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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI USA: I’ll Take “Advocating for Small Businesses and their Investors” for $800, Please! – Remarks at SEC Speaks

    Source: Securities and Exchange Commission

    Good morning. Thank you to PLI for once again hosting this event and to the studio audience, both live and virtual, who has joined us today. In preparing these remarks and knowing I was lucky enough to take the stage between all of you and your lunch break, I thought, how do I pack in all the ways our Office seeks to support small businesses in a few short minutes before that mental lunch bell rings? And just like that, I found myself in my head somewhere between the Final Jeopardy[1] countdown music and those shopping shows where contestants race around with a grocery cart. Embracing that theme, welcome to my trip down “game show” memory lane to revisit some famous, and possibly not so famous, game shows. Our journey will highlight some of what our Office does, and what is happening with capital formation in the small business ecosystem. However, before I test your game show acumen, I need to remind all of you that I am speaking in my official capacity as the Director of the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, and my remarks do not necessarily reflect the views of the Commission, the Commissioners, or other members of the Commission Staff.

    For those of you who were here last year, you might remember I had only been the Host, oh I mean the Director, of the Small Business Advocacy Office for 79 days. Today, while my duration as Director has lengthened in tenure to 16 months, one thing from those initial days still holds absolutely true — this Office is made up of an incredible bunch of dedicated individuals who are passionate about improving small business capital formation and serving as a voice for small businesses and their investors. While we may have barely enough folks to field a couple of “Family Feud”[2] teams, this small team continues to amaze me on a daily basis with their accomplishments and commitment to the Office’s mission. Just looking at the current fiscal year, since October 2024 the Office has engaged in 34 outreach events and dozens of policy meetings, produced the 2024 Annual Report, created new educational resources and content, reviewed dozens of proposed bills and amendments related to small business capital formation, and organized and hosted the 44th Annual SEC Small Business Forum. And that’s on top of our daily collaboration with our SEC colleagues on matters of importance to small businesses and their investors. I am proud to be a part of this hard-working team and for the opportunity to serve alongside them as we seek ways to continue to support and advocate for the small business community. And now, I’m pleased to present the Small Business Advocacy Office.

    Jeopardy

    First up: Let’s play a little Jeopardy. Actually, let’s jump straight to some Double Jeopardy questions, so I don’t spill all the way into the break.

    I’ll start with “Little Known Gems at the SEC” for $1,200. Congress created this Office with the longest name in the agency to advance the interests of small businesses and their investors at the Commission and in the capital markets. You got it! What is the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation? Many of the folks that our Office advocates for may not have gotten that one, and we are on a mission to change that by getting the word out about who we are and what we do for small businesses and their investors. Small businesses cut a wide swath for this Office — from a start-up to a small public company. We are tasked with assisting in resolving problems, identifying areas where small businesses and their investors would benefit from changes in regulations, identifying problems that small businesses encounter with securing capital, analyzing the impact of proposed rules and legislation, and engaging in outreach on capital formation issues.[3]

    How do we go about fulfilling these vital functions? We engage with the community — we meet, talk, and listen to small business founders, investors, and those parties that support them. And what do we do with all of that feedback that we learn and gather? It informs our advocacy on behalf of small businesses and their investors so we can amplify their voices. The questions that we get from the small business community often serve as indicators of areas where that community could benefit from additional clarity, and where we can assist by working with our colleagues to help bring about solutions and by creating educational resources on those topics. In addition, we rely on what we hear from our stakeholders when we make the policy recommendations that we include in our Annual Report. The Annual Report is a culminating event for our Office — we spend the year reviewing data and studies to report on what’s happening with small business capital formation and to ensure that the policy recommendations are data-driven.

    Let’s continue with Little Known Gems for $1,600. This is where you can find a wealth of educational resources for small businesses and their investors. Tough one, huh? Let’s go with What is sec.gov? That would be correct! You can locate our educational tools, resources, videos, and more from any page on the SEC’s website by clicking on the “small businesses” link in the upper right-hand corner. We hope you will take the time, or suggest that your clients take the time to explore the Capital-Raising Building Blocks — one pagers that cover many of the fundamentals of raising capital, to take a gander at the Glossary, which cuts through the legal and market-driven jargon used when small businesses raise capital, or to tune in to the Let’s Talk Small Business video series to hear insights from experts and thought leaders in the field. Plus, don’t forget to pop over to our Office’s homepage at sec.gov/oasb to dig into our colorful Annual Report, which showcases the state of small business capital formation, watch the recent SEC Small Business Forum recordings, or sign up for our email alerts to learn about upcoming events and new resources.

    The resources, videos, and Annual Report contain a wealth of useful information for anyone involved in small business capital formation. Plus, what better way to prepare for your upcoming appearance on “It’s Academic,”[4] — I can see some of you remember that one — where your knowledge of small business capital-raising will be put to the test. Hey, does anyone know which states had the second greatest number of Regulation Crowdfunding or Regulation D offerings over the twelve-month period ended June 30, 2024? The answer to that question might just score your team the top prize! Even though I am inclined to send you to our Capital Trends Maps to find the answer, I’ll be kind and tell you that the correct responses are Pennsylvania and New York, respectively. [5]

    The $100,000 Pyramid

    Next up, let’s revisit another old game show favorite: the “$100,000 Pyramid.”[6] Small businesses need capital to open their doors, start operations, and grow. While some businesses hope to grow and scale their funding beyond $100,000, many are often seeking much smaller amounts to get started. Recently, 58% of new businesses began operations with less than $25,000, and 41% sought less than $50,000 in external financing or credit sources.[7] What are the primary ways that small businesses use that capital? To meet operating expenses, expand the business, or maintain available credit.[8]

    Even though 40% of small businesses seek external financing, only 2% actually receive an equity investment, with those equity investments predominantly coming from the business owners or friends and family[9] — once again echoing the importance of networks and support, including from other entrepreneurs, professional networking groups, and college networks. Through our Office’s own outreach and engagement efforts, we have discovered time and again that even in many big cities, the local small business community gives “small town” vibes with networks of entrepreneurs, investors, and support organizations connecting by a few degrees of separation.

    The Match Game

    Every year, our Office has the privilege of speaking with a wide range of small business founders and investors from across the United States, as well as the those who provide assistance, advice, and guidance to them. This gets me thinking about the game show “Match Game”[10] — does anyone remember that fill-in-the-blank show from the 60s and 70s? Here’s an example: what would be a fill-in-the-blank response to this statement: “small and emerging businesses seek [BLANK] through an accelerator or incubator?” The game-winning response would be “support.” But other matching answers might include network development, access to potential investors, mentorship from business experts, and business skills development.[11]

    To cite a few more nuggets from the research reflected in our Annual Report: Did you know that small businesses that participate in an accelerator program generate more revenue and hire more full-time employees?[12] How about that angel investors play a key role in mentoring founders?[13] Or that venture capital firms do the same by interacting with their portfolio companies typically at least once a week?[14] These matches between small businesses and those who support them are an essential part of the ecosystem that helps to develop and foster founders on their capital-raising journeys. Many areas of the country have a vibrant ecosystem of start-ups and support organizations — I saw it first-hand last year in Kansas City, where a number of those support organizations can be accessed using the city’s free streetcar system! Yet small businesses in many areas outside of the traditional capital raising hubs still struggle to secure the necessary support and capital that they need.

    Let’s Make a Deal

    Talking to founders about how they seek investment capital brings to mind yet another game show, “Let’s Make a Deal,”[15] where an audience member might be selected based on their outrageous costume to make a deal with the host of the show. Now, founders may not resort to quite so much drama to get the attention of potential investors — at least I hope they don’t — but they do often find themselves searching out the best deal.

    So, how do those potential deals pan out? Pre-seed and seed funding accounted for $6 billion of investments during the first half of 2024 with a median seed round of $3.1 million.[16] Venture capital firms invested $86 billion during that same time frame with a median round of $5 billion for Series A and B and $7 billion for Series C and D.[17] Initial public offerings raised $19 billion during the first half of 2024, with the technology industry leading the pack.[18] While some companies are making deals, exit values — generated across acquisitions, buyouts, and public listings — have been on the decline.[19] And the struggle to make a deal is further exacerbated for those small businesses located outside of the traditional capital raising hubs.

    Press Your Luck

    My time as your game show host is quickly coming to an end, and I certainly don’t want to “Press [My] Luck”[20] and have one of those whammies from that show pop up on the screen behind me. So, instead, I will bring my remarks to a close and leave each of you with some parting words.

    Do not forget to spread the word about the Small Business Advocacy Office with your colleagues, clients, and those who support the small business capital formation ecosystem. This Office exists to advocate and be a voice for small businesses and their investors. We continue to be committed to helping them find the support, guidance, and resources that they need to succeed on their journeys. One of the ways in which we can fulfill our vital role is to hear from founders and investors, as well as those who advise and champion them. You can always reach us at smallbusiness@sec.gov with questions or ideas. And do not forget to visit our resources by clicking on the “small businesses” link on sec.gov or relish the in-depth analysis provided in our Annual Report.

    I appreciate you being an engaged studio audience today and do not blame me when you find yourself tuning into the Game Show Network tonight and yelling “no whammies, no whammies!”[21] Enjoy the remainder of this wonderful conference. And, the survey says, “thank you.”[22]

    [1] “Jeopardy!” is a game show in which contestants receive clues in the form of answers and then give answers phrased like questions. See JEOPARDY, https://www.jeopardy.com/.

    [2] “Family Feud” is a game show in which five members of one family are pitted against five members of another family. Each team’s goal is to guess the results of audience survey questions. See FAMILY FEUD, https://www.familyfeud.com/.

    [3] Small Business Advocate Act of 2016, 15 U.S.C. §§ 78d and 78qq.

    [4] “It’s Academic” is a game show that showcases high school students from around the National Capital Region in a head-to-head intellectual competition. IT’S ACADEMIC, https://itsacademicquizshow.com/.

    [5] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at pp. 18-19. Data covers the 12-month period ended June 30, 2025.

    [7] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 5

    [8] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 6.

    [9] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at pp. 6-7.

    [11] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 8.

    [12] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 9.

    [13] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 10.

    [14] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 22.

    [15] “Let’s Make a Deal” is a game show in which audience members dress up in costumes to get the host’s attention to make deals for prizes or cash. See Let’s Make a Deal, CBS, https://www.gameshownetwork.com/match-game.

    [16] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 12.

    [17] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 24.

    [18] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 31.

    [19] SEC Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation, “Annual Report for Fiscal for Fiscal year 2024” (2024) at p. 30.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: Is Donald Trump doing the world a favour by isolating the United States?

    Source: The Conversation – Canada – By Shaun Narine, Professor of International Relations and Political Science, St. Thomas University (Canada)

    United States President Donald Trump’s tariffs against most of the world tanked stock markets, disrupted the U.S. bond market and destabilized the global economy.

    Trump has economically and politically threatened American allies, shattering the unity of the western world. But Trump’s chaos may have inadvertently produced an opportunity to create a better world.

    Some western commentators argue that the U.S. has been a benevolent superpower.

    That may have been true for a small group of mostly western states that have benefitted from American domination. But much of the Global South was victimized by American military, economic and political interventions.

    Losing dominance?

    The West could be in the midst of losing its dominant position in the global order. This is probably inevitable, but it may not be the tragedy some western commentators assume it to be.

    In most of the world, there is a desire for a more equitable world order that doesn’t feature the moral, racial and cultural double standards of the western-dominated system. A world where American and western power is limited and contained could not only end up being more peaceful but, over time, more prosperous.

    Without the co-operation of the allies alienated by Trump, it may be harder for the U.S. to initiate conflict around the world as it often has since the end of the Cold War.

    In a recent Foreign Affairs article, American political scientist Stacie Goddard argues the emerging multipolar, post-American world will be one in which great powers — primarily the U.S., Russia and China — will divide the globe into “spheres of influence.”

    The U.S. is seeking to maintain disproportionate power in Asia. Closer to home, neighbours of the U.S. have reason to fear American expansionism.

    By contrast, even if it has imperialist ambitions, Russia doesn’t have the military might to dominate Europe. It’s a country of 144 million people with one-sixth the GDP of the European Union. Russia can cause trouble within countries with sizable Russian minorities, but its ability to project power is limited, as demonstrated by its grinding war in Ukraine.



    Read more:
    After another call with Putin, it looks like Trump has abandoned efforts to mediate peace in Ukraine

    China’s stance

    The Chinese have scored a win against Trump’s tariffs with a 90-day tariff pause that’s being hailed as vindication of China’s defiant negotiating strategy. China called Trump’s bluff and won as global stocks soared.



    Read more:
    China-US trade war: the next 90 days are a big deal for Beijing as it seeks long-term solutions

    This has bolstered China’s goal to have a sphere of influence. However, Chinese foreign policy is largely non-interventionist and, compared to the U.S., remarkably restrained.

    China may intimidate its rivals in the South China Sea, Senkaku Islands, and Taiwan, but it does not easily resort to military force. China has not resorted to military force since its war with Vietnam in 1979.

    China is committed to most of the guiding structures of the current international system and values a stable and mutually beneficial global economic order that enables it to focus on and improve its domestic development.

    Its export-oriented economic sectors need customers abroad. Unlike the West, China has a vested interest in helping the Global South develop and prosper in order to create those customers.

    Asian trade alliance?

    The Chinese are using their resources to promote economic and technological development in the Global South.

    As China spreads its renewable energy technologies globally, some of the poorest countries may leapfrog carbon-based fuels and go directly to renewable energy to make development affordable and attainable, and to mitigate climate change.



    Read more:
    What Canada can learn from China on effectively engaging with Africa

    In response to Trump’s tariffs, China, South Korea and Japan have discussed a renewed free-trade arrangement. President Xi Jinping has toured Vietnam, Malaysia and Cambodia to encourage a common front against American actions.

    Asian states are wary of China, but they remain committed to global trade. The U.S. may be retreating from globalization, but the rest of the world is not, though China’s manufacturing dominance concerns many states.

    Emerging international order

    New institutions may help to manage the evolving world order. The BRICS countries — Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Egypt, Ethiopia, Indonesia, Iran and the United Arab Emirates — have created the New Development Bank (NDB). China has created the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

    The United Nations remains the favoured instrument of global diplomacy, even if western states have been accused of undermining its authority and efficacy.

    The European Union will continue as a major global power in the emerging international order, but on a more even footing with the rest of the world.

    Europe is reconsidering its trade war with China. In the words of Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission: “The West as we knew it no longer exists.”

    Western states will undoubtedly continue to try to exercise disproportionate global influence. Canada has suggested that “like-minded states” form an alliance to promote international trade and institutions that remain dominated by western interests. This idea seems designed to continue marginalizing the Global South in the international decision-making process.

    Most Global South states are not high-functioning liberal democracies. Many struggle with the legacies of colonialism while managing an international system dominated by the West that keeps them subservient. Others have created governments that fit their particular circumstances, cultures and levels of development.

    But many weaker countries generally share a commitment to international law that is seemingly stronger than the West. They need a stable, predictable, fairly applied set of global rules more than stronger nations. Ironically, the decline of the U.S. may facilitate a much more genuine and legitimate rules-based international order.

    America’s loosening grip

    Readjusting the world economy away from the U.S. to a more diverse, evenly distributed economic model will be difficult and disruptive.

    Nonetheless, loosening the American grip on global power is an essential first step towards achieving a more just and balanced international order.

    For putting this process in motion, the world may owe Trump a measure of thanks.

    Shaun Narine is affiliated with Canadians for Justice and Peace in the Middle East and Jewish Voice for Peace.

    – ref. Is Donald Trump doing the world a favour by isolating the United States? – https://theconversation.com/is-donald-trump-doing-the-world-a-favour-by-isolating-the-united-states-252671

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Pfluger Celebrates President Trump Signing of the TAKE IT DOWN Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11)

    WASHINGTON, DC — Today, President Donald Trump signed the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law. Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11), a co-lead of the legislation, joined the president and several colleagues at the White House to celebrate this historic moment to protect young Americans.

    In response to the legislation being signed into law, Rep. Pfluger said, “It was an honor to witness President Trump sign the TAKE IT DOWN Act into law today. As a father of three young girls, I’m deeply concerned about the rise of deepfakes and nonconsensual intimate images in our country. It is sickening, it is harmful, and it must be stopped—and this law is a major step forward in protecting victims and restoring online accountability. I was proud to co-lead this legislation in the House and commend Rep. Salazar, Senator Cruz, and First Lady Melania Trump for their leadership in driving it across the finish line. I also thank President Trump for taking decisive action to cement this legislation into law.

    Background:

    In January 2025, Rep. Pfluger joined several colleagues in reintroducing the TAKE IT DOWN Act. This legislation protects victims of real and deepfake ‘revenge pornography’ by criminalizing the publication of these harmful images, in addition to requiring websites to remove them quickly. The rising popularity of AI requires decisive federal legal protections that will empower victims of these heinous crimes, most of whom are women and girls.

    Rep. Pfluger also spoke in support of the TAKE IT DOWN Act during a House Energy and Commerce Committee full committee legislative markup earlier this year.

    First Lady Melania Trump has strongly backed this bill, speaking in support of this legislation during a roundtable she hosted at the U.S. Capitol. President Trump also voiced his support for this legislation in his State of the Union address. Additionally, over 100 organizations and advocacy groups support the act; a full list can be found here.

    To read the full text of the legislation, click here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: District 776 Fires Up the Grills for a Great Cause

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    IAM District 776 in Fort Worth, Texas, held a two-day barbecue cook-off to support Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines (GDA | TLC). More than 30 teams barbecued, held an auction of homemade baked goods, and raffles, raising nearly $6,000 for the IAM’s charity of choice.

