Caledon to Greater Bloemfontein Transfer 
    •    Greater Bloemfontein Internal Resource Improvements 
    •    Gariep to Greater Bloemfontein Transfer 
        
    Seitlholo has highlighted the importance of regional collaboration and the relevance of the conference to South Africa’s water sector.

    “Water knows no borders, and neither should our cooperation. The ORASECOM Investment Conference is more than a funding event, it is a reaffirmation of our shared vision for sustainable development and regional integration.

    “South Africa remains firmly committed to ORASECOM’s mission and values, and we look forward to strengthening partnerships that will ensure lasting water security for all basin states,” the Deputy Minister said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy, Power to Deliver Keynote at Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025

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

    PARIS, France, May 7, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 Forum is pleased to announce that Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development, July Moyo, will deliver a keynote address at the event in Paris next month, highlighting national energy priorities and emerging investment opportunities. His participation marks a strategic moment for Zimbabwe as the country positions its energy sector for a new wave of private sector-led growth.

    Minister Moyo’s participation follows Zimbabwe’s recent international efforts to attract investment into its energy sector, including high-level engagements aimed at outlining a clear roadmap for modernization and highlighting the essential role of private capital in addressing infrastructure deficits. With a large portion of the population still lacking access to electricity and power demand continuing to outpace supply, Zimbabwe is actively seeking strategic partnerships to deliver more reliable, sustainable and diversified energy solutions.

    IAE 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4d2nKO6) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    To meet both near-term and long-term goals, the government is pursuing a dual-track approach: restarting coal-fired power plants to stabilize domestic supply in the short term, while simultaneously accelerating investment in renewable energy. Solar and wind projects are at the forefront of Zimbabwe’s energy strategy, with plans to develop large-scale solar farms and export power to neighboring countries. In partnership with Zambia, Zimbabwe is exploring floating solar developments on Lake Kariba – backed by a recent $250 million facility from the African Export-Import Bank to develop a 250 MW project by mid-2026 – signaling a shift toward innovative, climate-resilient infrastructure.

    Minister Moyo’s keynote will outline current investment-ready opportunities in power generation, transmission and off-grid electrification, as well as the regulatory and policy reforms designed to attract independent power producers and foreign capital. His presence reinforces Zimbabwe’s commitment to working with global stakeholders to transform its energy landscape and foster long-term energy security. Moreover, Zimbabwe’s participation at IAE 2025 reflects the forum’s broader mission of connecting African energy markets with international financiers, developers and strategic partners.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Mizuho Americas Hires Lloyd Walmsley as Managing Director and Senior Equity Research Analyst Covering the Internet Sector

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mizuho Americas today announced the hiring of Lloyd Walmsley as Managing Director and Senior Equity Research Analyst covering the Internet sector. Based in Atlanta, Walmsley reports to the Head of Americas Equity Research, Bill Featherston.

    Walmsley has more than 20 years of experience covering the Internet sector. He ranked fifth among Hedge Funds in Institutional Investor’s (now Extel) All-America Research Team and eighth overall in the US Large Cap Internet sector in 2023. Most recently, he was Managing Director, Equity Research Analyst at UBS Securities where he more than doubled the size of his research coverage team and hosted the firm’s inaugural Private Software and Internet Conference.

    “Lloyd’s expertise and reputation have established him as a leading analyst,” said Featherston. “I look forward to his contribution to Mizuho’s growing research department.”

    Prior to UBS, Walmsley was at Deutsche Bank, where his team ranked ninth in Internet Equity Research Institutional Investor’s All-America Research Team in 2020.

    Other analyst roles included positions at Skiff, Thomas Weisel Partners, Credit Suisse, and worked as an M&A investment banker at Lazard.

    Walmsley holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Virginia.

    About Mizuho Americas
    Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. is one of the largest financial institutions in the world as measured by total assets of ~$2 trillion, according to S&P Global 2024. Mizuho’s 65,000 employees worldwide offer comprehensive financial services to clients in 36 countries and 850 offices throughout the Americas, EMEA, and Asia.

    Mizuho Americas is a leading Corporate and Investment Bank (CIB) that provides a full spectrum of client-driven solutions across strategic advisory, capital markets, corporate banking, and fixed income and equities sales & trading to corporate, government, and institutional clients in the US, Canada, and Latin America. Through its acquisition of Greenhill, Mizuho enhanced its M&A, restructuring, and private capital advisory capabilities across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Mizuho Americas employs approximately 4,000 professionals. For more information visit www.mizuhoamericas.com.

    For inquiries, please contact:
    Jim Gorman
    Executive Director, Media Relations, Mizuho Americas
    +1-212-282-3867
    jim.gorman@mizuhogroup.com

    Laura London
    Director, Media Relations, Mizuho Americas
    (917) 446-5226
    laura.london@mizuhogroup.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nutanix and Pure Storage Partner to Deliver Greater Customer Choice with New Integrated Solution for Mission-Critical Workloads

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON and SANTA CLARA, Calif., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, and Pure Storage® (NYSE: PSTG), the IT pioneer that delivers the world’s most advanced data storage platform and services, today announced a partnership aimed at providing a deeply integrated solution that will allow customers to seamlessly deploy and manage virtual workloads on a scalable modern infrastructure.

    This integrated solution comes at a pivotal time for customers as the virtualization market evolution is top of mind. IT leaders are focused on helping their organizations maintain pace with the rapidly changing technology landscape while simultaneously implementing greater operational effectiveness. Gartner predicts that “by 2028, cost concerns will drive 70% of enterprise-scale VMware customers to migrate 50% of their virtual workloads1.”

    With this collaboration, the Nutanix Cloud Infrastructure solution, powered by the Nutanix AHV hypervisor along with Nutanix Flow virtual networking and security, will integrate with Pure Storage FlashArray over NVMe/TCP to deliver a customer experience uniquely designed for high-demand data workloads, including AI.

    Key Benefits:

    •     Scalable, Modern Infrastructure – This partnership will provide customers with access to high-performance, flexible, and efficient full-stack infrastructure to power their most business-critical workloads through the simplicity and agility of Nutanix Cloud Infrastructure for virtual compute, and the consistency, scalability, and performance density of Pure Storage all-flash systems.
    •     Built-in Cyber Resilience – Customers will be able to strengthen their end-to-end cyber-resilience posture by leveraging native Nutanix capabilities, such as Flow micro-segmentation and disaster recovery orchestration, alongside Pure Storage FlashArray capabilities, such as data-at-rest encryption and SafeMode.
    •     Freedom of Choice – Customers want agility and control of their mission-critical environments. The combination of Nutanix and Pure Storage will offer a resilient and easy-to-use alternative to existing market options.

    “We’re thrilled to see Nutanix and Pure Storage joining forces. Their collective expertise, innovative technologies, and shared commitment to reliability and performance will deliver a compelling solution that directly addresses critical needs in the market,” said Anthony Jackman, Chief Innovation Officer at Expedient. “Expedient is proud to be an early design partner, collaborating closely with both companies to ensure this solution elevates the quality of service we deliver, ultimately enhancing the value and experience for our clients nationwide.”

    “This new solution will help Nutanix and Pure Storage reach more customers together and help them better manage and modernize their mission-critical applications,” said Tarkan Maner, Chief Commercial Officer at Nutanix. “Our integrated solution will be ideally suited for companies with storage-rich environments looking for choices in modernization.”

    “With more than 13,500 global customers, I’m hearing more than ever that organizations of all shapes and sizes have a growing need for efficient, flexible, and high-performance solutions that can also scale to support their most critical, data-intensive applications,” said Maciej Kranz, General Manager, Enterprise at Pure Storage. “Nutanix and Pure Storage are both known for pushing the boundaries of traditional infrastructure, driving innovation, and enabling unmatched agility. With this easy-to-manage solution, our joint customers will have the power of a virtual infrastructure that’s truly built for change.”

    This solution will be supported on major server hardware partners that currently support Pure Storage FlashArray, including Cisco, Dell, HPE, Lenovo and Supermicro, for both existing and new deployments.

    Additionally, Cisco and Pure Storage are expanding their partnership of more than 60 FlashStack validated designs to include Nutanix in the portfolio – further simplifying full-stack delivery.

    “The future of infrastructure is defined by flexibility,” said Jeremy Foster, SVP and General Manager, Cisco Compute. “That’s exactly what this next evolution of FlashStack delivers. With nearly a decade of joint innovation with Pure Storage, and an expanded partnership and co-development roadmap with Nutanix, we’re offering a proven platform backed by Cisco validated designs, a world-class joint support model, and deep integration with Cisco Intersight – providing unified visibility across both Pure Storage and Nutanix clusters for a more complete view of the operating environment. This level of integration, insight, and support is what will set FlashStack with Nutanix apart in the market.”

    The solution is currently under development and is expected to be in early access by the summer of 2025 and generally available at the end of this calendar year through both Nutanix and Pure Storage channel partners.

    For more information and to sign up for early access visit Nutanix and Pure Storage.

    About Nutanix

    Nutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.

    © 2025 Nutanix, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutanix, the Nutanix logo, and all Nutanix product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or unregistered trademarks of Nutanix, Inc. (“Nutanix”) in the United States and other countries. All other brand names or marks mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holder(s). This press release is for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes a warranty or other binding commitment by Nutanix. This release contains express and implied forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding our plans and expectations about the partnership and its expected benefits, the new integrated solution and its expected benefits, capabilities, features and technology, and the timing of the availability of the new integrated solution. Such statements are not historical facts and are instead based on Nutanix’s current expectations, estimates and beliefs. The accuracy of such statements involves risks and uncertainties and depends upon future events, including those that may be beyond Nutanix’s control, and actual results may differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to any inability to develop, or any unexpected difficulties, delays or disruptions in developing, releasing or distributing, the new integrated solution in a timely or cost-effective basis. Any forward-looking statements included herein speak only as of the date hereof and, except as required by law, Nutanix assumes no obligation to update or otherwise revise any of such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. Certain products and features or functionalities described herein, including the new integrated solution and its features and functionalities, remain in varying stages of development and will be offered on a when-and-if-available basis. The development, release, and timing of any such products, features or functionalities are subject to change. Nutanix will not have any liability for any failure to deliver or delay in the delivery of any such products, features or functionalities. Any future product or product feature information is intended to outline general product directions, and is not a commitment, promise or legal obligation for Nutanix to deliver any functionality. This information should not be used when making a purchasing decision.

