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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI: Life Moments, in partnership with Relevant Software, launches AI Coaching Agent for financial institutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LVIV, Ukraine, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Life Moments, a UK fintech company that helps financial organisations deliver best-in-class customer engagement, has launched an AI Coaching Agent in partnership with Relevant Software. Customers can use the agent for major financial decisions, such as buying a home, investing, or setting sustainability goals, with personalised guidance broken into clear, practical steps.

    Built for banks, wealth managers, insurers, and pension providers, it enables firms to embed white-labelled conversational AI agents into existing Life Moments Coaching solutions, as well as integrate them directly into a firm’s core app or website. Coaching solutions currently include:

    • Money Coach – uses customer intentions, knowledge, and learning preferences to deliver tailored financial education and next best actions.
    • Investment Coach – guides users through the investing journey based on their knowledge, investment stage, and risk comfort.
    • Sustainable Business Coach – supports SMEs on their sustainability journey and equips firms with actionable data for reporting and informed strategy.

    Unlike open AI tools, the Life Moments AI Agent operates within a secure, controlled environment with built-in compliance guardrails, designed to align with FCA guidelines. It uses only pre-approved content and adapts answers based on in-platform user data. Every output is auditable, brand-safe, and consistent with internal policies. The agent does not rely on any unverified or external sources, can be fully adjusted to match each firm’s tone and workflow, and captures all customer interactions to support regulatory reporting.

    “Our new AI Coaching solution takes our customer engagement offering to the next level,” said Ben Leonard, CEO and Co-Founder of Life Moments. “This is a truly differentiated feature that allows Financial Services firms to combine their trusted status with the power of AI and deliver real value for their customers.”

    Life Moments developed the platform together with Relevant Software, a trusted technology provider. They chose Relevant Software as a technology partner because of their deep expertise in fintech and hands-on experience in AI consulting. During the collaboration, Relevant Software not only supported development but also identified specific ways AI could bring real value to the business.

    “Relevant Software played a key role in the technical design and build of our platform and underlying infrastructure. As the platform continues to evolve, our five-year collaboration has deepened, strengthening our partnership as we work together to enhance its capabilities and support future growth.” – Paul Carse, CTO and Co-Founder of Life Moments

    The solution is now live on Life Moments’ own first-time buyer app, FirstHomeCoach, with several UK financial services firms preparing to launch their versions of the agent soon.

    About Life Moments

    Life Moments offers digital engagement tools that enable financial services firms to support their customers through key life events. For further information about its suite of products, please visit life-moments.co.uk.

    About Relevant Software

    Relevant Software is a global software development company that helps businesses turn ideas into scalable digital products. With 200+ projects delivered and a 9.8 NPS, they specialize in AI, fintech, and end-to-end product development. Learn more at relevant. software.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Marketing unhealthy food as good for kids is fuelling obesity in South Africa: how to curb it

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Aisosa Jennifer Omoruyi, Research fellow, University of the Western Cape

    Childhood overweight and obesity are a growing public health challenge in South Africa. In 2016, 13% of the country’s children were reported to be obese. This is predicted to double by 2030.

    This problem has been linked to the regular consumption of calorie-dense foods high in sugar, salt and fat.
    South African children are growing up in a food environment that tends to cause obesity.

    One of its key features is intense marketing of unhealthy food and beverages, using various channels and appealing strategies. Misleading health and nutrition claims are sometimes made.

    Children are considered lucrative consumers because they can sometimes buy food themselves, influence their parents’ food purchases (they have “pester power”, for one thing), and are future consumers.

    Marketers use several strategies that children find appealing, such as cartoon characters, brand mascots, bright colours, colourful packages, catchy songs and slogans.

    Although there is no specific regulation of marketing to children in South Africa, the Consumer Protection Act 58 of 2008 has important provisions that guide the marketing of goods and services. The law prohibits false, deceptive marketing.

    As a researcher into children’s rights and nutrition I coauthored a recent paper examining how the Consumer Protection Act could be used to address the misleading marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children.

    In our view, the South African consumer protection legal framework has the necessary scope to address misleading forms of marketing of unhealthy foods to children. But there needs to be better enforcement.



    Read more:
    Profit versus health: 4 ways big global industries make people sick

    Health claims: not always the full package

    A common strategy in food marketing is the use of misleading health or nutrition claims. These are often written (“contains vitamin C”, “high fibre”, “boosts immunity”, “supports brain health”), or implied by images of fruits and vegetables on the packaging of products.

    Some studies in South Africa have demonstrated the misleading use of these claims in television and magazine
    advertisements and food packages, including products meant for children.

    For instance, fruit juices often claim to be rich in vitamin C, but they have a high sugar content. Dairy products typically boast a high calcium content, but are also high in added sugar. Breakfast cereals frequently highlight their fibre content, despite being ultra-processed and containing a high amount of total carbohydrates and added sugar.

    Packaged foods often contain nutrition labels, but the printed words are small and usually obscured by the “healthy” claims. Those are positioned more prominently to capture the attention of the consumer.

    Health and nutrition claims can strongly influence purchasing decisions, especially in the South African context. Research has shown that many South African consumers do not read nutrition labels on packaged foods.



    Read more:
    Half of all South Africans are overweight or obese. Warning labels on unhealthy foods help change that

    What the law says

    Firstly, the Consumer Protection Act recognises children as vulnerable or disadvantaged consumers who deserve special protection (section 3(1)(b)(iii). This is because they have limited capacity to understand marketing strategies or defend themselves against their persuasive effects.

    Secondly, the Consumer Protection Act, in sections 29 and 41, prohibits the marketing of goods in a way that is reasonably likely to imply a false or misleading representation of facts such as their ingredients, benefits and qualities.

    Thirdly, the Consumer Protection Act provisions do not require a consumer to show that they were actually misled by the claim or that children’s health was negatively affected by consuming the food product. It is enough that it has been marketed in a manner that is reasonably likely to mislead children or their parents or caregivers into buying the product.

    Consumers have various ways to seek redress for misleading marketing. These include the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud and the Advertising Regulatory Board, the National Consumer Commission, the National Consumer Tribunal and the courts.

    However, delays and poor compliance with decisions can put consumers off.



    Read more:
    South Africa must ban sugary drinks sales in schools. Self regulation is failing

    Food for thought: the way forward

    Mandatory front-of-pack labels are needed in South Africa. They should be easy to understand and highlight nutrients of concern – salt, fat, sugar and artificial sweeteners – to reflect the overall nutritional profile of food products. They can also override the misleading “health halo” effect generated by health or nutrition claims.

    The public should support the Draft Regulation R3337 Relating to the Labelling and Advertising of Foodstuffs made under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetic, and Disinfectant Act 54 of 1972. It specifically prohibits marketing unhealthy food to children.

    The act needs to be used more and this requires much greater consumer activism.

    Dispute mechanisms could be stronger and the processes could be streamlined to encourage consumer participation.

    The government and public interest organisations need to create greater public awareness of consumer rights.

    Aisosa Jennifer Omoruyi is a Research Fellow at the Dullah Omar Institute, University of the Western Cape, which receives funding from the Global Center for Legal Innovation on Food Environments at the O’Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law, Georgetown University Law Center, Washington, DC.

    – ref. Marketing unhealthy food as good for kids is fuelling obesity in South Africa: how to curb it – https://theconversation.com/marketing-unhealthy-food-as-good-for-kids-is-fuelling-obesity-in-south-africa-how-to-curb-it-253994

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Marketing unhealthy food as good for kids is fuelling obesity in South Africa: how to curb it

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Aisosa Jennifer Omoruyi, Research fellow, University of the Western Cape

    Childhood overweight and obesity are a growing public health challenge in South Africa. In 2016, 13% of the country’s children were reported to be obese. This is predicted to double by 2030.

    This problem has been linked to the regular consumption of calorie-dense foods high in sugar, salt and fat. South African children are growing up in a food environment that tends to cause obesity.

    One of its key features is intense marketing of unhealthy food and beverages, using various channels and appealing strategies. Misleading health and nutrition claims are sometimes made.

    Children are considered lucrative consumers because they can sometimes buy food themselves, influence their parents’ food purchases (they have “pester power”, for one thing), and are future consumers.

    Marketers use several strategies that children find appealing, such as cartoon characters, brand mascots, bright colours, colourful packages, catchy songs and slogans.

    Although there is no specific regulation of marketing to children in South Africa, the Consumer Protection Act 58 of 2008 has important provisions that guide the marketing of goods and services. The law prohibits false, deceptive marketing.

    As a researcher into children’s rights and nutrition I coauthored a recent paper examining how the Consumer Protection Act could be used to address the misleading marketing of unhealthy foods and beverages to children.

    In our view, the South African consumer protection legal framework has the necessary scope to address misleading forms of marketing of unhealthy foods to children. But there needs to be better enforcement.

    Read more: Profit versus health: 4 ways big global industries make people sick

    Health claims: not always the full package

    A common strategy in food marketing is the use of misleading health or nutrition claims. These are often written (“contains vitamin C”, “high fibre”, “boosts immunity”, “supports brain health”), or implied by images of fruits and vegetables on the packaging of products.

    Some studies in South Africa have demonstrated the misleading use of these claims in television and magazine advertisements and food packages, including products meant for children.

    For instance, fruit juices often claim to be rich in vitamin C, but they have a high sugar content. Dairy products typically boast a high calcium content, but are also high in added sugar. Breakfast cereals frequently highlight their fibre content, despite being ultra-processed and containing a high amount of total carbohydrates and added sugar.

    Packaged foods often contain nutrition labels, but the printed words are small and usually obscured by the “healthy” claims. Those are positioned more prominently to capture the attention of the consumer.

    Health and nutrition claims can strongly influence purchasing decisions, especially in the South African context. Research has shown that many South African consumers do not read nutrition labels on packaged foods.

    Read more: Half of all South Africans are overweight or obese. Warning labels on unhealthy foods help change that

    What the law says

    Firstly, the Consumer Protection Act recognises children as vulnerable or disadvantaged consumers who deserve special protection (section 3(1)(b)(iii). This is because they have limited capacity to understand marketing strategies or defend themselves against their persuasive effects.

    Secondly, the Consumer Protection Act, in sections 29 and 41, prohibits the marketing of goods in a way that is reasonably likely to imply a false or misleading representation of facts such as their ingredients, benefits and qualities.

    Thirdly, the Consumer Protection Act provisions do not require a consumer to show that they were actually misled by the claim or that children’s health was negatively affected by consuming the food product. It is enough that it has been marketed in a manner that is reasonably likely to mislead children or their parents or caregivers into buying the product.

    Consumers have various ways to seek redress for misleading marketing. These include the Consumer Goods and Services Ombud and the Advertising Regulatory Board, the National Consumer Commission, the National Consumer Tribunal and the courts.

    However, delays and poor compliance with decisions can put consumers off.

    Read more: South Africa must ban sugary drinks sales in schools. Self regulation is failing

    Food for thought: the way forward

    Mandatory front-of-pack labels are needed in South Africa. They should be easy to understand and highlight nutrients of concern – salt, fat, sugar and artificial sweeteners – to reflect the overall nutritional profile of food products. They can also override the misleading “health halo” effect generated by health or nutrition claims.

    The public should support the Draft Regulation R3337 Relating to the Labelling and Advertising of Foodstuffs made under the Foodstuffs, Cosmetic, and Disinfectant Act 54 of 1972. It specifically prohibits marketing unhealthy food to children.

    The act needs to be used more and this requires much greater consumer activism.

    Dispute mechanisms could be stronger and the processes could be streamlined to encourage consumer participation.

    The government and public interest organisations need to create greater public awareness of consumer rights.

    – Marketing unhealthy food as good for kids is fuelling obesity in South Africa: how to curb it
    – https://theconversation.com/marketing-unhealthy-food-as-good-for-kids-is-fuelling-obesity-in-south-africa-how-to-curb-it-253994

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Byline Bank Expands Payments and Fintech Banking Group to Support Embedded Payment Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byline Bank today announced the expansion of its Payments and Fintech Banking division, including several key new hires and leadership appointments, which underscore the bank’s significant investment in embedded finance and modern digital payment solutions.

    Since bringing on industry veterans David Prochnow and Joe Wolsfeld to lead the fintech banking group in March 2024, Byline has taken significant steps in the fintech payments arena. Prior to joining Byline, Prochnow and Wolsfeld led Fifth Third Bank’s Newline embedded payments division, where they managed a portfolio of more than 100 fintech clients representing $2 billion in deposits. Together at Byline, they have built a sponsorship banking and embedded payments model centered on direct oversight, regulatory compliance and faster access to payment networks, enabling fintech clients to develop technology and custom payment solutions with confidence.