    The fundraiser’s goal is to raise money for GDA | TLC, which transforms lives through partnerships with service dogs for countless veterans, people who are blind or visually impaired, families affected by autism, and facilities in need that depend on GDA’s services every day.

    “District 776’s commitment to Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines is a shining example of how solidarity extends beyond the shop floor,” said IAM Southern Territory General Vice President Craig Martin. “Their passion, teamwork, and generosity are what make our union family truly special.”

    “Events like these showcase the heart of our union where skill meets service,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett. “IAM members don’t just work hard on the job; they show up for their communities, and the success of this fundraiser proves it.”

    “You can taste the pride and purpose in every bite,” said IAM District 776 Business Representative Mark H. Miller. “Our members don’t just build airplanes, they build stronger communities. Supporting GDA | TLC is something we believe in wholeheartedly.”

    Under threatening skies, BBQ teams from across Texas traveled to the District 776 complex in RVs, trucks, and trailers to set up for the event. Several teams were made up of IAM members employed at nearby aerospace giant Lockheed Martin. Among them was 14-year-old Jayden Lopez, the son of IAM members Freddy and Machelle Lopez and was participating in his second BBQ event.

    “It feels good to be out here helping a cause that really matters,” said Jayden. “I’m learning a lot about cooking and giving back, and it’s fun doing it with my family and friends.”

    His mother, Machelle, added, “We’re proud to see Jayden getting involved at such a young age. Events like this teach more than just barbecue, they teach compassion, community, and the value of service.”

    To continue to be successful, GDA | TLC depends on the talents, goals, and generosity of dedicated volunteers and donors like IAM members across North America.

    View all the photos here.

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Texas Small Businesses, Nonprofits and Residents Affected by Spring Storms

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses, nonprofits, and residents in Texas of the June 20 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset physical damage caused by thunderstorms, straight‑line winds and tornadoes occurring on April 4.

    The declaration covers the Texas counties of Bowie, Camp, Cass, Marion, Morris, Red River, Titus and Upshur.

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

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

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

    “One distinct advantage of SBA’s disaster loan program is the opportunity to fund upgrades reducing the risk of future storm damage,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “I encourage businesses and homeowners to work with contractors and mitigation professionals to improve their storm readiness while taking advantage of SBA’s physical damage loans.”

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

    Interest rates can be as low as 4% for small businesses, 3.625% for nonprofits, and 2.75% for homeowners and renters with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not begin to accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms, based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    The deadline to return physical damage applications is June 20.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: IAM Victory at Boeing

    Source: US GOIAM Union

    How did a union of 33,000 aircraft workers win a battle that set a new standard in the aviation industry with a 40% pay increase over four years? What strategies did they use to score a guarantee of building Boeing’s next commercial aircraft? What tactic did they use to defend their ground in a battle for retirement savings, not to give another inch of territory that had already been taken from them?

    “If it ain’t Boeing, I ain’t going.”

    This was the catchphrase during the heyday of commercial aviation in North America from the 1930s through the 1970s. Boeing aircraft were dominating the skies with silver bottom planes that denoted the quality engineering and manufacturing it took to build a transportation marvel.

    A job at Boeing in the Pacific Northwest was a key to the lock on a comfortable middle-class life for many families. And those jobs had been union jobs for generations, thanks to the foresight of early Boeing workers in 1936 who organized with the IAM.

    But the chase for middle-class life started racing uphill in the early 1980s. More recently, staggering inflation put even higher demands on workers’ salaries and compensation with exponential growth in the cost of living. Health insurance, housing, groceries, and energy prices grew faster than wage and benefit increases. The ability to retire with dignity and financial stability was becoming an afterthought. The bar for the middle class wasmoving higher and higher, and someone had to take a stand and choose a battlefield for a fight to begin.

    Thirty-three thousand IAM members from District 751 and W24 were ready.

    These members had been held in limbo for two contract cycles. They weathered two extensions of previous collective bargaining agreements, riddled with threats to move their work elsewhere, while Boeing stopped pension contributions. Meanwhile, since 2010, Boeing has sent $83 billion in profits to Wall Street, according to the Seattle Times. It had told its world-class workforce that cuts to worker compensation were necessary.

    Preparation and planning were key to readiness. Both districts focused on communication; putting the plan up front for all members to see. Face to face discussions, surveys, emails, and dropbox suggestions were used to gauge membership needs. District 751 Aero Mechanic printed road maps of the contracts back to 1952 -showing the history of contract wins and path of growth. W-24 held contract input and listening sessions at Mt. Hood community college.
    Shop stewards encouraged “swag days” when union members would wear the same union gear to mark solidarity.

    “This is our future, our fight, and we are ready for it,” said IAM District 751 President and Directing Business Representative Jon Holden. “We have spent the last decade listening to members tell us what’s important to them and their families. Many changes are necessary to address the membership’s priorities. We are creating a proposal to address a comprehensive list of membership demands.”

    Noted union organizer and author Marshall Ganz once said, “Movements have narratives. They tell stories because they are not just about rearranging economics and politics. They also rearrange meaning. And they’re not just about redistributing the goods. They’re about figuring out what is good.”

    And what a story IAM members working for Boeing in the Pacific Northwest would have to tell.

    “IAM members are the most dedicated, skilled, and experienced aerospace union in the world,” said IAM Western Territory General Vice President Robert “Bobby” Martinez. “We could not settle for anything less than the respect and family-sustaining wages and benefits that our members at Boeing need and deserve.”

    It was time for a bold move.

    A July 2024 rally at Seattle’s T-Mobile Park, the only sports venue in the area with enough capacity to hold the IAM’s Boeing membership in the area, saw a strike sanction vote pass by 99.9%.

    Boeing workers had decided this negotiation cycle was their chance—no more extensions to an existing agreement. Boeing management had made a series of high-profile blunders over the past decade, against the advice of its own workers.

    On Sept. 13, 2024, over 96% of Boeing IAM workers voted no on Boeing’s first contract offer. The path was set. Game on!“Our membership’s ‘no’ vote was a clear mandate. Boeing had to stop undervaluing its workforce,” IAM International President Brian Bryant said after the vote. “Our strength lies in our unity, and we do not back down.”

    Strike lines were set. Burn barrels were put in place. News media covered the strike from Seattle to Europe, where Boeing’s competitor, Airbus, was watching. The fight was on 24/7, and these workers were together.

    And the legacy of some past members stepped up at just the right time.

    IAM District 751 member Keith Olsen passed away from cancer in 2020. He left behind two children, Hawken and Bailey. Their mother, Arlene, saw her children take action no one expected. Bailey, now 16, shared, “When the strike started, my brother Hawken asked, ‘If Dad were alive, would he be out there?’” Bailey continued, “When I said yes, [Hawken] immediately wanted to join. He’s autistic, and the honking and crowds worried me, but he had so much fun. He kept telling everyone, ‘This is for my Dad.’”

    33,000 moms, dads, union brothers, sisters, and siblings knew what was at stake if they folded under pressure.

    A rejection of a Boeing offer on Oct. 23 ratcheted up the stakes. IAM leaders met with workers and listened to their objections to Boeing’s offers. It just wasn’t good enough, was the consensus.

    “Our membership spoke loudly and clearly about what they wanted in this agreement,” said IAM District 751 President and Directing Business Representative Jon Holden. “We stand strong until those needs are addressed.”

    As the strike continued past its 50th day, striking workers’ determination was further tested. Each day, one day longer, one day stronger.
    The strike was rearranging the meaning of solidarity. As Marshall Ganz described it, the narrative was figuring out what was good.

    “That means that we all needed to come together, stay informed, and take action as a group. There’s no way they’re gonna wait us out,” said District W24 President and Directing Business Representative Brandon Bryant. “We’re going to be here as long as it takes. We’ve got plenty of support for a long time.”

    U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell and U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal rallied with striking District 751 members on Oct. 15. Sen. Patty Murray and Reps. Adam Smith and Rick Larsen joined a support letter from Cantwell and Jayapal that called on the two sides to “expeditiously work out a fair and durable deal that recognizes the importance of the machinist workforce to Boeing’s future.”

    The continuing strike’s economic impact on the overall U.S. economy did not go unnoticed. The Seattle Times reported that Boeing and its suppliers had lost $9.7 billion by early November.

    Julie Su, then the Acting Labor Secretary, visited Seattle three times and gathered management and union leaders in late October.

    “There was a real history here where the prior leadership of the company had undervalued and undermined the relationship between management and the machinists,” Su told Axios News. “And so the workers felt that.”

    As day 53 of the strike ended, a deal was reached. Solidarity had won a new agreement.

    “This means growth and stability for Boeing workers. Our members went on strike for better wages and working conditions –and they won by staying united and exercising democracy in the workplace,” said IAM Resident General Vice President Jody Bennett said, “They hit the streets, held strong, and have been rewarded with an excellent contract. This dedicated frontline workforce does not just deserve these provisions —they are also overdue. This contract will set a new standard for aerospace across the region, the nation, and the industry.”

    Boeing workers in South Carolina, who are just like our members; facing the same employerand performing the same work, where Boeing moved some production lines to avoid union power in the right to work for less state, saw gains in their compensation packages influenced by the District 751 and W24 fight.

    “Our members fought courageously for what they deserve, and this victory proves the power of collective bargaining,” said IAM International President Brian Bryant. “IAM Boeing workers will help make the case to Boeing South Carolina workers on how we helped raise their wages and benefits at Boeing and the entire industry. We look forward to the conversations on the ground in Charleston about how the IAM can make their workplace stronger.”

    “This experience changed me. It wasn’t just about standing up to the company -it was about standing up for each other, for every worker who deserves respect and fairness. Our strength is our solidarity, and we proved that every day on the line.”, said District 751A member Chris McQueen as she returned to work after the 53 day strike.

    Members knew that standing up meant that more than just their current battle was won, it meant the door was open to change things for the future, together.

    “Education is power, and by equipping our members with the right tools and information, we build a more united and informed union. Together, we are shaping a stronger future for all IAM members and the entire aerospace industry,” said 751 President Holden. “From our family members to the flying public, we want everyone to be proud of this company once again. We are the watchdog with a unique opportunity to make things better for all.”

    Any movement starts with a step, and a step in the right direction tells a new story with new chapters yet to come.

    It was a fight worth winning.

    SIDEBAR
    Historic Agreement:
    IAM District 751 and W24 Members are now the best compensated aerospace workers in the industry.

    * 38% general wage increase over four years, which compounds to 43.65% over the life of the agreement 
    *401(k) employer match of 100% up to 8%-$12,000 ratification bonus 
    *AMPP incentive plan is reinstated, with a guaranteed minimum annual payout of 4%
    *Special company retirement contribution of 4% into 401(k) maintained
    *$105 pension multiplier per year for those vested in the pension plan
    *Call-in language back to current contract
    *New long-term disability plan and big improvement to short term disability plan-Health care cost containment
    *Improved overtime rules
    *Key job security provision for IAM members to build the next Boeing commercial aircraft in the Pacific Northwest
    *Additional Job Security language maintaining the headcount of Facilities and Maintenance members in the Collective Bargaining Agreement

    Share and Follow:

    MIL OSI USA News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mashatile engages with SA and French businesses in roundtable dialogue

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    Deputy President Shipokosa Paul Mashatile has engaged with South African and French businesses during a Roundtable Breakfast Dialogue hosted by MEDEF International in Paris. 

    MEDEF is France’s largest business federation, representing over 750 000 companies, from SMEs to large multinationals. It plays a central role in promoting French economic diplomacy, supporting private sector development, and facilitating international investment and trade relationships.

    The Business Dialogue is an important platform for businesses from both countries to expand on existing cooperation and identifying new areas of cooperation, with a specific focus on trade and investment.

    “The South African Government has committed to spending more than R940 billion on infrastructure over the next three years. This funding will revitalise our roads and bridges, build dams and waterways, modernise our ports and airports, and power our economy. 

    “Moreover, investors have an opportunity to collaborate with the South African Government by investing in infrastructure such as ports, rail, electricity, and manufacturing to improve local value-addition and boost trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area,” the Deputy President said in his address at the Business Dialogue.

    The Deputy President also touched on the European Union-SA Summit, which took place in Cape Town in March 2025, where there was an announcement of the EU investment package of around R90 billion to support investment projects in South Africa. 

    In addition, Mashatile met with Thierry Deau, Group CEO of Meridiam and Chairperson of the Global Long-Term Infrastructure Investors Association. 

    Meridiam is a global investment firm specialising in public infrastructure, with assets under management exceeding €12 billion. It focuses on long-term investments in transport, energy, social infrastructure, and environmental projects, with a commitment to sustainable development and inclusive growth.

    READ | Deputy President in France for a working visit

    During the meeting, the two discussed, among others, the importance of collaboration with various stakeholders, including infrastructure investors, policymakers, and academia, as being crucial for promoting responsible and long-term private capital deployment in public infrastructure.

    The Deputy President indicated that he is certain that South Africa and France can achieve new heights of prosperity through strengthening their economic links and encouraging closer cooperation. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: IMF Executive Board Concludes the Fourth Review of Kosovo’s Stand-By and Resilience and Sustainability Facility Arrangements

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    May 20, 2025

    • The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund completed the Fourth and final review of Kosovo’s Stand-By and Resilience and Sustainability Facility Arrangements. The completion of the review makes available SDR 13.352 million (€16.08 million) under the SBA and SDR 7.744 million (€9.32 million) under the RSF.
    • The objectives of both programs have been successfully achieved. The economy has maintained healthy growth, inflation has notably decelerated, fiscal buffers have been rebuilt, and reforms have accelerated.
    • Building on the progress made under the programs, the authorities should continue with prudent fiscal policies, strengthen the fiscal framework, and advance structural reforms in the fiscal and financial sectors.

    Washington, DC: The Executive Board of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) concluded the Fourth and final review of Kosovo’s Stand-By and Resilience and Sustainability Facility Arrangements. The authorities have consented to the publication of the staff report and associated documents. The completion of the review makes available SDR 13.352 million (€16.08 million) under the SBA and SDR 7.744 million (€9.32 million) under the RSF. This will bring the total disbursements under the RSF to SDR 61.95 million (€74.61 million). The SBA, which so far has been treated as precautionary by the authorities, amounts to SDR 80.122 million (€96.50 million).

    Kosovo’s economic performance continues to be strong. In 2024, growth was 4.4 percent, driven by household consumption, supported by strong private credit and rising wages. Inflation decelerated sharply, reaching an average of 1.6 percent in 2024 down from 4.9 percent in 2022. The external current account deficit widened to 9 percent of GDP, as increases in consumption and investment led to higher imports; growth of remittances slowed. In 2025, despite heightened external uncertainty from rising trade tensions, growth is expected to remain strong at 4 percent, with inflation stabilizing at 2¼ percent.

    Program implementation under both arrangements has been strong. All quantitative performance criteria for end-December 2024 were met. All indicative targets for end-December 2024 and for end-March 2025 were also met. Two structural benchmarks for this review—implementation of a cash forecasting function within the Treasury and the development of a roadmap for adopting the Supervisory Review and Evaluation Process to assess bank risk profiles—were implemented. The remaining RSF reform measure to launch an auction for the construction and operation of the wind power plant has also been implemented.

    Following the Executive Board’s discussion, Bo Li, IMF Deputy Managing Director and Acting Chair, issued the following statement:

    “The Kosovo authorities have successfully implemented a Stand-By Arrangement and an Arrangement under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility. The SBA supported the authorities’ economic program to reduce inflation and sustain strong growth, while safeguarding the economy against adverse shocks. The RSF supported the authorities’ ambitious climate reform agenda.

    “Prudent fiscal policies under the SBA, anchored in the authorities’ rules-based fiscal framework, helped deliver low deficits and debt. In 2025, fiscal policy will aim to sustain growth amid heightened uncertainty, strengthen buffers against future shocks and continue addressing large developmental needs. An ongoing review of the fiscal framework seeks to align it with EU norms while supporting Kosovo’s developmental objectives and maintaining fiscal discipline.

    “The structural fiscal agenda has considerably advanced under the SBA. Revenue mobilization has improved through broadening the tax base, leading to higher tax collection. Public financial management reforms have enhanced capacity to assess fiscal risks, improved the quality of fiscal reporting, and increased fiscal transparency. Strengthening the public investment management system will help to further boost execution rates of public investment.

    “The Central Bank of Kosovo (CBK) has been driving forward critical reforms to enhance governance and institutional quality, develop the financial sector and strengthen resilience. The banking sector continues to expand rapidly providing vital support to economic activity while maintaining strong capitalization, liquidity, and profitability. The CBK is strengthening its ability to monitor risks related to rapid private sector credit growth.

    “Reform measures implemented under the RSF have been instrumental in advancing the authorities’ ambitious strategic energy goals, including expanding renewable generation capacity, reducing pollution, improving energy efficiency, and enhancing regional cooperation. The authorities remain committed to making continued and meaningful progress across all these areas.”

    Kosovo: Selected Economic Indicators, 2022–25

    Population: 1.6 million (2024)

    Nominal GDP per capita (2024): € 6,497

    Gini index: 0.29 (2017)

    Poverty rate: 19.8% (2018)

    Quota (current): SDR 82.6 million

    Main products and exports: Minerals, base metals, agricultural products, tourism.

    2022

    2023

    2024

    2025

    Act.

    Act.

    Prel.