    About Pure Storage

    Pure Storage (NYSE: PSTG) delivers the industry’s most advanced data storage platform to store, manage, and protect the world’s data at any scale. With Pure Storage, organizations have ultimate simplicity and flexibility, saving time, money, and energy. From AI to archive, Pure Storage delivers a cloud experience with one unified Storage as-a-Service platform across on-premises, cloud, and hosted environments. Our platform is built on our Evergreen architecture that evolves with your business — always getting newer and better with zero planned downtime, guaranteed. Our customers are actively increasing their capacity and processing power while significantly reducing their carbon and energy footprint. It’s easy to fall in love with Pure Storage, as evidenced by the highest Net Promoter Score in the industry. For more information, visit www.purestorage.com.

    Pure Storage, the Pure Storage P Logo, and the marks in the Pure Storage Trademark List are trademarks or registered trademarks of Pure Storage, Inc., in the U.S. and/or other countries. The Trademark List can be found at purestorage.com/trademarks. Other names may be trademarks of their respective owners.

    1Gartner, Market Guide for Server Virtualization, Michael Warrilow, Philip Dawson, Tony Harvey, Elaine Zhang, 28 August, 2024. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nutanix Announces Cloud Native AOS to Extend the Enterprise Value of its Data Platform to Kubernetes Anywhere

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — .NEXT Conference — Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, today announced the Cloud Native AOS solution, which extends Nutanix enterprise storage and advanced data services to hyperscaler Kubernetes® services and cloud-native bare-metal environments – without requiring a hypervisor.

    As data becomes more distributed, users are looking for a consistent way to protect, replicate, and restore data across Kubernetes infrastructure in data centers, bare-metal edge locations and cloud-native hyperscalers. What’s been missing is a common data platform that can run across bare-metal, virtualized, and containerized infrastructure.

    Cloud Native AOS completes this puzzle with storage and data services that can run directly on cloud-native infrastructure anywhere, in the cloud or on bare metal. By eliminating the need for a hypervisor, this new solution allows users to consolidate storage management across the distributed hybrid cloud.

    This new solution simplifies day two intelligent operations for Kubernetes applications and their data – anywhere. Cloud Native AOS extends Nutanix’s proven and resilient AOS software – the backbone of its platform for data, Platform-as-a-Service, and AI – to stateful, native Kubernetes clusters in the cloud and bare-metal environments.

    “Nutanix has built a complete platform for enterprise-grade infrastructure with advanced data services in virtualized data centers,” said Thomas Cornely, SVP, Product Management at Nutanix. “Now we are extending the reach of our platform to users of cloud-native infrastructure on Kubernetes service in public clouds and on bare metal, delivering enterprise resiliency, day 2 operations, and security.”

    Key benefits include:

    • Ready-to-Use Resilience for Any Application – Cloud Native AOS provides resilience for Kubernetes infrastructure by protecting containerized applications and their data with integrated disaster recovery between availability zones, clouds and on-premises.
    • Cloud-Native Mobility – Customers can build and deploy cloud-native applications with seamless migration of applications and data optimally located across sites, including the ability to move applications back to on-premises containerized environments.
    • Integrated Data Management – The solution empowers developers to use Kubernetes APIs to automate and provide self-service control over all aspects of data management for their applications.

    “Networld is focused on container application runtime platforms. By utilizing Cloud Native AOS, not only can we enhance application portability and enable data storage across cloud availability zones and regions, but it also facilitates data migration and disaster recovery, including on-premises environments,” said Issei Tsuruzono, Corporate Officer and Head of Technology Division of Networld. “We expect this product to be groundbreaking for containerized applications. In addition, we are also planning to provide support to our partners in Japan.”

    “Participating in the Early Access Program for Cloud Native AOS has been a great experience for us,” said Manfred Pichlbauer, IT Consultant at Bacher Systems.” Cloud Native AOS platform sets a new standard for speed, scalability, and reliability and is designed for the most demanding workloads. It empowers organizations to move faster, store smarter, and scale effortlessly—unlocking new levels of performance without compromise.”

    Cloud Native AOS is currently in early access on Amazon EKS and will be generally available this Summer. Early access for on-premises containerized environments on bare-metal servers is expected to be available by the end of this calendar year.

    For more technical information on Cloud Native AOS, see the technical blog.

    “Enterprises are increasingly adopting Kubernetes for application orchestration and are challenged with integrating these cloud-native applications into existing workflows while meeting business SLAs,” said Dave Pearson, Infrastructure Research VP at IDC. “Cloud Native AOS helps to close this gap by bringing data mobility and disaster recovery to the data persistence layer of cloud-native applications and delivering a new deployment model for the AOS storage system.”

    About Nutanix
    Nutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.

    © 2025 Nutanix, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutanix, the Nutanix logo, and all Nutanix product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or unregistered trademarks of Nutanix, Inc. (“Nutanix”) in the United States and other countries. Kubernetes is a registered trademark of The Linux Foundation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names or marks mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holder(s). This press release is for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes a warranty or other binding commitment by Nutanix. This release contains express and implied forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding our plans and expectations about Cloud Native AOS and its expected benefits, capabilities, features and technology, and the timing of the availability of Cloud Native AOS. Such statements are not historical facts and are instead based on Nutanix’s current expectations, estimates and beliefs. The accuracy of such statements involves risks and uncertainties and depends upon future events, including those that may be beyond Nutanix’s control, and actual results may differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by such statements. These risks and uncertainties include but are not limited to any unexpected difficulties, delays or disruptions in developing, releasing or distributing Cloud Native AOS in a timely or cost-effective basis. Any forward-looking statements included herein speak only as of the date hereof and, except as required by law, Nutanix assumes no obligation to update or otherwise revise any of such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances. Certain products and features or functionalities described herein, including Cloud Native AOS and its features and functionalities, remain in varying stages of development and will be offered on a when-and-if-available basis. The development, release, and timing of any such products, features or functionalities are subject to change. Nutanix will not have any liability for any failure to deliver or delay in the delivery of any such products, features or functionalities. Any future product or product feature information is intended to outline general product directions, and is not a commitment, promise or legal obligation for Nutanix to deliver any functionality. This information should not be used when making a purchasing decision.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Nutanix Enables Agentic AI Anywhere with Latest Release of Nutanix Enterprise AI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    WASHINGTON, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — .NEXT Conference — Nutanix (NASDAQ: NTNX), a leader in hybrid multicloud computing, today announced the general availability of the latest version of the Nutanix Enterprise AI (NAI) solution, adding deeper integration with NVIDIA AI Enterprise, including NVIDIA NIM microservices and the NVIDIA NeMo framework, to speed the deployment of Agentic AI applications in the enterprise.

    NAI is designed to accelerate the adoption of generative AI in the enterprise by simplifying how customers build, run, and securely manage models and inferencing services at the edge, in the data center, and in public clouds on any Cloud Native Computing Foundation® (CNCF)-certified Kubernetes® environment.

    The latest NAI release extends a shared model service methodology that simplifies agentic workflows, helping to make deployment and day two operations simpler. It streamlines the resources and models required to deploy multiple applications across lines of business with a secure, common set of embedding, reranking, and guardrail functional models for agents. This builds on the NAI core, which includes a centralized LLM model repository that creates secure endpoints that make connecting generative AI applications and agents simple and private.

    “Nutanix is helping customers keep up with the fast pace of innovation in the Gen AI market,” said Thomas Cornely, SVP of Product Management at Nutanix. “We’ve expanded Nutanix Enterprise AI to integrate new NVIDIA NIM and NeMo microservices so that enterprise customers can securely and efficiently build, run, and manage AI Agents anywhere.”

    “Enterprises require sophisticated tools to simplify agentic AI development and deployment across their operations,” said Justin Boitano, Vice President of Enterprise AI Software Products at NVIDIA. “Integrating NVIDIA AI Enterprise software including NVIDIA NIM microservices and NVIDIA NeMo into Nutanix Enterprise AI provides a streamlined foundation for building and running powerful and secure AI agents.”

    NAI for agentic applications can help customers:

    • Deploy Agentic AI Applications with Shared LLM Endpoints – Customers can reuse existing deployed model endpoints as shared services for multiple applications. This re-use of model endpoints helps reduce usage of critical infrastructure components, including GPUs, CPUs, memory, file and object storage, and Kubernetes® clusters.
    • Leverage a Wide Array of LLM Endpoints – NAI enables a range of agentic model services, including NVIDIA Llama Nemotron open reasoning models, NVIDIA NeMo Retriever and NeMo Guardrails. NAI users can leverage NVIDIA AI Blueprints, which are pre-defined, customizable workflows, to jumpstart the development of their own AI applications that leverage NVIDIA models and AI microservices. In addition, NAI enables function calling for the configuration and consumption of external data sources to help AI agentic applications deliver more accurate and detailed results.
    • Support Generative AI Safety – This new NAI release will help customers implement agentic applications in ways consistent with their organization’s policies using guardrail models. These models can filter initial user queries and LLM responses to prevent biased or harmful outputs and can also maintain topic control and jailbreak attempt detection. For example, NVIDIA NeMo Guardrails are LLMs that provide content filtering to filter out unwanted content and other sensitive topics. These can also be applied to code generation, providing improved reliability and consistency across models.
    • Unlock Insights From Data with NVIDIA AI Data Platform – The Nutanix Cloud Platform solution builds on the NVIDIA AI Data Platform reference design and integrates the Nutanix Unified Storage and the Nutanix Database Service solutions for unstructured and structured data for AI. The Nutanix Cloud Infrastructure platform provides a private foundation for NVIDIA’s accelerated computing, networking, and AI software to turn data into actionable intelligence. As an NVIDIA-Certified Enterprise Storage solution, Nutanix Unified Storage meets rigorous performance and scalability standards, providing software-defined enterprise storage for enterprise AI workloads, through capabilities such as NVIDIA GPUDirect Storage.

    NAI is designed to use additional Nutanix platform services while allowing flexible deployments on HCI, bare metal, and cloud IaaS. NAI customers can also leverage the Nutanix Kubernetes Platform solution for multicloud fleet management of containerized cloud native applications, and Nutanix Unified Storage (NUS) and Nutanix Database Service (NDB) as discrete data services, offering a complete platform for agentic AI applications.