    “This team represents an important evolution for Byline as we continue to invest in innovation and meet our clients where they are,” said Alberto Paracchini, President and Chief Executive Officer of Byline Bank. “We’re proud to bring together some of the most experienced fintech banking professionals in the industry, who not only understand the needs of fintech founders but also know how to build these programs the right way—with stability, oversight and collaboration at their core.”

    The team’s strategy of direct, high-touch client engagement is well-timed and backed by the strength of a well-capitalized commercial bank with a history of managing complex business lines.

    “Despite new competitors entering the fintech space in recent years, there has been a gap in banks that want to serve and directly engage with fintech customers,” said Prochnow. “Our team at Byline knows from experience that successful fintech-bank partnerships are rooted in relationships.”

    To power this division, Byline has assembled a seasoned team with deep experience in building and managing complex embedded payment platforms. Led by Prochnow and Wolsfeld, the new team includes the following professionals, who bring a wide range of expertise and sophistication to the division:

    • Paul Garcia, Senior Vice President, Payments and Fintech Banking Risk Manager, joined in January after more than two decades with First National Bank of Omaha, TSYS, MB Financial and Fifth Third Bank, where he led both large-scale risk management teams and national business lines.
    • Ashley Kveton, Vice President and Fintech Banking Operations Director, joined in April following 17 years at MB Financial and Fifth Third Bank, where she held senior roles leading operations and client success groups within their national embedded payments and sponsorship banking division.
    • Joe Tarkington, Vice President of Sales and Relationship Management, joined Byline in April. He previously served as Vice President of Sales and Relationship Management for Newline at MB Financial and Fifth Third Bank.

    The group will provide third-party payment processing for treasury payment flows, issuing and deposit sponsorship banking for virtual card and account programs, and network sponsorship banking for independent sales organizations and payment processors. These offerings are built on a model of direct oversight, designed to streamline execution without relying on outside intermediaries.

    “The message from fintech clients is loud and clear,” said Wolsfeld. “They want to work directly with banks that have experienced teams that understand their business, and that’s what we’ve built here at Byline.”

    About Byline Bank
    Headquartered in Chicago, Byline Bank, a subsidiary of Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BY), is a full-service commercial bank serving small- and medium-sized businesses, financial sponsors and consumers. Byline Bank operates over 40 branch locations throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee metropolitan areas. Byline Bank offers a broad range of commercial and community banking products and services, including small-ticket equipment leasing solutions, and is one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders according to the national SBA rankings by volume FY2024. Byline Bank is a member of FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender.

    Visit bylinebank.com for more information, and follow Byline Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram for the latest news and updates.

    Media Contact:
    Allison Roche
    Marketing Communications & Partnerships Manager
    Byline Bank
    aroche@bylinebank.com

    Investor Contact:
    Brooks Rennie
    Investor Relations Director
    Byline Bank
    (312) 660-5805
    brennie@bylinebank.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e6afab2d-4383-4bbb-98d8-672498acf290

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: ALR Miner Launches Next-Gen Cloud Mining Platform, Empowering Global Users with Secure and Scalable Crypto Earning Solutions

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Monmouth, Monmouthshire, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — ALR Miner celebrates its seventh anniversary and continues to lead the new wave of legal, green, and safe cloud mining. sign up and get $12, with special anniversary benefits for both new and existing users.

    Against the backdrop of the growing maturity of the global blockchain and digital currency industry, ALR Miner, the world’s leading cloud mining platform, celebrates its seventh anniversary today. As a crypto technology company legally registered and compliantly operated in the UK, ALR Miner has always adhered to the core concepts of technology-driven, safety-first, green, and low-carbon since its establishment in 2018, and is committed to providing global users with cloud mining services with low thresholds, stable returns, and controllable risks.

    To celebrate its seventh anniversary, ALR Miner officially launched the “5.18 Anniversary Series of Activities,” launching several limited-time benefits, including a $12 mining experience bonus for new users upon registration, doubled mining rewards for all currencies on the platform, and multiple rewards for inviting friends, etc., to give back to millions of loyal users around the world for their long-term support and trust.

    Legal and compliant, with British qualifications, and global operations
    As a technology-based company headquartered in the UK, ALR Miner was registered and established by ALR FINANCIAL SERVICES LIMITED and provides cryptocurrency cloud computing services by relevant British laws and regulations. The platform also actively responds to the compliance guidelines of major global regulators, including the UK Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), to ensure that the business is stable, safe and transparent.

    ALR Miner has branches or cooperative nodes in many countries and regions around the world, supports multi-currency and cross-time zone operations, and deploys mining resources through green data centres around the world. The platform adopts a high-level security protection system, combined with cold and hot wallet separation and a multi-authentication mechanism to maximise the security of user assets.

    Green and low-carbon, promote a new model of sustainable mining
    At present, the world is highly concerned about the energy consumption and carbon emissions caused by cryptocurrency mining. As an industry pioneer, ALR Miner has completed the transition to a green and clean energy mining model. Most of the computing power resources come from environmentally friendly mines driven by hydropower, wind power, and solar power, especially in Northern Europe, Canada, and other regions. Established green computing power hubs.

    In addition, ALR Miner introduces an AI-driven mining scheduling system to dynamically optimise mining resource allocation, improve energy utilisation, and reduce power consumption to implement the sustainable development vision of the blockchain industry.

    Sign up and get $12 to start your mining journey

    In order to encourage more users to understand the world of digital assets safely and with a low threshold, ALR Miner has launched a new user benefit of $12 for free registration. You can start your mining journey without recharging and automatically generate income every day. Users can choose to participate in mining mainstream currencies such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and Filecoin (FIL) and easily enjoy the distribution of on-chain income.

    The platform has a simple interface, convenient operation, support for multiple languages and multiple payment methods, and a mobile synchronisation experience, and it is the common choice of novices and senior miners around the world.

    The 5.18 7th Anniversary Celebration is launched, and multiple rewards are given away for a limited time.

    On the occasion of the 7th anniversary of the platform, ALR Miner launched the “5.18 Anniversary Celebration” special feedback event, which covers new and old users. The specific content includes:

    Register to get $12 experience money, and you can start automatic mining income.

    Mining income increase: the income ratio of all currencies during the event is increased to 120% of the original plan.

    Invite friends to enjoy double returns: both the inviter and the invitee can get additional computing power and experience money rewards.

    Exclusive anniversary red envelopes and airdrop activities: covering USDT, FIL, platform tokens, limited NFTsother diverse prizes;

    Limited subsidies for active old users: the platform will count the recharge records of old users and issue anniversary subsidies.

    All activities will last until June 18, 2025. Users can obtain detailed participation methods through the official website or official social platforms.

    Moving towards the future: Building a globally trusted digital asset service platform
    ALR Miner has achieved remarkable achievements in the past seven years – the number of platform users has exceeded 5 million, the cumulative mining income has exceeded US$200 million, and the cooperative mines are spread across Europe, America and Asia. In the future, ALR Miner will continue to deepen its global compliance layout, expand more green energy computing resources, and plan to introduce more intelligent asset management tools to support users to upgrade from “mining income” to “asset appreciation”.

    The person in charge of the platform said: “ALR Miner always adheres to the principles of technology empowerment and user first. In the next five years, our goal is to build a more robust, secure, green and open global digital asset infrastructure network, and truly realize a mining economic ecology that everyone can participate in and everyone can benefit from.”

    About ALR Miner

    ALR Miner is a global cloud mining platform headquartered in London, UK, dedicated to providing one-stop, secure and transparent cryptocurrency mining services to global users. Since its establishment in 2018, ALR Miner has served more than 100 countries and regions around the world and has accumulated more than US$200 million in stable income for users. The platform takes “legality, environmental protection, and efficiency” as its core operation, promotes global users to participate in the digital asset industry more conveniently, and helps the popularisation and implementation of the blockchain ecosystem.

    Media Contact:
    Name: Olivia Miller
    Email: info@alrminer.com
    Address: Singleton Court Business Park, Wonastow Road,
    Monmouth, Monmouthshire, United Kingdom, NP25 5JA
    Web: https://alrminer.com

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: MaxisIT Evolves to Maxis AI, Launches Enterprise-Ready Agentic AI Platform to Transform Clinical Trials in Pharmaceutical and Life Sciences Industry

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    EDISON, N.J., May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MaxisIT, a long-recognized provider of clinical data analytics platform for clinical trials, today announced its transformation into Maxis AI. This strategic evolution is marked by the introduction of the company’s innovative Agentic AI Platform, launched with the guiding principle: “Designed to Think. Built to Act.” This initiative signals a new direction for clinical development. As part of this change, Maxis AI’s new platform will support pharmaceutical and life sciences companies in achieving greater efficiency, deeper insights, and accelerated progress.

    Bringing life-saving therapies to patients comes with complexity, rising costs, and lengthy timelines. Maxis AI addresses these challenges with Agentic AI, enabling systems to understand objectives, determine key steps, and execute tasks throughout clinical trials.

    The launch marks a major milestone in the evolution of enterprise AI, an evolution from passive copilots and static chatbots to fully actionable, domain-aware agents that can reason, act, and adapt across complex workflows.

    Built for Enterprise, Tuned for Industry

    Maxis AI’s Agentic AI Platform is designed to meet enterprise requirements from the ground up. Features include:

    • Multi-agent orchestration for automating end-to-end workflows
    • Built-in governance and auditability for compliance with HIPAA, GxP, 21 CFR Part 11, and other regulations
    • Pre-trained industry agents for pharma R&D, regulatory operations, clinical trials, and patient services
    • Ecosystem of 100s of integrations with various third-party systems and data sources

    The core idea behind the Agentic AI platform emphasizes its capacity to lead industry in transitioning from moving from AI that answers… to AI that achieves, thereby speeding up results and supporting more informed decision-making. This platform will be the engine for a collaborative approach where AI agents and human experts work together to coordinate and improve all facets of clinical research.

    “Today signifies an important new direction for our company and, we believe, Scaling Agentic AI in clinical trials isn’t just a tech lift, it’s an organizational evolution,” said Moulik Shah, CEO of Maxis AI. “Our transition to Maxis AI and our platform vision, ‘Designed to Think. Built to Act.,’ highlight our commitment to innovation. We empower partners to steer through clinical trials with greater agility, deeper insights, and streamlined processes to accelerate progress.”

    Proven Results in Pharma and Healthcare

    Maxis AI has already piloted its platform with early adopters in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. In a recent deployment with a large pharma organization, AI agents built on the platform demonstrated significant proof of value. Another implementation at a CRO organization improved site monitoring, reducing turnaround time from days to mins in detecting and addressing compliance issues.

    “We’ve seen strong early validation: our AI agents are helping organizations operationalize AI—not just as a prototype, but in production environments. Whether it’s a clinical data agent or a site monitoring agent, we’re seeing measurable proof of value within weeks of deployment,” said Nicole Powell, Senior Vice President, Business Development at Maxis AI.

    The Maxis AI Platform will enhance its suite of trusted solutions, including CTRenaissance® Clinical Data Analytics, while ensuring seamless interoperability with other clinical data platforms. This supports a smooth transition for clients and a unified industry offering. Its core INSPIRE values –Innovation, Security, Precision, Transparency, Integrity, Diversity, and Excellence – will continue guiding the development of responsible technology solutions.

    About Maxis AI

    Maxis AI (formerly MaxisIT) is focused on transforming drug development through the power of intelligent technology. With its forward-thinking “Maxis AI – Drug Development Agency” model and its Intelligent Platform “Designed to Think. Built to Act.,” the company helps pharmaceutical, and life sciences organizations achieve smarter, faster insights and more effective processes for superior clinical outcomes. Drawing on over 20 years of industry experience and a comprehensive suite of solutions, Maxis AI is committed to accelerating the delivery of life-saving therapies. Headquartered in Edison, NJ, Maxis AI is committed to innovation, precision, and integrity in advancing clinical trials. Explore the future of clinical development at www.maxisai.com.

    Contact Information:

    Nicole Powell
    SVP, Business Development
    Nicole.P@maxisit.com

    Moulik Shah
    CEO
    MShah@maxisit.com

    Press/Media Contact:
    Sneha Gupta
    Associate Director, Corporate Communications and Marketing
    Sneha.Gupta@maxisclinical.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Integration processes in international trade and logistics discussed at conference in HSE

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Higher School of Economics

    In the context of decoupling, Russia has become a center of attraction for Eurasian integration processes and can play a unifying role in the new multipolar world. This was discussed by participants and guests of the International Scientific and Practical Conference “Dimensions of Eurasian Integration: Transport and Logistics, Energy and Food Security”, which was held Institute of State and Municipal Administration (IGMU) HSE University.