    Proj.

    Output

       Real GDP growth (percent)

    4.3

    4.1

    4.4

    4.0

    Employment

       Unemployment rate (percent)

    12.6

    10.9

    …

    …

    Prices

       Consumer prices (period average, percent)

    11.6

    4.9

    1.6

    2.3

       GDP deflator

    7.2

    4.6

    2.0

    3.8

    General government finances (percent of GDP)

       Revenue and grants

    28.1

    29.5

    30.0

    29.8

       Expenditure

    28.8

    29.8

    30.3

    31.9

       Overall balance, excluding IFI- and privatization-financed capital projects (Fiscal rule definition)

    -0.5

    -0.1

    -0.1

    -1.6

       Overall balance

    -0.7

    -0.2

    -0.3

    -2.1

       Total public debt

    20.0

    17.5

    16.9

    18.3

       Stock of government bank balance

    3.9

    2.8

    3.1

    3.4

    Money and credit

       Non-performing loans (percent of total loans)

    1.9

    1.9

    1.8

    …

       Credit to the private sector (eop, percent change)

    16.0

    12.9

    18.3

    15.8

       Effective bank lending rate (eop, percent)

    6.3

    6.3

    5.9

    …

    Balance of payments (percent of GDP)

       Current account balance

    -10.3

    -7.6

    -9.0

    -8.3

       Remittance inflows

    13.7

    13.8

    13.1

    12.6

       Net foreign direct investment

    -6.8

    -6.9

    -6.1

    -7.5

       External debt

    38.6

    39.8

    41.1

    42.4

    Sources: Kosovo authorities and IMF staff estimates.
                   
    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Camila Perez

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/19/pr25154-kosovo-imf-concludes-4th-review-of-kosovos-stand-by-and-rsf-arrangements

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: NEW REPORT: Clean Energy Manufacturing Driving Next Chapter of U.S. Economic Prosperity

    Source: American Clean Power Association (ACP)

    Headline: NEW REPORT: Clean Energy Manufacturing Driving Next Chapter of U.S. Economic Prosperity

    Clean power manufacturing contributes $18 billion to GDP annually and supports 122,000 American jobs
    Projected to contribute $86 billion to GDP annually and support over 575,000 jobs by 2030
    Investments are concentrated in rural communities and 73% of active facilities are in Republican states

    PHOENIX, AZ, May 20, 2025 – Today at CLEANPOWER 2025, the American Clean Power Association (ACP) released its State of Clean Energy Manufacturing in America report, showing a significant and sustainable ripple effect across states and economic sectors. The clean power manufacturing sector currently contributes $18 billion to U.S. GDP annually, spurs $33 billion in domestic spending annually, and supports 122,000 American jobs across the country.
    If all announced manufacturing facilities become operational, clean power manufacturing is projected to support over 575,000 jobs and contribute $86 billion annually to GDP by 2030.
    “Surging clean energy deployment is creating new manufacturing facilities across the country. This success will create hundreds of thousands of jobs and revitalize American communities if policy leaders place economic progress over partisan division,” said Jason Grumet, CEO of ACP. “Today’s report shows that the manufacturing activities across the clean energy sector drive a ripple effect of economic growth that extends far beyond factory walls, reaching every corner of the country. Reshoring this critical supply chain requires a shared commitment by both industry and policymakers to prioritize domestic economic growth and global competitiveness.”
    Clean Power Manufacturing Driving U.S. Economic Boom
    The report illustrates how the industry has laid the groundwork for a secure domestic supply chain, revitalizing manufacturing communities and driving American competition on the global stage.

    Over 800 manufacturing plants currently contributing to the U.S. clean energy supply chain, with at least one in every state.
    200 existing manufacturing facilities are actively building primary clean power components across 38 states to supply the booming demand for new energy in America.

    Creating Generational Opportunities for Local Communities
    New data highlights how clean power manufacturing is creating generational opportunities at the local level, providing opportunities across skillsets, industries, and generating wages well above the national average.

    Clean energy manufacturing is booming in regions across the country, such as the Southeast, Midwest, and in states like Texas.
    The clean energy manufacturing workforce made on average $42,000 more than the average worker in the U.S. economy in 2024.

    These manufacturing jobs also generate additional employment across the economy: Upstream supply chain jobs paid an average of $75,000, while downstream jobs supported by household spending—such as those in retail, food service, and hospitality—averaged about $52,000.

    Driving US Competitiveness and Global Leadership
    The industry’s investments are critical to international competitiveness and innovation, positioning the U.S. as a global leader and strengthening our energy security.

    America’s power needs are growing fast—projected to rise 35–50% by 2040—as data centers expand, domestic manufacturing rebounds, and our transportation and buildings electrify.
    Energy manufacturing processes are considerably complex and capital intensive, often requiring multiple intricate steps, specialized equipment, and expertise. This intricacy often comes with trade exposure or a series of imports and exports before the final energy component is ready for installation.
    A resilient, American-made supply chain for clean energy technologies makes the economy stronger, the country’s energy more secure, and serves as the foundation for innovation and growth.

    The Path Forward
    There are 200 manufacturing facilities in the pipeline representing over $150 billion of investment. If all announced facilities become operational by 2030, the impact could be transformative.

    Clean power manufacturing could support over 575,000 jobs
    Generate over $40 billion in earnings
    Contribute $86 billion to the GDP
    Add $164 billion in output to the economy annually

    Employment from existing and planned facilities by 2030 by region is projected to be:

    Northeast: 4,300+
    Mid-Atlantic: 123,000+
    South: 172,000+
    Midwest: 86,000+
    West: 173,000+

    Policy and Business Certainty Critical to American Manufacturing Leadership
    The report details how these economic and job benefits have largely been made possible because of federal clean energy tax credits enacted in 2022. The report calls on policymakers to build on this historic American manufacturing legacy with a suite of targeted policy tools to continue the momentum. They include:

    Preserving energy tax credits (45X, 45Y, 48C, 48E)
    Creating a stable and strategic trade environment
    Facilitating a true all-of-the above energy strategy
    Streamlining permitting to benefit American manufacturers and their customers
    Ensuring critical minerals policy appropriately leverages demand from downstream domestic clean energy manufacturers.

    To read the full report, click here.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Thomas Financial Group Closes Over $34 Million in Bridge Loans for USDA Takeout in Under 40 Days

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ATLANTA, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In a powerful demonstration of speed and strategic execution, Thomas Financial Group (TFG), a wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc., in partnership with Siguler Guff, Phoenix Lender Services (PHX), and Community Bank & Trust, successfully originated, underwrote, and closed three hospitality bridge loans totaling over $34 million in less than 40 days. All loans are structured for USDA Business & Industry (B&I) program takeout, reinforcing the firm’s capacity to deliver complex, time-sensitive financing solutions.

    • $11.335MM Bridge Loan (USDA B&I Takeout Pending)
    • $12.19MM Bridge Loan (USDA B&I Takeout Pending)
    • $10.545MM Bridge Loan (USDA B&I Takeout Pending)

    While USDA lending is traditionally known for its thorough but lengthy approval process, TFG is redefining what’s possible. Through creative structuring and seamless collaboration across its lending ecosystem, TFG and its partners provide rapid bridge loan execution to fill the timing gap – giving borrowers immediate access to capital while finalizing their long-term USDA financing. The recently closed projects will create and retain nearly 50 jobs across key rural markets.

    “These transactions prove that USDA lending doesn’t have to be slow or complicated,” said Zach Chandler, SVP, Government Guaranteed Lending of Thomas Financial Group. “When you work with TFG, PHX, and Community Bank & Trust, you’re getting a team that understands how to move at the speed of business – without compromising the long-term benefits of USDA-backed financing.”

    TFG’s USDA bridge-to-permanent platform is available in all 50 states and every U.S. territory, providing borrowers in rural communities with access to flexible financing structures tailored to their timing and growth needs. In a market climate defined by rate uncertainty and capital constraints, borrowers value the security of a 30-year fully amortizing loan with no balloons or call provisions – exactly what USDA lending can provide.

    “Peace of mind in today’s economy is priceless,” added Chandler. “Our ability to deliver both speed and long-term stability makes us a trusted partner for developers, business owners, and project sponsors across the country.”

    If you’re seeking fast, creative financing for your rural project – with the peace of mind that comes from a long-term USDA solution – now is the time to act.

    Contact TFG today to explore our USDA bridge-to-permanent platform and discover what’s possible when you partner with a team built for execution.

    TFG Contact
    Email: Zach@thomasfinancialgroup.com
    Phone: (770) 655-1569

    About Thomas Financial Group

    Thomas Financial Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc., is a nationally recognized leader in USDA and SBA lending. In partnership with Phoenix Lender Services and Community Bank & Trust, TFG specializes in complex capital solutions that support rural economic development, small business growth, and infrastructure expansion.

    About Community Bankshares Inc.

    Community Bankshares Inc. is a privately held financial holding company headquartered in LaGrange, Georgia, with subsidiaries including Community Bank & Trust, Thomas Financial Group, and Phoenix Lender Services. Through its network of specialized financial institutions, Community Bankshares Inc. delivers innovative, relationship-driven banking and lending services across the United States, with a strong emphasis on rural development, government-guaranteed lending, and community reinvestment.

    About Community Bank & Trust

    Community Bank & Trust is a full-service commercial bank and a subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc. Based in LaGrange, Georgia, CB&T is an SBA Preferred Lender with a growing national footprint in USDA and small business lending. Known for its personalized service and deep lending expertise, CB&T partners with businesses and communities to deliver flexible, dependable financing solutions that support long-term growth across rural and underserved markets.

    About Phoenix Lender Services

    Phoenix Lender Services is the operational engine behind the USDA and SBA lending platform and wholly owned subsidiary of Community Bankshares Inc. Specializing in origination, underwriting, processing, closing, and servicing, Phoenix provides seamless back-end support and strategic oversight for government-guaranteed loans. With a team of seasoned professionals and a nationwide reach, Phoenix empowers lenders and borrowers with the tools and expertise needed to deliver consistent, compliant, and efficient results.

    Media Contact
    Abigail Davison
    Uproar by Moburst for Community Bankshares, Inc.
    abigail.davison@moburst.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Alation Acquires Numbers Station to Unlock a New Era of Agentic Workflows

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    REDWOOD CITY, Calif., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Alation Inc., the leader in enterprise data intelligence, today announced that it has acquired Numbers Station AI, a pioneer in building AI agents for data workflows. The combined capabilities of Alation and Numbers Station will accelerate the ability of data and engineering teams to quickly build and deploy a new class of AI-native analytics applications featuring agentic workflows that operate with enterprise-grade governance and context.

    Organizations are demanding more effective ways to leverage their data for insights and real-time decisions, particularly in the era of AI. Despite its promise, scaled adoption in production use cases continues to be a challenge. For organizations to achieve what is truly possible with AI, they need systems that are trustworthy and deeply integrated with diverse enterprise data ecosystems.

    Structured data—such as customer records, supply chain records, and financial transactions—represents an organization’s most critical assets. AI agents struggle to understand and take action on that data due to incomplete semantics and data definitions, unclear governance policies, and missing context of the lineage and data quality of the underlying data sets. Without this foundation, agents risk producing inaccurate outputs and violating privacy and compliance requirements.

    Together, Alation and Numbers Station are uniquely positioned to close this gap. By combining Numbers Station’s agents with Alation’s rich metadata foundation, customers will be able to build intelligent applications that reason over structured data, understand business context, and automate real-time decision-making—all while maintaining rigorous governance and compliance standards. This will unlock a new era of agentic workflows that can deliver tangible business outcomes at enterprise scale.

    “Numbers Station has proven the impact AI agents can have in the enterprise when companies are able to trust this new way of working and brings an exceptional team that shares our obsession with empowering data users,” said Satyen Sangani, co-founder and CEO of Alation. “Together, we’re laying the foundation for the next decade of enterprise data intelligence—one where humans and agents collaborate seamlessly to turn data into action.”

    “From the start, our vision has been to enable anyone to be a data app builder,” said Chris Aberger, co-founder and CEO of Numbers Station. “By joining forces with Alation, we’re pairing our AI-native foundation with the most trusted enterprise data intelligence platform. This unlocks a future where agents don’t just find data—they do more with it.”

    Numbers Station, AI & Solving The Structured Data Problem for Businesses

    Founded out of Stanford’s PhD lab for machine learning and AI, the Numbers Station team authored the first academic paper to demonstrate how large language models could be deployed to meet the complex, domain-specific needs of enterprise data leaders. Numbers Station’s agents bring automation and natural language interaction to tasks like data analysis, visualization, and end-to-end action—helping data teams build AI-native applications faster with more confidence.

    As part of the acquisition, the Numbers Station team will join Alation to drive continued innovation at the intersection of AI and data. All existing Numbers Station customers will be fully supported and will benefit from expanded resources and roadmap continuity under Alation’s platform.

    To learn more about the acquisition, read the blog, “Alation Acquires Numbers Station: Enabling AI to Understand Structured Data at Scale.”

    About Alation
    Alation is the data intelligence company. More than 600 global enterprises — including 40% of the Fortune 100 — rely on Alation to realize value from their data and AI initiatives. Customers such as Cisco, DocuSign, Nasdaq, Pfizer, and Samsung trust Alation’s platform for self-service analytics, cloud transformation, data governance, and AI-ready data, fostering data-driven innovation at scale. Headquartered in Redwood City, California, Alation has been recognized five times by Inc. Magazine as one of the Best Workplaces. To learn more, visit www.alation.com.

    Media Contact
    Ashley Womack
    Sr. Director, Corporate Marketing
    650-504-2647
    ashley.womack@alation.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Conifer Insurance Services Strengthens Cannabis Industry Commitment with Launch of Cannabis Select Program

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TROY, Mich., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Conifer Insurance Services (“Conifer”), a pioneer in cannabis insurance solutions, in partnership with Skyward Specialty Insurance Group™ (“Skyward Specialty”), a leader in the specialty property and casualty market, announced the launch of its new Cannabis Select program, a high-capacity insurance solution built for the evolving needs of multi-state operators (MSOs) and larger cannabis businesses nationwide. Designed to complement Conifer’s long-standing Cannabis Essentials program, Cannabis Select offers elevated coverage limits, expanded property protection, and advanced risk management solutions to support the industry’s continued growth.

    Conifer has served the cannabis industry for over a decade, standing apart through its commitment to responsive service, speed to market, and experience in underwriting. Since Bishop Street Underwriters’ acquisition of Conifer Insurance Services in 2024, significant investments have been made in underwriting talent and AI-driven insights to scale solutions for agency partners and cannabis businesses at every stage of growth.

    “As the cannabis industry matures, our agency partners have consistently shared the need for higher limits and greater capacity,” said Nick Petcoff, CEO of Conifer Insurance Services. “Cannabis Select is a direct response to that need, building on our long track record of success while maintaining the service-first, flexible approach that has always defined Conifer.”

    Skyward Specialty President, Captives & Specialty Programs Corey LaFlamme commented, “The partnership with Conifer is a powerful example of Skyward Specialty’s “rule our niche” strategy in action, where we provide high-impact, tailored solutions to highly niche markets.”

    The addition of the Cannabis Select program expands the breadth of cannabis offerings Conifer provides this market. Its existing Cannabis Essentials program remains a trusted solution for businesses earlier in their journey, delivering affordable, accessible coverage to dispensaries, smaller grows and localized operations. The new Cannabis Select program offers high-limit, specialty coverage for retail dispensaries, cultivators and manufacturers operating at scale.

    Conifer now provides two tailored program options:

    Feature Cannabis Essentials Cannabis Select
    Ideal For Small-to-midsize growers, dispensaries, etc. Multi-State Operators, large cultivators, manufacturers
    Focus Affordability, scalability, accessibility High limits, sophisticated risk management
    Coverage Limits Up to $5M Property, $1M/$2M GL & Product Liability Up to $25M Property, $5M/$5M GL & Product Liability
    Carrier Rating AM Best A-X (Excellent) AM Best A-X (Excellent)
    Program Type Admitted and Non-Admitted (state dependent) Non-Admitted
    Availability Nationwide (where legal) Nationwide (where legal)
     

    Leadership with Deep Expertise

    The expansion of Conifer’s cannabis practice is being led by Kathleen Brown-Hurtado, president of Cannabis Specialty Programs, who brings extensive leadership experience and strategic vision to the team. Kathleen is joined by Jason Scheurle, vice president of Cannabis Specialty Programs, adding further industry expertise to support program growth and agency partner success.

    “As cannabis businesses scale, their insurance needs grow more complex.” said Brown-Hurtado, “Cannabis Select delivers the higher limits and specialized protections larger operations demand, while Cannabis Essentials ensures we remain the go-to partner for startups and growth-stage businesses alike.”

    To learn more about the Cannabis Select and Cannabis Essentials programs, or to get appointed with Conifer, visit coniferinsurance.com/cannabis or contact our experts:

    About Conifer Insurance Services

    Founded in 2012 and headquartered in Troy, Michigan, Conifer Insurance Services is a specialty MGA focused on delivering insurance solutions for emerging and underserved markets. With a deep expertise in niche industries including Cannabis, Hospitality and Liquor Liability, Conifer empowers agency partners with access to competitive, A-rated coverage backed by responsive underwriting and tailored risk management. For more information about Conifer’s cannabis programs, visit coniferinsurance.com

    About Skyward Specialty

    Skyward Specialty (Nasdaq: SKWD) is a rapidly growing and innovative specialty insurance company, delivering commercial property and casualty products and solutions on a non-admitted and admitted basis. The Company operates through eight underwriting divisions — Accident & Health, Agriculture and Credit (Re)insurance, Captives, Construction & Energy Solutions, Global Property, Professional Lines, Specialty Programs, Surety and Transactional E&S.