    “Customers can realize the full potential of generative AI without sacrificing control, which is especially important as businesses expand into agentic capabilities,” said Scott Sinclair, Practice Director, ESG. “This expanded partnership with NVIDIA provides organizations an optimized solution for agentic AI minimizing the risk of managing complex workflows while also safeguarding deployment through secure endpoint creation for APIs. AI initiatives are employed to deliver strategic advantages, but those advantages can’t happen without optimized infrastructure control and security.”

    To learn more about how to get started with the latest NAI version and new NVIDIA capabilities, visit our latest blog post.

    NAI with agentic model support is now generally available.

    About Nutanix

    Nutanix is a global leader in cloud software, offering organizations a single platform for running applications and managing data, anywhere. With Nutanix, companies can reduce complexity and simplify operations, freeing them to focus on their business outcomes. Building on its legacy as the pioneer of hyperconverged infrastructure, Nutanix is trusted by companies worldwide to power hybrid multicloud environments consistently, simply, and cost-effectively. Learn more at www.nutanix.com or follow us on social media @nutanix.

    © 2025 Nutanix, Inc. All rights reserved. Nutanix, the Nutanix logo, and all Nutanix product and service names mentioned herein are registered trademarks or unregistered trademarks of Nutanix, Inc. (“Nutanix”) in the United States and other countries. Kubernetes is a registered trademark of The Linux Foundation in the United States and other countries. All other brand names or marks mentioned herein are for identification purposes only and may be the trademarks of their respective holder(s). This press release is for informational purposes only and nothing herein constitutes a warranty or other binding commitment by Nutanix. This release contains express and implied forward-looking statements, including but not limited to statements regarding the latest NAI release and its expected benefits, capabilities, features and technology. Such statements are not historical facts and are instead based on Nutanix’s current expectations, estimates and beliefs. The accuracy of such statements involves risks and uncertainties and depends upon future events, including those that may be beyond Nutanix’s control, and actual results may differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied by such statements. Any forward-looking statements included herein speak only as of the date hereof and, except as required by law, Nutanix assumes no obligation to update or otherwise revise any of such forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent events or circumstances.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Glen Burnie Bancorp Announces First Quarter 2025 Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    GLEN BURNIE, Md., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Glen Burnie Bancorp (“Bancorp”) (NASDAQ: GLBZ), the bank holding company for The Bank of Glen Burnie (“Bank”), today reported results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. Net income for the first quarter was $153,000, or $0.05 per basic and diluted common share, as compared to net income of $3,000, or $0 per basic and diluted common share for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024.   On March 31, 2025, Bancorp had total assets of $358.0 million. Bancorp is the oldest independent commercial bank in Anne Arundel County.

    “The Company continues to pursue growing loans and deposits to improve revenues, margins and, ultimately, profitability. That said, we are aware of headwinds that could result in a slowing economy. We continue to emphasize disciplined lending practices, focusing on growing new client relationships, safety, and margin. Our allowance for credit losses stood at $2.7 million at March 31, 2025, representing 1.30% of total loans. Our non-performing assets remained at minimal levels consistent with previous quarters, underscoring the strength of our underwriting standards and ongoing credit monitoring,” said Mark C. Hanna, President and Chief Executive Officer. “Our team is committed to our customers and communities, and we continue to focus on growing funding sources, growing earning assets and building the infrastructure needed to grow customer relationships. These strategic priorities drive all areas of revenue and expense control, with the goal of expanding both return on assets and return on capital for the long term. While markets have been volatile recently, our Company remains financially strong, sound, and secure as reflected in our capital levels, asset quality, diversified deposit base and access to multiple liquidity sources.”

    Highlights for the First Three Months of 2025

    Net interest income decreased $8,000, or 0.31% to $2.56 million through March 31, 2025, as compared to $2.57 million during the prior-year first quarter. The decrease resulted from a $233,000 increase in interest expense, offset by a $224,000 increase in interest income. The increase in interest on deposits was driven by increased deposit balances in the money market products. The increase in interest and fees on loans was driven by the $30.0 million higher average balance and 0.27% higher yield on loan balances.

    The Company expects that its strong liquidity and capital positions will provide ample capacity for future growth.

    Return on average assets for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was 0.17%, as compared to 0% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024. Return on average equity for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was 3.22%, as compared to 0.06% for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024.   Release of provision for credit allowance on loans and unfunded commitments primarily drove the higher return on average assets and average equity.

    On March 31, 2025, liquidity remained strong due to managed cash and cash equivalents, borrowing lines with the FHLB of Atlanta, the Federal Reserve and correspondent banks, and the size and composition of the bond portfolio.

    Balance Sheet Review

    Total assets were $358.0 million on March 31, 2025, a decrease of $1.0 million or 0.27%, from $359.0 million on December 31, 2024.   Cash and cash equivalents decreased $788,000 or 3.22%, from December 31, 2024, to March 31, 2025. Investment securities were $106.6 million on March 31, 2025, a decrease of $1.3 million or 1.23%, from $107.9 million on December 31, 2024.   Loans, net of deferred fees and costs, were $207.4 million on March 31, 2025, an increase of $2.2 million or 1.06%, from $205.2 million on December 31, 2024.   Loan balances increased 16.52% over the last four quarters, growing from $178.0 million on March 31, 2024 to $207.4 million on March 31, 2025. With the $20 million reduction in short term borrowings over the past twelve months, average earning-asset balances declined slightly to $356.2 million on March 31, 2025, as compared to $362.0 million during the prior-year first quarter.

    Total deposits were $317.3 million on March 31, 2025, an increase of $8.1 million or 2.61%, from $309.2 million on December 31, 2024. Noninterest-bearing deposits were $104.5 million on March 31, 2025, an increase of $3.7 million or 3.71%, from $100.7 million on December 31, 2024.   Interest-bearing deposits were $212.8 million on March 31, 2025, an increase of $4.4 million or 2.08%, from $208.4 million on December 31, 2024. Total borrowings were $20.0 million on March 31, 2025, a decrease of $10.0 million, or 33.33% from $30.0 million on December 31, 2024.

    As of March 31, 2025, total stockholders’ equity was $19.2 million (5.36% of total assets), equivalent to a book value of $6.61 per common share. Total stockholders’ equity on December 31, 2024, was $17.8 million (4.96% of total assets), equivalent to a book value of $6.14 per common share. The increase in the ratio of stockholders’ equity to total assets was due to an increase in equity from the decline in the market value loss of the Company’s available-for-sale securities portfolio. Included in stockholders’ equity on March 31, 2025, and December 31, 2024, were unrealized losses (net of taxes) on the Company’s available-for-sale investment securities totaling $17.8 million and $19.0 million, respectively. This decrease in unrealized losses primarily resulted from decreasing market interest rates during the first quarter of 2025, which increased the fair value of the investment securities. Changes in unrealized losses on the investment portfolio are attributed to changes in interest rates, not credit quality. The Company does not intend to sell, and it is more likely than not that it will not be required to sell any securities held at an unrealized loss.

    Asset quality, which has trended within a narrow range over the past several years, remains sound on March 31, 2025. Nonperforming assets, which consist of nonaccrual loans, restructured loans to borrowers with financial difficulty, accruing loans past due 90 days or more, and other real estate owned, represented 0.32% of total assets on March 31, 2025, as compared to 0.10% on December 31, 2024, demonstrating positive asset quality trends across the portfolio.   The allowance for credit losses on loans was $2.7 million, or 1.30% of total loans, as of March 31, 2025, as compared to $2.8 million, or 1.38% of total loans, as of December 31, 2024. The allowance for credit losses for unfunded commitments was $110,000 as of March 31, 2025, as compared to $584,000 as of December 31, 2024. The $474,000 decrease was primarily driven by the utilization of 1.33% lower loss rates during the first quarter of 2025 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2024.

    Review of Financial Results

    For the three-month periods ended March 31, 2025, and 2024

    Net income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $153,000, as compared to net income of $3,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024.   The increase is primarily the result of a $315,000 decrease in the allowance for credit loss and $474,000 decrease in the allowance for unfunded commitments included in other noninterest expenses, partially offset by a $209,000 increase in salary and employee benefits costs, a $129,000 increase in legal, accounting and other professional fees, and a $203,000 decrease in income tax benefit.  

    The Company is taking steps to reduce non-interest expenses in future periods which include the January 2025 closure of our Linthicum branch office, the planned closing of our Severna Park branch office in May of 2025, and the recent announcement of an early retirement program.

    Net interest income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, totaled $2.56 million, as compared to $2.57 million for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024. The $8,000 decrease in net interest income was primarily due to the $439,000 increase in interest expense related to higher balances on money market deposits, $193,000 lower interest and dividends on securities due to principal paydowns, and $77,000 lower interest on deposits with banks due to lower cash balances, offset by $494,000 higher interest income on loans due to higher yields and balances, and $206,000 lower interest on short term borrowings due to lower borrowing balances.

    Net interest margin for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was 2.92%, as compared to 2.86% for the same period of 2024, an increase of 0.06%. The increase in the net interest margin is primarily due to increases in the yield on loans, offset by increases in yields on interest-bearing deposits and borrowed funds. Loan yields increased from 5.06% to 5.34% between the two periods while the cost of interest-bearing liabilities increased from 1.51% to 1.89% between the two periods.  

    The average balance of interest-earning assets decreased $5.8 million while the yield increased 0.35% from 3.78% to 4.13%, when comparing the three-month periods ended March 31, 2025, and 2024, respectively. The average balance of interest-bearing funds increased $7.6 million during these same periods. The average balance of noninterest-bearing funds decreased $12.9 million, and the cost of funds increased 0.31%, when comparing the three-month periods ended March 31, 2025, and 2024.

    The release of credit loss allowance on loans for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $146,000, as compared to a provision of credit loss allowance of $169,000 for the same period of 2024. The decrease for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, when compared to the three-month period ended March 31, 2024, primarily reflects the use of a lower loss rate. Noninterest income for the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, was $205,000, as compared to $229,000 for the three-month period ended March 31, 2024.

    For the quarter ended March 31, 2025, noninterest expense totaled $2.8 million, a decrease of $69,000 compared to $2.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2024. On a year-over-year comparative basis, noninterest expenses decreased due to a $474,000 decrease in the credit allowance for unfunded commitments, partially offset by a $209,000 increase in salary and employee benefits and $129,000 increase in legal, accounting, and other professional fees. Salary and employee benefits expenses increased primarily due to increased employee wages and the cost of incentive programs.