    The conference was attended by leaders of the domestic corporate sector, Russian and foreign industry experts and representatives of the diplomatic corps of friendly countries of the Arab East. Among the participating organizations were Russian Railways and Russian Railways Logistics, Russian Agricultural Bank, Renaissance Insurance, RusHydro and the Resource Group of Agricultural Enterprises, Sber and the Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Heritage of the Sultanate of Oman, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Russia and the Eurasian Economic Commission, and the International Research Institute for Management Problems.

    Director of the Irkutsk State Medical University of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Andrey Zhulin noted that it is now important to listen to and hear professionals in the field of public administration and public-private partnership. “This will allow us to analyze successful practices in the field of integration processes during a period of fundamental changes in international trade and logistics,” he emphasized.

    It is important that the conference is taking place at the Higher School of Economics. Over the past 30 years, it is the HSE, according to the director of the Irkutsk State Medical University, that has proven its importance for the national economy and has become a kind of assembly point for integration and management meanings.

    Russia is attracting the attention of politicians and market players with increasing intensity, noted in turn the director of the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies of the Irkutsk State Medical University of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, member of the Russian-Omani Business Council under the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation (CCI) Marat Zembatov. “Our country is called upon to play a unique unifying role – both as the center of gravity of Eurasia, and as a state-civilization with its own special economic and cultural structure, and as the center of the transport and logistics framework of the Eurasian economic space in the broad sense,” the expert said.

    He recalled that earlier in Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin met with the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. In the coming days, the Free Trade Agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Iran will come into force, and the Treaty on Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Russia and this country has already been ratified. It is Moscow that is becoming the center of attraction for integration processes and the center for the formation of new integration meanings.

    During the expert discussion, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Yemen Ahmed Salem Al-Waheishi congratulated those gathered on the upcoming anniversary – the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War and noted the invariably creative role of Russia in strengthening stability and ensuring food security in the Global South and Global East.

    The use of modern transport, logistics and digital technologies to ensure the growth of foreign trade, including in the direction of the Arab East, North and East Africa, according to the ambassador, have become key factors in the successful implementation of Russia’s unifying role in organizing the use of international transport corridors.

    Counselor of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Bahrain in the Russian Federation Salum Hossam Eddin, who delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of Ambassador Ahmed Abdulrahman Al-Saati, stated that friendly relations between Russia and the countries of the Arab East will receive an additional boost this year: already in June, at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, the Kingdom of Bahrain will be presented to participants as an honorary guest country.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at “Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ and ‘Super Value-adder’” High-level Business Luncheon in Qatar (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the “Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ and ‘Super Value-adder’” High-level Business Luncheon in Qatar today (May 12):

    Honourable Ambassador Cao Xiaolin (Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the People’s Republic of China to the State of Qatar), Your Excellency Ali bin Ahmed Al Kuwari (Minister of Finance of Qatar), Your Excellency Mohammed (Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Qatar, Mr Mohammed bin Hassan Al-Malki), Your Excellency Sheikh Khalifa (Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim bin Mohammed Al Thani), Your Excellency Sheikh Ali (Chief Executive Officer of Investment Promotion Agency Qatar, Sheikh Ali Alwaleed Al Thani), Your Excellency Sheikh Faisal (Chairman of the Qatari Businessmen Association, Sheikh Faisal bin Qassim Al Thani), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, friends from Qatar, 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Best Antivirus Software (2025): ESET Recognized as Top Cybersecurity Solution by Software Experts

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK CITY, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The recognition comes amid an increase in phishing attacks, ransomware activity, and zero-day exploits that have placed new demands on antivirus software. Analysts emphasized the need for security tools that balance real-time defense with system performance, and cited ESET’s consistent delivery on both fronts.

    Top Antivirus Software

    • ESET – efficient, reliable antivirus protection tailored for today’s evolving digital threats with minimal system impact and advanced threat detection built for both home and business environments

    Recognized for Threat Prevention and System Efficiency

    ESET’s cyber security offerings have gained attention for its ability to detect and block a broad range of threats without slowing down device operations. It uses heuristic analysis, behavioral detection, and a cloud-based reputation system to assess potential threats before they can execute.

    Key technical features noted in the 2025 evaluations include:

    • Heuristic and Behavioral Detection: Identifies and neutralizes threats by monitoring file behavior, helping intercept malware before damage occurs.
    • Ransomware and Phishing Protection: Prevents unauthorized encryption of files and blocks fraudulent websites aimed at stealing user data.
    • Exploit Blocker and Device Control: Targets methods attackers use to gain access through third-party applications and removable media.
    • Low Resource Usage: Runs quietly in the background with minimal impact on system speed, making it suitable for gaming, creative, or high-performance workflows.
    • Layered Security Approach: Combines multiple detection technologies including real-time scanning and machine learning, for more accurate results.

    This balance of performance and protection has made ESET a consistent choice for users who need reliable coverage without interference.

    Use Across Home and Business Environments

    ESET’s recognition in 2025 extends beyond individual users. The company offers a range of solutions designed for small businesses and enterprise networks, built on the same antivirus engine that powers its home products.

    Home users can choose from three core options:

    • ESET HOME Security Essential: Core antivirus and anti-malware protection with features like real-time threat detection, ransomware shield, and anti-phishing.
    • ESET HOME Security Premium: Adds advanced tools such as password management and sensitive data protection.
    • ESET HOME Security Ultimate: Includes all features from the Premium tier, plus identity protection and unlimited VPN for added online privacy.

    Small businesses have access to ESET Small Business Security, a package designed for up to 25 devices. It supports centralized management via the ESET PROTECT console and works across Windows, macOS, and Android devices.

    Larger organizations use the ESET PROTECT platform to secure thousands of endpoints. Available features include full disk encryption, email security, and advanced threat detection. Optional services such as managed detection and response (MDR) provide additional coverage for companies with more complex security requirements.

    All of ESET’s business solutions are designed to be scalable and configurable, offering flexibility as organizations grow or shift.

    Transparent Pricing and Flexible Options

    ESET’s pricing model allows users to select the level of protection and coverage that suits their needs. For home users in the U.S., current pricing is:

    • ESET HOME Security Essential: starts at $59.99/year
    • ESET HOME Security Premium: starts at $69.99/year
    • ESET HOME Security Ultimate: starts at $179.99/year

    Multi-device and multi-year discounts are available. Business pricing varies depending on the number of devices and desired features, with quotes provided for customized deployments.

    Free trials are available for home products, and business users can request demos of ESET’s enterprise platform.

    Global Reach and Real-Time Threat Intelligence

    ESET operates in more than 200 countries and territories, serving tens of millions of users worldwide. The company leverages a global network of threat sensors that feed real-time intelligence into its malware research centers. This enables faster detection of emerging threats and allows ESET to update its protection systems quickly and continuously.

    The company’s layered security model combines traditional signature detection with newer technologies such as cloud-based analysis and machine learning. This approach helps reduce false positives while maintaining strong protection against evolving attack vectors.

    ESET’s placement among the top antivirus software solutions of 2025 reflects the company’s continued focus on practical, effective digital security. From its lightweight NOD32 Antivirus and HOME Security software to its enterprise-scale protection tools, ESET offers consistent performance and adaptability across user types.

    As cybersecurity risks continue to shift, ESET remains a trusted option for individuals, startups, and large organizations seeking dependable protection without unnecessary system overhead.

    The full article can be viewed at SoftwareExperts.org.

    About ESET

    ESET is a global leader in digital security, dedicated to developing advanced cybersecurity solutions that protect millions of users and businesses in over 200 countries and territories. Since its founding in 1992, ESET has focused on creating innovative, research-driven technologies that detect and prevent a wide range of digital threats. The company’s antivirus and endpoint protection products are known for their high detection rates, low system impact, and proactive multilayered defense. With headquarters in Slovakia and a strong global presence, ESET continues to invest in cutting-edge threat intelligence, research, and education to help people and organizations stay safe in an increasingly complex digital world.

    About Software Experts: Software Experts provides news and reviews of consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Software Experts may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Global: If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Amitrajeet A. Batabyal, Distinguished Professor, Arthur J. Gosnell Professor of Economics, & Interim Head, Department of Sustainability, Rochester Institute of Technology

    President Donald Trump has long been preoccupied by the trade deficit — the gap between what the U.S. sells to the rest of the world and what it buys from it. He recently declared the issue a national emergency and used trade deficit data to calculate so-called “reciprocal tariffs” targeting nearly 100 countries. Although those specific tariffs are now on pause, Trump’s concern with the trade deficit persists.

    As an economist, I know there are two basic ways for a country to reduce a trade deficit: import less or export more. While Trump has focused on the former strategy, a more productive path may lie in the latter – especially by looking at untapped opportunities in rural America.

    Economists have long studied the differences between rural and urban regions. But while research shows that urban areas tend to be more technologically advanced, fast-growing and economically dynamic, economists have historically paid less attention to how regional differences affect export performance.

    New research is starting to fill that gap. Economists recently found that urban businesses export significantly more than rural ones – a difference with significant implications for national trade.

    The urban-rural export gap

    Looking at data from the Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey as well as trade statistics from 2017 to 2020, researchers used econometric techniques to measure the urban-rural export gap. They also examined two categories of potential causes – “explained” and “unexplained.”

    The first is due to differences in what economists call “endowments” – for example, a region’s digital infrastructure, its access to renewable energy and its opportunities for high-tech employment. These endowments can be observed and therefore explained.

    The second is due to what economists call “structural advantage.” This refers to attributes of a region that matter for export performance but can’t be observed and, as a result, remain unexplained.

    They found that most of the urban-rural export gap is due to explained differences. That means rural businesses could close the export gap if they were provided with similar endowments – meaning comparable access to renewable energy, similar digital infrastructure and analogous opportunities for high-tech employment – to their urban counterparts.

    Even more strikingly, the unexplained component was negative – which means rural businesses outperform expectations given their characteristics. That suggests rural regions have significant untapped export potential.

    Several factors collectively account for the urban export advantage. First, urban regions have a greater concentration of highly educated science and technology workers. Urban businesses also tend to be larger and more tech-savvy, and because they have better access to broadband, they use cloud technology more frequently. Urban areas also have more foreign-born business owners who may leverage their international networks.

    However, many of these differences suggest possible policy solutions. For instance, since cloud adoption depends on broadband availability, it follows that investing in digital infrastructure could boost rural exports. Also, rural manufacturers, especially in sectors like metals manufacturing, show comparable or higher export intensity per worker than their urban counterparts. So encouraging rural manufacturing would be one way to reduce the urban-rural export gap.

    Rethinking trade and rural development

    I think this research has important policy implications.

    First, it shifts some of the focus away from other countries as the root cause of the trade deficit. And second, it bolsters the case for what economists call “place-based policies” targeting specific geographic areas – as opposed to “people-based policies,” which provide support directly to individuals.

    Even though many economists dislike place-based policies, they are increasingly attracting both academic and governmental attention.

    The 2022 CHIPS and Science Act had special significance to rural areas.

    During the Biden administration, three major laws – the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – directed significant federal funds to rural areas. About 43% of funds from those laws – or US$440 billion – was designated as either “rural relevant” or as “rural stipulated,” meaning the funds were either geographically targeted or designed to address disproportionately rural challenges.

    Such massive investments in rural regions have led researchers and policymakers to question whether rural export underperformance stems from differences in observable endowments – in other words, things like access to broadband – or from inherent disadvantages that are much harder to deal with.

    In my view, this research provides compelling evidence that much of the urban-rural export gap is due to unequal distribution of productive assets, rather than inherent rural disadvantages. With appropriate investments in digital infrastructure, human capital and support for export-capable industries, America’s rural regions could play a much larger role in global trade. These findings also suggest the value of continued federal support for rural development efforts.

    In other words, if the U.S. wants to shrink its trade deficit, one answer could be more innovation in rural manufacturing.