    Skyward Specialty’s subsidiary insurance companies consist of Great Midwest Insurance Company, Houston Specialty Insurance Company, Imperium Insurance Company, and Oklahoma Specialty Insurance Company. These insurance companies are rated A (Excellent) with a stable outlook by A.M. Best Company. For more information about Skyward Specialty, its people, and its products, please visit skywardinsurance.com.

    MEDIA CONTACTS

    Conifer Media Contact
    Matt Webber, VP, Business Development
    mwebber@coniferinsurance.com
    246-480-2990

    Skyward Specialty Media Contact
    Haley Doughty, Chief Marketing Officer & VP, Communications
    Hdoughty@skywardinsurance.com
    713-935-4944

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: EverCommerce Appoints Amy Guggenheim Shenkan to Its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DENVER, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EverCommerce Inc. (Nasdaq: EVCM) (the “Company”), a leading provider of SaaS solutions for service SMBs, announced today the appointment of Amy Guggenheim Shenkan to its Board of Directors.

    Ms. Shenkan’s extensive experience serving on the boards of RingCentral (NYSE: RNG), Pickles Auctions (an Apax Partners PE portfolio company), Zuora, and RB Global, Inc. brings a breadth of experience in guiding businesses. In addition, she has significant experience in leadership positions at Wells Fargo, Travelocity, Common Sense Media, and McKinsey & Company with an emphasis on innovation and digital transformation. Upon joining the EverCommerce Board, Ms. Shenkan will serve on the Company’s Audit Committee.

    “We are thrilled to welcome Amy to our Board of Directors,” said EverCommerce CEO and Chairman of the Board Eric Remer. “Her experience in leveraging technology to accelerate change and growth will be a welcome addition to our Board as we both continue on our transformation journey and increasingly look to leverage AI to improve our customer-facing software and drive more efficiencies in our operations.”

    “EverCommerce is truly a leader in its space. I’m honored to join the Board of Directors and look forward to leveraging my expertise to support the Company as it continues to empower the lives of service-based small businesses,” said Ms. Shenkan.

    About EverCommerce

    EverCommerce (Nasdaq: EVCM) is a leading service commerce platform, providing vertically-tailored, integrated SaaS solutions that help more than 725,000 global service-based businesses accelerate growth, streamline operations, and increase retention. Its modern digital and mobile applications create predictable, informed, and convenient experiences between customers and their service professionals. With its EverPro, EverHealth, and EverWell brands specializing in Home, Health, and Wellness service industries, EverCommerce provides end-to-end business management software, embedded payment acceptance, marketing technology, and customer experience applications. Learn more at EverCommerce.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward-looking statements, including without limitation, statements regarding Ms. Shenkan’s contributions to the Board, our future operations and strategy, implementation of our innovation and digital transformation and optimization initiatives, and our plans to leverage artificial intelligence. These statements are neither promises nor guarantees, but involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, the factors described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and updated by our other filings with the SEC. These factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements made in this press release. Any such forward-looking statements represent management’s estimates as of the date of this press release. While we may elect to update such forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we disclaim any obligation to do so, even if subsequent events cause our views to change.

    Media Contact
    Jeanne Trogan
    VP of Communications
    737-465-2897
    Press@evercommerce.com

    Investor Contact
    Brad Korch
    SVP and Head of Investor Relations
    720-796-7664
    IR@evercommerce.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Payscale Leads the Way with New Innovative Compensation Solutions That Solve Critical Data Gaps

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEATTLE, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Payscale Inc., the leading compensation data technology company, today announced the availability of two new data sets and two new integrated AI solutions to empower organizations to make strategic pay decisions with confidence, as part of its new approach to compensation intelligence.

    These industry-leading solutions come as Payscale research reveals compensation decision makers are grappling with a significant pay data confidence gap. Almost half (47 percent) of the HR and business leaders surveyed by the company reported that despite the significant amount of data and surveys available, it’s not what they need to produce effective compensation insights.

    The survey of 500 compensation decision makers across HR and business leadership shows openness to AI, with two thirds (64 percent) stating they would turn to AI to fill critical compensation data gaps.

    “Compensation is any organization’s largest investment and its greatest opportunity,” said Payscale CEO, Chris Hays. “While fair pay remains a constant priority, relying on inaccurate or incomplete data costs employers in wages, retention, and overall performance. Our groundbreaking data model combines advanced AI with real-world data to provide detailed insights so HR and business leaders can confidently make decisions about any job, anytime, anywhere.”

    Timely, trusted data augmented with AI

    To help organizations address these challenges and make more confident compensation decisions, Payscale’s innovative new data approach goes beyond traditional compensation data sets to combine trusted data with advanced AI modelling for the highest level of accuracy, depth, and transparency. The two datasets leveraging this approach are Payscale Verse and Payscale Pulse.

    • Payscale Verse: Now available as part of Payscale Payfactors, the company’s scalable compensation management platform, Payscale Verse is one of the most innovative datasets on the market. Verse merges Payscale Peer data, a revolutionary approach to the compensation survey, with advanced AI modeling to enable organizations to price any job across any level, industry, size, or location.
    • Payscale Pulse: Industry surveys for business services, colleges and universities, construction, healthcare, and retail have been added to AI-enhanced dataset, Payscale Pulse. This dataset is updated quarterly with fresh data and new jobs, that includes industry and international surveys.

    “Raw compensation data is not enough. Businesses need true compensation intelligence to make confident and strategic pay decisions,” said Payscale Chief Product Officer, Peh Teh. “By combining trusted, real-world data with industry-leading AI, organizations can make decisions with unmatched transparency and unparalleled insights. This is different than anything else in the market today.”

    Intelligent compensation insights and intuitive automation

    New, intelligent solutions will deliver a next-generation user experience that streamlines the way organizations gather compensation insights, ensuring the process is efficient, consistent, and intuitive as organizations scale.

    • Payfactors Explore is a groundbreaking new experience combining fresh market data and tailored insights, transforming how users interact with real-time compensation information. Integrating AI, Payfactors Explore surfaces insights that offer a dynamic view of the market. Organizations can try Explore with three complimentary searches in Payfactors Free, Payscale’s entry-level compensation tool.
    • Price at Scale delivers a faster, more consistent way to apply an organization’s unique pricing philosophy across groups of jobs without losing job match quality. This solution, available in both Payscale Payfactors and Payscale Marketpay, prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing precision, and empowers customers to self-manage the process with technology instead of needing to outsource the work or rely on service teams.

    Payscale unveils new brand identity at WorldatWork

    To reinforce its commitment to innovation and intelligent compensation solutions, Payscale has unveiled a bold refresh to its brand identity. The new look reflects Payscale’s category leadership and track record for delivering compensation confidence to the market.

    Payscale is showcasing its innovative product lineup and refreshed brand identity at this year’s WorldatWork Total Rewards Conference on May 19-21, 2025. Learn more by visiting booth #1119 or request a demo.

    About Payscale

    Payscale stands at the forefront of compensation data technology, pioneering an innovative approach that harnesses advanced AI and up-to-date and reliable market data to align employee and employer expectations. With its suite of solutions—Payfactors, Marketpay, and Paycycle—Payscale empowers 65% of Fortune 500 companies to make strategic compensation decisions. Organizations like Panasonic, ZoomInfo, Chipotle, AccentCare, University of Washington, American Airlines, and Rite Aid rely on its unique combination of actionable data and insights, experienced compensation services, and scalable software to drive business success. By partnering with Payscale, businesses can make confident compensation decisions that fuel growth for both their organization and their people.

    Create confidence in your compensation. Payscale.

    To learn more, visit www.payscale.com.

    Contact: Press@Payscale.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Cautious investor sentiment pulls global deal activity down 5% YoY in first four months of 2025, finds GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Cautious investor sentiment pulls global deal activity down 5% YoY in first four months of 2025, finds GlobalData

    Posted in Business Fundamentals

    Cautious investor sentiment has weighed heavily on the global deal landscape, with mergers and acquisitions, private equity, and venture financing activities collectively declining by approximately 5% year-on-year (YoY) during the first four months of 2025. Geopolitical uncertainty and macroeconomic headwinds have prompted dealmakers to adopt a more selective, risk-averse approach, leading to a slowdown across major markets, reveals GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    The contraction in deal volume during the first four months of 2025 can be primarily attributed to 4.3% reduction in M&A activity, which accounts for more than half of the combined total of all deal types.

    An analysis of GlobalData’s Deals Database revealed that private equity and venture financing deals also faced contractions, indicating a cautious approach from investors amid uncertain market conditions.

    The number of private equity deals announced during the first four months of 2025 showcased a decline of 4.5% compared to January-April 2024 while venture financing deals volume were down by 6.8% YoY.

    Aurojyoti Bose, Lead Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The global decline can be attributed to several factors, including geopolitical tensions and macroeconomic challenges that have made dealmakers risk-averse. As companies reassess their growth strategies, many seem to have opted for organic growth over acquisitions, leading to a slowdown in M&A activity. Additionally, investors are becoming selective and cautious while making investment decisions.”

    North America continues to dominate the global deal activity. However, it has not been immune to the slowdown, recording a YoY decline of around 4%. The US, historically a powerhouse in deal-making, reported a decrease in deal volume, reflecting a broader trend of caution among the dealmakers. Similarly, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South and Central America also experienced declines of around 7%, 3%, 11% and 13%, respectively.

    Bose adds: “Despite the overall downturn, certain markets have shown resilience suggesting that these may serve as a beacon of opportunity amid the global decline.”

    India, for instance, recorded a growth of around 13% in deal volume. Japan also demonstrated a positive trend with a growth rate of approximately 25%. Meanwhile, the US, the UK and China witnessed their respective deal volume fall by around 4%, 7% and 15%, respectively, during January-April 2025.

    Bose concludes: “The global deal landscape is undergoing a significant transformation as we move further into 2025. However, it is essential to recognize that certain markets are still thriving, reflecting a shift in focus towards nations that offer growth potential despite broader economic challenges.”

    Note: Historic data may change in case some deals get added to previous months because of a delay in disclosure of information in the public domain.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Making the MFF Fit for Purpose

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    Opening Remarks by Alfred Kammer, IMF European Department Director, for the Annual EU Budget Conference

    May 20, 2025

    Thank you for the opportunity to join this important discussion today on the EU budget.

    Europe stands at a transformative crossroads. The global environment is increasingly complex, and structural changes are reshaping the foundations of European economies. The challenges before us are significant: strengthening productivity and resilience amid demographic aging and rising geopolitical and trade tensions while increasing defense spending in a fiscally sustainable way, and enhancing energy security and accelerating the clean energy transition.

    This is an extraordinary combination of challenges, and it will take an extraordinary effort to meet them. The key is to combine (i) a determined push to complete the single market with (ii) national reforms to allow Europe’s firms to grow to scale. The benefits of doing both promise to be much larger than EU-level and national efforts could achieve on their own. For example, dropping “red tape” that holds back firms at the national level will have a significant larger effect on investment when supported by a much deeper and fully integrated European capital market. And (iii) we will need the EU budget to amplify these efforts by enabling the joint provision of European public goods and incentivizing national reforms. Just think of the importance of energy security for the single market—this is just one example of a European public good where the EU budget has an important role to play.

    The Multiannual Financial Framework, or MFF, has proven its strategic importance time and again. It has supported economic convergence through cohesion policy, and, more recently, the ambitious NextGenerationEU package launched in 2020 helped Europe recover from the pandemic with renewed resilience.

    Yet, once again, the scale and nature of the challenges ahead require a fundamental rethink. To remain fit for purpose, the upcoming MFF must undergo a comprehensive overhaul. Our recommendations focus on three critical areas.

    First, a more ambitious budget with a stronger focus on European public goods is needed.

    Over time, the MFF has evolved to reflect emerging needs, but it has not kept pace with the expanding list of challenges that demand a joint EU-level response. Its current size and structure are insufficient to meet the scale of new investments required.

    The budget must prioritize areas where EU action can deliver the greatest value—by generating positive spillovers, leveraging economies of scale, and also avoiding duplication between member states. These are the hallmarks of European public goods. Investments in energy security, defense capabilities, and research and innovation are clear examples where joint EU action is both necessary and efficient.

    To meet these needs, we must consider a significant increase in expenditures targeted at European public goods, from 0.4 percent of GNI currently to at least 0.9 percent, based on various estimates from the Commission and others. Doing so without reducing allocations to existing programs would imply increasing the MFF budget by at least 50 percent for the 2028–2034 period, from 1.1 percent of GNI to 1.7 percent of GNI.

    In the first instance, more EU spending on public goods would reduce the burden on national budgets for the provision of these public goods. But, importantly, this would not simply shift costs from the national to the EU level. With coordinated EU-level investment, greater efficiency will be achieved and, thus, net savings in the provision of these public goods will be generated. For instance, in the case of investments for the clean energy transition, we estimate that improved coordination at the EU level could reduce aggregate costs by approximately 7 percent. At a time when many countries face tight fiscal constraints, such efficiency gains are critical.

    Second, we must ensure the MFF is more performance-based, streamlined, and adaptable.

    At the core of this effort should be a stronger focus on performance. Linking financial support more systematically to outcomes—an approach implemented through the Recovery and Resilience Facility—can significantly improve the effectiveness of EU spending. The performance-based approach should be expanded across more areas of the EU budget, particularly where targeted financial incentives can catalyze national and regional reforms that complement EU objectives. But as we expand this approach, we must also ensure it remains as simple and transparent as possible—complexity can hinder both implementation and accountability. Programs under cohesion policy and the Common Agricultural Policy are clear candidates. Importantly, though, effective implementation will also require leveraging local and regional expertise to tailor solutions to specific contexts.

    Beyond performance, the design of the MFF must be modernized to reduce complexity and increase strategic focus. Consolidating the more than 50 budgetary programs into a smaller number of thematic clusters, organized around key policy priorities, would help streamline the budget. Moreover, harmonizing requirements across programs would reduce the administrative burden for governments, organizations, and beneficiaries, while improving accessibility and implementation.

    The budget also needs to become more adaptable. The events of the past five years have demonstrated the need for greater flexibility to respond to evolving circumstances. Thus, the MFF should be equipped with a greater margin for reallocation within the budget and stronger flexibility instruments—backed by sufficient resources—to address more frequent and intense shocks. A mid-term review process within the regular budget cycle could continue to help respond to changing realities.

    Third, the financing framework of the budget must be strengthened.

    A more ambitious EU budget will require an enhanced financial capacity. Currently, the MFF is predominantly funded through national contributions based on GNI. To support a step-up in European public goods investment, the financing model should be expanded to include borrowing and more robust own resources.

    Borrowing capacity—particularly during the initial investment scale-up—can enable the EU to achieve shared objectives without delay, while smoothing the fiscal impact for member states over time. Moreover, bond-financing can support the further development of a European safe asset, thereby advancing capital market integration and contributing to macro-financial stability.

    At the same time, the long-term sustainability of the EU budget requires solid and predictable revenue sources. Progress on new own resources is essential—not only to finance existing debt obligations under NextGenerationEU, but also to underpin future borrowing. The Commission’s proposals, including revenue based on the Emissions Trading System, the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, and potentially a harmonized corporate tax base under the “Business in Europe” initiative, represent a meaningful step forward.

    In the longer term, additional revenue sources linked to European public goods—such as user fees on jointly funded infrastructure—may also play a role as the budget evolves toward supporting more EU-wide investments, even if the scope remains limited for now.

    In conclusion, meeting Europe’s complex challenges requires a more impactful EU budget. The next MFF presents a unique opportunity to scale up ambition, deliver on shared priorities, and transform the budget into a true engine for growth, resilience, and European sovereignty.

    This will not be an easy path. Increasing the budget, improving its design, and broadening its financing base will all require political consensus across member states. But the potential rewards are significant: a more united, more competitive, and more secure Europe.

    Thank you.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER:

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

    @IMFSpokesperson

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/05/20/sp052025-ak-making-the-mff-fit-for-purpose

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Cyabra Report Uncovers Coordinated Disinformation Campaign Targeting Portugal’s 2025 Elections, Featured on CNN

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Cyabra has entered into a business combination agreement with Trailblazer Merger Corp. (TBMC)

    New York, NY, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Cyabra Strategy Ltd. (“Cyabra”), a leading AI platform for real-time disinformation detection, has released a new investigation into coordinated manipulation campaigns aimed at swaying public opinion in the weeks ahead of Portugal’s general election. The findings, based on a comprehensive analysis of social media activity between April 14 and May 14, expose how fake profiles and bot networks are reshaping Portugal’s political discourse and voter sentiment in real time.

    Cyabra’s report – “Fake Voices, Real Votes” – has been widely featured by CNN Portugal in a series of articles highlighting how inauthentic profiles attempted to hijack online conversations to boost the far-right Chega party while discrediting its rivals:

    Exclusive: 58% of Chega’s support on X is fake, new investigation shows
    Cyabra: This was the company that discovered the existence of fake Chega profiles that spread misinformation on social media

    “What’s happening in Portugal is a masterclass in modern influence operations,” said Dan Brahmy, CEO & Co-founder of Cyabra. “This is a deliberate, strategic campaign to undermine democratic institutions, sway public opinion, and manipulate voters during a critical election. We’re proud that CNN is helping shine a light on these threats.”