    For the three-month period ended March 31, 2025, income tax benefit was $29,000, as compared with $232,000 for the same period a year earlier.   The $232,000 income tax benefit included $87,000 associated with amended Maryland tax returns for tax years 2022 and 2021.

    Glen Burnie Bancorp Information

    Glen Burnie Bancorp is a bank holding company headquartered in Glen Burnie, Maryland. Founded in 1949, The Bank of Glen Burnie® is a locally owned community bank with seven branch offices serving Anne Arundel County. The Bank is engaged in the commercial and retail banking business including the acceptance of demand and time deposits, and the origination of loans to individuals, associations, partnerships, and corporations. The Bank’s real estate financing consists of residential first and second mortgage loans, home equity lines of credit and commercial mortgage loans. The Bank also originates automobile loans through arrangements with local automobile dealers. Additional information is available at www.thebankofglenburnie.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    The statements contained herein that are not historical financial information may be deemed to constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, which could cause the Company’s actual results in the future to differ materially from its historical results and those presently anticipated or projected. These statements are evidenced by terms such as “anticipate,” “estimate,” “should,” “expect,” “believe,” “intend,” and similar expressions. Although these statements reflect management’s good faith beliefs and projections, they are not guarantees of future performance and they may not prove true. For a more complete discussion of these and other risk factors, please see the Company’s reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

             
    GLEN BURNIE BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
    CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
    (dollars in thousands)
               
      March 31,   March 31,   December 31,
        2025       2024       2024  
      (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (audited)
    ASSETS          
    Cash and due from banks $ 1,792     $ 9,091     $ 2,012  
    Interest-bearing deposits in other financial institutions   21,884       33,537       22,452  
       Total Cash and Cash Equivalents   23,676       42,628       24,464  
               
    Investment securities available for sale, at fair value   106,623       128,727       107,949  
    Restricted equity securities, at cost   1,201       246       1,671  
               
    Loans, net of deferred fees and costs   207,393       177,950       205,219  
    Less: Allowance for credit losses(1)   (2,689 )     (2,035 )     (2,839 )
       Loans, net   204,704       175,915       202,380  
               
    Premises and equipment, net   2,609       2,928       2,678  
    Bank owned life insurance   8,877       8,700       8,834  
    Deferred tax assets, net   8,088       8,255       8,548  
    Accrued interest receivable   1,243       1,281       1,345  
    Accrued taxes receivable   159       363       148  
    Prepaid expenses   474       460       471  
    Other assets   319       367       468  
       Total Assets $ 357,973     $ 369,870     $ 358,956  
               
    LIABILITIES          
    Noninterest-bearing deposits $ 104,487     $ 115,167     $ 100,747  
    Interest-bearing deposits   212,770       194,064       208,442  
    Total Deposits   317,257       309,231       309,189  
               
    Short-term borrowings   20,000       40,000       30,000  
    Defined pension liability   338       327       330  
    Accrued expenses and other liabilities   1,197       2,183       1,620  
       Total Liabilities   338,792       351,741       341,139  
               
    STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY          
    Common stock, par value $1, authorized 15,000,000 shares, issued and outstanding 2,900,681, 2,887,467, and 2,900,481 shares as of March 31, 2025, March 31, 2024, and December 31, 2024, respectively.   2,901       2,887       2,901  
    Additional paid-in capital   11,037       10,989       11,037  
    Retained earnings   23,035       23,575       22,882  
    Accumulated other comprehensive loss   (17,792 )     (19,322 )     (19,003 )
       Total Stockholders’ Equity   19,181       18,129       17,817  
       Total Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity $ 357,973     $ 369,870     $ 358,956  
               
    GLEN BURNIE BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF (LOSS) INCOME
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
    (unaudited)
             
         Three Months Ended
    March 31,
          2025       2024  
    Interest income        
    Interest and fees on loans   $ 2,709     $ 2,215  
    Interest and dividends on securities     745       938  
    Interest on deposits with banks and federal funds sold     175       252  
    Total Interest Income     3,629       3,405  
             
    Interest expense        
    Interest on deposits     841       402  
    Interest on short-term borrowings     225       431  
    Total Interest Expense     1,066       833  
             
    Net Interest Income     2,563       2,572  
    (Release) provision of credit loss allowance     (146 )     169  
    Net interest income after credit loss provision     2,709       2,403  
             
    Noninterest income        
    Service charges on deposit accounts     31       38  
    Other fees and commissions     131       148  
    Income on life insurance     43       43  
    Total Noninterest Income     205       229  
             
    Noninterest expenses        
    Salary and employee benefits     1,827       1,618  
    Occupancy and equipment expenses     309       331  
    Legal, accounting and other professional fees     383       254  
    Data processing and item processing services     256       250  
    FDIC insurance costs     41       38  
    Advertising and marketing related expenses     37       23  
    Loan collection costs     45       5  
    Telephone costs     38       40  
    Other expenses     (146 )     302  
    Total Noninterest Expenses     2,790       2,861  
             
    Loss before income taxes     124       (229 )
    Income tax beneift     (29 )     (232 )
             
       Net income   $ 153     $ 3  
             
    Basic and diluted net income per common share   $ 0.05     $ –  
             
    GLEN BURNIE BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY            
    CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
    For the three months ended March 31, 2025 and 2024            
    (dollars in thousands)                  
                         
                    Accumulated    
            Additional       Other   Total
        Common   Paid-in   Retained   Comprehensive   Stockholders’
    (unaudited) Stock   Capital   Earnings   Loss   Equity
    Balance, December 31, 2023 $ 2,883   $ 10,964   $ 23,859     $ (18,381 )   $ 19,325  
                         
    Net income   –     –     3       –       3  
    Cash dividends, $0.10 per share   –     –     (287 )     –       (287 )
    Dividends reinvested under dividend reinvestment plan   4     25     –       –       29  
    Other comprehensive loss   –     –     –       (941 )     (941 )
    Balance, March 31, 2024 $ 2,887   $ 10,989   $ 23,575     $ (19,322 )   $ 18,129  
                         
                         
                    Accumulated    
            Additional       Other   Total
        Common   Paid-in   Retained   Comprehensive   Stockholders’
    (unaudited) Stock   Capital   Earnings   (Loss) Income   Equity
    Balance, December 31, 2024 $ 2,901   $ 11,037   $ 22,882     $ (19,003 )   $ 17,817  
                         
    Net income   –     –     153       –       153  
    Other comprehensive income   –     –     –       1,211       1,211  
    Balance, March 31, 2025 $ 2,901   $ 11,037   $ 23,035     $ (17,792 )   $ 19,181  
                         
    GLEN BURNIE BANCORP AND SUBSIDIARY
    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
    (dollars in thousands, except per share amounts)
                     
        Three Months Ended   Year Ended
        March 31,   December 31,   March 31,   December 31,
          2025       2024       2024       2024  
        (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (unaudited)   (unaudited)
                     
    Financial Data                
    Assets   $ 357,973     $ 358,956     $ 369,870     $ 358,956  
    Investment securities     106,623       107,949       128,727       107,949  
    Loans, (net of deferred fees & costs)     207,393       205,219       177,950       205,219  
    Allowance for loan losses     2,689       2,839       2,035       2,839  
    Deposits     317,257       309,189       309,231       309,189  
    Borrowings     20,000       30,000       40,000       30,000  
    Stockholders’ equity     19,181       17,817       18,129       17,817  
    Net income (loss)     153       (39 )     3       (112 )
                     
    Average Balances                
    Assets   $ 353,308     $ 366,888     $ 358,877     $ 363,994  
    Investment securities     132,805       136,868       163,618       148,037  
    Loans, (net of deferred fees & costs)     205,868       204,703       175,914       192,646  
    Deposits     312,030       314,046       305,858       309,838  
    Borrowings     20,215       30,323       31,667       32,721  
    Stockholders’ equity     19,258       20,664       19,124       19,169  
                     
    Performance Ratios                
    Annualized return on average assets     0.17%       -0.04%       0.00%       -0.03%  
    Annualized return on average equity     3.22%       -0.75%       0.06%       -0.58%  
    Net interest margin     2.92%       2.98%       2.86%       2.98%  
    Dividend payout ratio     0%       0%       9426%       -773%  
    Book value per share   $ 6.61     $ 6.14     $ 6.28     $ 6.14  
    Basic and diluted net income (loss) per share     0.05       (0.01 )     –       (0.04 )
    Cash dividends declared per share     0.00       0.00       0.10       0.30  
    Basic and diluted weighted average shares outstanding     2,900,681       2,900,681       2,885,552       2,893,871  
                     
    Asset Quality Ratios                
    Allowance for loan losses to loans     1.30%       1.38%       1.14%       1.38%  
    Nonperforming loans to avg. loans     0.55%       0.18%       0.21%       0.19%  
    Allowance for loan losses to nonaccrual & 90+ past due loans     236.9%       789.1%       549.1%       789.1%  
    Net charge-offs (recoveries) annualize to avg. loans     0.01%       -0.04 %     0.66%       0.08%  
                     
    Capital Ratios                
    Common Equity Tier 1 Capital   N/A     15.15%       17.14%       15.15%  
    Tier 1 Risk-based Capital Ratio   N/A     15.15%       17.14%       15.15%  
    Leverage Ratio   N/A     9.97%       10.43%       9.97%  
    Total Risk-Based Capital Ratio   N/A     16.40%       18.30%       16.40%  
                     

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: UPDATE – Abundance Energy, SOLRITE Energy, and sonnen Develop Residential Battery-Enabled Virtual Power Plants in Texas

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    STONE MOUNTAIN, Ga., May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abundance Energy, sonnen, SOLRITE Energy, and Energywell Technology Licensing, LLC (“Energywell”) are joining forces to power the future of energy through the development of behind-the-meter, battery-enabled Virtual Power Plants (“VPP”) in Texas.

    The collaboration empowers Abundance Energy customers to use their sonnenConnect home batteries to support grid stability, ensure reliable energy delivery, and lower electricity costs while driving the development of smart, sustainable energy solutions.

    Enabled by SOLRITE Energy’s innovative virtual power plant purchase agreement (VPA) financing model, participants can install solar panels and sonnen battery systems at no upfront cost, lowering barriers to entry for this VPP program. sonnen and SOLRITE first introduced this novel VPA structure to the Texas market in January 2025.