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

    – ref. If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing – https://theconversation.com/if-you-really-want-to-close-the-us-trade-deficit-try-boosting-innovation-in-rural-manufacturing-255851

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Samsung Art Store Launches Exclusive Collection from the Art Institute of Chicago

    Source: Samsung

    Samsung Electronics is expanding the reach of world-class art by welcoming the Art Institute of Chicago to its catalog of exclusive collections on the Samsung Art Store.
    The Art Institute of Chicago is the largest Samsung Art Store collection to launch yet, with an impressive total of 49 artworks, including iconic pieces by Claude Monet, Georges Seurat, Georgia O’Keeffe, Edward Hopper and more. This collection also marks the first major art partnership to launch following the Samsung Art Store’s expansion to QLED TVs, bringing a vibrant quantum level premium visual experience to audiences.
    Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s great art museums, with more than a million visitors each year experiencing the renowned collection. Now, through an exclusive partnership with the Samsung Art Store you can enjoy some of its extraordinary highlights from the comfort of your home. From celebrated Impressionist paintings to defining works of American and Modern art, each piece is meticulously rendered to bring the museum’s cultural richness directly into the home.
    Highlights from the collection include Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte” and Marc Chagall’s “America Windows” — both widely recognizable from the classic film, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off — alongside Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks,” Vincent van Gogh’s “Fishing in Spring, the Pont de Clichy,” Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” and Claude Monet’s “Cliff Walk at Pourville.”
    Image: Georges Seurat. A Sunday on La Grande Jatte — 1884 (detail), 1884/86. Helen Birch Bartlett Memorial Collection.
    This collaboration also marks a major milestone for the Samsung Art Store, introducing first-ever pieces by Frank Lloyd Wright, along with works by Jules Breton, Vasily Kandinsky, and George Wesley Bellows. These additions arrive on the heels of the recent debut of Frida Kahlo’s artworks in The MoMA collection and reflect Samsung’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to more artists.
    “At the Art Institute of Chicago, we are deeply intentional about how our collection is experienced by visitors and art enthusiasts from around the world,” said Michael Neault, associate vice president and executive creative director at the Art Institute of Chicago. “Samsung shares our dedication to both excellence and accessibility and this collaboration allows us to lean into today’s innovation and extend the reach of some of the world’s most significant art.”

    The Samsung Art Store continues to meet the moment in this growing market, making exclusive partnerships for modern and contemporary artworks the focus of its acquisition strategy. Paired with The Frame’s award-winning display—designed to reduce glare and mimic canvas texture—and the recent expansion to 2025 Samsung Neo QLED 8K, 4K and QLED models, Samsung is providing an unparalleled digital art experience.
    “The collaboration with the Art Institute of Chicago exemplifies our commitment to expanding access to and discovery of fine art to a global audience at scale,” said Maya Harris, Vice President of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at Samsung. “The Art Institute of Chicago joins the seminal Art Basel and The Museum of Modern Art as exclusive collections only available on the Samsung Art Store. We are not only building a vast and unmatched library of incredible world-class art but also amplifying the world’s most important institutions and making them widely accessible through a medium we are proud to have pioneered.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China to Take Practical Measures to Prevent Illegal Export of Strategic Minerals

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, May 12 (Xinhua) — China will take practical and effective measures to resolutely prevent the illegal export of strategic mineral resources, the Ministry of Commerce said Monday.

    According to a representative of the above-mentioned ministry, strengthening control over the export of strategic mineral resources is of crucial importance to national security and development interests.

    Since China imposed export restrictions on some strategic minerals, some foreign companies have been found to have colluded with local illegal individuals to evade export controls through smuggling and other means, a Commerce Ministry official said.

    To curb the smuggling of these strategic resources, China has launched a campaign to crack down on illegal activities such as false declaration, concealment of information and transshipment through third countries, the spokesman said.

    China has also stepped up customs inspections and efforts to combat and investigate such activities, thoroughly identifying illegal organizations and the smuggling networks behind them, in a bid to effectively safeguard national security and development interests, the spokesperson said.

    Additional action to curb illegal activities will also be taken in the near future, the ministry spokesman added. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Plethora Businesses Represents Ferralloy, Inc. in Strategic Acquisition by EQI

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Orange, CA, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — May 6, 2025 – Plethora Businesses, a leading lower middle market investment banking firm specializing in M&A advisory, is pleased to announce it served as exclusive sell-side advisor to Ferralloy, Inc. in its acquisition by EQI Ltd., a global leader in engineered components and materials.

    Established in 1984 and headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, Ferralloy, Inc. is a global supplier of heat-resistant alloy products and value-added metal components. With a manufacturing footprint in Wuxi, China, Ferralloy has built a reputation for delivering complex castings, forgings, fabrications, and machined components across a diverse range of critical industries. The company’s commitment to quality and customer service has earned it longstanding relationships with global OEMs, including Fortune 500 manufacturers.

    The strategic acquisition by EQI Ltd. further enhances EQI’s footprint in the thermal processing and metal components industries. Ferralloy’s deep expertise and international capabilities will integrate with and bolster EQI’s existing portfolio, including Pro-Tech, to deliver expanded solutions to a shared customer base.

    “We are proud to have represented Ferralloy in this milestone transaction,” said George Lanza, Co-Founder and CEO of Plethora Businesses. “This acquisition brings together two highly complementary organizations with shared values of innovation, technical excellence, and customer commitment.”

    Transaction terms were not disclosed.

    About Plethora Businesses

    Plethora Businesses is a boutique M&A advisory firm dedicated to offering sell-side and buy-side M&A advisory, corporate strategy, and valuations. Tailored to meet the unique needs of the middle market, Plethora is committed to delivering strategic solutions that drive growth and value for its clients. For more information, please visit www.plethorabusinesses.com or contact us at 714-255-8862.

    Media Contact:
    Plethora Businesses
    714.255.8862
    info@plethorabusinesses.com
    www.plethorabusinesses.com

    2117 W. Orangewood Ave., Orange, CA 92868

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Pieridae Energy Changes Name to Cavvy Energy

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Not For Distribution to United States News Wire Services or Dissemination in United States

    CALGARY, Alberta, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Cavvy Energy Ltd. (formerly Pieridae Energy Limited) (“Cavvy” or the “Company”) (TSX:PEA) is pleased to announce that the Company has changed its name from Pieridae Energy Limited to Cavvy Energy Ltd., effective May 9, 2025.

    The Company first announced its intention to change its name on March 27, 2025 and obtained shareholder approval for the name change at the Company’s Annual and Special Meeting of Shareholders (the “Meeting”) held on May 8, 2025. The Company received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (the “TSX”) in respect of the name change and expects that its common shares will begin trading on the TSX under the new name and the ticker symbol “CVVY” as of the open of markets on May 13, 2025.

    Following the name change, the Company also completed the previously announced continuance out of the federal jurisdiction of Canada under the Canada Business Corporations Act and into the provincial jurisdiction of Alberta under the Business Corporations Act (Alberta) (the “ABCA”), effective May 9, 2025. As a result of the continuance, the Company now exists under and is governed by the ABCA. Additionally, in connection with the continuance, the Company has adopted new by-laws under the ABCA. The continuance, including the adoption of the new by-laws in connection therewith, was approved by shareholders at the Meeting.

    No action is required to be taken by the Company’s shareholders in respect of the name change or the continuance. The Certificate and Articles of Amendment effecting the name change, Certificate and Articles of Continuance effecting the continuance and new by-laws of the Company are available on the Company’s website and under the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    About Cavvy Energy

    Cavvy Energy is a Canadian energy company headquartered in Calgary, Alberta. The Company is a significant upstream producer and midstream custom processor of natural gas, NGLs, condensate, and sulphur from Western Canada. Cavvy’s vision is to provide responsible, affordable natural gas and derived products to meet society’s energy security needs.

    For further information, visit www.cavvyenergy.com, or please contact:

    Darcy Reding, President & Chief Executive Officer Adam Gray, Chief Financial Officer
    Telephone: (403) 261-5900 Telephone: (403) 261-5900
       

    Investor Relations
    investors@cavvyenergy.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    Certain of the statements contained herein may constitute “forward-looking statements” or “forward-looking information” within the meaning of applicable securities laws (collectively “forward-looking statements”), including the Company’s expectation that its common shares will begin trading under the new name and stock symbol “CVVY” on the TSX on May 13, 2025. Words such as “will”, “intend”, “expect”, “vision”, “strategy” and similar expressions may be used to identify these forward-looking statements. These statements reflect management’s current beliefs and are based on information currently available to management.

    Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions which have been used to develop such forward-looking statements, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although Cavvy believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on forward-looking statements because Cavvy can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. A number of risk factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated, expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements contained herein. For more information about the assumptions and risks associated with the forward-looking statements contained herein, see “Forward Looking Information” and “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024 and “Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information” in the Company’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis for the year ended December 31, 2024, each of which can be accessed through the Company’s SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

    Although the forward-looking statements contained herein are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, management cannot assure that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and Cavvy assumes no obligation to update or review them to reflect new events or circumstances except as required by applicable securities laws.

    Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The second stream of the HSE School of Economics corporate program “CFO Academy” has been completed

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    The Higher School of Business of the National Research University Higher School of Economics and the Gazprom Neft Corporate University have completed training for students of the second stream of the corporate program “CFO Academy”.

    “CFO Academy” is a large-scale two-year educational program for managers and leading specialists of financial and economic services – a personnel reserve for management positions in the financial and economic function in the Gazprom Neft group of companies. The new stream of the program was successfully completed by 41 students, most of whom were promoted during the training, including to the positions of financial directors and heads of departments of the financial and economic block.

    The content of the CFO Academy was based on international certification programs for professionals in the field of management finance, such as ACCA, CIMA and CMA, and included the development of expertise in the field of corporate finance, preparation and analysis of financial statements, investment planning and risk management. An important component of the program were modules dedicated to the formation of strategic thinking, development of management competencies, as well as strengthening internal communications and cross-functional interaction in the group of companies. Particular attention in this stream was paid to the study of current trends in the field of artificial intelligence and its application in business management, including the financial and economic function.

    Alexander Gabrielov

    Deputy Director of the Higher School of Business, National Research University Higher School of Economics

    The CFO Academy is a unique symbiosis of global financial education standards with deep industry expertise and real-life tasks of Gazprom Neft. More than 50% of the program consists of working with real cases, and the projects developed within the program are already assessed by the company as promising for implementation, which demonstrates the effectiveness of the “training through practice” model – participants do not just master the theory, but immediately create value for the business

    The program used various training formats, including interactive face-to-face classes and project work. A special feature of the CFO Academy was the use of the “leaders teach leaders” and “peer-to-peer” approaches – in each module, presentations by leading teachers of the Higher School of Business of the National Research University Higher School of Business were combined with master classes and expert sessions from the company’s top management and functional leaders of the economics and finance block.

    Natalia Shumkova

    Deputy Director for Corporate Training at the Higher School of Business, National Research University Higher School of Economics

    We see how the role of a financial manager is changing – today it is not just an expert in numbers, but a strategic partner of business. The CFO Academy program helps to form exactly such leaders – capable of thinking big, managing complex processes and introducing innovations, including AI technologies, into everyday management practice. I am confident that graduates of the program will make a significant contribution to the development of the financial function and the entire group of companies. We congratulate the graduates on completing the program and wish them success in their future professional activities!

    Alexey Urusov

    Head of the Department of Economics and Corporate Planning, Gazprom Neft

    It was important for us that the training not only provided knowledge to the participants, but also practical value for business. As part of the Academy, the participants worked on applied projects – solutions that are already considered promising in the company and can be implemented in various areas: from operational efficiency to digital transformation.

    The program became an opportunity not only to broaden horizons, improve professional competencies and develop digital skills, but also to establish many new connections with colleagues from other departments, managers and experts who conducted practical classes. Thanks to this, the participants immersed themselves deeper into the context of the company, became part of a single professional community and better understand how the modern financial function works in an advanced digital company.

    Moreover, it was this experience that became the basis for a new large-scale project – the creation of a Russian professional qualification for specialists and managers in the field of economics and finance – the professional qualification NAFD, which in the near future will become a full-fledged replacement for the international qualifications ACCA, CIMA and CMA.

    More than half of the program content was devoted to practical work, including consideration of real Gazprom Neft cases, which made the training as practice-oriented as possible and close to the tasks facing the business.

    As part of the project track of the program, participants worked on real initiatives to create new businesses, develop innovative technologies and materials, improve operational efficiency, and develop a portfolio of IT projects. Most of the initiatives were considered within the company, recognized as promising, and can be implemented.

    The final certification included the defense of team projects, during which the participants demonstrated their ability to apply the acquired knowledge in solving current business problems. All students successfully passed the final certification and received HSE diplomas for professional retraining in finance and economics.