    Key Findings from the Report:

    • 58% of the accounts commenting on Chega’s official X account were fake, creating the illusion of overwhelming public support.
    • 49% of profiles commenting on posts from the Socialist (PS) and Social Democratic (PSD) parties were also fake, launching coordinated attacks against opposition leaders while promoting Chega in the same threads.
    • Fake profiles amplified false narratives about Socialist leader Pedro Nuno Santos and malicious attacks on PSD’s Luís Montenegro, spreading conspiracy theories, economic discontent, and anti-immigration rhetoric.
    • Many fake accounts engaged in cross-campaign promotion, simultaneously attacking rival parties and praising Chega—further evidence of a coordinated effort.

    This is the latest in Cyabra’s global work supporting election protection. In 2024 alone – the biggest election year in history – Cyabra supported 19 democracies to monitor and safeguard their elections.

    Cyabra has entered into a business combination agreement with Trailblazer Merger Corporation I (NASDAQ: TBMC), a blank-check special-purpose acquisition company.

    Cyabra partnered with Global Vector Group.

    About Cyabra
    Cyabra is a real-time AI-powered platform that uncovers and analyzes online disinformation and misinformation by uncovering fake profiles, harmful narratives, and GenAI content across social media and digital news channels. Cyabra’s AI solutions protect corporations and governments against brand reputation risks, election manipulation, foreign interference, and other online threats. Cyabra’s platform leverages proprietary algorithms and NLP solutions, gathering and analyzing publicly available data to provide clear, actionable insights and real-time alerts that inform critical decision-making. Cyabra uncovers the good, bad, and fake online.

    For more information, visit www.cyabra.com.

    Media Contact:
    Jill Burkes
    Jill@cyabra.com
    Signal Contact: Jillabra.24

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Miri Segal
    MS-IR
    msegal@ms-ir.com 

    About Trailblazer
    Trailblazer is a blank check company formed for the purpose of entering into a merger, share exchange, asset acquisition, stock purchase, recapitalization, reorganization, or other similar business combination with one or more businesses or entities. For more information, visit: www.trailblazermergercorp.com

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This press release contains certain forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws with respect to certain products and services that are the subject of a proposed transaction (the “Business Combination”) between Trailblazer and Cyabra. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding Cyabra’s business strategy, products and services, research and development costs, plans and objectives of management for future operations, and future results of current and anticipated product offerings, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “intend,” “strategy,” “future,” “opportunity,” “plan,” “may,” “should,” “will,” “would,” “will be,” “will continue,” “will likely result,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including, but not limited to, the following risks relating to the proposed transaction: the ability to complete the Business Combination or, if Trailblazer does not consummate such Business Combination, any other

    initial business combination; expectations regarding Cyabra’s strategies and future financial performance, including its future business plans or objectives, prospective performance and opportunities and competitors, revenues, products and services, pricing, operating expenses, market trends, liquidity, cash flows and uses of cash, capital expenditures, and Cyabra’s ability to invest in growth initiatives and pursue acquisition opportunities; the occurrence of any event, change or other circumstances that could give rise to the termination of the Business Combination Agreement; the outcome of any legal proceedings that may be instituted against Trailblazer or Cyabra following announcement of the Business Combination Agreement and the transactions contemplated therein; the inability to complete the proposed Business Combination due to, among other things, the failure to obtain Trailblazer stockholder approval; the risk that the announcement and consummation of the proposed Business Combination disrupts Cyabra’s current operations and future plans; the ability to recognize the anticipated benefits of the proposed Business Combination; unexpected costs related to the proposed Business Combination; the amount of any redemptions by existing holders of Trailblazer’s common stock being greater than expected; limited liquidity and trading of Trailblazer’s securities; geopolitical risk and changes in applicable laws or regulations; the size of the addressable markets for Cyabra’s products and services; the possibility that Trailblazer and/or Cyabra may be adversely affected by other economic, business, and/or competitive factors; the ability to obtain and/or maintain the listing of the combined company’s common stock on Nasdaq following the Business Combination; operational risk; and the risks that the consummation of the proposed Business Combination is substantially delayed or does not occur.

    Important Information for Investors and Stockholders
    In connection with the Business Combination, Trailblazer Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Trailblazer (“Holdings”) has filed a registration statement on Form S-4 (the “Registration Statement”) with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), which includes a preliminary proxy statement/prospectus, and certain other related documents, which will be both the proxy statement to be distributed to holders of shares of Trailblazer’s common stock in connection with its solicitation of proxies for the vote by its stockholders with respect to the Business Combination and other matters as may be described in the Registration Statement, as well as the prospectus of Holdings relating to the offer and sale of its securities to be issued in the Business Combination. . After the Registration Statement is declared effective, the proxy statement/prospectus will be sent to all Trailblazer stockholders so that they may vote on the Business Combination.

    INVESTORS AND STOCKHOLDERS OF TRAILBLAZER ARE URGED TO READ CAREFULLY THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT, PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS, AND OTHER RELEVANT DOCUMENTS FILED OR TO BE FILED WITH THE SEC WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE, AS THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE BUSINESS COMBINATION AND THE PARTIES INVOLVED.

    Trailblazer stockholders are currently able to obtain copies of the preliminary proxy

    statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC that are incorporated by reference therein, and will be able to obtain the definitive proxy statement/prospectus and other documents filed with the SEC that will be incorporated by reference therein, once available, in all cases without charge, at the SEC’s web site at www.sec.gov, or by directing a request to: Trailblazer at 510 Madison Avenue, Suite 1401, New York, NY 10022, Telephone: 646-747-9618.

    Participants in the Solicitation
    Cyabra, Trailblazer, and their respective directors and executive officers may be deemed participants in the solicitation of proxies from Trailblazer stockholders regarding the proposed Business Combination. Information about Trailblazer’s directors and executive officers and their ownership of Trailblazer’s securities is set forth in the proxy statement/prospectus pertaining to the proposed Business Combination.

    No Offer or Solicitation
    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities, or a solicitation of any vote or approval. No sale of securities shall occur in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation, or sale would be unlawful before registration or qualification under applicable laws.

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Best Loans for Bad Credit: Upstart’s No Credit Check Loans Guaranteed Approval Direct Lender

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Looking for the best loan options for bad credit? Upstart offers personal loans with guaranteed approval and fast funding, ideal for urgent needs like debt consolidation or medical bills. Apply today and take control of your finances.

    SAN CARLOS, Calif., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — When you’re struggling with bad credit, applying for a loan can feel like facing a locked door. Traditional banks often reject applications based solely on credit scores, leaving many people feeling like they’ve run out of options.

    But having a low credit score doesn’t mean you’re out of choices. The lending landscape has evolved, with several companies now using more holistic approaches to evaluate borrowers beyond just their credit scores.

    CHECK YOUR ELIGIBILITY WITH A SIMPLE APPLICATION

    Here, we’ll explore best loans for bad credit, with a particular focus on Upstart’s AI-powered lending platform. We’ll examine what makes certain loans more suitable for bad credit situations, how to apply, and provide honest comparisons to help you make an informed decision.

    Key Takeaways

    • Bad credit (scores below 580) makes traditional loans difficult but not impossible to obtain
    • Several lenders now use alternative approval factors beyond just credit scores, including no credit check payday loans guaranteed approval.
    • Upstart uses AI technology to consider education, employment history, and income alongside credit
    • Interest rates for bad credit loans typically range from 8.99% to 35.99% APR
    • Understanding the full cost of loans, including origination fees, is essential before applying for no credit check payday loans guaranteed approval.
    • Avoiding predatory lenders with extremely high APRs (above 36%) is crucial

    What Is a “Bad Credit” Score and How Does It Affect You?

    Before diving into the best loans for bad credit, it’s important to understand what lenders mean by “bad credit” and how it affects your borrowing potential. Credit scores typically range from 300 to 850, with higher scores indicating better creditworthiness. Here’s how scores are generally categorized:

    Credit Score Range Category Typical Loan Accessibility
    740+ Excellent Easily approved with best rates
    670-739 Good Good approval odds with competitive rates
    580-669 Fair Limited options with higher rates
    Below 580 Poor/Bad Specialized lenders, highest rates

    A score below 580 is typically considered “bad credit” and results from factors such as:

    • Late or missed payments on existing accounts
    • High credit utilization (using most of your available credit)
    • Recent bankruptcies or collections
    • Limited credit history
    • Multiple recent credit applications

    A low score can be a hurdle, but it’s not the end of your options. Many people have successfully rebuilt their credit over time, and some lenders specifically focus on helping borrowers during this rebuilding phase. These include no credit check loans guaranteed approval direct lender options, which help provide access to necessary funds.

    >>> TAKE THE FIRST STEP WITH OUR EASY ELIGIBILITY CHECK <<<

    Upstart: AI-Powered Best Loans For Bad Credit

    After researching multiple lenders that work with bad credit borrowers, Upstart stands out for its innovative approach to loan approvals as the best loan option for bad credit scores.

    How Upstart Differs from Traditional Lenders

    Unlike conventional banks that rely heavily on credit scores, Upstart uses artificial intelligence to evaluate loan applications. Their technology considers over 1,000 data points, including:

    • Education level and field of study
    • Employment history and stability
    • Income and future earning potential
    • Debt-to-income ratio
    • Recent financial behavior

    This means that even if your credit score is below 580, other positive factors in your profile could help you qualify for a loan with more reasonable terms than you might expect.

    FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH WITH OUR QUICK TOOL

    Upstart Loan Details

    Loan amounts $1,000 to $50,000
    APR range 6.70% to 35.99% (rates vary based on creditworthiness and loan terms)
    Repayment terms 36 or 60 months (fixed)
    Origination fee 0% to 12% (deducted from loan proceeds)
    Minimum credit score Officially none, but realistically 300+ for most approvals
    Funding time As soon as one business day after approval
    Prepayment penalty None

    Real Customer Experience: Michael’s Story

    Michael, a 34-year-old electrician from Ohio, faced a tough financial period after a divorce and a medical emergency. His credit score dropped to 540, and he found himself paying high interest rates on credit cards and other debt.

    “I needed $12,000 to consolidate my high-interest debt and stop the cycle of falling behind,” Michael said. “I applied to my local bank, but they rejected me. Payday loan places wanted to charge me insane interest rates.”

    After applying with Upstart, Michael was approved for a $12,000 loan at a 24.5% APR with a 36-month term. While the rate was higher than prime loans, it was significantly lower than the rates he was paying on credit cards and much better than the 400%+ APR payday loans he had considered.

    “The application took just 10 minutes, and the funds were in my account the next day. After eight months of on-time payments, my credit score has already improved by 45 points.

    CHECK HOW MUCH YOU CAN BORROW WITHOUT AFFECTING YOUR CREDIT

    How Upstart Compares to Alternatives

    To help you understand your options, we’ve compared the best loans for bad credit, highlighting Upstart alongside other common lending sources for borrowers with low credit scores.

    As the comparison shows, Upstart offers a middle ground between traditional banks—which often deny applications—and predatory lenders that charge excessive rates. Upstart’s AI-based approach means many borrowers with sub-580 credit scores can secure better rates than with other lenders.

    In contrast, no credit check payday loans guaranteed approval often come with significantly higher interest rates.

    Upstart:

    • Provides some of the best loans for bad credit by using AI to assess your full financial profile, including education and income—not just your credit score.
    • Offers faster approvals and funding, often within 1-2 business days.
    • Has no prepayment penalties and flexible loan amounts tailored to your needs.
    • Is accessible to borrowers with credit scores as low as 300.

    Traditional Banks:

    • Rely heavily on credit scores, typically requiring 630 or higher for approval.
    • Have slower approval processes, often taking several days or weeks.
    • Offer limited options for those with bad credit.
    • Require extensive documentation and stricter eligibility criteria.

    The Application Process: What to Expect

    If you’re considering applying for best personal loan with bad credit, understanding the process can help reduce anxiety and increase your chances of approval.

    Required Documentation

    For an Upstart application, you’ll need:

    • Valid government-issued ID
    • Social Security Number
    • Personal contact information
    • Proof of regular income (pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements)
    • Personal bank account details (for deposit of funds)
    • Details about your education and employment

    TAKE THE FIRST STEP TOWARD YOUR LOAN TODAY

    Step-by-Step Application Process

    1. Pre-qualification check: Upstart offers a “soft pull” pre-qualification that won’t impact your credit score but gives you an estimate of your potential loan terms.
    2. Complete the online application: The full application takes about 10-15 minutes and includes questions about your education, employment, and financial situation.
    3. Verification and approval: Upstart may request additional documentation to verify your information. Most decisions come within minutes, though some applications require 1-2 days for review.
    4. Accepting terms and receiving funds: Once approved, you’ll review the final loan offer, including the interest rate, term, and any origination fee. If you accept, funds are typically deposited within one business day.

    “The application process was much less stressful than I expected,” shared Jamie, a teacher from Florida with a 565 credit score who borrowed $8,000 for home repairs. “I thought I’d need to explain my credit mistakes, but the system seemed more interested in my stable job history and education.”

    CHECK IF YOU QUALIFY WITH NO IMPACT TO YOUR CREDIT SCORE

    Warning Signs of Predatory Lenders

    When searching for loans, it’s important to avoid predatory lenders who charge exorbitant rates. Look out for:

    • APR above 36%: These are considered high-risk loans and should be avoided.
    • Hidden fees: Legitimate lenders disclose all fees upfront.
    • Pressure tactics: If a lender is pushing you to make a quick decision, it’s a red flag.
    • Guaranteed approval claims: No reputable lender guarantees approval before reviewing your application.

    Using Loans to Rebuild Your Credit

    A personal loan isn’t just a way to get money—it’s a tool for financial recovery. When looking for the best loans for bad credit, here’s how to make the most of your loan:

    • Debt consolidation: Combine high-interest debts into one manageable payment.
    • Emergency expenses: Use your loan for medical bills, car repairs, or urgent home repairs.
    • Improve credit: On-time payments can help improve your credit score, making it easier to get better loans in the future.

    Is Upstart Right for You?

    Upstart is a great option if:

    • You have a steady income and are looking to rebuild your credit.
    • You need funds quickly (within 1-2 business days).
    • You’re seeking a loan with no prepayment penalties and the ability to build your credit.

    It may not be ideal if:

    • You have no stable income.
    • You need a loan term shorter than 36 months or longer than 60 months.
    • You’re borrowing a small amount, and a high origination fee would make it too costly.

    CHECK YOUR RATES WITH NO RISK TO YOUR CREDIT SCORE.

    Final Thoughts: Finding the Right Path Forward

    Bad credit doesn’t have to be a roadblock to financial freedom. With Upstart, you have a chance to access the best loans for bad credit that consider more than just your credit score—an opportunity to rebuild your credit, consolidate debt, and cover emergency expenses.

    Whether you need funds for medical bills, home repairs, or even debt consolidation, Upstart’s AI-powered platform evaluates your full financial picture, offering loan options with fairer terms than traditional lenders. With fast approval and funding within one business day, you’re never left waiting for a lifeline.

    But it’s more than just getting a loan—it’s about regaining control of your financial future. By making timely payments, you can improve your credit score and open doors to better financial opportunities down the road.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Is Upstart legit?
    A: Yes, Upstart is a legitimate and reputable online lender. Founded in 2012, Upstart is a fully licensed lender that uses an AI-driven model to evaluate loan applicants based on more than just their credit score, including factors like education, income, and employment history. Upstart is a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and operates with transparency, making it a trustworthy option for borrowers with bad credit looking for personal loans.

    Q: Does applying affect my credit score?
    A: The initial pre-qualification uses a soft credit check that doesn’t impact your score. If you proceed with a full application, a hard inquiry will be placed on your credit report, which typically has a small, temporary impact.

    Q: What if I’m self-employed?
    A: Self-employed individuals can qualify, but you’ll need to provide documentation of steady income, typically through tax returns or bank statements showing consistent deposits.

    Q: Can I pay off my loan early to save on interest?
    A: Yes, Upstart has no prepayment penalties, so you can pay extra or pay off the entire balance early without additional fees.

    Q: How does Upstart determine my interest rate?
    A: Rates are determined by analyzing your credit profile, education, employment history, income, and other factors using their proprietary AI algorithm.

    QUICK AND EASY APPLICATION—GET YOUR LOAN APPROVED FAST

    Email: support@upstart.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Interest rates, loan terms, and approval criteria mentioned are approximate and may vary based on individual circumstances and market conditions. Always review the full terms and conditions before applying for any loan and consider consulting with a financial advisor regarding your specific situation. This article may contain affiliate links, meaning we may receive compensation if you apply through these links. This compensation does not affect our editorial opinions or recommendations.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/dba4f282-d36a-4f65-90a1-9c62b168a010

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f39018e2-3ddc-4056-b1bf-f5573340ac1f

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Welcomes PCC Wealth Partners

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC announced today that financial advisors Duane Dollar, CFP®, ChFC®, CASL®, and Phillip Owens, MBA, CFP®, CRPC™, RICP®, APMA™, have joined LPL Financial’s broker-dealer, Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) and custodial platforms to launch PCC Wealth Partners. The team reported serving approximately $315 million in advisory, brokerage and retirement plan assets* and joins LPL from Ameriprise.

    Based just outside of Houston in The Woodlands, Dollar and Owens have built a reputation for delivering customized investment strategies and an elevated client experience since teaming up in 2016. With nearly 50 years of combined industry experience, the pair take a holistic approach to helping their clients — most of whom are nearing or in retirement — plan for the next phase of their fiscal futures. The firm’s name is an acronym for “principles, care and comprehensive approach,” which the team uses as a guidepost to provide a truly integrated experience for their clients.