    Optimized through the integration of Energywell’s Proton platform with sonnen’s advanced control technology, each battery is continuously managed in response to market price signals, customer usage, and solar generation. Networked together, these batteries create a VPP, dynamically balancing energy supply and demand to maximize value for both the grid and the customer. Under the VPA financing model, SOLRITE owns and manages all the customer solar and sonnen energy storage systems and customers in turn receive the benefit of low energy costs and reliable back-up power.

    “Our mission is to empower homeowners with smarter, more sustainable energy solutions,” said Thomas Mandry, CEO of Abundance Energy. “By combining sonnen’s best-in-class battery technology, Energywell’s market expertise through its Proton platform, and SOLRITE’s unique financing model, we are delivering an innovative VPP model that benefits both customers and the Texas grid.”

    sonnen’s VPP technology intelligently manages energy supply and demand, ensuring stored solar or grid energy is strategically deployed when needed most. “Our VPP solutions enable customers to actively participate in the energy market while maintaining resilience in their homes,” said Blake Richetta, Chairman and CEO of sonnen. “With Abundance Energy, SOLRITE, and Energywell, we’re setting a new standard for residential energy management.”

    “At SOLRITE, we believe financial innovation is key to unlocking the full potential of distributed energy,” said Regan George, CEO of SOLRITE Energy. “By eliminating upfront costs for solar and battery installations, we enable more homeowners to participate in this VPP program, delivering clean, reliable power to customers and adding value to the grid.”

    Energywell’s Proton platform provides advanced forecasting and optimization tools to ensure batteries are dispatched in alignment with market opportunities. “The Texas energy landscape is evolving, and this partnership exemplifies the future of distributed energy,” said Michael Fallquist, CEO of Energywell. “By optimizing stored energy, we are reducing reliance on fossil fuels and lowering carbon emissions, building a smarter, cleaner, and more flexible grid.”

    This VPP initiative aligns with Texas’ growing demand for resilient, customer-driven energy solutions and paves the way for further innovation in the residential energy sector.

    About SOLRITE

    SOLRITE Energy is a clean energy financing company pioneering new ways to make solar and battery storage accessible to homeowners. Its flagship Virtual Power Plant Power Purchase Agreement (VPA), developed with sonnen, provides solar panels and home battery systems at no upfront cost in exchange for a low, fixed energy rate. By partnering with retail electric providers and technology companies, SOLRITE makes sustainable energy solutions accessible while supporting grid reliability. Visit solriteenergy.com for more information.

    About Abundance Energy

    Abundance Energy is a digital-native Retail Electric Provider (REP) startup licensed for operations in Texas. Abundance’s products include transparent fixed-rate residential plans and multi-meter Continuous Service Agreement plans for vacant property management with a built-to-purpose CSA customer platform. Abundance is part of the Quext family of companies that includes next-generation LoRaWAN proprietary IoT thermostats and smart locks for the multifamily market. Visit abundanceenergy.com for more information.

    About sonnen

    sonnen is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of smart energy storage systems for residential applications, and a pioneer of the residential battery based virtual power plant. The sonnen VPP is nationally recognized as a blueprint for the decentralized, digitalized, decarbonized energy system of the future. sonnen is one of the most experienced and fastest growing VPP energy storage companies in the world. sonnen has received many internationally recognized awards celebrating our technological achievement. sonnen products and services are used by the sonnenCommunity, a collection of visionaries around the world who share our vision of clean and affordable energy for everyone. In Texas, sonnen partners with SOLRITE Energy to bring their flagship Virtual Power Plant Power Purchase Agreement (VPA), to provide solar panels and home battery systems at no upfront cost.

    sonnen’s offices are located in Germany, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the USA. sonnen is a wholly owned subsidiary of Shell. Learn more at: https://sonnenusa.com/en

    About Energywell

    Energywell is an energy technology company powering the sustainable energy transition. Energywell combines the financial strength of funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. and capital and commodities expertise from Hartree Partners L.P. with proprietary technology and a seasoned team of energy industry veterans. Visit Energywell.com for more information.

    About Proton

    Energywell’s Proton platform delivers real-time energy insights and seamless device integration, empowering businesses and customers to optimize energy more sustainably. Proton uses cloud-native, event-driven architecture to ensure energy solutions scale quickly while maintaining the highest standards of security, including SOC 2 Type 2 compliance. Proton is available for licensing for third parties looking to accelerate their own energy management capabilities. Visit Energywell.com for more information.

    Media contact:

    FischTank PR

    sonnen@fischtankpr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Welch, Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Resolution Demanding Public Input on Radical Upheaval at Federal Health Agencies

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)

    Senate Resolution Calls on Trump Administration to Reverse Course on Richardson Waiver, Mirroring 1980s Effort to Boost Transparency
    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance Committee, last week joined Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Angus King (I-Maine) and 15 Senators in introducing a bicameral resolution calling on the Trump Administration to reverse course on a decision to stop seeking public input on many major changes to programs and policies overseen by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The Trump Administration’s actions break with decades of precedent that have allowed the public and health care organizations to make their voices heard. 
    “Donald Trump and Robert Kennedy Jr. are taking a wrecking ball to our health care system. Their cruel actions will destroy HHS’ capacity to deliver services that are essential to the well-being of the American people—including tearing down the long-standing tradition of giving patients a voice in decisions about their health care. If the goal is to have more efficiency, better service, and better outcomes for patients, this is a backwards way to do it,” said Senator Welch. “The Trump Administration must immediately retract this disastrous policy and prioritize people’s lives over power grabs.” 
    “Robert Kennedy promised radical transparency when he became HHS Secretary – instead he has delivered radical secrecy,” said Senator Wyden. “Rather than throw open the doors of government, RFK Jr. has shut the gates, locking out doctors, patient advocates, and everyday Americans from weighing in on the chaotic disruption of America’s health care that the Trump administration is pursuing. Trump and Kennedy should follow the example of Ronald Reagan and reverse course on this disastrous decision to plug their ears to the critical feedback of medical professionals, health care providers, and concerned citizens.” 
    “People deserve a voice in their health care because it is their lives that are impacted when decisions are made,” said Senator Markey. “But Robert Kennedy Jr. and Donald Trump are tearing into our health care system, making it harder for people to get care, and trying to do so in secret. Donald Trump is not king, and he and his administration are accountable to the people. The stakes are too high for secrecy. Trump and Kennedy must reverse course and hear from the American people who they have an obligation to serve.”    
    “Public comment periods are a key component of our First Amendment rights and demonstrate a commitment to an engaged public to wise, representative government,” said Senator King. “Recent mass layoffs and pushes to dismantle key federal health care programs add burdens and pose risks to everyday Americans; those citizens who rely on the safeguards provided by the government have the right to be heard about decisions that affect hundreds of millions of lives. Right now, we need to be focusing on making our government more transparent, not sidelining the voices of care providers, medical professionals and concerned citizens. Rule reversals like this one won’t help ‘Make America Healthy Again,’ but it will lead to harmful, avoidable consequences for our nation’s public health.” 
    In early March, HHS reversed its long-standing practice of taking public comments on everything from proposed rules, grants, loans, and contracts to the structure of the agency itself. This came into full view when Secretary Kennedy announced a mass wave of firings and closures of dozens of offices across the agency that work on matters related to supporting seniors, cancer and infectious disease research and more. 
    The resolution would express the sense of the Senate that the Trump Administration should withdraw the change in policy that would significantly reduce public notice and comment, limit public engagement on new regulations at HHS, and allow HHS to take actions that will have immediate impacts on the health care system and the people it serves without soliciting public input. The text of the resolution mirrors a bipartisan resolution that was introduced in the House in 1982, which led HHS under the Reagan Administration to reverse course on a similar action to limit public input on rulemaking at the agency. 
    Joining Senators Welch, Wyden, Markey, and King on the resolution are Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), and Mark Warner (D-Va). 
    The House of Representatives introduced a companion resolution, led by U.S. Representatives Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX-07), Gabe Amo (D-RI-01), and Mike Quigley (D-IL-05). 
    Endorsing organizations and statements of support can be found here.  
    Read and download the full text of the resolution. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Military, business leaders honored at Cheyenne Trophy ceremony during Military May Luncheon

    Source: US State of Wyoming

    By Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas

    Military, business leaders honored at Cheyenne Trophy ceremony during Military May Luncheon

    General Caption: Members of the Wyoming National Guard and the 90th Missile Wing attend the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winner’s ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Cheyenne Central High School JROTC presents colors during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Airmen from the 90th Operations Support Squadron receive the Cheyenne Trophy during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Wyoming Army National Guardsmen receive the Cheyenne Trophy on behalf of the 307th Engineer Utility Detachment during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Airmen from the Wyoming National Guard’s 253rd Command and Control Group receive the Cheyenne Trophy during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Members of the Wyoming National Guard and the 90th Missile Wing attend the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winner’s ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    The Wyoming adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Gregory Porter, and command senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Thad Ehde, sing the Army Song during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Airmen from the 90th Operations Support Squadron receive the Cheyenne Trophy during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Wyoming Army National Guardsmen receive the Cheyenne Trophy on behalf of the 307th Engineer Utility Detachment during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    Airmen from the Wyoming National Guard’s 253rd Command and Control Group receive the Cheyenne Trophy during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    The Wyoming adjutant general, Maj. Gen. Gregory Porter, and command senior enlisted leader, Command Sgt. Maj. Thad Ehde, sing the Army Song during the 2024 Cheyenne Trophy winners’ ceremony at Cheyenne, Wyoming, on May 2, 2025. The ceremony took place during the Military May Luncheon hosted by the Greater Cheyenne Chamber of Commerce. The event recognizes the partnership between Cheyenne’s military and business communities. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Cesar Rivas)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: School of government partners with China to train public servants 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, May 7, 2025

    The National School of Government (The NSG) has organised a learning exchange programme taking public servants and elected public representatives to China to gain firsthand experience of how China has managed the modernisation and professionalisation of the State.

    The programme on Modernisation and Professionalisation of the State runs from 7- 27 May 2025.

    According to the NSG, it is hosted by the Academy for International Business Officials in the People’s Republic of China and is supported by the Chinese Ministry of Commerce. 

    The programme explores the Chinese path of modernisation from a largely rural and agrarian society to a highly modernised and industrialised society having abolished absolute poverty in 2020, ten years before the goal South Africa has set in the National Development Plan [NDP] and the United Nations Agenda for Sustainable development, to eliminate poverty and reduce inequality –  by 2030.

    The NSG’s international exchanges are aimed at facilitating public servants’ access to specialist knowledge and skills needed to enhance public sector performance and development through among others learning from the development trajectory of other countries in the global South and North. 