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

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Amitrajeet A. Batabyal, Distinguished Professor, Arthur J. Gosnell Professor of Economics, & Interim Head, Department of Sustainability, Rochester Institute of Technology

    President Donald Trump has long been preoccupied by the trade deficit — the gap between what the U.S. sells to the rest of the world and what it buys from it. He recently declared the issue a national emergency and used trade deficit data to calculate so-called “reciprocal tariffs” targeting nearly 100 countries. Although those specific tariffs are now on pause, Trump’s concern with the trade deficit persists.

    As an economist, I know there are two basic ways for a country to reduce a trade deficit: import less or export more. While Trump has focused on the former strategy, a more productive path may lie in the latter – especially by looking at untapped opportunities in rural America.

    Economists have long studied the differences between rural and urban regions. But while research shows that urban areas tend to be more technologically advanced, fast-growing and economically dynamic, economists have historically paid less attention to how regional differences affect export performance.

    New research is starting to fill that gap. Economists recently found that urban businesses export significantly more than rural ones – a difference with significant implications for national trade.

    The urban-rural export gap

    Looking at data from the Census Bureau’s Annual Business Survey as well as trade statistics from 2017 to 2020, researchers used econometric techniques to measure the urban-rural export gap. They also examined two categories of potential causes – “explained” and “unexplained.”

    The first is due to differences in what economists call “endowments” – for example, a region’s digital infrastructure, its access to renewable energy and its opportunities for high-tech employment. These endowments can be observed and therefore explained.

    The second is due to what economists call “structural advantage.” This refers to attributes of a region that matter for export performance but can’t be observed and, as a result, remain unexplained.

    They found that most of the urban-rural export gap is due to explained differences. That means rural businesses could close the export gap if they were provided with similar endowments – meaning comparable access to renewable energy, similar digital infrastructure and analogous opportunities for high-tech employment – to their urban counterparts.

    Even more strikingly, the unexplained component was negative – which means rural businesses outperform expectations given their characteristics. That suggests rural regions have significant untapped export potential.

    Several factors collectively account for the urban export advantage. First, urban regions have a greater concentration of highly educated science and technology workers. Urban businesses also tend to be larger and more tech-savvy, and because they have better access to broadband, they use cloud technology more frequently. Urban areas also have more foreign-born business owners who may leverage their international networks.

    However, many of these differences suggest possible policy solutions. For instance, since cloud adoption depends on broadband availability, it follows that investing in digital infrastructure could boost rural exports. Also, rural manufacturers, especially in sectors like metals manufacturing, show comparable or higher export intensity per worker than their urban counterparts. So encouraging rural manufacturing would be one way to reduce the urban-rural export gap.

    Rethinking trade and rural development

    I think this research has important policy implications.

    First, it shifts some of the focus away from other countries as the root cause of the trade deficit. And second, it bolsters the case for what economists call “place-based policies” targeting specific geographic areas – as opposed to “people-based policies,” which provide support directly to individuals.

    Even though many economists dislike place-based policies, they are increasingly attracting both academic and governmental attention.

    The 2022 CHIPS and Science Act had special significance to rural areas.

    During the Biden administration, three major laws – the Inflation Reduction Act, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – directed significant federal funds to rural areas. About 43% of funds from those laws – or US$440 billion – was designated as either “rural relevant” or as “rural stipulated,” meaning the funds were either geographically targeted or designed to address disproportionately rural challenges.

    Such massive investments in rural regions have led researchers and policymakers to question whether rural export underperformance stems from differences in observable endowments – in other words, things like access to broadband – or from inherent disadvantages that are much harder to deal with.

    In my view, this research provides compelling evidence that much of the urban-rural export gap is due to unequal distribution of productive assets, rather than inherent rural disadvantages. With appropriate investments in digital infrastructure, human capital and support for export-capable industries, America’s rural regions could play a much larger role in global trade. These findings also suggest the value of continued federal support for rural development efforts.

    In other words, if the U.S. wants to shrink its trade deficit, one answer could be more innovation in rural manufacturing.

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

    – ref. If you really want to close the US trade deficit, try boosting innovation in rural manufacturing – https://theconversation.com/if-you-really-want-to-close-the-us-trade-deficit-try-boosting-innovation-in-rural-manufacturing-255851

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Commencement 2025 at a Glance

    Source: US State of Connecticut

    It’s UConn’s most important weekend of the year.

    Yes, move-in weekend is huge; and yes, the last three years have featured Final Four weekends exciting enough to keep the entire population of Connecticut glued to their screens.

    But this is why we – the staff, the faculty, and above all, the students – are here in the first place.

    From Saturday, May 10 through the evening of Monday, May 12, nearly 8,000 Huskies will hear their names called and walk across the stage at Gampel Pavilion, the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts, or the Student Union Theatre, and walk off the stage as graduates and alumni. The celebration wraps up on May 18, as the UConn School of Law confers its degrees in Hartford.

    It’s a long weekend of big smiles, happy tears, and striking a pose near the statue of Jonathan or the giant U-C-O-N-N on Rte. 195, all combining to make lifelong memories of the final minutes before “student” turns into “graduate.”

    University photographers Sean Flynn, Sydney Herdle, and Peter Morenus will be at all 17 ceremonies this month. Here are just a few of the unforgettable moments they captured on Saturday and Sunday.

    The College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Degree candidates prepare for the College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Greer Fieldhouse on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the School of Social Work sit during the school’s Commencement ceremony in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Benjamin Rosen ’25 (ENG) gives the studen remarks during the College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    President Radenka Maric speaks during the College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    The College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Bachelor of General Studies program sit during the program’s Commencement ceremony in the Student Union Theater on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates toss their caps during the College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Jonathan XIV poses with a student during the College of Agriculture, Health & Natural Resources commencement ceremony on May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    The School of Business Commencement ceremony at Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the UConn School of Nursing stand in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts after having their degrees conferred to them during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Faculty and staff of the School of Nursing award degrees to graduate in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the School of Nursing sit in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Bachelor of General Studies program walk down the aisle of the Student Union Theater during the program’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Jonathan XV leads the Commencement procession to Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Jonathan XV greets graduates at the UConn School of Business’ Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Jonathan XV greets graduates at the UConn School of Business’ Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Jonathan XV greets graduates at the UConn School of Business’ Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the School of Business walk into Gampel Pavilion on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Degree candidates prepare for the College of Engineering Commencement ceremony at Greer Fieldhouse on May 10, 2025. (Peter Morenus/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Bachelor of General Studies program sit during the program’s Commencement ceremony in the Student Union Theater on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    UConn School of Nursing Dean Victoria Vaughan Dickson speaks during the school’s Commencement ceremony in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the UConn School of Nursing have orange ribbons put on their regalia as the walk across the stage of the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the UConn School of Nursing sit in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Neag School of Education greet their friends and family outside of the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts following the school’s Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 11, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Neag School of Education accept their diplomas in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 11, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Neag School of Education sit in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 11, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Graduates of the Neag School of Education accept their diplomas in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts during the school’s Commencement ceremony on Sunday, May 11, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    Dorothea Anagnostopoulos, associate dean for academic affairs of the Neag School of Education, speaks during the school’s Commencement ceremony in the Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts on Sunday, May 11, 2025. (Sydney Herdle/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 11, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 11, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 11, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 11, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)
    UConn College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (CLAS) Commencement ceremony in Gampel Pavilion on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo) on May 10, 2025. (Sean Flynn/UConn Photo)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Farmasiet, Norway’s largest online pharmacy, signs Agillic for advanced customer engagement

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press release – Copenhagen, 12 May 2025 – Agillic A/S 

    The Norwegian online pharmacy, Farmasiet, signs Agillic for advanced customer engagement to explore untapped business potential.

    Farmasiet is Norway’s largest online pharmacy, delivering thousands of both prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs and commodities throughout Norway and with pharmacists available online for fast and convenient expert advice.

    Confident about the business value and potential of more advanced customer engagement, Farmasiet concluded they would need a new platform to deliver on their ambitions. The search was largely influenced by two key criteria: the technology should enable their advanced ideas, and they would need a European solution to ensure full compliance on data privacy and security.

    Farmasiet decided on Agillic and in just six weeks, they launched a tailored solution including eCommerce integration, advanced customer journeys, product feeds, mobile optimisation, and more.

    Hilde Andersen-Gott, CTO at Farmasiet, explains the choice of Agillic: “We are convinced there is an untapped business potential and essentially chose Agillic because the platform enables us to execute on our ideas and capitalise on that potential – now and as we scale our ambitions further. Compliance was a given and with Agillic’s flexibility, ‘tailored’ did not mean compromising on time to market.”

    Christian Samsø, CEO at Agillic, adds: “We are quite proud of welcoming Farmasiet. They had set a high bar for how a platform should empower their ideas to deliver on the business potential, and our platform checked all the boxes from compliance to the ability to scale customer journeys.”

    For further information, please contact
    Christian Samsøe, CEO
    +45 24 88 24 24
    christian.samsoe@agillic.com
       
    About Agillic A/S
    Agillic A/S (Nasdaq First North Growth Market Copenhagen: AGILC) is a Danish software company offering brands a platform through which they can work with data-driven insights and content to create, automate, and send personalised communication to millions. Agillic is headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. For further information, please visit agillic.com.  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Beamr Issues Q1-2025 CEO Letter to Shareholders: Experiencing Rising Demand for Our Technology Across Key Verticals

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    In Q1 2025, Beamr expanded sales pipelines amid growing traction from large-scale prospects, engaged in major industry events, and continued innovation in cloud and product offerings

    Herzliya, Israel, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Beamr Imaging Ltd. (NASDAQ: BMR), a leader in video optimization technology and solutions, today issued a Letter to Shareholders from Sharon Carmel, Chief Executive Officer.

    Dear Shareholders:

    I am pleased to share with you our Q1-2025 activities, progress, and other recent updates, including the expansion of our sales initiatives, supported by growing traction from large-scale prospective customers, participation in leading industry events where we engaged with hundreds of attendees, and continued advancement of our strategic partnerships.

    Q1 2025 Highlights  – Capitalizing on Market Validation:

    Scaling Our Sales Pipelines

    Beamr’s value proposition continues to gain traction across verticals where video is central to business activity and its usage is growing rapidly. Our technology addresses critical challenges associated with large-scale video workflows, including storage, networking, and operational efficiency. These challenges are particularly acute in markets such as media and entertainment, user-generated content, and machine learning sectors, including internet-of-things and autonomous vehicles.

    During Q1 2025 and into early Q2 2025, Beamr expanded its sales team by adding two U.S.-based sales managers to strengthen outreach and responsiveness in our key geographic market. The company’s executives and sales directors conducted more than 130 face-to-face meetings with existing and prospective customers, as well as strategic partners. A significant portion of these meetings took place at three premier industry events: ACM Mile-High-Video 2025, NVIDIA GTC 2025, and the NAB Show 2025. During these engagements, Beamr showcased its high-quality, high-performance, GPU-accelerated video solutions, enabling efficient AI-powered video enhancements. 

    In the coming months, we aim to build on the expanding sales pipeline and growing industry recognition. We anticipate significant revenue growth in 2025, driven by the momentum established in customer and prospect engagements and continued implementation of our go-to-market strategy.

    Amazon Web Services – ISV Accelerate

    In Q1 2025, Beamr joined the AWS ISV Accelerate program, a global co-sell initiative for Amazon Web Services (AWS) partners, offering key benefits to drive visibility and co-selling opportunities. As an Independent Software Vendor (ISV) in the program, Beamr demonstrates strong alignment with AWS’s go-to-market strategies and initiatives. Beamr had progressed from listing on AWS Marketplace to becoming an ISV Accelerate Member in just three months.

    AI Video Webinar

    In January 2025, Beamr hosted a webinar titled: “The Future of AI Video – From Infrastructure to Experience”. The webinar featured Richard Kerris, VP of Media and Entertainment at NVIDIA, Jeffrey Schick, VP Strategic Client Engagement Media and Entertainment at Oracle and myself. 

    Participating in Premier Industry Events

    ACM Mile-High-Video 2025

    In February 2025, I delivered a keynote speech at the ACM Mile-High-Video 2025 conference, held in Denver, Colorado, titled “Is the future of video processing destined for GPU.” The conference is a flagship video formats and streaming event that is geared towards practicing engineers in areas related to media compression and streaming. 

    NVIDIA GTC 2025

    In March 2025, I presented a session showcasing how AI algorithms reshape video quality and usability and improve the efficiency of video workflows, at NVIDIA GTC in San Jose, California. The session attracted more than 430 attendees.