    “When meeting with new clients, we are usually asked the same question: ‘Do we have enough to do what we want in life?’ As financial advisors, our job is to help answer that question,” Dollar said. “We do that by taking the time to really understand our clients’ unique goals. We also provide them with a financial education so they can take an active role in the process of putting together a tailored plan.”

    Looking for more freedom, flexibility and a new partner to help them grow their practice, Dollar and Owens turned to LPL Financial.

    “We have found LPL to be the most professional and upright firm in this business, and our transition team is incredible. I have never felt more equipped to join any firm than I am right now,” Dollar said. “When I turned 40, I asked myself where I wanted to be when I turned 50, and I knew the answer included ownership, autonomy and flexibility. Making this move to LPL was the right choice for our business and our clients.”

    Owens added, “This industry is changing faster than ever before, and I see this move to LPL as my greatest opportunity to regain my independence and to get back to the reasons I got into the financial industry in the first place — entrepreneurship and the ability to help my clients safeguard their fiscal futures.”

    Scott Posner, LPL Managing Director, Business Development, said, “We welcome Duane and Phillip and congratulate them on the move to independence. With more freedom and flexibility, financial advisors who choose LPL can work more effectively, run thriving practices and create value for their clients. We look forward to supporting PCC Wealth Partners for years to come.”

    Related

    Advisors, learn how LPL Financial can help take your business to the next level.

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports over 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.8 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 7 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment advisor and broker-dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. PCC Wealth Partners and LPL Financial are separate entities.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    *Value approximated as reported to LPL

    Media Contact: 
    Media.relations@LPLFinancial.com 

    Tracking #737941

    The MIL Network –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Lufthansa Group: Winter flight schedule published and now available for booking

    Source: Lufthansa Group

    Lufthansa Group’s passenger airlines, including Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines, SWISS, Brussels Airlines, Eurowings and Discover Airlines, have published their winter flight schedules for 2025/26. The winter flight schedule begins on October 26, 2025. All destinations can be booked now.

    “A stable, punctual, and reliable flight schedule for all Lufthansa Group airlines for the winter, especially for the Christmas holidays, is our top priority. Our employees at the airports will ensure that everything runs smoothly. In addition, with the expansion of the Allegris offering at Lufthansa Airlines, we are bringing a significant upgrade in the premium segment to many core markets,” said Dieter Vranckx, Chief Commercial Officer Lufthansa Group.

    Winter flight schedule highlights for Lufthansa:

    For the 2025/2026 winter flight schedule, Lufthansa will offer additional long-haul flights whereby passengers can enjoy the new Allegris cabin in all classes: Economy, Premium Economy, Business, and First Class. Starting October 26, the new aircraft, with state-of-the-art cabin interiors, will fly daily from Munich to New York (John F. Kennedy and New Jersey-Newark), Chicago, Miami, Shanghai, Cape Town and Tokyo. In addition, Bengaluru in India will be served three times a week. This is the largest number of Allegris destinations operating simultaneously since its debut. Passengers already booked with these flights can now look forward to the Allegris seat.

    Ten A350-900s with the new cabin interior are already flying for Lufthansa in the winter schedule. More than half a million passengers in all classes have now enjoyed the new seats with extremely high satisfaction rates of nearly 100 percent. This year, Lufthansa also plans to introduce Allegris in Frankfurt with the Boeing 787-9 and the retrofitting of its existing fleet, starting with the Boeing 747-8.

    More news from Lufthansa: due to high demand, flights from Frankfurt to Bydgoszcz (Poland) and from Munich to Oradea (Romania) will continue next winter. These connections were added to the flight schedule in summer 2025. The winter season Airbus A380 destinations from Munich have also been confirmed: A380 enthusiasts can look forward to flights to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Bangkok andDelhi with the A380, which is extremely popular with guests and crew alike.

    Further news from Lufthansa Group Airlines:

    Austrian Airlines will add Amsterdam as a fourth destination from Innsbruck this winter, in addition to its existing connections to Brussels, Warsaw, and Copenhagen. Austrian Airlines is also expanding its service from Vienna to Bangkok: up to two daily connections are now on the flight schedule. From October 26, 2025, Austrian Airlines will now fly to Linate Airport instead of Malpensa for all flights to Milan. This change was made by taking over the corresponding slots from ITA Airways, which, like Austrian Airlines, has been part of the Lufthansa Group since the beginning of the year. Linate Airport is much closer to Milan, significantly reducing the travel time to the city center for passengers.

    SWISS is expanding its service to the Polish city of Krakow. In addition, the destinations Cluj-Napoca (Romania) and Košice (Slovakia), which were served for the first time last winter, will continue to be served from Zurich. The long-haul destination Washington D.C. (USA) will also continue from Zurich this winter. From Geneva, SWISS is focusing on connections to and from the UK, Ireland, and Scandinavia – especially for winter sports travelers planning a vacation in Switzerland.

    Brussels Airlines is continuing to expand its services from Brussels to Africa. Lomé (Togo), Dakar (Senegal), Conakry (Guinea), Monrovia (Liberia), Accra (Ghana), and Freetown (Sierra Leone) will all receive additional weekly connections. Brussels Airlines is thus strengthening its role as the “Africa expert” within the Lufthansa Group.

    Eurowings, Germany’s largest leisure airline will connect Berlin with Abu Dhabi with three non-stop flights per week beginning in November 2025. After Dubai and Jeddah, this will be the third long-distance route for the German capital within a short space of time. The Berlin service to the booming metropolis of Dubai will also be expanded: Eurowings will fly to Dubai up to eleven times a week (instead of the previous seven times a week). Eurowings is also providing a real winter highlight in Lower Saxony: With the inaugural flight on November 4, there will be three direct flights a week from Hanover to Dubai. The third new destination will be reached from Baden-Württemberg: Eurowings will connect Stuttgart with Jeddah in Saudi Arabia twice a week going forward. The program to Egypt is also being expanded: In the new winter flight schedule 25/26, Eurowings will be flying to Marsa Alam from Cologne, Hamburg and Berlin.

    Discover Airlines is adding another highlight to its route network: starting in winter 2025/26, the leisure-focused airline will fly non-stop from Frankfurt to the Seychelles for the first time. This is a first for the Lufthansa Group: no airline in the group has ever flown to the island paradise before. Flights to Punta Cana, in the Dominican Republic, are also on the schedule – the only direct connection from Munich to the popular Caribbean vacation destination. Discover Airlines is also adding Alta in Norway to its schedule from Frankfurt for the first time.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Stretch Your Tech: Samsung Care Helps You Make Every Dollar Count

    Source: Samsung

    In a time when many people are being more thoughtful about their purchases, getting more out of the tech you already own has become more important. That’s where Samsung Care comes in — providing support that helps you protect your investment and extend the life of your devices, without sacrificing convenience or quality. Whether you’ve had your device for two months or two years, Samsung Care delivers trusted support that keeps your tech in top shape — saving you time, money, and stress.
    Consumers today aren’t just looking for the best product — they’re looking for long-term value and a brand that follows through. Samsung understands that. And now, it’s official:
    Samsung’s Mobile eXperience (MX) Customer Care has been ranked #1 in the 2025 American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) survey for customer satisfaction, service quality, and ease of arranging service.1 Surveying thousands of U.S. consumers from April 2024 to March 2025, the ACSI stands as the nation’s leading authority on customer satisfaction.
    This recognition is a testament to Samsung’s commitment to standing by our customers, not just when they buy – but every step of the way to keep devices running efficiently for longer.

    So, What Makes Samsung Care #1?
    Here’s what sets the experience apart — and why more and more customers are turning to Samsung for support that actually supports them:

    Convenient, Fast Service When You Need It

    Samsung Care is designed for real life — whether you’re on the go, at home, or somewhere in between.

    Same-day repairs available to most U.S. customers
    Mail-in service accessible nationwide
    860+ repair locations and 2,500 certified technicians across the country
    Walk-in repairs typically completed within two hours

    Quality You Can Count On

    Every repair is backed by Samsung’s commitment to craftsmanship and care.

    All repairs completed by certified technicians
    Genuine Samsung parts used every time
    Every device goes through a 70-point diagnostic test
    90-day repair warranty for added peace of mind

    Flexible Options, Personalized Support

    You shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get help. Samsung Care meets you where you are.

    In-store, mail-in, or at-home repair options
    200+ million SMS messages exchanged since 2021
    24/7 support through the Samsung Care YouTube channel, Samsung Members App, and Samsung Communities

     Smart Support for Smart Spending
    As more people focus on value and longevity, Samsung Care empowers consumers to get the most out of their devices. It’s not just about repairs. It’s about empowering you to get the most out of what you already own with support that’s reliable, flexible, and always close by.
    Because support shouldn’t stop after you open the box. With Samsung Care, help is always just a call, click or visit away.
    For more on Samsung Care, visit Samsung.com.
    Need support from the Samsung Care Team? Visit the Samsung Care YouTube Channel, check out the Samsung Members App and Samsung Communities or call or text 1-800-SAMSUNG to start a conversation with a Samsung Care representative.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    May 21, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: NANO Nuclear and MIT’s Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering Launch Advanced Irradiation Study to Investigate Salt-Based Thermal Storage for Nuclear Applications

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, N.Y., May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) (“NANO Nuclear” or the “Company”), a leading advanced nuclear technology and energy company, today announced the launch of a major irradiation testing program in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Department of Nuclear Science and Engineering. The two-year collaboration will investigate the thermal and radiolytic behavior of nitrate molten salts, commonly referred to as “solar salts”, to assess their viability in advanced nuclear energy systems for thermal energy storage and cooling applications.

    Funded by NANO Nuclear through over $500,000 of research and development investment, the work will be conducted under the supervision of Prof. Koroush Shirvan, Principal Investigator and a leading expert in nuclear systems engineering. The research will focus on the of salt materials subjected to gamma irradiation using MIT’s Gammacell 220F Co-60 irradiator—ensuring a safe, precisely controlled, and highly instrumented test environment.

    “We are proud to support this world-class irradiation study at MIT,” said Jay Yu, Founder and Chairman of NANO Nuclear. “Understanding how molten salts perform under radiation is essential to unlocking next-generation reactor designs, and this facility gives us the capabilities to do that without the use of any nuclear materials.”

    While molten nitrate salts are widely used in solar thermal energy systems, the knowledge of these materials’ behavior under the ionizing radiation conditions representative of nuclear environments is relatively scarce. This collaboration aims to fill that critical knowledge gap by assessing both the chemical and thermophysical performance of the salts during and after irradiation.

    Using a suite of cutting-edge diagnostics, including a magnetic sector residual gas analyzer (RGA), laser flash analysis, and post-irradiation spectroscopic techniques, MIT researchers will measure off-gassing behavior, thermal degradation, and long-term material stability. The results will inform system design for microreactors that utilize molten salts for heat transfer or energy storage, improving the accuracy and reliability of safety and performance models.

    “This project offers an exciting opportunity to characterize molten nitrate salts in radiation environments with a level of precision not previously achieved,” said Dr. Koroush Shirvan, Principal Investigator at MIT. “We’re using real-time diagnostics, high-temperature test rigs, and modern analytical techniques to generate data that can have immediate impact on next-generation reactor development.”

    The results of this study will feed directly into the engineering and design processes and could also prove useful for other clean energy applications, including industrial process heat and off-grid energy storage.

    “We are thrilled to see this groundbreaking research move forward with MIT,” said Professor Ian Farnan, Lead of Nuclear Fuel Cycle, Radiation and Materials of NANO Nuclear. “The ability to assess salt performance in radiation fields without reliance on operating reactor gives us unprecedented flexibility and speed in advancing the development of our reactor systems.”

    The project is expected to conclude in 2027, with quarterly updates and final data delivery coordinated between MIT and NANO Nuclear’s engineering teams. As NANO Nuclear continues to expand its operations, the Company remains committed to developing cutting-edge nuclear solutions that redefine the global energy landscape.

    About NANO Nuclear Energy, Inc.

    NANO Nuclear Energy Inc. (NASDAQ: NNE) is an advanced technology-driven nuclear energy company seeking to become a commercially focused, diversified, and vertically integrated company across five business lines: (i) cutting edge portable and other microreactor technologies, (ii) nuclear fuel fabrication, (iii) nuclear fuel transportation, (iv) nuclear applications for space and (v) nuclear industry consulting services. NANO Nuclear believes it is the first portable nuclear microreactor company to be listed publicly in the U.S.

    Led by a world-class nuclear engineering team, NANO Nuclear’s reactor products in development include patented KRONOS MMR™Energy System, a stationary high-temperature gas-cooled reactor that is in construction permit pre-application engagement U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) in collaboration with University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (U. of I.), “ZEUS”, a solid core battery reactor, and “ODIN”, a low-pressure coolant reactor, and the space focused, portable LOKI MMR™, each representing advanced developments in clean energy solutions that are portable, on-demand capable, advanced nuclear microreactors.

    Advanced Fuel Transportation Inc. (AFT), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is led by former executives from the largest transportation company in the world aiming to build a North American transportation company that will provide commercial quantities of HALEU fuel to small modular reactors, microreactor companies, national laboratories, military, and DOE programs. Through NANO Nuclear, AFT is the exclusive licensee of a patented high-capacity HALEU fuel transportation basket developed by three major U.S. national nuclear laboratories and funded by the Department of Energy. Assuming development and commercialization, AFT is expected to form part of the only vertically integrated nuclear fuel business of its kind in North America.

    HALEU Energy Fuel Inc. (HEF), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is focusing on the future development of a domestic source for a High-Assay, Low-Enriched Uranium (HALEU) fuel fabrication pipeline for NANO Nuclear’s own microreactors as well as the broader advanced nuclear reactor industry.

    NANO Nuclear Space Inc. (NNS), a NANO Nuclear subsidiary, is exploring the potential commercial applications of NANO Nuclear’s developing micronuclear reactor technology in space. NNS is focusing on applications such as the LOKI MMR™ system and other power systems for extraterrestrial projects and human sustaining environments, and potentially propulsion technology for long haul space missions. NNS’ initial focus will be on cis-lunar applications, referring to uses in the space region extending from Earth to the area surrounding the Moon’s surface.

    For more corporate information please visit: https://NanoNuclearEnergy.com/

    For further NANO Nuclear information, please contact:

    Email: IR@NANONuclearEnergy.com
    Business Tel: (212) 634-9206

    PLEASE FOLLOW OUR SOCIAL MEDIA PAGES HERE:

    NANO Nuclear Energy LINKEDIN
    NANO Nuclear Energy YOUTUBE
    NANO Nuclear Energy X PLATFORM

    Cautionary Note Regarding Forward Looking Statements

    This news release and statements of NANO Nuclear’s management in connection with this news release contain or may contain “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. In this context, forward-looking statements mean statements related to future events, which may impact our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects”, “anticipates”, “intends”, “plans”, “believes”, “potential”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “would” or “may” and other words of similar meaning. In this press release, forward-looking statements relate to, among other things, the anticipated benefits to NANO Nuclear of its collaboration with MIT, as well as the nature and timing of the research described herein. These and other forward-looking statements are based on information available to us as of the date of this news release and represent management’s current views and assumptions. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, events or results and involve significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may be beyond our control. For NANO Nuclear, particular risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual future results to differ materially from those expressed in our forward-looking statements include but are not limited to the following: (i) risks related to our U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) or related state or non-U.S. nuclear fuel licensing submissions, (ii) risks related the development of new or advanced technology and the acquisition of complimentary technology or businesses, including difficulties with design and testing, cost overruns, regulatory delays, integration issues and the development of competitive technology, (iii) our ability to obtain contracts and funding to be able to continue operations, (iv) risks related to uncertainty regarding our ability to technologically develop and commercially deploy a competitive advanced nuclear reactor or other technology in the timelines we anticipate, if ever, (v) risks related to the impact of U.S. and non-U.S. government regulation, policies and licensing requirements, including by the DOE and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, including those associated with the recently enacted ADVANCE Act, and (vi) similar risks and uncertainties associated with the operating an early stage business a highly regulated and rapidly evolving industry. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which apply only as of the date of this news release. These factors may not constitute all factors that could cause actual results to differ from those discussed in any forward-looking statement, and NANO Nuclear therefore encourages investors to review other factors that may affect future results in its filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov and at https://ir.nanonuclearenergy.com/financial-information/sec-filings. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a predictor of actual results. We do not undertake to update our forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances that may arise after the date of this news release, except as required by law.

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: OTC Markets Group Welcomes Currency Exchange International Corp. to the OTCQX

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, May 20, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM), operator of regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities, today announced Currency Exchange International Corp. (TSX: CXI; OTCQX: CURN), which provides comprehensive foreign exchange technology and processing services, has qualified to trade on the OTCQX® Best Market. Currency Exchange International Corp upgraded to OTCQX from the Pink® market.

    Currency Exchange International Corp. begins trading today on OTCQX under the symbol “CURN.” U.S. investors can find current financial disclosure and Real-Time Level 2 quotes for the company on www.otcmarkets.com.

    “We are pleased to commence trading on the OTCQX,” said Randolph Pinna, President and CEO of Currency Exchange International Corp. “As a Florida, U.S.A based company, this important step aligns with our strategy to increase Currency Exchange International Corp.’s U.S. shareholder base while strengthening shareholder engagement with investors. This market upgrade will improve our exposure to a broader group of institutional and retail investors.”