    “State capacity is important in pursuing equitable and sustainable socio-economic transformation as well as safeguarding the rights and dignity of the people of South Africa. 

    “Chinese leadership and achievements serve as a great source of inspiration for transformation on the African continent. African officials participating in these exchanges contribute to innovation and strengthening of public institutions to play a transformative role,” said Minister for Public Service and Administration, Inkosi Mzamo Buthelezi in congratulating the officials nominated to attend the programme.

    The South African government has committed itself to drive inclusive growth and job creation; to reduce poverty and tackle the high cost of living with a developmental and capable state playing a central role in this regard as the NDP puts it: “South Africa can realise these goals by drawing on the energies of its people, growing an inclusive economy, building capabilities, enhancing the capacity of the state, and promoting leadership and partnerships throughout society”.

    This exchange is part of a series in the NSG’s international cooperation for public sector development and performance. 
    The NSG forms part of the portfolio of the Ministry for the Public Service and Administration. – SAnews.gov.za 
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: SA to host Second G20 Tourism Working Group Meeting 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Wednesday, May 7, 2025

    Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille will address delegates and the media at a ceremony to mark the Second G20 Tourism Working Group (TWG) meeting that will get underway on Sunday.

    “The Second G20 TWG meeting will bring together senior officials, authorities and experts in tourism to engage on the G20 Tourism Priorities that are poised to drive sustainable tourism growth among the member countries,” said the Department of Tourism.

    The Second G20 TWG meeting will take place from 11 till 13 May 2025, in KwaZulu Natal.

    It will bring together senior officials, authorities and experts in tourism to engage on the G20 Tourism Priorities that are poised to drive sustainable tourism growth among the member countries.

    “At the first virtual G20 TWG meeting in March 2025, the member countries agreed on four priorities that will inform the G20 action plan on tourism development, namely: A People-Centered Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Innovation to enhance Travel and Tourism Start-Ups and SMMEs; Tourism Financing and Investment to Enhance Equality and Promote Sustainable Development; Air Connectivity for Seamless Travel, and an Enhanced Resilience for Inclusive, Sustainable Tourism Development,” said the department.

    The Director-General of the department, Nkhumeleni Victor Vele, will chair the second meeting that will foster an exchange of knowledge and best practice among the member countries. 

    “The technical meeting will engage on the G20 Tourism Priorities to enable the development of a G20 Tourism Action Plan that will contribute to the multisector policy driven solutions of the G20 Agenda,” it said. 

    At the first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting, De Lille urged the G20 to find ways to use tourism to change the lives of communities around the world.

    READ | SA hosts first G20 Tourism Working Group meeting 
    –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and Isowater Sign Strategic Partnership Agreement to Expand Heavy Water Production

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHALK RIVER, Ontario, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology organization, is pleased to announce that it has entered into a strategic partnership agreement with Isowater Corporation, a member of the KEY DH Technologies Inc. Group, a Canadian-based, international leader in the hydrogen and deuterium industries. The partnership will support the growth of Isowater’s deuterium oxide (heavy water) refinement business. Under terms of the agreement, CNL will offer support to Isowater in the form of expertise in hydrogen isotope separation and related technologies, leveraging Atomic Energy of Canada Limited’s (AECL) extensive intellectual property related to the upgrading of heavy water.

    With CNL’s support, Isowater will work to expand and improve its deuterium refining capabilities. This will enable the company to better serve various non-nuclear deuterium markets through the provision of deuterium production and recycling services, and a higher-purity end-product. This aligns with CNL’s holistic heavy water strategy, which is aimed at leveraging the extensive expertise and technologies within Canada’s national nuclear laboratories to help address the growing international market demand for heavy water in both the nuclear and non-nuclear sectors.

    “CNL is excited to enter into this partnership with Isowater, a Canadian leader in the supply of heavy water and deuterium-based compounds, and a company whose expertise and capabilities complement our own,” commented Jack Craig, CNL’s President and CEO. “This agreement comes amidst growing interest in the use of heavy water in non-nuclear industries, from electronics to health sciences. By applying our expertise and technologies, built through more than 60 years of scientific research in hydrogen isotope management, we believe that CNL can help Isowater grow and improve its heavy water refining capabilities. We look forward to working with them under the terms of our new agreement.”

    “This partnership represents the next phase of the close relationship between Isowater, CNL and AECL that has developed over the past decade,” said Andrew T.B. Stuart, Chairman of KEY. “Our collaboration has been an important enabler of the more than 10% compound annual growth rate in deuterium oxide use by the global high technology and life sciences industries.” Stuart added, “CNL, Canada’s premier science and technology laboratory, offers world-class technology and expertise that support the path to global success of organizations like ours.”

    Deuterium oxide (heavy water) is a form of water in which the normal hydrogen is replaced by a heavier form of hydrogen called deuterium. Since the company was founded in 2009, Isowater has established a global market presence as a trusted and reliable supplier of high-purity heavy water to some of the world’s most sophisticated industries, including life sciences and manufacturers of semiconductors, OLED displays and fibre optics. As part of their strategic partnership, CNL will supply Isowater with isotope exchange catalyst technologies for its deuterium refinement process. On an as-needed basis, CNL will also provide subject matter expert support for Isowater’s deuterium refineries, which is envisioned to include process optimization and troubleshooting.

    Thanks to the foundation of research from its predecessor, AECL, CNL is now considered a world leader in heavy water production and upgrading technology, with over 60 years of expertise, experience and innovation covering all aspects of the technology. These capabilities include laboratory development activities; development of proprietary wetproofed catalysts with the required longevity for economical deployment; demonstrations through design, construction, commissioning and operation of pilot and prototype plants; and development of a family of proprietary codes for simulating the processes and catalyst performance profiles along the isotope exchange catalyst beds.

    As a federal Crown corporation, AECL owns and oversees the sites under management by CNL. “AECL is pleased to see the signing of this agreement, which makes use of our extensive intellectual property in heavy water production and refinement,” said Fred Dermarkar, AECL’s President and CEO. “This is another example of the value of Canada’s investment in its national nuclear laboratories. Our model allows us to connect commercial and academic partners with Canada’s unique nuclear science assets. This agreement would not be possible without the innovative collaboration between the federal government and the private sector,” added Dermarkar.

    To learn more about CNL, including its research related to hydrogen isotope technologies, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About CNL

    As Canada’s premier nuclear science and technology laboratory and working under the direction of Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), CNL is a world leader in the development of innovative nuclear science and technology products and services. Guided by an ambitious corporate strategy known as Vision 2030, CNL fulfills three strategic priorities of national importance – restoring and protecting the environment, advancing clean energy technologies, and contributing to the health of Canadians.

    By leveraging the assets owned by AECL, CNL also serves as the nexus between government, the nuclear industry, the broader private sector and the academic community. CNL works in collaboration with these sectors to advance innovative Canadian products and services towards real-world use, including carbon-free energy, cancer treatments and other therapies, non-proliferation technologies and waste management solutions.

    To learn more about CNL, please visit www.cnl.ca.

    About Isowater

    Isowater is the deuterium oxide production, refining and sales entity of the Key (KEY) DH Technologies Inc. Group. The KEY Group also includes deutraMed, a developer and provider of value-added deuterium-based products and services to the high technology and life sciences industries; and Hydrogen Optimized, a manufacturer of large-scale water electrolyzers for the production of both hydrogen and enriched deuterium oxide. Together, these companies enable a long-term, secure supply of deuterium for global markets. KEY Group products are exported to customers in more than 25 countries.

    For more information, please visit www.keydht.com. Links to Isowater and other KEY Group companies can be accessed via this website.

    CNL Contact:
    Philip Kompass
    Director, Corporate Communications
    1-866-886-2325
    media@cnl.ca 

    Isowater Contact:
    Don Hogarth
    Director of Communications
    416-565-8920
    don-hogarth@isowater.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/77c74a3b-5ad9-456d-bd4d-3ce3a62956e3

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Westland Benefits acquires Alberta-based Sagium Health Strategies Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Surrey, BC/Territories of the Coast Salish (Kwantlen, Katzie, Semiahmoo, Tsawwassen First Nations), May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Westland Insurance today announced that its newly launched benefits brand, Westland Benefits, has acquired Sagium Health Strategies Inc. (Sagium Health) effective May 1. This strategic acquisition expands Westland Benefits’ position in the benefits and health insurance sector and grows its presence in Alberta. 

    Sagium Health, located in Calgary, specializes in providing employee benefits and private healthcare solutions tailored to the needs of individuals and small to mid-sized companies. The firm is known for bridging unique individual and employer needs through its bespoke health programs and comprehensive group benefits offerings. 

    “We’re very excited to welcome Sagium Health to the Westland Benefits team,” says Matt Mann, President of Westland Benefits. “The acquisition of Sagium Health is a pivotal step in our commitment to delivering exceptional benefits solutions to our clients. By integrating Sagium’s expertise and innovative offerings, we’re poised to enhance our service delivery and expand our reach in the Alberta market.” 

    Greg Guderyan, President & CEO of Sagium Health, added, “Joining forces with Westland Benefits allows us to leverage their extensive resources and network, enabling us to provide even more comprehensive solutions. We look forward to this new chapter and the opportunities it brings for our team and our clients.” 

    Westland continues to invest in and grow its business in Canada, both organically and through strategic acquisitions. 

    -30- 

    About Westland Benefits 

    Westland Benefits is the dedicated employee benefits division of Westland Insurance Group, one of Canada’s largest and fastest growing insurance brokerages. Combining the personalized service of a boutique advisory firm with the reach and resources of a national broker, Westland Benefits delivers tailored, people-first solutions that support employee well-being and business performance. With deep expertise and a high-touch approach, Westland Benefits helps organizations navigate the evolving benefits landscape with confidence. As part of the Westland family, Westland Benefits is committed to empowering Canadian businesses through trusted advice and innovative benefits strategies. For more information, please visit our website. 

    About Westland Insurance Group   

    Westland Insurance Group is one of the largest and fastest growing insurance brokers in Canada. Trading over $4 billion of premium, Westland continues to expand coast to coast. Westland’s brokers provide expertise and advisory-based services across commercial, personal, employee benefits, farm, and specialty insurance segments. The company’s mission is to protect individuals, businesses, and communities across Canada with trusted advice and tailored insurance solutions. As a Canadian-based company, Westland is proud to support local communities, Canadian jobs, and a strong economy. For more information, please visit westlandinsurance.ca.   