    Beamr CEO Sharon Carmel presenting at NVIDIA GTC 

    NAB Show 2025

    In April, 2025, Beamr participated in the NAB Show 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada where we presented our solution for scalable, high-quality video content upgrade to the advanced AV1 codec. Our offering, paired with a simple, competitive pricing plan, addresses key adoption barriers to AV1, and received the NAB Show Product of the Year award. As part of the event, I delivered a presentation at the AWS theater and participated in a panel at the Oracle streaming summit. 

    Beamr’s AV1 solution wins the NAB Show Product of the Year award

    In February 2025, Beamr presented at the A.G.P.’s Virtual Technology Conference, and in March 2025 participated in the Loop Capital Markets 2025 Investor Conference. This month, we will participate in the Ladenburg Thalmann Technology Innovation Expo in New York and participate virtually in the Needham Technology, Media & Consumer 1×1 Conference.

    In January 2025, I was interviewed for the Wall Street Resource Podcast (Listen to the full interview here), after an interview at Nasdaq as part of their Amplify Spotlight interview series in December 2024 (Watch the full interview here).

                                  
    Developing the Beamr Cloud and Product Offering

    In recent months, we enhanced our SaaS, Beamr Cloud, with new capabilities addressing evolving needs of customers and prospects, including:

    • Increasing subjective and objective video quality.
    • A competitive, flexible pricing model with tiered, minutes-based plans that support video business growth, offered alongside storage-based pricing tailored to companies with heavy video usage.
    • A “Playground” designed to provide new users with an engaging and intuitive experience for evaluating Beamr’s services.

    Beamr GPU-accelerated, high-quality, and scalable video solutions extend beyond Beamr Cloud to include offerings on our partner cloud platforms, AWS and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI), private cloud and enterprise-tailored deployments with improved security and privacy, and on-premises deployments.

    Strengthening the Beamr Team

    To support our expanding research and development, sales and marketing initiatives, we hired six new team members across our offices in Herzliya, Serbia and the US, during Q1 2025 and early Q2 2025. New hires include engineers, a product growth lead, and directors of sales.
        
    Financial highlights*

    During the three month period ended March 31, 2025, we generated approximately $0.63M in revenue, compared with $0.41M in the three months ended March 31, 2024, representing a 55% year over year increase, which was primarily attributable to the earlier recognition of a significant legacy license renewal in Q1-2025 that was previously renewed in Q2-2024. Our balance sheet remains strong with $15.2M of cash and cash equivalents, as of March 31, 2025.
        
    The first quarter of 2025 marked a strong start to the year, with multiple opportunities to present our vision and showcase our technology and solutions to hundreds of professionals and executives in the video industry across multiple verticals. We continue to see growing interest in our offerings, highlighting both rising demand and expanding market validation. Notably, we believe that increased engagement from larger industry players signals a promising outlook for the company’s business development in the months ahead. We remain focused on implementing our vision and believe that Beamr will continue to capitalize on the significant validation that we have been creating as we convert prospects in the sales funnel into significant revenue growth in the coming quarters.

    Respectfully,

    Sharon Carmel
    Chief Executive Officer, Beamr Imaging Ltd.

    About Beamr

    Beamr (Nasdaq: BMR) is a world leader in content-adaptive video optimization, trusted by top media companies, including Netflix and Paramount. Beamr’s perceptual optimization technology (CABR) is backed by 53 patents and an Emmy® Award for Technology and Engineering winner. The innovative technology reduces video file size by up to 50% while guaranteeing quality.

    Beamr Cloud is a high-performance, GPU-accelerated video optimization and modernization service designed for businesses and video professionals across diverse industries. It is conveniently available to Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) customers. Beamr Cloud enables high-performance, cost-effective video modernization to advanced formats, such as AV1, and efficient AI-powered enhancements.

    For more details, please visit www.beamr.com or the investors’ website www.investors.beamr.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. Forward-looking statements in this communication may include, among other things, statements about Beamr’s strategic and business plans, technology, relationships, objectives and expectations for its business, the impact of trends on and interest in its business, intellectual property or product and its future results, operations and financial performance and condition, including its expectations for significant revenue growth in 2025. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” “will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on the Company’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. For a more detailed description of the risks and uncertainties affecting the Company, reference is made to the Company’s reports filed from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), including, but not limited to, the risks detailed in the Company’s annual report filed with the SEC on March 4, 2025 and in subsequent filings with the SEC. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.

    Investor Contact:
    investorrelations@beamr.com

    * This unaudited preliminary financial information regarding our revenues for the three months and quarter ended March 31, 2025, is based upon our estimates and subject to completion of our quarter-end financial results. Moreover, this financial information has been prepared solely on the basis of currently available information by, and is the responsibility of, management. Our independent registered public accounting firm has not audited, reviewed or performed any procedures with respect to such preliminary estimates or the accounting treatment thereof and does not express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect thereto. This preliminary financial information is not a comprehensive statement of our financial results for this period.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Financial News: The Next Session of Online Financial Literacy Lessons for Schoolchildren Will Be Held in a New Format

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Central Bank of Russia –

    The new session starts after the summer holidays. For the first time, lessons will be held in a game format. The lessons are united by a common plot that unfolds in the city of finance. Schoolchildren and students will help superheroes during the game.

    “Online lessons on financial literacy have been held for 10 years. Of course, there is a need to update them to keep up with the times. We studied the opinions of teachers and students, experimented with different approaches. In one of the pilot lessons, schoolchildren helped residents of a magical city cope with inflation, solving interactive problems along the way. This game-like presentation of educational material increases the interest of schoolchildren and helps them learn complex topics. Therefore, we decided to develop the idea of a game format and expect that this will also lead to an increase in our audience,” said Mikhail Mamuta, Head of the Service for the Protection of Consumer Rights and Ensuring the Availability of Financial Services of the Bank of Russia.

    During the completed spring session, more than 850 live broadcasts were held on 29 topics of financial literacy and career guidance. Almost 55% of Russian schools and more than 60% of colleges and technical schools joined the classes. In the spring, online lessons were viewed more than 3 million times.

    One of the most popular topics of the completed session was financial security: lessons on combating cyber fraud gained more than 380 thousand views. Thus, representatives of the Bank of Russia told schoolchildren and students how to protect themselves from fraudsters and not become a dropper.

    The Bank of Russia has been conducting online lessons on financial literacy since 2015. Follow the project news on the website.

    Preview photo: CrispyPork / Shutterstock / Fotodom

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

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

    HTTPS: //vv. KBR.ru/Press/Event/? ID = 24591

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Following Rep. Craig’s Push, Administration Allows Sale of E15 This Summer

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, following U.S. Representative Angie Craig’s push, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued an emergency fuel waiver allowing the sale of E15 nationwide this summer. The announcement comes after Rep. Craig and her bipartisan colleagues wrote a letter to President Trump urging the Administration to extend the Reid vapor pressure (RVP) waiver from June 1 through September 15, 2025.

    “Today’s announcement from EPA is great news for producers and consumers – and a step in the right direction toward codifying nationwide year-round E15,” said Rep. Craig. “I’ve got a bipartisan bill to lower prices at the gas pump by doing just that and it’s time to get it signed into law.”

    In Congress, Rep. Craig has worked across the aisle for years to promote homegrown biofuels. 

    Earlier this year, she introduced her bipartisan Nationwide Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act to make year-round access to E15 permanent nationwide – expanding market access for Minnesota farmers and lowering costs for drivers at the gas pump. And in February, she led a bipartisan letter to newly confirmed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, urging the Agency to prioritize biofuels as part of the Administration’s energy agenda.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rep. Craig Introduces Bill to Cut Taxes for Small Business Owners

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, during Small Business Week, U.S. Representative Angie Craig re-introduced her bill to cut taxes for small businesses and put more money back into Minnesotans’ pockets. 

     Rep. Craig’s Small Business Tax Relief Act will cut the corporate tax rate for small businesses to 18%, increase the self-employment tax deduction for small business owners and help reduce the national deficit.

    “Small businesses are the backbone of Minnesota’s economy, and we should be doing everything we can to make it easier for them to start and grow their operations,” said Rep. Craig. “While the Administration remains hell-bent on advancing a tax cut for billionaires and corporations, I’m leading the charge to cut taxes for working Minnesotans and small business owners.” 

     Full text of the Small Business Tax Relief Act can be found here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Swiss delegation begins China visit in Hong Kong to deepen digital innovation ties (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Swiss delegation begins China visit in Hong Kong to deepen digital innovation ties  
         The delegation’s first stop in Hong Kong featured a thematic seminar titled “Hong Kong – Gateway to China and Asia” organised by Alliance Digital Security Switzerland ADSS, focusing on digital transformation in the age of AI, cybersecurity, and cross-border investment. The event was officiated by representatives from both Swiss and Hong Kong governments and business communities, including the Consul-General of Switzerland in Hong Kong, the Alliance Digital Security Switzerland ADSS, and the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.
     
         In his opening address, the Acting Director-General of Investment Promotion at Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), Mr Arnold Lau, highlighted Hong Kong’s strategic advantages as a launchpad for global tech companies.
     
         “Switzerland is one of Hong Kong’s most promising partners in Europe. Its strengths in life sciences, deep tech, fintech, education, and creative industries align closely with Hong Kong’s innovation priorities,” he remarked. “Hong Kong is embracing new opportunities for international business, driven by robust digital and regulatory advancements. The recent passage of a new cybersecurity law strengthens the protection of critical infrastructure, giving companies greater confidence to operate in a secure environment. Additionally, the launch of the GBA Standard Contract for cross-boundary data flow enables businesses to transfer personal data safely and efficiently within the Greater Bay Area, promoting seamless collaboration and digital service delivery across borders. These developments position Hong Kong as a trusted, future-ready hub for digital innovation, offering tremendous opportunities for Swiss and global companies.”
     
         The President of the Alliance Digital Security Switzerland ADSS and member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Swiss Parliament, Mr Franz Grüter, said, “We are in Hong Kong not only to showcase Switzerland’s excellence in digital innovation, cybersecurity, and education, but more importantly, to establish robust and sustainable partnerships. As a bridge between international markets and Mainland China, Hong Kong holds immense strategic value for Swiss businesses. Our collaboration will drive shared growth in the digital economy.”
     
         The Deputy Commissioner (Digital Infrastructure) at the Digital Policy Office (DPO), Mr Daniel Cheung, shared Hong Kong’s digital policies and strategies on digital infrastructure and AI ecosystem development during his keynote address. He said, “In the digital age, governance models must evolve in tandem. As a global digital hub, Hong Kong is making advances not only in technology but also in policy innovation. We are actively promoting data interoperability, process re-engineering, and the adoption of AI and other cutting-edge technologies to deliver more efficient and user-friendly digital services.”
     
         The seminar also featured a panel discussion moderated by the Head of Information and Communications Technology at InvestHK, Miss Wendy Chow. Experts from Thales, Swire Coca-Cola, and the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park explored cybersecurity challenges in the era of artificial intelligence.
         ???
         InvestHK will continue to collaborate closely with the Consulate General of Switzerland in Hong Kong, the Swiss Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, and Swiss enterprises to support their business establishment and expansion in the region. It will also strengthen partnerships with the DPO, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, and other departments to drive the development of the local innovation and technology ecosystem. Through cross-sector and interdepartmental co-operation and continuously strengthening international exchange and collaboration, InvestHK is committed to enhancing enterprise support, promoting technology adoption, and reinforcing the city’s status as a leading international innovation hub and smart city.
    Issued at HKT 19:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Insolvency Service announces interim Chief Executive

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Insolvency Service announces interim Chief Executive

    The agency’s Chief Executive Officer, Dean Beale, left the organisation on 12 May 2025 to move to a position outside the Civil Service

    • Chief Operating Officer Alec Pybus to become interim Chief Executive Officer 

    • Dean Beale worked at the Insolvency Service for 30 years

    • He left the agency to join the Centre for Public Interest Audit as its Executive Director

    The Insolvency Service has announced that Alec Pybus, formerly Chief Operating Officer, is now interim Chief Executive Officer after Dean Beale announced his departure earlier this year.  

    Mr Beale left the agency on 12 May, having been Chief Executive Officer of the Insolvency Service since 2019.  

    In February 2025, he announced that he would be moving to the Centre for Public Interest Audit as its Executive Director, after more than 30 years in the insolvency sector. 

    Alec Pybus will act as interim Chief Executive Officer – stepping up from his current role of Chief Operating Officer – while the Department of Business and Trade undertakes the recruitment of a permanent CEO. 

    Dean Beale, former Insolvency Service Chief Executive Officer, said:  

    It has been a privilege to serve as Chief Executive Officer for the past six years.  

    The Insolvency Service will be in safe hands with Alec, who has vast experience and knowledge of this complex sector. 

    I wish him and everyone at the Insolvency Service the very best for the future.  

    Alec Pybus, Insolvency Service interim Chief Executive Officer, added:  

    I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity, and I am looking forward to taking up this role while a new Chief Executive is recruited.  

    I have been working with Dean over the past few months to ensure this transition is as smooth as possible.

    Dean Beale announced his departure from the Insolvency Service in February 2025 – read more here: Insolvency Service Chief Executive announces plan to move on to new position – GOV.UK

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Liquidia Corporation Provides Update on Litigation Filed by United Therapeutics

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    • New litigation filed against Liquidia in U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina alleges infringement of UTHR’s ‘782 patent and seeks to enjoin Liquidia from commercializing YUTREPIA
    • ‘782 patent claims same general subject matter as UTHR’s invalidated ‘793 patent
    • Does not impact FDA’s ability to take final action on NDA for YUTREPIA on PDUFA goal date of May 24, 2025

    MORRISVILLE, N.C., May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Liquidia Corporation (NASDAQ: LQDA), a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies for patients with rare cardiopulmonary disease, today announced that United Therapeutics Corporation (UTHR) filed a complaint on May 9, 2025, in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina (Case No. 1:25-cv-00368) against Liquidia alleging infringement of U.S. Patent No. 11,357,782 (the ‘782 patent). Additionally, the complaint seeks to enjoin Liquidia from commercializing YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) inhalation powder if approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD).

    Dr. Roger Jeffs, CEO, Liquidia said: “We are not surprised by UTHR’s repeated, last-minute attempts to deny PAH and PH-ILD patients access to an alternative therapy. We have invalidated similar claims covering the treatment of pulmonary hypertension patients with inhaled treprostinil in the past and will continue to defend the rights of patients suffering with these critical illnesses to choose the therapy that works best for them.”

    The ‘782 patent, which issued on June 14, 2022, arises out of the same patent family as U.S. Patent No. 10,716,793 (the ‘793 patent) and claims the same general method of administering inhaled treprostinil to pulmonary hypertension patients. As disclosed in July 2022, the ‘793 patent was held to be invalid in a proceeding before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board (PTAB). The PTAB’s decision was affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in December 2023. The United States Supreme Court rejected UTHR’s petition for a writ of certiorari, thereby upholding PTAB’s decision which found that all claims of the ‘793 patent are unpatentable due to prior art as final and not subject to further appeal.

    UTHR is currently not seeking any injunction against the FDA to prevent final approval of the New Drug Application (NDA) for YUTREPIA. As previously announced, the FDA set a Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA) goal date of May 24, 2025.

    About Liquidia Corporation
    Liquidia Corporation is a biopharmaceutical company developing innovative therapies for patients with rare cardiopulmonary disease. The company’s current focus spans the development and commercialization of products in pulmonary hypertension and other applications of its proprietary PRINT® Technology. PRINT enabled the creation of Liquidia’s lead candidate, YUTREPIA™ (treprostinil) inhalation powder, an investigational drug for the treatment of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and pulmonary hypertension associated with interstitial lung disease (PH-ILD). The company is also developing L606, an investigational sustained-release formulation of treprostinil administered twice-daily with a next-generation nebulizer, and currently markets generic Treprostinil Injection for the treatment of PAH. To learn more about Liquidia, please visit www.liquidia.com.

    Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements 
    This press release may include forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements contained in this press release other than statements of historical facts, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, our strategic and financial initiatives, our business strategy and plans and our objectives for future operations, are forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements, including statements regarding clinical trials, clinical studies and other clinical work (including the funding therefor, anticipated patient enrollment, safety data, study data, trial outcomes, timing or associated costs), regulatory applications and related submission contents and timelines, including the potential for final FDA approval of the NDA for YUTREPIA, the timeline or outcome related to patent litigation in the U.S. District Court for the District of Delaware or the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, including rehearings or appeals of decisions in any such proceedings, the issuance of patents by the USPTO and our ability to execute on our strategic or financial initiatives, involve significant risks and uncertainties and actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied herein.   The invalidity of one patent is not necessarily determinative as to the validity of a second patent, even if the patents arise out of the same patent family or claim similar subject matter. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “target,” “would,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements. We have based these forward-looking statements largely on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, short-term and long-term business operations and objectives and financial needs. These forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks discussed in our filings with the SEC, as well as a number of uncertainties and assumptions. Moreover, we operate in a very competitive and rapidly changing environment and our industry has inherent risks. New risks emerge from time to time. It is not possible for our management to predict all risks, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements we may make. In light of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions, the future events discussed in this press release may not occur and actual results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated or implied in the forward-looking statements. Nothing in this press release should be regarded as a representation by any person that these goals will be achieved, and we undertake no duty to update our goals or to update or alter any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Contact Information

    Investors:
    Jason Adair
    Chief Business Officer
    919.328.4350
    jason.adair@liquidia.com

    Media:
    Patrick Wallace
    Director, Corporate Communications
    919.328.4383
    patrick.wallace@liquidia.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Regeneration expert appointed to kickstart Oxford growth drive

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    Regeneration expert appointed to kickstart Oxford growth drive

    Regeneration expert Neale Coleman CBE has been appointed as Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission.

    Neale Coleman CBE, Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission.

    • Neale Coleman CBE appointed as Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission to accelerate plans for new housing, jobs and infrastructure across the city
    • New group to play vital role in delivering Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor, improving transport links alongside boosting energy and water security 
    • Supporting the government’s Plan for Change to secure Britain’s future and unleash growth in every region across the country

    A leading regeneration expert has been appointed today as the Chair of a major government programme to grow the UK economy with new homes, infrastructure, transport links and jobs in the heart of the country’s oldest university city.  

    Neale Coleman will chair the Oxford Growth Commission that will identify how best to unlock new development and accelerate growth across Oxford and the surrounding areas. Neale already has a proven track record in delivering growth and regeneration, including his work for the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games in London and the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

    Working in lockstep with local partners and industry, the Commission forms part of wider government plans to deliver the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor that will inject up to £78 billion into the UK economy by 2035, including new investment for the Abingdon Reservoir and funding for East-West Rail to deliver new services between Oxford and Milton Keynes.  

    The Commission’s pro-growth mission includes helping to unblock sites already identified for development, assessing areas of potential investment, and bringing councils and developers to the table so they can assemble land faster for major infrastructure projects. 

    Their work will support the government’s Plan for Change to build 1.5 million homes and new critical infrastructure, which will in turn create jobs, boost living standards, and put more money into working people’s pockets.

    Housing and Planning Minister, Matthew Pennycook said:

    “Unlocking Oxford’s full potential would make a significant contribution to kickstarting economic growth and so the appointment of Neale Coleman as the Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission marks an important step forward in the government’s Plan for Change”.

    “I know Neale will use his invaluable expertise to help remove barriers holding up the delivery of essential housing and critical infrastructure in the city, and that he will ensure the Commission is effectively supporting the government’s wider plans for the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor to raise living standards, create new jobs and bolster the country’s connectivity and energy security.”

    Chair of the Oxford Growth Commission, Neale Coleman CBE said:

    “I’m delighted to take on this role of chairing the Growth Commission. The Commission brings together national government with partners from business, higher education and local government.  

    “Together we can provide new and united leadership in accelerating growth and opportunity and improving the quality of life for everyone who lives in Oxford and the surrounding areas. Oxford starts with amazing resources in the world-leading quality of its universities, the talents of its people and its innovative businesses.   

    “We can use all this as a springboard to accelerate and unblock barriers to sustainable growth delivering new job opportunities and more affordable housing as well as investing in sustainable travel and energy and nature recovery.”

    The new group will deliver growth objectives through five initial workstreams and their focus in Oxford and the surrounding areas include:  

    • Facilitating the delivery of priority transport infrastructure, such as buses and rail, and ensuring investment in new projects is aligned to areas under development.  
    • Addressing utilities constraints, including the capacity of sewage treatment facilities, water and energy to dismantle barriers holding up new homes and jobs.  
    • Identifying a pipeline of priority housing projects that includes more affordable homes, amenities and green spaces.  
    • Working in partnership with the universities to encourage more private investment in skills and talent to boost local employment.  
    • Piloting new investment models to unlock the financing and funding needed to accelerate infrastructure projects.  

    To drive growth across the region, the Commission will work closely with Lord Vallance as Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor Champion as well as Peter Freeman as Chair of the Cambridge Growth Company.

    Science Minister and Oxford Cambridge Growth Corridor Champion, Lord Vallance said:

    “Oxford is a byword, the world over, for invention, innovation, and aspiration. This city helps drive the economy of the entire country, and its deep skills base and world-class institutions are key to attracting the vital investment that will help us deliver on our Plan for Change. 

    “I welcome Neale’s appointment, and I hope that his leadership will help the Oxford Growth Commission unlock further investment, pinpointing the best places for development and testing new ways of funding innovative projects, as the next step in our mission to champion the Oxford-Cambridge Corridor.”

    Yesterday marked the first 100 days since the new Growth Corridor was announced by the Chancellor, and significant progress is already underway.  

    This includes confirmed funding to upgrade the A428 and reduce journey times between Cambridge and Milton Keynes, a new Health Data Research Service to accelerate the discovery of life-saving drugs, significant investment for nine new reservoirs to tackle water scarcity, and support for the East Coast Mainline station to expand the region’s economy.  

    Building on the Growth Corridor’s progress so far, the Commission will go even further to unleash the economic power of Oxford and Oxfordshire which will not only benefit the wider region but also help drive growth in every corner of the country.

    Professor Irene Tracey, Vice Chancellor at the University of Oxford said:

    “The University of Oxford attracts millions in investment through its thriving spin-out ecosystem as a world-class hub for research and innovation. It is proud to create new companies and jobs every year across the region, and as part of the Oxford-Cambridge supercluster it is committed to furthering its economic contribution to the region and UK. This ambition and growth will be realised more quickly through the Oxford Growth Commission under Neale’s outstanding leadership, and I look forward to working with him and his team on this exciting and crucial endeavour.”

    Councillor Susan Brown, Leader of Oxford City Council said:

    “Oxford has the ideas, skills and track record to drive inclusive local and national economic growth, but we have always known we need the right conditions to go further, faster. We have big ambitions for the future of Oxford. I welcome today’s appointment of Neale Coleman as the chair of the Oxford Growth Commission. The City Council and universities lobbied government to create this Commission to help us collectively address local infrastructure needs and barriers to growth. Neale’s track record in delivering large-scale projects, such as the Olympic Games, securing growth and propelling regeneration aligns with our own.

    “I look forward to working with him, and the wider Growth Commission, to unlock new opportunities that benefit the people here in Oxford – such as reopening the Cowley Branch Line, bringing forward Oxford West End and a new Oxford station – as well as supporting the Oxford-Cambridge Growth Corridor and driving economic growth across the UK. This is a chance to work together to deliver the infrastructure, housing and employment opportunities we need to secure a sustainable future for our children and grandchildren.”

    Sarah Haywood, Managing Director at Advanced Oxford said:

    “The Oxford region is already an important contributor to the UK economy, with the potential to contribute even greater sustainable growth as part of the Oxford to Cambridge Growth Corridor. To realise this potential, we need to unlock the barriers that are holding us back. Oxfordshire is home to world-leading science and technology companies, working to address global problems, but we need to see these companies scale. That means expanding and developing innovation-focused hubs, improving transport links, aligning our labour markets, and providing the housing needed to attract and retain talent to ensure inclusive growth. These developments will benefit the region, the Growth Corridor, and the UK as a whole. I welcome Neale Coleman’s appointment, and the establishment of the Oxford Growth Commission. Advanced Oxford is committed to supporting its work.”

    Further information:

    • The Oxford Growth Commission is a joint endeavour with membership consisting of government, Oxford City Council, Oxfordshire County Council, the University of Oxford, and Oxford Brookes, as well as a representative from the local Business Community, Advanced Oxford. 
    • Membership of the Commission will be made up of 9 representatives including the Ministry of Housing and Homes England, engaging with a range of local partners across the academic, innovation and infrastructure sectors to support delivery of its objectives.  
    • Neale Coleman’s appointment letter can be read in full here.
    • The Commission was previously announced by the Chancellor as part of her growth speech on 29 January.

    Neale Coleman CBE biography:  

    • Neale led the work on the bid, delivery and legacy of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games at the Greater London Authority from 2000, co-chairing the Olympic Delivery Group and supporting former Mayors of London. He was a Board Member of the Olympic Delivery Authority throughout its life. 
    • He then took a leading role in embedding the regeneration and growth legacy of the Olympics in East London as Deputy Chair and Chair of the London Legacy Development Corporation.  
    • Neale chaired the Capital Programme Delivery Board for the successful Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022. 
    • He was a National Infrastructure Commissioner between 2021 and April 2025 and was then appointed as a member of the Advisory Council to the National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA), the Government’s new centre of expertise for infrastructure and major project strategy and delivery.

    Updates to this page

    Published 12 May 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Seawater sampling season 2025 begins tomorrow12 May 2025 ​​The 2025 seawater sampling season starts on Tuesday 13 May and continues for 20 weeks ending on Tuesday 23 September 2025. The sampling is carried out in a total of 16 bays with sampling at eight bays… Read more

    Source: Channel Islands – Jersey

    12 May 2025

    ​​

    The 2025 seawater sampling season starts on Tuesday 13 May and continues for 20 weeks ending on Tuesday 23 September 2025. 

    The sampling is carried out in a total of 16 bays with sampling at eight bays on Mondays and eight bays on Tuesdays as required by the EU Bathing Water Directive that we follow.

    Each week the latest results are displayed in an interactive map which is updated automatically. Please visit Seawater monitoring for more information. 

    New signs 

    Over the coming weeks we will be rolling out new signs at each sampling point in the bays. The signs will display a QR code which allows easy access to the latest results. 

    We monitor seawater quality to: 

    • Measure compliance against the EU Bathing water directive 
    • Get valuable information for Islanders and tourists on the quality of seawater 
    • Identify episodes of pollution 
    • Provide information to other stakeholders including the Aquaculture Industry.

    Different teams are involved in the monitoring process:

    • Water & Air and Environment & Consumer Protection teams take the samples 
    • Official Analyst’s laboratory carry out the analysis. 

    Since 2015 bathing water classifications throughout Europe are based on sampling data collected over 4 years. Monitoring in Jersey started in 1992. 

    Although monitoring of seawater provides valuable public health data, it is only a snap-shot of the water quality at the time of sampling and bathers enter coastal waters at their own risk. 

    General public health advice is to avoid swimming for 48 hours following heavy rainfall and to avoid seafoam if present. Sea foam forms naturally when waves agitate organic matter in seawater, but may also contain substances that could be harmful to health. ​

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Camping boom ignites outdoor industry growth across China

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

    On a crisp April morning, Pan Rongfeng, a middle school teacher in his 30s, pulled up to a verdant campsite at the foot of Daming Mountain, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, before unloading his dog and a panoply of camping gear from his car.

    It was a cherished holiday ritual for Pan as he took to the great outdoors to savor his time off.

    “Over the past two years, more and more people around me have started to turn to campsites for a little escape from urban life,” said Pan. “As long as the weather is agreeable, I love to gather outdoors to unwind.”

    In recent years, once a niche hobby, camping has broken into the mainstream across China, transforming the way people pursue quality time in their leisure.

    Data from Meituan, a leading life services provider, highlighted the trend. During this year’s Tomb-Sweeping Day, a traditional Chinese holiday where people are entitled to a block of days off, searches for “campgrounds” in Guangxi skyrocketed 50 percent over the same period of last year.

    The allure of such outdoor activity has not gone unnoticed on Chinese social media, with many camping-related posts amassing millions of views.

    On rednote, a Chinese lifestyle app and the country’s version of Instagram, the popularity of notes titled “camping tips” and “campsite recommendations” continued to rise before and during the five-day Labor Day holiday, while short-video platforms like Douyin have logged billions of plays for relevant content.

    At a riverside park in Nanning, weekend campers packed the vast grassy field, with latecomers like Huang Xiaqing, a Nanning local, struggling to find a big enough space to settle her family and friends.

    “If you arrive here half past nine on a weekend morning, it can be a huge hassle to find a spot to put up your tent,” said Huang. “That has almost always been the case since we began this holiday ritual one year ago.”

    Wei Wanqing, a sociology professor with East China Normal University in Shanghai, believes that the growing appeal of camping has extended far beyond the scope of social media influencers doing location check-ins and boosting their online traction by sharing outdoor lifestyle photos.

    “Families are increasingly embracing it as a way to bond and create shared memories,” said Wei.

    In recent years, camping, driven by the dual appeal of reconnecting with nature and fostering greater social connection, has gradually become a prominent element in China’s cultural and tourism landscape while giving rise to a burgeoning industry in the country.

    According to iiMedia Research, the growing appetite for camping generated about 213.97 billion yuan (about 29.69 billion U.S. dollars) in 2024, with projections of continued growth in 2025, as the booming sector has also helped catalyze the growth of related businesses.

    At a store specializing in outdoor gear in Nanning, Lyu Hongping, the shop owner, saw a 30 percent annual revenue spike over the past three years, fueled by various demands for camping and hiking equipment.

    “Camping has gone from a niche pastime for some to something that has attracted an increasing number of people from all walks of life,” said Lyu.

    The influx of campers has a ripple effect, bringing in revenues for the local economy through increased patronage of nearby restaurants, rental shops and tourist attractions, noted Hong Tao with the China Consumer Economics Society.

    “Some of the campsites serve as a one-stop shop that offers everything from essential outdoor gear to personalized travel arrangements,” said Hong.

    On Chinese e-commerce giant Taobao, a simple keyword search for “camping” would yield many relevant results, with many of the top sellers like waterproof mats, folding tables, and hammocks flying off the virtual shelves, some logging over 100,000 units sold in total and more than 1,000 daily purchases.

    A recent consultancy report suggested that there has been a trend toward adding more eye-popping and tech-laden equipment and products, such as foldable outdoor projection screens and in-vehicle fridges, among modern-day campers.

    Research highlights that the traditional style of “roughing it” with canvass tents and sleeping bags has given way to “glamping”, a new form of camping that involves more amenities and comforts, as camping has transformed from a budget-friendly alternative to traditional travel to a highly customized activity that caters to different outdoor pursuits.

    Xu Luyuan, a professor at Guangxi University of Finance and Economics, saw the rise of experience economy like camping as an indication of an exciting shift away from the “Daka” tourism, where tourists rush through cities and tick off as many attractions as possible within a limited timeframe, in favor of a form that focuses more on immersive experiences.

    “It meets the growing demand among Chinese consumers for more personalized, experiential leisure pursuits, and helps drive up domestic consumption and charges up the integration of culture into tourism,” said Xu.

    However, the surge in campers has put nature’s accommodating capacity to the test. Striking a balance between economic gains and environmental sustainability is a key challenge for the emerging sector to scale.

    In response to the concern regarding the environmental impact of the rapid expansion of the camping economy, local authorities across the country have taken proactive steps by introducing guidelines to promote responsible camping practices that prioritize environmental protection and safety.

    “Camping isn’t just a fad,” said Hong, who is convinced that with a focus on establishing a model that emphasizes differentiated services and supply-chain coordination, along with clear policy guidance, the sector can evolve beyond transient craze and become a lasting growth area for the country’s economy. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025: Exploring Global Partnerships to Unlock Africa’s Energy Potential

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

    PARIS, France, May 12, 2025/APO Group/ —

    The Invest in African Energy (IAE) 2025 forum in Paris will host a high-level panel discussion on “The Future of Global Energy Partnerships: Seizing Africa’s Untapped Market Opportunities”, sponsored by Energean. Bringing together African energy ministers, CEOs and leading energy executives, the session will explore how shifting global dynamics are reshaping cross-border collaboration and investment strategies in Africa’s energy sector.

    The panel will be moderated by NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, and will feature: Bruno Jean-Richard Itoua, Minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo; Maggy Shino, Petroleum Commissioner, Minister of Mines and Energy, Namibia; Mathios Rigas, CEO, Energean; and Marco Villa, Chief Business Officer, Technip Energies.

    IAE 2025 (apo-opa.co/43pj29T) is an exclusive forum designed to facilitate investment between African energy markets and global investors. Taking place May 13-14, 2025 in Paris, the event offers delegates two days of intensive engagement with industry experts, project developers, investors and policymakers. For more information, please visit www.Invest-Africa-Energy.com. To sponsor or participate as a delegate, please contact sales@energycapitalpower.com.

    ​​As international players from the Middle East and BRIC nations expand their global energy footprint, Africa is becoming an increasingly vital partner in advancing shared goals around energy security, industrial growth and sustainable development. Countries like the Republic of Congo, Gabon and Nigeria are at the center of this momentum, offering a diverse mix of upstream and midstream assets, growing domestic demand and a clear push for value-added investment in petrochemicals and infrastructure. This panel will examine how strategic partnerships – whether through equity participation, joint ventures or technical collaboration – are unlocking opportunities across Africa’s oil, gas, power and petrochemical sectors, while also helping to close investment and capacity gaps.

    The session will provide firsthand insights from the policymakers and executives driving these initiatives, highlighting how countries are positioning themselves to attract capital and what international players consider bankable, high-value opportunities. From gas monetization strategies in Nigeria to integrated development plans in Congo and downstream expansion in Gabon, the discussion will explore the key factors fueling global investment interest in Africa’s energy landscape.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI: Roam Launches Business eSIM Data Program, Supporting Global Connectivity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia, May 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Roam, a decentralized open wireless network, has rolled out its Business eSIM Data Program, launching with a key partnership with Bybit, a top-tier cryptocurrency exchange. This program, introduced after Roam’s successful debut on 12 major exchanges—including Bybit, Bitget, Gate.io, MEXC, and KuCoin—in March 2025, serves as a thank-you to the incredible support Roam received during its Token Generation Event (TGE). It delivers businesses fast, affordable, and seamless global internet access, wiping out costly roaming fees.

    A Breakthrough for Global Businesses

    The Business eSIM Data Program fuels Roam’s mission to build a decentralized global open wireless network. Crafted for businesses, it’s a game-changer for international travelers, remote workers, and global teams, especially in fast-moving sectors like Web3. Spanning over 180 countries, Roam’s enterprise-grade eSIM connects users to local networks instantly, providing reliable data without the hefty price tag of traditional roaming.

    Key benefits of the Roam Business eSIM include:

    • Global Reach, No Roaming Costs: Connects to local networks in over 180 countries, slashing roaming expenses by up to 80% compared to standard data plans.
    • Uninterrupted Remote Work: Offers seamless access to platforms like Google, Gmail, X, and Web3 exchanges, keeping teams productive anywhere.
    • Easy Setup: Works with any eSIM-compatible device and activates online—no physical SIM cards needed.
    • Smart Management: A user-friendly admin dashboard lets businesses track budgets and manage costs effortlessly, perfect for multinational and Web3 teams.

    How the Program Works

    The Program is exclusive to verified business users, starting with employees of Roam’s exchange partners like Bybit. Those with a corporate email can claim a one-time eSIM benefit, which offers:

    • No Expiration: Unused data rolls over to the next month.
    • Automatic Accumulation: Monthly data adds to the existing balance automatically.
    • Exclusive Access: The benefit is non-transferable and reserved for verified business users.

    Once the free data runs out, users can add more through the Roam App. Activation requires an eSIM-compatible device and basic details, like email and IMEI, submitted online.

    A Bold Step Toward a Connected World

    The Bybit partnership kicks off Roam’s global push for the Business eSIM Data Program. This open initiative invites companies to join, equipping them with tools to work without borders and thrive in a globalized economy. By offering a cost-effective, unified data solution, Roam is streamlining operations and paving the way for a decentralized wireless future.

    Businesses and professionals can dive into the Business eSIM Data Program at https://www.weroam.xyz/use/roam-business-esim-plan.

    About Roam

    Roam is a leader in decentralized connectivity, building a global wireless network that delivers seamless, secure, and cost-effective internet access through WiFi OpenRoaming and eSIM top-up services. By harnessing blockchain-based credentials, Roam enables small and medium-sized businesses to adopt WiFi OpenRoaming, creating a network of over 8 million hotspots across 200 countries. With 2.6 million app users, Roam is the world’s largest decentralized wireless network, empowering users to access free eSIM data while contributing to and validating WiFi nodes. As a trusted eSIM solution, Roam has powered seamless data connectivity for major Web3 events, including Consensus Hong Kong 2025, Hong Kong Web3 Festival 2025, and the R3AL WORLD Summit, cementing its role as a pioneer in the DePIN sector.

    For More Information, Please Visit:

    Contact:
    Nigel Nie
    info@weroam.xyz
    nigel@metablox.io
            

    Disclaimer: This is a paid post and is provided by Roam. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.
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    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f42b1f9c-c39e-424f-a2c5-eeed99328457

    The MIL Network –