    Upgrading to the OTCQX Market is an important step for companies seeking to provide transparent trading for their U.S. investors. To qualify for OTCQX, companies must meet high financial standards, follow best practice corporate governance and demonstrate compliance with applicable securities laws.

    About Currency Exchange International Corp.
    Currency Exchange International is in the business of providing comprehensive foreign exchange technology and processing services for banks, credit unions, businesses, and consumers in the United States and select clients globally. Primary products and services include the exchange of foreign currencies, wire transfer payments, Global EFTs, and foreign cheque clearing. Wholesale customers are served through its proprietary FX software applications delivered on its web-based interface, www.cxifx.com (“CXIFX”), its related APIs with core banking platforms, and through personal relationship managers. Consumers are served through Group-owned retail branches, agent retail branches, and its e-commerce platform, order.ceifx.com (“OnlineFX”).

    About OTC Markets Group Inc.
    OTC Markets Group Inc. (OTCQX: OTCM) operates regulated markets for trading 12,000 U.S. and international securities. Our data-driven disclosure standards form the foundation of our three public markets: OTCQX® Best Market, OTCQB® Venture Market and Pink® Open Market.

    Our OTC Link® Alternative Trading Systems (ATSs) provide critical market infrastructure that broker-dealers rely on to facilitate trading. Our innovative model offers companies more efficient access to the U.S. financial markets.

    OTC Link ATS, OTC Link ECN, OTC Link NQB, and MOON ATSTM are each an SEC regulated ATS, operated by OTC Link LLC, a FINRA and SEC registered broker-dealer, member SIPC.

    To learn more about how we create better informed and more efficient markets, visit www.otcmarkets.com.

    Subscribe to the OTC Markets RSS Feed

    Media Contact:
    OTC Markets Group Inc., +1 (212) 896-4428, media@otcmarkets.com

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Construction begins on new Civil Service office in Blackpool 

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    News story

    Construction begins on new Civil Service office in Blackpool 

    Construction has begun on a new office building for Ministry of Defence (MOD) civil servants as part of Blackpool’s Talbot Gateway redevelopment. 

    L-R Alan McBride, Muse; Will Town, Defence Infrastructure Organisation; Jennifer Chard, Defence Business Services; Cllr Lynn Williams, Blackpool Council; Garry Bowker, Vinci Building. (Copyright Blackpool Council)

    A groundbreaking ceremony has taken place for a new MOD office within the Talbot Gateway redevelopment in Blackpool.

    The regeneration programme sees Blackpool Council working with development partner Muse Places and construction company VINCI Building on the new 53,000 sq. ft MOD building which will hold up to 1,100 staff from Defence Business Services (DBS). 

    As MOD’s shared services organisation, DBS provides corporate services across the information and technology, finance, procurement and people function to the whole of defence, including serving military, veterans and civilian staff, as well as other government departments. The move from a leased site within the local area concludes the consolidation of DBS’ northwest estate into a single, purpose-built office owned by the MOD, securing future jobs and saving the taxpayer money long term. 

    Representatives from DBS signed the contract for the new building on 31 March 2025 with them coming together last week at a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of construction.  

    The DBS project is being delivered under the MOD’s Defence Estate Optimisation portfolio, which is investing £5.1 billion in a more modern and sustainable defence estate. This includes new and refurbished military accommodation and housing for over 40,000 service personnel and their families, as well as technical, training and office space for over 64,000 personnel, including civilian staff. Construction will be managed on behalf of the MOD by the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, working closely with Blackpool Council, development partner Muse Places, main contractor VINCI Building and DBS.  

    The building is scheduled for completion in 2027. 

    Ross Porter, Defence Infrastructure Organisation Programme Manager, said: 

    After several years of pre-construction work and a huge collaborative effort from all parties involved, progressing this project to the construction stage is a great milestone to reach. We’re very much looking forward to delivering a first-class office facility for MOD staff in the area, as part of the Defence Estates Optimisation Portfolio. 

    Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, said:  

    This is another major step forward in our plans to make Blackpool better. We’re very grateful to government for recognising Blackpool’s economic potential and continuing to invest and help us create quality jobs for local people.  

    Officers from both the council and government have worked exceptionally hard to make this deal possible. With over 8,000 workers and students coming to the town centre in the next few years, this provides a phenomenal opportunity and confidence for local businesses to continue to invest and hire more local people.

    Alan McBride, Technical Director at Muse, said:  

    It’s great to see work commencing on phase five of Talbot Gateway’s regeneration. This future-proofed, sustainable workspace for the Civil Service will bring increased footfall into the town centre, spur further economic growth in the heart of Blackpool, and build on the momentum we’ve generated alongside our long-standing partners, Blackpool Council, for more than 15 years. 

    Gary Hughes VINCI Building’s Regional Director said: 

    We’re delighted to have been appointed on this key project at Talbot Gateway to continue our working partnership with Blackpool Council and Muse. We will ensure we continue to provide local opportunities through the development of our local supply chain, whilst generating significant education and training opportunities with local schools, colleges and education groups as we progress on site.

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    Published 20 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The All-Russian competition and forum “Engineers of Meanings – 2025” was held at the Polytechnic University

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

    The results of one of theflagship educational projects of SPbPU in the field of PR and advertising for the country’s studying youth. For the first time, not only students but also schoolchildren from 16 Russian cities participated in the all-Russian competition-forum of communication projects “Engineers of Meanings” of the Higher School of Media Communications and Public Relations of the Humanitarian Institute.

    This year the event was held with the support of the Association of Public Relations Teachers, the Foundation for the Support of Innovations and Youth Initiatives of St. Petersburg, the Association of Organizations and Specialists in Innovations in the Sphere of Education and the All-Russian public organization “Russian Creative Union of Cultural Workers”.

    Of the 78 projects submitted for the first correspondence stage of the competition, 19 works in four main nominations reached the final: “Best Theoretical Work”, “Best Practical Work for an Educational Organization”, “Best Practical Work in the Industry” and “Visionary of the Communications Industry”, as well as 18 works in the special nomination “Legacy of the Great Victory”. The finalists were invited to face-to-face defenses at SPbPU, where a two-day forum with an educational program awaited them.

    At the opening, the participants were greeted by the director of the All-Russian competition-forum “Engineers of Meanings”, director of the Higher School of Media Communications and Public Relations of the SPbPU GI Marina Arkannikova and the head of the competition-forum “Engineers of Meanings”, 1st year student of the master’s program in Advertising and Public Relations Irina Frey.

    I am proud of the competition’s organizing team. Just three years ago, we discussed the initiative for this event, and today it is already a practice-oriented project proving its effectiveness in your education. This year, you have expanded its scale and geography – now schoolchildren are with us. Many thanks to you and all the guests of the Polytechnic who are with us today, – noted Marina Arkannikova.

    The business and educational program of the first day was opened by a lecture by representatives of the Foundation for Support of Innovations and Youth Initiatives of St. Petersburg Ekaterina Kholodnova and Tatyana Abramovich, organizers of the project “Mediator: How to Make Everyone Happy” in the competition “Design of the Young/Young Design”. They talked about the formats of the competition and analyzed the role of mediators in the design industry. Editor-in-chief of the industrial publication Sostav.ru Roman Bedretdinov gave a lecture “Artificial Intelligence: an Unlimited Field of Co-Creation”. Founder of the LOUD communications award Ksenia Tikhankina gave a report on the topic “Creative Tools in PR: a Strategic Approach to Coverage, Meaning and Efficiency”.

    On the second day, Alexandra Shushlina, a representative of the press service of the Moscow Department of Labor and Social Protection, gave a lecture on “Professional Care: PR of Social Projects” and talked about the projects of the “School of Kinship Care”. Daniil Rogozin, the founder of Gelios Biscotto, held a master class on “The Magic of Start: How an Idea Becomes a Successful Product Online”. He shared the secrets of building a roadmap for his product and told what needs to be done to get the President of the Russian Federation to try your product. Andrey Chirkov, PR Director of Zarenkov Gallery and Ambassador of Russian Circus Arts, shared ideas for non-standard PR campaigns and creative integrations at the master class “PR in the Circus: and it’s not funny”.

    The forum also included a training session “PR tools for beginners — the whole truth about the work of the press service” from Victoria Grechina, head of the public relations department of the financial corporation “Consortum”, a case championship from Ekaterina Lisovskaya, commercial director of the digital agency AdAurum Group, and a workshop “Creating meanings: a creative approach to special projects” from Galina Filippova, PR Team Lead of the international digital agency Magnetto.pro.

    At the award ceremony, the authors of the best works thanked Polytechnic for the events and exchanged impressions.

    I was once at the origins of this project. I am very glad that the competition is growing and scaling. More and more guys from the regions are participating in it. This year there was a very interesting program from professionals in our industry. Thank you to the jury for the high assessment of my project and for the recommendations, – noted Adelina Borozdina, a second-year student of the Master’s program “Advertising and Public Relations” at the Higher School of Management and Social Sciences.

    The winner in the nomination for schoolchildren was Ksenia Baraeva from Bryansk, a student of grade 10B of Gymnasium No. 6.

    Can a schoolchild feel confident among students? Definitely yes! Thanks to the forum “Engineers of Meanings”. These are not only lectures and master classes from specialists, but also an opportunity to communicate with students and learn everything about studying at the university. I was convinced that I really like the direction “Advertising and Public Relations” at the Polytechnic University. I am sure that for many schoolchildren the forum became an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the university and their future profession. Next year I will definitely participate in the forum again, this time with new ideas and meanings, – said Ksenia.

    Nomination “Best theoretical work”:

    “Financial Culture — a Conscious Trajectory”, authors — Ksenia Gvozdkova, Ilya Belousov, Anna Krotova, Ksenia Popova, Anastasia Minenkova, scientific supervisor — senior lecturer of the Department of Management of the RANEPA SIU Marina Ivanova; “ECO-Fest | T-Bank 2025”, authors — Varvara Smirnova, Anastasia Soloveichik, Anton Li, Tomasz Adamowicz, scientific supervisor — associate professor of the SPbPU HSMiSO Irina Melnikova; “Creative PR for the T-Bank Vozvrat cash refund service”, authors — Alexandra Lipatova, Yulia Lutfullina, Varvara Nuryaeva, Polina Shtrik, scientific supervisor — head of the Department of Philosophy of Language and Communication of Moscow State University Anna Kostikova; “UGMK Professions”, authors – Arina Senchilo, Victoria Pirogova, Victoria Khizhuk, scientific director – associate professor of the Higher School of Medical and Social Sciences of St. Petersburg Polytechnic University Irina Melnikova.

    Nomination “Best practical work for an educational organization”:

    Communication support of the XXV Anniversary season of the city photo exhibition of young photographers “POLYTECH-PHOTO”, author – Adelina Borozdina, scientific supervisor – associate professor of the Higher School of Music and Social Sciences of SPbPU Elina Avakova; Audio guide to digital culture of UlSTU “Voice of the Ages”, authors – Arina Budaeva, Kristina Grigorieva, Ksenia Moskolonova, Vyacheslav Moiseev, Anastasia Trubacheva, scientific supervisor – UlSTU associate professor Valentina Kamanina; Communications Festival “Kulek”, authors – Ilvina Zaripova, Tatyana Gontar, Vladislav Gubenko, Elizaveta Lysenko, Daria Tarasova, scientific supervisor – director of the Institute of Philology, Journalism and Intercultural Communication of SFedU Anna Dmitrova; PolyUnity: Adaptation of foreign students, authors – Polina Bazarova, Nikolay Bessarabov, Maria Derebenskaya, Sergey Korotkov, Kantemir Kochesokov, scientific supervisor – associate professor of the Higher School of Medical and Social Sciences of SPbPU Elina Avakova.

    Nomination “Best practical work in the industry”:

    Special project “Avitenok”, authors – Marina Berezina, Ksenia Sayakina, Ksenia Serova, Angelina Umarova (“Higher School of Economics”); Creation and promotion of the handmade clothing brand “Pavvuchixa”, author – Yulia Chistyakova, scientific supervisor – Associate Professor of the Department of Journalism, Advertising and Public Relations of NArFU Olga Votintseva.

    Nomination “Visionary of the Communications Industry”:

    Ksenia Chueva, P.A. Stolypin Volga Region Institute of Management – branch of RANEPA; “Special Prize” for a conscious choice of professional path – Lilia Sargsyan, Moscow Financial and Industrial University “Synergy”.

    Nomination “Heritage of the Great Victory” (student projects):

    “Musical Kaleidoscope” dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, author – Yuna Fedorova, scientific supervisor – Associate Professor of the Brand Communications Department of the Institute of Business Communications of St. Petersburg State University of Industrial and Technical Design Veronika Smirnova; Video dedicated to the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War and the 100th anniversary of the war veteran Vladimir Stepanovich Mikhin, author – Anastasia Sidorenko, scientific supervisor – Head of the Department of Electronic Media and Speech Communication of the Faculty of Journalism of VSU Valeria Kolesnikova; “My great-grandfather is my pride! The contribution of the home front worker Mikhail Prokopyevich Zelenkin to the development of Izhevsk weapons during the Great Patriotic War”, author – Mikhail Lekomtsev, scientific supervisor – Director of the College of the Izhevsk Institute of VSUJ (RPA of the Ministry of Justice of Russia) Stanislav Kalugin; “Two Eras – One Victory” information support for a family festival at a recreation center, author – Anastasia Nazarova, scientific director – professor of the Ulyanovsk State Technical University Olga Shinyaeva; “Special Prize” for contribution to patriotic education of the younger generation: scenario of a quest lesson on the topic “The Great Patriotic War”, author – Vladislava Safonova, Surgut State Pedagogical University.

    Nomination “Heritage of the Great Victory” (school projects):

    Video clip “In Memory of the Victims of Khatsuni”, author – Ksenia Baraeva, 10B grade student, Gymnasium No. 6, Bryansk; “Special Prize” for contribution to patriotic education of the younger generation – “History beyond time”, author – Maria Palchik, Engineering and Technology School No. 777, St. Petersburg.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received all regulatory approvals to complete the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S – Nykredit Realkredit A/S

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION, DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY, IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION WHERE DOING SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OR REGULATIONS OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received all regulatory approvals to complete the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S

    20 May 2025

    Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority’s approval, after which all regulatory approvals to complete the recommended, voluntary public tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S have been received

    In accordance with section 4(1) of the Danish Takeover Order1, Nykredit Realkredit A/S (“Nykredit”) announced on 10 December 2024 that Nykredit intended to submit a voluntary public tender offer (the “Offer”) to acquire all shares in Spar Nord Bank A/S (“Spar Nord Bank”), with the exception of Spar Nord Bank’s treasury shares, for a cash price of DKK 210 per share, valuing the aggregated issued share capital of Spar Nord Bank at DKK 24.7 billion. As stated in the supplement dated April 2, 2025, the offer price has subsequently been increased to DKK 210.50 per share.

    On 8 January 2025, Nykredit published the offer document regarding the Offer (the “Offer Document”), as approved by the Danish FSA in accordance with section 11 of the Danish Takeover Order. The Offer Document was most recently supplemented in a supplement of 23 April 2025.

    Nykredit today received the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s acquisition of sole control over Spar Nord Bank pursuant to part 4 of the Danish Competition Act. The last of the regulatory approvals which, in accordance with section 6.16 of the Offer Document, constitute the “Regulatory Condition” for the Offer has thus been received.

    Completion of the Offer is subject to the remaining conditions set out in section 6.6 of the Offer Document being satisfied.

    The Offer Period expires on 20 May 2025 at 23:59 (CEST). On 21 May 2025, Nykredit expects to publicly announce a preliminary compilation of the number of acceptances and announce whether the Offer will be finalised.

    Nykredit intends to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders, provided that Nykredit has obtained the necessary ownership interest, and the Offer has been completed. Spar Nord Bank shareholders who have opted not to accept the Offer, should expect that Nykredit, provided that the Offer is completed, will take steps to combine Nykredit Bank A/S and Spar Nord Bank, which will result in a further increase in Nykredit’s ownership interest in Spar Nord Bank. Not later than in continuation of the combination, Nykredit thus expects to hold a sufficient ownership interest to be able to delist Spar Nord Bank from trading on Nasdaq Copenhagen and complete a compulsory acquisition of the remaining Spar Nord Bank shareholders.

    After Nykredit Realkredit A/S has received all regulatory approvals to complete the voluntary tender offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S, Michael Rasmussen, Group Chief Executive, states:

    “We are pleased to have received the merger control approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority. Spar Nord and Nykredit are both strong banks experiencing growth, customer inflows and high customer satisfaction.I look forward to soon welcoming customers and colleagues from Spar Nord.

    The Nykredit Group’s ‘Winning the Double’ strategy continues, because partnerships are a crucial part of our strategy. Our partners can therefore expect us to further engage and invest in our important communities in Totalkredit, BEC, Sparinvest, nærpension and Privatsikring. Partnerships that ensure that we together stand stronger in the Danish financial market and in our interaction with customers.”

    Questions and further information

    Any questions concerning the Offer may be directed to:

    Nykredit Bank A/S

    Company reg. (CVR) no.: 10 51 96 08

    Sundkrogsgade 25

    2150 Nordhavn
    Denmark

    Telephone: +45 7010 9000

    and

    Carnegie Investment Bank

    Filial af Carnegie Investment Bank AB (publ), Sverige

    Company reg. (CVR) no. 35 52 12 67

    Overgaden Neden Vandet 9B

    1414 Copenhagen K
    Denmark

    E-mail: annette.hansen@carnegie.dk

    For further information about the Offer, please see: https://www.nykredit.com/en-gb/offer-spar-nord/

    This announcement and the Offer Document (with supplements) are not directed at shareholders of Spar Nord Bank A/S whose participation in the Offer would require the issuance of an offer document, registration or activities other than what is required under Danish law (and, in the case of shareholders in the United States of America, Section 14(e) of, and applicable provisions of Regulation 14E promulgated under, the US Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended). The Offer is not made and will not be made, directly or indirectly, to shareholders resident in any jurisdiction in which the submission of the Offer or acceptance thereof would be in contravention of the laws of such jurisdiction. Any person coming into possession of this announcement, the Offer Document or any other document containing a reference to the Offer is expected and assumed to independently obtain all necessary information about any applicable restrictions and to observe these.

    This announcement does not constitute an offer or an invitation to purchase securities or a solicitation of an offer to purchase securities in accordance with the Offer or otherwise. The Offer will be submitted only in the form of the Offer Document (with supplements) approved by the FSA, which sets out the full terms and conditions of the Offer, including information on how to accept the Offer. The shareholders of Spar Nord Bank are advised to read the Offer Document and any related documents as they contain important information.

    Restricted jurisdictions

    The Offer is not made, and acceptance of the Offer to tender Spar Nord Bank shares is not accepted, neither directly nor indirectly, in or from any jurisdiction in which the making or acceptance of the Offer would not be in compliance with the laws of such jurisdiction or would require any registration, approval or any other measures with any regulatory authority not expressly contemplated by the Offer Document (the “Restricted Jurisdictions”). Neither the United States nor the United Kingdom is a Restricted Jurisdiction.

    Restricted Jurisdictions include, but are not limited to: Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, New Zealand and South Africa.

    Persons obtaining documents or information relating to the Offer (including custodians, account holding institutions, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) should not distribute, communicate, transfer or send these in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction or use mail or any other means of communication in or into a Restricted Jurisdiction in connection with the Offer. Persons (including, but not limited to, custodians, custodian banks, nominees, trustees, representatives, fiduciaries or other intermediaries) intending to communicate this announcement, the Offer Document, supplements or any related document to any jurisdiction outside Denmark or the United States should inform themselves about these restrictions before taking any action. Any failure to comply with these restrictions may constitute a violation of the laws of such jurisdiction, including securities laws. It is the responsibility of all Persons obtaining this announcement, the Offer Document, supplements, an acceptance form and/or other documents relating to the Offer, or into whose possession such documents otherwise come, to inform themselves about and observe all such restrictions.

    Nykredit is not responsible for ensuring that the distribution, dissemination or communication of this announcement, the Offer Document or supplements to shareholders outside Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom is consistent with applicable law in any jurisdiction other than Denmark, the United States and the United Kingdom.

    Important Information for Shareholders in the United States

    The Offer concerns the shares in Spar Nord Bank, a public limited liability company incorporated and admitted to trading on a regulated market in Denmark, and is subject to the disclosure and procedural requirements of Danish law, including the Danish capital markets act and the Danish takeover order.

    The Offer is being made to shareholders in Spar Nord Bank in the United States in compliance with the applicable US tender offer rules under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, (the “U.S. Exchange Act”), including Regulation 14E promulgated thereunder, subject to the relief available for a “Tier II” tender offer, and otherwise in accordance with the requirements of Danish law and practice

    Accordingly, US Spar Nord Bank shareholders should be aware that this announcement and any other documents regarding the Offer have been prepared in accordance with, and will be subject to, the disclosure and other procedural requirements, including with respect to withdrawal rights, the Offer timetable, settlement procedures and timing of payments of Danish law and practice, which may differ materially from those applicable under US domestic tender offer law and practice. In addition, the financial information contained in this announcement or the Offer Document has not been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, or derived therefrom, and may therefore differ from, or not be comparable with, financial information of US companies.

    In accordance with the laws of, and practice in, Denmark and to the extent permitted by applicable law, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, Nykredit, Nykredit’s affiliates or any nominees or brokers of the foregoing (acting as agents, or in a similar capacity, for Nykredit or any of its affiliates, as applicable) may from time to time, and other than pursuant to the Offer, directly or indirectly, purchase, or arrange to purchase, outside of the United States, shares in Spar Nord Bank or any securities that are convertible into, exchangeable for or exercisable for such shares in Spar Nord Bank before or during the period in which the Offer remains open for acceptance. These purchases may occur either in the open market at prevailing prices or in private transactions at negotiated prices. Any information about such purchases will be announced via Nasdaq Copenhagen and relevant electronic media if, and to the extent, such announcement is required under applicable law. To the extent information about such purchases or arrangements to purchase is made public in Denmark, such information will be disclosed by means of a press release or other means reasonably calculated to inform US shareholders of Spar Nord Bank of such information.

    In addition, subject to the applicable laws of Denmark and US securities laws, including Rule 14e-5 under the U.S. Exchange Act, the financial advisers to Nykredit or their respective affiliates may also engage in ordinary course trading activities in securities of Spar Nord Bank, which may include purchases or arrangements to purchase such securities.

    It may not be possible for US shareholders to effect service of process within the United States upon Spar Nord Bank, Nykredit or any of their respective affiliates, or their respective officers or directors, some or all of which may reside outside the United States, or to enforce against any of them judgments of the United States courts predicated upon the civil liability provisions of the federal securities laws of the United States or other US law. It may not be possible to bring an action against Nykredit, Spar Nord Bank and/or their respective officers or directors (as applicable) in a non-US court for violations of US laws. Further, it may not be possible to compel Nykredit and Spar Nord Bank or their respective affiliates, as applicable, to subject themselves to the judgment of a US court. In addition, it may be difficult to enforce in Denmark original actions, or actions for the enforcement of judgments of US courts, based on the civil liability provisions of the US federal securities laws.

    The Offer, if completed, may have consequences under US federal income tax and under applicable US state and local, as well as non-US, tax laws. Each shareholder of Spar Nord Bank is urged to consult its independent professional adviser immediately regarding the tax consequences of the Offer.

    NEITHER THE U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY SECURITIES COMMISSION OR OTHER REGULATORY AUTHORITY IN ANY STATE OF THE U.S. HAS APPROVED OR DECLINED TO APPROVE THE OFFER OR THIS ANNOUNCEMENT, PASSED UPON THE FAIRNESS OR MERITS OF THE OFFER OR PROVIDED AN OPINION AS TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THIS ANNOUNCEMENT OR ANY OFFER DOCUMENT. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENCE IN THE UNITED STATES.

    1 Executive Order no. 636 of 15 May 2020

    Attachment

    • Announcement of final regulatory approval

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Nykredit announces receipts of all regulatory approvals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Nykredit announces receipt of approval from the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority, after which all regulatory approvals required to implement the voluntary takeover offer for Spar Nord Bank A/S have been received

    NOT FOR DIRECT OR INDIRECT RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN OR TO ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBU-TION WOULD BE CONTRARY TO APPLICABLE LEGISLATION OR RULES OF SUCH JURISDICTION

    With reference to Spar Nord Bank A/S’ (Spar Nord) company announcement no. 1/2025 concerning publication of the offer document (the Offer Document) in connection with the all-cash voluntary takeover offer from Nykredit Realkredit A/S (Nykredit) for all shares (other than treasury shares held by Spar Nord) in Spar Nord (the Offer), and Spar Nord’s subsequent company announcements regarding Nykredit’s extensions of the offer period, Nykredit has today announced that Nykredit has received the Danish Competition and Consumer Authority’s approval of Nykredit’s acquisition of sole control over Spar Nord pursuant to Chapter 4 of the Com-petition Act.

    As a consequence, the last of the regulatory approvals that, pursuant to section 6.16 of the Offer Document, constitute the “Regulatory Condition” for the Offer has been received.

    Completion of the Offer remains subject to fulfilment of the remaining conditions set out in section 6.6 of the Offer Document.

    The offer period expires on 20 May 2025 at 23:59 (CEST). Nykredit expects to publish an announcement on 21 May 2025 regarding the preliminary calculation of the number of acceptances and to announce whether the Offer will be finalised.

    Questions may be directed to Neel Rosenberg (media) on +45 25 27 04 33 or to CFO Rune Brandt Børglum (investors)on +45 96 34 42 36.

    Yours faithfully

    Spar Nord Bank A/S
    The board of directors

    Attachments

    • No. 12 – Nykredit announdes receipt of last regulatory approval – UK
    • Announcement of final regulatory approval_Nykredit

    The MIL Network –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Marat Khusnullin: 130 agreements were signed at KazanForum

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Government of the Russian Federation – An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    The XVI International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” is aimed at strengthening the comprehensive cooperation between Russia and Muslim states. It was held in Kazan from May 13 to 18.

    “We see that the forum is absolutely in demand and needed both by our country and by the countries of the Islamic world. Every year KazanForum is gaining more and more momentum. This year the program included more than 200 events, including 148 business sessions with the participation of 990 speakers. The forum was a record-breaking one in terms of its effectiveness: 130 agreements and memorandums were concluded on its platform, including 75 international ones, for a total of more than 1 billion rubles,” said Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Organizing Committee for the preparation and holding of the International Economic Forum “Russia – Islamic World: KazanForum” Marat Khusnullin.

    In 2025, representatives from 96 countries and 82 Russian regions took part in the forum events.

    The key topics for 2025 were digitalization of cooperation between Russia and the countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), international cooperation, a real estate exhibition and conference, sports, the halal industry, Islamic finance and investment, tourism, culture, a female perspective, business, economics, personnel today and tomorrow, science and technology, and media activities.

    A meeting of the strategic vision group “Russia – Islamic world” was held within the framework of KazanForum. The meeting was devoted to issues of youth policy and cooperation in the humanitarian sphere. The meeting was chaired by Rais of the Republic of Tatarstan, Chairman of the strategic vision group “Russia – Islamic world” Rustam Minnikhanov.

    In addition to the meetings of the forum and the Russia-Islamic World Strategic Vision Group, plenary sessions of the AAOIFI (Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions), the international symposium on the Islamic Urban Environment (IBEIS 2025), the International Forum of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the 11th Kazan Forum of Young Entrepreneurs of the OIC Countries, a meeting of the North-South International Transport Corridor, and a congress of ministers of culture of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation were held. The plenary session was attended by ministers of culture and representatives of the ministries of culture of 12 countries, the Director General of the Department of Public Arts of Iraq, the Chairman of the Organization for Culture and Islamic Relations of Iran, representatives of the embassies of 5 states in the Russian Federation, as well as the Director of the OIC Department of Culture, the Director General of ISESCO and a representative of the League of Arab States in the Russian Federation.

    The forum became the venue for 10 meetings of representatives of Russia and foreign countries in various formats – from pitch sessions to business forums. In particular, events on international cooperation “Russia – UAE”, “Russia – MENA countries”, “Russia – Afghanistan”, “Russia – Turkey”, “Russia – Malaysia”, “Russia – Iran”, “Russia – Tajikistan”, “Russia – Kazakhstan”, “Russia – Qatar” were held.

    The international exhibition Russia Halal Expo was organized for the 8th time within the framework of the forum. This is the largest exhibition in Russia of economic and scientific-technological cooperation of the regions of the Russian Federation and the OIC countries. The exhibition presents 54 stands from 12 countries.

    This year, the International Property Market real estate exhibition was organized for the 2nd time within the framework of KazanForum – a unique platform designed to strengthen international ties and interaction with investors from different countries. The exhibition part of IPM 2025 was spread over an area of more than 1 thousand square meters. The participants of the exhibition were 57 companies, including 29 developers and builders, among which were stands from the UAE, Azerbaijan and Turkey.

    As part of the forum, the opening of the XV All-Russian Forum of Tatar Religious Figures “National Identity and Religion” took place in the Kazan Agro-Industrial Park. The forum traditionally brought together more than 1,000 imams, Islamic scholars, representatives of the clergy, and public figures from 74 regions of the Russian Federation. On the final day of the forum, delegates went to the ancient city of Bolgar, where they took part in the ceremonial event “Izge Bolgar zyeeny”, which brought together about 25,000 people from Russia and abroad.

    “For the Russian Federation, a state that unites many nations and people of different faiths, partnership with the Islamic world has been and remains one of the most important areas of foreign policy. Russia and the countries of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation actively interact on the basis of balanced approaches to a number of global problems, are involved in the formation of a new world order, showing by their example the possibility of a conflict-free dialogue of civilizations,” said the head of the Republic of Tatarstan Rustam Minnikhanov.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New virtual indoor cycling studio opens at Ferry Leisure Centre

    Source: City of Oxford

    Published: Tuesday, 20 May 2025

    Ferry Leisure Centre has completed a series of exciting upgrades, including the opening of a dedicated indoor cycling studio and the refurbishment of two squash courts.

    The new studio, which was previously a squash court, will feature a range of classes, both instructor led and virtual, catering for cyclists of all abilities. Indoor cycling sessions have been a feature of the Ferry’s group exercise programme for a number of years, but with this new, dedicated space, the team have been able to expand what they are able to offer customers and offer a broader range of classes.

    In addition to the new workout space, the centre’s remaining squash courts have had new lighting installed, floors sanded and the walls and lines repainted.

    Rob Jennings, Contract Manager for More Leisure Community Trust (MLCT), which operates the facility in partnership with Serco Leisure, said:

    “We’re proud to continue investing in our facilities and adapting to the changing needs of our community. The new virtual indoor cycling studio offers a modern, dynamic way for people to stay active. Having a studio dedicated to this popular form of indoor workout has given us the opportunity to lay on extra classes to meet customer demand.

    “The new studio is part of a broader programme of investment into the centre, which includes the refurbishment of two squash courts as well as improvements to our café facilities.

    “So, whether you want to book an indoor cycling class in our new studio, give squash a try, or just pop in for a cup of coffee, we’d love to see you at Ferry!”

    Councillor Chewe Munkonge, Cabinet Member for a Healthy, Fairer Oxford and Small Business Champion, said:

    “We’re committed to ensuring Oxford residents have access to high-quality, modern leisure facilities that support active and healthy lifestyles. These latest improvements at Ferry Leisure Centre – especially the addition of a state-of-the-art indoor cycling studio – reflect that commitment in action. It’s great to see investment responding directly to the needs of local people, and we look forward to seeing the community enjoy everything the upgraded centre has to offer.”

    The newly renovated courts and cycling studio are now open to the public. To book a court or virtual indoor cycling class, visit the website: https://www.oxfordcityleisure.com/ferry-leisure-centre/

    MLCT in partnership with Serco Leisure operates five leisure centres across Oxford on behalf of Oxford City Council.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    May 20, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Banking: WTO Chairs Programme activities launched at Dominican Republic university

    Source: WTO

    Headline: WTO Chairs Programme activities launched at Dominican Republic university

    The WTO Chairs Programme (WCP) aims to support and promote trade-related academic activities by universities and research institutions in developing and least-developed WTO member economies. Projects are funded for a period of four years and continue through support from their institutions, members, and other stakeholders that draw on them. The goal of the programme is to build capacity in international trade through research, curriculum development and outreach.
    WTO Deputy Director-General Xiangchen Zhang said the key activities of the Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) for the current year will centre on trade and environment sustainability, and in particular finding solutions that reduce plastics pollution.
    “This focus is certainly timely and relevant, particularly for an island economy like the Dominican Republic, which must grapple with the effects of climate change,” DDG Zhang said. “As you continue to seek growth while facing the challenges confronting your island economy, the Chair at UNIBE will be a valuable resource in providing tailored research and constructive engagement on key trade issues.”
    The WCP is funded by France, Austria and the Republic of Korea. With the addition of this institution, the WCP network has expanded within the Central American region, which was previously under-represented.
    Ambassador Emmanuelle Ivanov-Durand, Permanent Representative of France to the WTO, said: “Your work can help us to meet the challenges of our time, particularly in the field of sustainable development, and thereby make the system even more efficient. The courses you will be setting up on trade and environmental sustainability will undoubtedly contribute to our reflection.”
    Also present at the event was Ambassador José R. Sánchez-Fung, Permanent Representative of the Dominican Republic to the WTO, who recognized this as an important milestone. “The Dominican Republic welcomes the WCP Chair at UNIBE. The Programme will be instrumental in developing our country’s ability to participate in the global trading system and contribute productively to the rest of the WTO’s membership.”
    UNIBE is now part of a global network that facilitates cooperation between governments, universities and multilateral organizations. Vilma Arbaje, Deputy Minister of Foreign Trade at the Dominican Republic’s Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs, congratulated Odile Camilo, Rector of UNIBE: “The establishment of the WCP Chair at UNIBE consolidates this institution as a regional reference centre in training and research applied to trade and opens up new possibilities for integrating knowledge into the processes of designing and implementing more effective and sustainable public policies for the Ministry of Industry, Trade and MSMEs.
    “This collaboration represents a valuable opportunity to expand our institutional capacities, strengthen ties with the academic world and reinforce the country’s projection in spaces for global dialogue on trade,” she added.
    During the event, a panel comprising representatives of the government and the Association of Industries of the Dominican Republic discussed the importance of the circular economy in the Dominican Republic, offering insights into its future direction. Changing regulations offer a chance for transformation and concrete opportunities for sustainable and competitive development, participants said.
    The industrial sector has already taken steps toward transforming production. Manuel Diaz Franjul, Director of Trade Negotiations for Economic Affairs and International Cooperation, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said: “As we saw today, trade and the environment and associated policies are a key issue at the international level, and the best way to overcome any differences that arise is through direct engagement.”

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    MIL OSI Global Banks –

    May 20, 2025
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