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: AI Uncovers $27B Risk in Appraisals: Restb.ai White Paper Finds Flawed Condition and Quality Adjustments

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALLAS, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — A new Restb.ai White Paper released today analyzes more than 1,200 real estate appraisals to reveal for the first time over $27 billion in potential hidden financial risk tied to flawed property condition and quality adjustments – exposing a major blind spot in the real estate and mortgage ecosystem.

    The new Restb.ai study uncovers widespread inconsistencies and transparency issues in how appraisers assess and adjust for a property’s physical condition and quality, two factors that directly impact property valuation, borrower equity, and lender risk. Crucially, the White Paper provides deep insight into how appraisers can leverage computer vision to mitigate risks using objective image-based scoring to detect and justify condition and quality adjustments with greater precision.

    The study’s findings echo recent warnings from Fannie Mae, which identified condition and quality misreporting as one of its top three appraisal quality concerns.

    “The scale of flawed condition and quality adjustments in appraisals is bigger than most people realize,” said Nathan Brannen, Chief Product Officer at Restb.ai. “Most AMCs and lenders simply don’t have a quick and easy way to check for these issues, so they ignore the problem and hope for the best. AI finally offers a solution to efficiently manage this risk.”

    Unlocking new findings from appraisals
    Using its proprietary computer vision technology, Restb.ai analyzed 1,271 appraisals and 6,495 comparable properties and uncovered:

    • 1 in 3 appraisals contains a major risk tied to condition or quality adjustments that don’t match the actual property.
    • Nearly 3 out of 4 appraisals show warning signs of inconsistencies that could lead to inaccurate valuations.
    • Most homes were lumped into just two categories for condition (86%) and quality (97%), making it difficult to identify the real differences that could affect property value.
    • Adjustments were made even when properties had identical condition or quality scores – 11.8% for condition and 5.3% for quality – raising questions about consistency and transparency.

    The study warns that these patterns can lead to systematic overvaluations or undervaluations, which carry legal, reputational, and financial risks for lenders and appraisal management companies.

    Supporting appraiser empowerment to reduce risk
    The Restb.ai White Paper on quality and condition findings come at a pivotal moment as the GSEs advance appraisal modernization and shift toward component-based scoring. The study provides indisputable statistical evidence demonstrating that AI-powered computer vision is a vital resource for appraisers – helping them tackle one of the industry’s most persistent and historically costly challenges with greater consistency, precision, and confidence.

    “Automated, scalable risk detection is no longer a luxury – it’s now a necessity,” said Tony Pistilli, President, Valuation at Restb.ai. “By integrating computer vision into appraisal workflows, high-risk files can be flagged by lenders earlier, protect against repurchase claims, and promote fairer outcomes for consumers.”

    The White Paper shows that implementation of AI tools can improve appraisal quality, enhance compliance, and align with evolving GSE requirements, ultimately supporting a more stable and equitable housing finance system.

    A free copy of the Restb.ai White Paper on conditions and quality is available at blog.restb.ai/impact-of-condition-and-quality-on-appraisal-accuracy.

    About Restb.ai
    Restb.ai, the leader in AI-powered computer vision for real estate, provides image recognition and data enrichment solutions for many of the industry’s top brands and leading innovators in the mortgage industry with AI solutions for valuations and appraisals. Its advanced AI-powered technology automatically analyzes property imagery to unlock visual insights at scale – including property conditions – empowering mortgage, valuation, and appraisal firms with relevant and actionable property intelligence. Its proprietary artificial intelligence technology transforms property imagery into actionable insights, helping clients unlock new value from visual data and providing deep insight into each of the 1 million property photos uploaded daily.

    Media contacts:
    Restb.ai
    Maya Makarem | maya@restb.ai
    or
    Kevin Hawkins | WAV Group
    206-866-1220
    kevin@wavgroup.com

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/06854f8f-7e94-4319-84a9-9f75e4140b23

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0eb40f78-8077-41c3-af8a-7eca62a476b7

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8aee103a-cb72-47f4-9848-12af60ac4113

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MadCap Software Debuts MadCap Flare Online, the Next-Generation Documentation Platform for the AI-Driven Future of Content

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Denver, CO, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MadCap Software, Inc., the leader in multi-channel content authoring, management and publishing, backed by global investment firm Battery Ventures, today introduced MadCap Flare Online—the industry’s only documentation platform combining full desktop authoring with real-time cloud collaboration and artificial intelligence (AI) powered content generation and optimization. As a result, documentation teams no longer need to choose between cloud flexibility and authoring power. With MadCap Flare Online, they get everything needed to write, manage and publish state-of-the-art, AI-enhanced content anywhere.

    Now available, MadCap Flare Online combines the power of MadCap Flare with MadCap Central and access to advanced AI assistance. MadCap Flare is the industry’s leading desktop authoring software for technical communications professionals—trusted by thousands of organizations worldwide to produce single-source content for multiple channels, including modern documentation websites, online Help, print brochures, knowledge bases, support sites, training and development resources, and compliance reporting, among others. MadCap Central is the widely adopted, cloud-based content management platform that complements MadCap Flare by delivering robust functionality for publishing, project management, collaboration, translation, hosting, analytics, and AI-powered assistance.

    MadCap Flare Online is the next-generation documentation platform that is built on and replaces MadCap Central. Key new capabilities include:

    • Concurrent authoring with near-desktop-level functionality to enable collaboration while meeting most modern technical communications and documentation demands.
    • A MadCap Flare desktop install with seamless Flare Online integration, providing both the flexibility to work offline and features for advanced, specialized use cases.
    • Access to advanced AI functionality via MadCap Syndicate, including AI tool integration, semantic search, and retrieval augmented generation (RAG) chatbot support.

    “For years, enterprise documentation teams have had to choose between the collaboration and flexibility of cloud platforms and the robust advanced technical authoring features provided by desktop software. With MadCap Flare Online, there’s no longer a need to compromise,” said Anthony Olivier, MadCap Software founder and CEO. “By bringing the best of MadCap Flare and Central into a unified, next-generation documentation platform, Flare Online simplifies content development and delivery from start to finish without sacrificing control, scalability or structure. It’s flexible enough for technical authors, structured enough for enterprise teams, and smart enough for the AI-driven future of content.”

    Collaborative, Cloud-Based Authoring
    MadCap Flare Online makes it easier than ever for team members to collaborate. It allows authors and subject matter experts (SMEs) to create and edit content concurrently, leveraging the best-in-class technical authoring capabilities of MadCap Flare in the cloud. Meanwhile, a new intuitive interface designed for all skill levels makes it easy for anyone in the organization to create, contribute and review content.

    Using MadCap Flare Online, enterprises can maximize content reuse, streamline the creation of technical documentation, and enable single-source multi-channel publishing. The platform promotes modular writing for consistent, scalable documentation via robust topic-based authoring and snippet management, and it provides customizable project templates to help teams get started quickly. MadCap Flare Online also maintains full support for Flare desktop projects—including conditional text, variables, and tables of contents (TOCs)—so existing MadCap Flare projects can be pushed to the cloud and edited with full fidelity. 

    Additionally, MadCap Flare Online automatically includes a desktop installation of Flare with the online version. This unique hybrid model of online and desktop authoring gives teams the flexibility to work online or offline—no Internet connection required for continued productivity. The MadCap Flare desktop version also handles complex, advanced authoring tasks not supported by cloud authoring tools. These include importing and leveraging existing content from across the organization, such as Microsoft Word, Excel, etc.; building events and batch targets; integrating documentation with continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) workflows; and extending functionality via advanced scripting and plugin support.

    “Flare Online makes it easy for authors and SMEs to collaborate in real time, through the web on any device,” said Scott DeLoach, ClickStart founder. “Whether you’re conducting technical reviews or need to make a quick update, Flare Online is fast, efficient, and built for today’s content management workflows.”

    Comprehensive Content Management and Publishing
    The comprehensive, cloud-based MadCap Flare Online documentation platform complements Flare authoring features with robust functionality for publishing, project management, collaboration, translation management, AI-assisted authoring, hosting and analytics. The result is an all-in-one solution that enables teams to author, manage and publish content directly from their browsers—no downloads or installations required.

    • One-click, multichannel publishing provides the power to instantly push updates live to desired channels, such as HTML5 and other responsive outputs, PDF, ePub, Microsoft Word, and Microsoft PowerPoint, among others.
    • Role-based permissions enable organizations to maintain control with user roles and collaborative workflows.
    • Version control and review empower teams to track changes and maintain governance throughout the content lifecycle.
    • Content usage analytics provide insights on how to improve content quality and users’ experiences.
    • Advanced translation management reduces the cost and complexity of localizing content.

    MadCap Flare Online also gives enterprises a future-proof approach for creating, delivering and managing content.

    • Built for scale: MadCap Flare Online provides the ability to adapt to teams as they evolve, from a solo writer to a global documentation department.
    • Freedom from lock-in: Both MadCap Flare Online and MadCap Flare are based on open industry standards, so unlike proprietary products, there is no vendor lock-in.

    AI-Driven Assistance and Insights
    MadCap Flare Online also features AI Assist, which allows customers to leverage ChatGPT from within the Flare Online interface. For example, using AI Assist, authorized users can train ChatGPT on their existing content to receive responses in the company’s voice; edit and format the ChatGPT responses in the AI Assist interface; click to insert the text directly into a document in Flare Online; view the difference between original content and text edited by ChatGPT; and translate content directly in the Content Editor. Importantly, MadCap Flare Online allows administrators to control how much or whether to use AI Assist at all, depending on their corporate policies.

    In addition to AI Assist, MadCap Flare Online provides access to the advanced AI features provided by MadCap Syndicate, an enterprise-scale, cloud-based content delivery and aggregation platform. Using the Publish to Syndicate feature, teams can publish content directly from Flare Online to Syndicate. Once the content is stored in MadCap Syndicate:

    • AI tool integration is supported through the ability to feed Flare content into large language models (LLMs).
    • AI-powered semantic search lets teams use natural language to find the content most relevant to their needs across all their organization’s content, even if there are no exact text matches.
    • RAG chatbot support allows RAG chatbots to leverage Flare content in a secure, access-controlled way without exposing it to external AI services, such as ChatGPT.

    Beyond the AI capabilities, MadCap Flare Online customers with Publish to Syndicate can also take advantage of Syndicate for advanced search and content filtering, seamless integration with other systems and applications, role-based permissions and content governance, enhanced analytics, and robust compliance support.

    Availability and Pricing
    MadCap Flare Online is available today. Product pricing is based on team size and implementation. Visit MadCap Software at https://www.madcapsoftware.com, or contact MadCap Software at sales@madcapsoftware.com or +1 (858) 320-0387 to learn more.

    About MadCap Software        
    MadCap Software powers the world’s leading companies with state-of-the-art content creation and AI-readiness knowledge management solutions. Our products and services streamline content creation, management, delivery, translation, and syndication for both technical documentation and learning assets—ensuring mission-critical knowledge is always accurate and up to date. By optimizing content for AI and maximizing reuse across the enterprise, we help organizations reduce costs, improve efficiency, and accelerate productivity. Explore how MadCap Software helps enterprises harness AI, streamline content operations, and transform their content strategies at www.madcapsoftware.com. Connect with us on LinkedIn, X and Facebook.

    MadCap Software, the MadCap Software logo, MadCap Central, MadCap Flare, MadCap Syndicate, and Publish to Syndicate are trademarks or registered trademarks of MadCap Software, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Other marks are the properties of their respective owners.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Revolutionizes Crypto Futures Trading with 100x Leverage, No KYC, and Over 50 Tradable Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, May 07, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In response to growing global demand for high-performance, user-centric trading platforms, BexBack, a fast-growing cryptocurrency derivatives exchange, is transforming how traders approach the crypto market. Offering up to 100x leverage, support for 50+ major cryptocurrencies, and a no-KYC policy, BexBack delivers unmatched accessibility and trading freedom to users worldwide.

    Backed by industry-grade security and regulatory compliance, BexBack enables traders to access high-leverage futures contracts with ease, regardless of location or experience level. New users are welcomed with a 100% deposit bonus and a $100 Trading bonus, both designed to reduce entry barriers and enhance capital efficiency.

    “BexBack was created with a simple goal: to empower traders everywhere with unrestricted access to leveraged crypto markets,” said Amanda, Business Manager at BexBack. “We’ve eliminated complex verification steps, added generous bonus incentives, and built a platform that’s fast, secure, and globally inclusive.”

    Key Features of BexBack

    • 100x Leverage on 50+ Crypto Contracts
      Trade perpetual futures on top assets like BTC, ETH, XRP, ADA, SOL, and more with up to 100x leverage.
    • No KYC Required
      Register and start trading instantly with just an email address — no personal ID or verification needed.
    • 100% Deposit Bonus
      Users can double their initial deposit by applying for the deposit bonus. While not withdrawable, the bonus can be used as margin to increase trading flexibility and reduce liquidation risk.
    • $100 Trading Bonus
      Traders who deposit at least 0.01 BTC or 1000 USDT and complete their first trade can claim an additional $50 in bonus funds.
    • Zero Spread Execution
      Execute trades without slippage or price spread, ensuring maximum transparency and fairness.
    • Risk-Free Demo Account
      Practice strategies with 10 BTC or 1M USDT in virtual funds before entering the live market.
    • Advanced Security Protocols
      BexBack protects user assets with multi-signature cold wallet storage, SSL encryption, 2FA authentication, and DDoS protection.
    • U.S. MSB Registered
      The platform operates under a U.S. FinCEN-registered Money Services Business (MSB) license, demonstrating its commitment to regulatory transparency and operational integrity.

    Built for All Levels of Traders

    From beginners exploring their first crypto trade to experienced futures traders seeking high leverage and full privacy, BexBack serves a broad spectrum of users. Its intuitive interface, multilingual support, and round-the-clock service make it an ideal choice for anyone looking to maximize opportunities in the volatile crypto market.

    Start Trading Today

    Users can register in under a minute at www.bexback.com, claim their bonuses, and begin trading with full control and zero restrictions.

    About BexBack

    BexBack is a global cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering perpetual futures contracts on more than 50 leading digital assets. Launched in May 2024 and headquartered in Singapore, BexBack prioritizes user privacy, security, and trading efficiency. The platform supports clients across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and beyond, and is fully compliant as a registered Money Services Business (MSB) under U.S. FinCEN guidelines.

    With 100x leverage, no KYC onboarding, and powerful trading tools, BexBack is redefining the crypto trading experience for the next generation of traders.

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1ff140d6-1743-47a7-8d12-a366e598a26f

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e3c1fde9-f5a2-4238-923c-aa07b2304d5b

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/3e8e0b3d-60f1-4b62-9188-ba2c94ea5824

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: UK Watch live: Lords debates sentencing guidelines

    Source: United Kingdom UK House of Lords (video statements)

    The main purpose of the Sentencing Guidelines (Pre-sentence Reports) Bill is up for debate in the Lords later today.

    Find out more and see who’s taking part https://www.parliament.uk/business/news/2025/april/lords–consider-sentencing-guidelines-legislation/

    Catch-up on House of Lords business:

    Watch live events: https://parliamentlive.tv/Lords
    Read the latest news: https://www.parliament.uk/lords/

    Stay up to date with the House of Lords on social media:

    • X: https://twitter.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/houseoflords.parliament.uk
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UKHouseofLords/
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UKHouseofLords
    • Flickr: https://flickr.com/photos/ukhouseoflords/albums
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-house-of-lords
    • Threads: https://www.threads.net/@UKHouseOfLords

    #HouseOfLords #UKParliament

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ru3Su9OVKIw

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Local restaurant found guilty of food safety offences after city council investigation

    Source: City of Stoke-on-Trent

    Published: Wednesday, 7th May 2025

    The customer had ordered a meal from Ali’s Kitchen in Dresden after advising staff of their allergy.

    A Stoke-on-Trent restaurant owner has been found guilty of food safety offences after a customer suffered an allergic reaction to nuts.

    The customer had ordered a meal from Ali’s Kitchen in Dresden after advising staff of their allergy.

    The restaurant agreed to make a meal free of nuts – but when it arrived, the customer suffered a reaction and had to use an EpiPen while an ambulance was called. The customer later made a full recovery.

    Trading Standards officer from Stoke-on-Trent City Council launched a full investigation following a complaint about the incident. This included having the meal scientifically analysed to determine nuts were present.

    Muhammed Aaban Aamir Ali, owner of Ali’s Kitchen in Dresden, has now pleaded guilty to a charge of supplying food that was unsafe to consume, as it contained traces of almond and nuts. 

    He was ordered to pay a £432 fine and £500 compensation to the victim, as well as £2,068 in prosecution costs.

    Councillor Amjid Wazir OBE, cabinet member for city pride, enforcement and sustainability for Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “We are pleased the customer suffered no further ill-effects and was treated promptly. 

    “Our Trading Standards and Food Hygiene officers work tirelessly to ensure businesses follow the law and all appropriate guidelines.”

    Trading Standards have recently completed a sampling project looking at undeclared allergens in takeaway meals.

    They discovered that 50% of businesses do not make the necessary allergen declarations, particularly in relation to nuts or milk. 

    The council is now urging all businesses to ensure they have the correct procedures in place to correctly declare allergens to customers.

    More help and advice can be found here: Food and drink | Business Companion

    To report issues with food safety, food hygiene, labelling or quality please visit stoke.gov.uk or call 01782 232065

    Food Complaint or Advice | Report a food hygiene issue.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Commemorative plaque for Denis Law

    Source: Scotland – City of Aberdeen

    Scotland’s only winner of the prestigious footballing award Ballon d’Or Denis Law is to be honoured with a commemorative plaque in the area he grew up in Aberdeen.

    Denis Law CBE was born on 24 February 1940 and raised in the Printfield area of Aberdeen, attending the former Powis Academy before moving to England to play for Huddersfield when he was 16. He went on to play for Manchester United, Torino, and Manchester City. Known as The Lawman, he scored 30 goals for Scotland. He died earlier this year, on 17 January 2025.

    The commemorative plaque will be sited at his birthplace at 6B Printfield Terrace. The Denis Law Legacy Trust had made the application which was unanimously agreed today by Aberdeen City Council’s Finance and Resources Committee, going against normal criteria for plaques that the person should have died at least 20 years ago and have been born more than 100 years ago.

    Finance and Resources convener Councillor Alex McLellan said: “Denis especially demonstrated his strong and caring commitment to younger generations by creating a legacy trust. The positive support and opportunities that Denis Law has given through the trust is an enduring way to celebrate our much-loved and much-respected local football hero.

    “Denis Law has been an inspiring role model to so many people as well as being an exceptional footballer – he was and continues to be a hero in Aberdeen and abroad and we are very happy to agree to a commemorative plaque.”

    Aberdeen City Council Co-Leader Councillor Ian Yuill said: “It shows the depth of feeling to Denis Law that the Committee agreed today to go against normal criteria and agreed to a commemorative plaque honouring him.

    “It is fitting he is recognised for all his achievements, not just those on the football pitch.”

    Denis was European footballer of the year and Scotland’s only winner of Ballon d’Or, football’s most prestigious award for individuals. Denis frequently returned home to Aberdeen to his roots with several accolades in his honour. These include the Freedom of the City, featuring in the Sporting Champions section of Provost Skene’s House, and a 4.7m high bronze statue was unveiled in his honour in 2021.

    When Denis received the Freedom of the City in November 2017, more than 15,000 people lined the streets of Aberdeen as he led the annual Christmas lights switch-on parade, following an earlier conferral ceremony at the Beach Ballroom. He said at the time that receiving the Freedom of the City as one of his life’s highlights.

    Denis and his friend Sir Alex Ferguson feature in Provost Skene’s House, which showcases people with links to Aberdeen and the North East who have transformed the wider world.

    The bronze statue of Denis was unveiled by The King himself in the heart of his home city in Marischal Square, beside Provost Skene’s House. Sir Alex Ferguson was at the ceremony to watch the unveiling.

    Denis was known as ‘The King’ for his achievements in football and the statue was sited to be in close proximity to the statue of King Robert the Bruce outside Marischal College – two kings of the city facing each other.

    The legacy of Denis Law continues to be represented within Aberdeen through Denis Law Legacy Trust and its successful Streetsport initiative with Robert Gordon University, as well as the Trust’s Cruyff Courts in partnership with Aberdeen City Council.

    There is also a statue located at Aberdeen Sports Village and the Denis Law Legacy Trail – large-scale murals depicting Law on buildings in Printfield – is to be launched this month (May 2025).

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –