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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LOK SABHA SPEAKER OUTLINES ROADMAP FOR VIKSHIT BHARAT 2027, CALLS FOR SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE MODEL OF DEVELOPMENT

    Source: Government of India

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER OUTLINES ROADMAP FOR VIKSHIT BHARAT 2027, CALLS FOR SUSTAINABLE AND INCLUSIVE MODEL OF DEVELOPMENT

    PRESENT ERA IN INDIA IS AN ERA OF ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AND INNOVATION: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    INDIA’S ‘DEVELOPMENT-ORIENTED POLICIES’ ARE PROVIDING NEW ENERGY TO OUR INDUSTRIES TODAY: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    PHDCCI IS ACTING AS A STRONG BRIDGE BETWEEN INDUSTRIES AND POLICY MAKERS: LOK SABHA SPEAKER

    LOK SABHA SPEAKER ADDRESSES MEMBERS OF PHD CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRY IN NEW DELHI

    Posted On: 16 APR 2025 9:56PM by PIB Delhi

    New Delhi; 16 April, 2025: Shri Birla today emphasises that the pillars of industry and commerce occupy a pivotal place in the Indian leadership’s resolute commitment to transforming India into a fully developed nation by the year 2047. To realize this national aspiration, Shri Birla called upon all stakeholders to embrace a model of development that is not only sustainable and enduring, but also inclusive, anchored firmly in the spirit of research, innovation, and forward-thinking enterprise. Addressing at an event to mark at the 120th anniversary of the PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry in New Delhi today, Shri Birla observed that ‘development-oriented policies’ of the Government of India are providing new energy to our industries today, adding that present era in India is an era of economic empowerment and innovation.

    Outlining the roadmap for ‘Vikshit Bharat 2047’, Lok Sabha Speaker Shri Om Birla said that nation’s trade policy today is deeply rooted in the grand vision of a self-reliant India (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and reflects India’s growing stature on the global stage.

    पी.एच.डी. चैम्बर ऑफ कॉमर्स एंड इंडस्ट्री (PHDCCI) के 120 वर्ष पूर्ण होने पर आज दिल्ली में आयोजित समारोह को संबोधित किया।

    विश्व की पाँचवी सबसे बड़ी अर्थव्यवस्था भारत में आज निवेश के अवसर बढ़ रहे हैं, क्योंकि यहां टिकाऊ नीतियां हैं, स्थिर शासन है, लॉ एंड ऑर्डर है और टैक्स सिस्टम… pic.twitter.com/6YQQa9o92F

    — Om Birla (@ombirlakota) April 16, 2025

    Shri Birla underlined that contemporary India has emerged as a beacon for global investors—a land where the ease of doing business is not merely an aspiration, but a reality. He noted with pride that India’s remarkable economic resurgence following the global pandemic serves as a source of hope and inspiration for the developing world, showcasing the nation’s resilience and its unwavering march toward inclusive growth and prosperity.

    He observed that flagship programmes such as Make in India, Digital India, Gati Shakti, Bharatmala Pariyojana, Udaan Yojana, and the development of electronic manufacturing clusters are weaving a robust tapestry of industrial and commercial infrastructure across the nation. He further remarked that the simplification of industrial policies, the establishment of a transparent and investor-friendly tax regime, and the adoption of a single-window clearance system have significantly nurtured and emboldened the spirit of entrepreneurship in the country.

    Shri Birla remarked that the nation is swiftly transcending its traditional role as a consumer-driven economy to emerge as a vibrant cradle of innovation and ingenuity. He lauded the transformative contributions of Indian enterprises—especially the dynamic ecosystem of Start-Ups—which, with their fresh perspectives and groundbreaking ideas, are paving the way for sustainable development and propelling India toward becoming a global superpower.

    Shri Birla further highlighted the dawn of a new economic era in India—an era defined by the confluence of cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Data Analytics, and a surge in innovation-led productivity. This synergy, he noted, is not only driving robust economic growth but also fostering a culture of transparency and efficiency. Turning to the digital revolution sweeping through the nation, Shri Birla drew attention to the phenomenal rise in digital transactions across the commercial landscape. He observed that this digital momentum is ushering in an unprecedented era of economic inclusion—one that is bridging the gap between remote regions and the heart of India’s mainstream economy, thereby illuminating even the most distant corners of the country with the promise of progress and prosperity.

    Shri Birla lauded PHDCCI for acting as a strong bridge between industries and policy makers, bringing forth informed insights and thoughtful recommendations that can guide the Government in crafting forward-looking, responsive policies. Shri Birla appreciated the commendable efforts of PHDCCI in nurturing and empowering the dynamic spirit of Indian women through visionary initiatives such as the Women Entrepreneurship Development Programmes and Networking and Mentoring platforms. These initiatives, he noted, have played a pivotal role in unlocking the vast potential of Nari Shakti, enabling women to emerge as powerful and influential participants in the realms of commerce and industry. He further observed that today, the presence and leadership of women in the economic landscape are no longer exceptions but a growing force that is shaping the future of Indian enterprise. Shri Birla emphasized that institutions like PHDCCI possess an intrinsic understanding of the aspirations, strengths, and challenges of the industrial ecosystem.

    ***

    AM

    (Release ID: 2122281) Visitor Counter : 69

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Wicker, Colleagues Send Letter Calling for Reform to Biden AI Diffusion Rule

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Mississippi Roger Wicker
    WASHINGTON – Last week, U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) joined Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) in sending a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding the Biden administration’s AI Diffusion Rule (AIDR). The letter highlights the need to withdraw Biden’s overly obstructive rule and propose an alternative before the May 15th compliance deadline. Implementing a new standard would help prevent the Chinese Communist Party from taking the lead in this emerging technology by focusing efforts on encouraging American companies to continue being pioneers in artificial intelligence innovation. The letter states:
    “We applaud President Trump’s commitment to ensuring American dominance in the tech sector. Today, we are in an enviable position: American companies dominate in crucial areas that will define tomorrow’s economy including semiconductor design, compute infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). This leadership position has been hard fought. Maintaining and growing our tech lead requires diligently advancing an American-led, global ecosystem around the world.”
    “With the compliance deadline of May 15, 2025, rapidly approaching, immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to American innovation and competitiveness,” the letter continues. “Every day this rule remains in place, American companies face mounting uncertainty, stalled investments, and the risk of losing critical global partnerships that cannot be easily regained. Therefore, we urge you to withdraw this rule and propose an alternative that is effective in preventing Communist China from capturing the world market in a leading technology without compromising American advantages.”
    The letter was also signed by Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Ted Budd (R-NC), Eric Schmitt (R-MO), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).
    Read the full letter here or below:  
    Dear Secretary Lutnick:
    We applaud President Trump’s commitment to ensuring American dominance in the tech sector. Today, we are in an enviable position: American companies dominate in crucial areas that will define tomorrow’s economy including semiconductor design, compute infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). This leadership position has been hard fought. Maintaining and growing our tech lead requires diligently advancing an American-led, global ecosystem around the world.
    Concerningly, President Biden’s recently issued Artificial Intelligence Diffusion Rule (AIDR) threatens to undermine this leadership and advancement. Among other things, the rule categorizes countries into three tiers, imposing complex restrictions on the purchase of U.S. technology. Only Tier 1 countries—limited to just 18 nations—would have access to American technology. Even these 18 would only have access if they comply with a burdensome and ever-evolving set of federal regulations. The vast majority of nations fall into Tier 2. These countries face arbitrary purchase limits and a cumbersome licensing process to acquire U.S. computing technologies. Strikingly, key allies and partners like Israel have been inexplicably excluded from the top tier and placed into Tier 2. Tier 3 countries, including Communist China, are already rightly restricted.
    While the AIDR claims to provide secure ecosystems for the responsible diffusion of AI, this rushed midnight rule’s impact and overly broad scope will result in consequences that divorce it from its intent. Fundamentally, the rule places burdensome constraints on U.S. companies that would be difficult to comply with and even harder for the Federal government to enforce. Buyers, particularly in Tier 2 countries that are constrained from purchasing U.S. technology, would be incentivized to turn to Communist China’s unregulated, cheap substitutes. Additionally, technology companies in Tier 2 countries could be motivated to create their own AI technology stack that is outside our export control regime. Neither outcome furthers our nation’s long-term economic and national security goals.
    With the compliance deadline of May 15, 2025, rapidly approaching, immediate action is necessary to prevent irreversible damage to American innovation and competitiveness. Every day this rule remains in place, American companies face mounting uncertainty, stalled investments, and the risk of losing critical global partnerships that cannot be easily regained. Therefore, we urge you to withdraw this rule and propose an alternative that is effective in preventing Communist China from capturing the world market in a leading technology without compromising American advantages.
     

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Lights, camera, Alberta! Boosting cultural industries | Lumières, caméra, Alberta! Stimuler les industries culturelles

    [. This investment will continue the momentum of Alberta’s growing cultural industries by creating jobs and developing skilled local talent.

    Behind the scenes, the Film and Television Tax Credit is revitalizing communities across the province, including communities in rural Alberta. These productions are expected to spend about $1.5 billion in Alberta across a range of industries, generating an estimated gross domestic product of $852 million and supporting more than 14,400 Albertan jobs.

    “Our government’s investment into our cultural industries is putting Alberta on centre stage. By further supporting film, television, music and publishing, we are driving economic growth while sharing our culture and stories – provincially, nationally and internationally.”

    Tanya Fir, Minister of Arts, Culture and Status of Women

    On National Canadian Film Day, our government recognizes how the cultural industries play a starring role in Alberta’s economy. Since 2020, film and television projects supported through the Alberta Media Fund have generated more than $35 million in spending in the province and created more than 450 jobs. From catering to construction supplies, accommodations, local rentals, transportation and more, film and television production strengthens the economy and creates jobs for Albertans in every corner of the province.

    “Our film and television industry is not only a creative force but also a major contributor to Alberta’s economy. Through programs like the Film and Television Tax Credit, we are continually working to respond to industry needs, making sure Alberta remains a top destination for film and television productions.”

    Matt Jones, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Trade

    Budget 2025 also commits $235 million to the Film and Television Tax Credit program over the next three years. The Film and Television Tax Credit program offers tax incentives and makes Alberta an attractive destination for medium- and large-scale productions. Since its inception in 2020, more than 200 productions have leveraged the Film and Television Tax Credit program, with many more on the way.

    “The continuing support of Alberta’s government for the creative economy enables us to attract world-renowned projects, share Alberta’s unique stories with global audiences and drive growth in the province’s economy and job market.”

    Luke Azevedo, CEO, Edmonton Screen

    “I’m proud to see Alberta continuing to build momentum in the film and television industry. There’s a renewed energy and programs here in the province geared to developing new talent and crew. With initiatives and ongoing discussions, I hope for Alberta to stay well-positioned to remain competitive on the global stage while simultaneously developing our own local Canadian talent.”

    Martin Cochingco, professional stunt performer, co-owner of the Stunt Gym

    Alberta’s film and television industry is vital to the province’s economy. The government’s continued investment in the Alberta Media Fund and Film and Television Tax Credit program will support economic growth, create jobs, ensure competitiveness and attract investment.

    Alberta is primed for the limelight, and the government will continue to position the province as a premier destination for the film and television industry.

    Budget 2025 is meeting the challenge faced by Alberta with continued investments in education and health, lower taxes for families and a focus on strengthening our economy.

    Quick facts

    • More than 60 per cent of all Alberta-made projects filmed or are planning to film in small cities, towns and rural locations across the province, boosting the economy in all corners of Alberta.
    • The Alberta Media Fund supports locally produced books, magazines, music, film and television.
    • The fund allocates $2.6 million for publishing and music, and $5.4 million for film and television.
    • In 2022, cultural industries contributed $2.5 billion to Alberta’s economy and sustained 19,233 jobs in the province (Statistics Canada).
    • The Film and Television Tax Credit program supports medium- and large-scale productions with total production costs of at least $499,999.
    • To date, almost one-third of all productions participating in the Film and Television Tax Credit program did their filming in rural Alberta.

    Related information

    • Alberta Media Production Industries Association
    • Alberta Magazine Publishers Association
    • Book Publishers Association of Alberta
    • Alberta Music

    Related news

    • Movie star treatment for Alberta screen producers | Traitement de vedette pour les producteurs de l’Alberta (Sep 18, 2024)
    • Lights, camera, action for film and television (Jun 7, 2024)
    • Investing in more chapters of Alberta’s stories | Investir dans d’autres chapitres des histoires albertaines (Apr 23, 2024)

    Multimedia

    • Watch the news conference

    Le gouvernement de l’Alberta stimule l’économie en investissant dans les industries culturelles, en braquant les projecteurs sur la province dans les domaines du cinéma, de la télévision, de la musique et de l’édition.

    Le budget de 2025 prévoit un investissement de 8 millions de dollars pour le Fonds des médias de l’Alberta afin de soutenir les secteurs créatifs de la province. Cet investissement permettra de maintenir l’élan des industries culturelles de l’Alberta en créant des emplois et en encourageant les talents locaux qualifiés.

    En coulisses, le crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision revitalise les communautés de toute la province, y compris les collectivités rurales de l’Alberta. Ces productions devraient dépenser environ 1,5 milliard de dollars en Alberta dans tout un éventail de secteurs, générant un produit intérieur brut estimé à 852 millions de dollars et soutenant plus de 14 400 emplois albertains.

    « Les investissements de notre gouvernement dans nos industries culturelles permettent à l’Alberta de voler la vedette. En soutenant davantage le cinéma, la télévision, la musique et l’édition, nous stimulons la croissance économique tout en partageant notre culture et nos histoires – à l’échelle provinciale, nationale et internationale. »

    Tanya Fir, ministre des Arts, de la Culture et de la Condition féminine

    À l’occasion de la Journée du cinéma canadien, notre gouvernement reconnaît que les industries culturelles jouent un rôle de premier plan dans l’économie de l’Alberta. Depuis 2020, les projets cinématographiques et télévisuels soutenus par le Fonds des médias de l’Alberta ont généré plus de 35 millions de dollars de dépenses dans la province et ont créé plus de 450 emplois. De la restauration au matériel de construction, en passant par l’hébergement, la location de locaux, le transport et bien d’autres secteurs, la production cinématographique et télévisuelle renforce l’économie et crée des emplois pour les Albertains et les Albertaines partout dans la province.

    « Notre industrie cinématographique et télévisuelle n’est pas seulement une force créatrice, mais aussi un contributeur majeur à l’économie de l’Alberta. Grâce à des programmes tels que le crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision, nous nous efforçons constamment de répondre aux besoins de l’industrie et de faire en sorte que l’Alberta reste une destination de choix pour les productions cinématographiques et télévisuelles. »

    Matt Jones, ministre de l’Emploi, de l’Économie et du Commerce

    Le budget de 2025 prévoit également 235 millions de dollars pour le programme de crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision au cours des trois prochaines années. Ce programme offre des incitatifs fiscaux et fait de l’Alberta une destination attrayante pour les productions de moyenne et grande envergure. Depuis sa création en 2020, plus de 200 productions ont bénéficié du programme de crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision, et de nombreuses autres prévoient leur emboîter le pas.

    « Le soutien continu du gouvernement de l’Alberta aux secteurs créatifs nous permet d’attirer des projets de renommée mondiale, de présenter les histoires uniques de l’Alberta à des publics internationaux et de stimuler la croissance de l’économie et du marché de l’emploi de la province. »

    Luke Azevedo, PDG, Edmonton Screen

    « Je suis fier de voir que l’Alberta continue à se tailler une place dans l’industrie du cinéma et de la télévision. Il y a un regain d’énergie et des programmes ici dans la province qui visent à soutenir de nouveaux talents et de nouvelles équipes. Grâce aux initiatives et aux discussions en cours, j’espère que l’Alberta restera bien positionnée pour rester compétitive sur la scène mondiale tout en développant nos propres talents canadiens. »

    Martin Cochingco, cascadeur professionnel, copropriétaire du Stunt Gym

    L’industrie cinématographique et télévisuelle de l’Alberta est vitale pour l’économie de la province. L’investissement continu du gouvernement dans le Fonds des médias de l’Alberta et le programme de crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision soutiendra la croissance économique, créera des emplois, garantira la compétitivité et attirera des investissements.

    L’Alberta est prête pour les feux de la rampe, et le gouvernement continuera à travailler pour que la province demeure une destination de choix pour l’industrie du film et de la télévision.

    Le budget de 2025 s’attaque aux défis auxquels l’Alberta est confrontée en continuant à investir dans l’éducation et la santé, en réduisant les impôts pour les familles et en mettant l’accent sur le renforcement de notre économie.

    En bref

    • Plus de 60 % de tous les projets réalisés en Alberta ont été ou seront tournés dans des petites villes, des villages et des zones rurales de la province, ce qui stimule l’économie dans tous les coins de l’Alberta.
    • Le Fonds des médias de l’Alberta soutient les livres, les magazines, la musique, le cinéma et la télévision produits localement.
    • Le fonds alloue 2,6 millions de dollars à l’édition et à la musique, et 5,4 millions de dollars au cinéma et à la télévision.
    • En 2022, les industries culturelles ont contribué à hauteur de 2,5 milliards de dollars à l’économie de l’Alberta et ont soutenu 19 233 emplois dans la province (Statistique Canada).
    • Le programme de crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision soutient les productions de moyenne et grande envergure dont le coût total de production est d’au moins 499 999 $.
    • À ce jour, près d’un tiers des productions participant au programme de crédit d’impôt pour le cinéma et la télévision ont été tournées dans les régions rurales de l’Alberta.

    Informations connexes (en anglais seulement)

    • Alberta Media Production Industries Association
    • Alberta Magazine Publishers Association
    • Book Publishers Association of Alberta
    • Alberta Music

    Actualités connexes

    • Movie star treatment for Alberta screen producers | Traitement de vedette pour les producteurs de l’Alberta (18 septembre 2024)
    • Lights, camera, action for film and television (7 juin 2024)
    • Investing in more chapters of Alberta’s stories | Investir dans d’autres chapitres des histoires albertaines (23 avril 2024)

    Multimédia (en anglais seulement)

    • Regarder la conférence de presse

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Risch Names Schumacker’s Jewelry as April Small Business of the Month

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Idaho James E Risch

    BOISE, Idaho – U.S. Senator Jim Risch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the selection of Schumacker’s Jewelry in St. Maries as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for April 2025. Schumacker’s Jewelry will be recognized for its contribution to the North Idaho community in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

    “Schumacker’s Jewelry has been a North Idaho favorite for 78 years,” said Risch. “The Schumacker family proudly serves the St. Maries community with timeless pieces to celebrate life’s important milestones—engagements, anniversaries, and so much more. I’m proud to recognize Schumacker’s Jewelry as the April Small Business of the Month.”

    Idaho is consistently ranked on the best places in the country to do business. Each month, Senator Risch selects an Idaho small business that exemplifies the Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional commitment to community.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Comer, Burlison Investigate Biden-Era Abuses of Endangered Species Act and Impact on Energy Costs

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Eric Burlison (R-Missouri 7th District)

    WASHINGTON—House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) and Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs Chairman Eric Burlison (R-Mo.) are examining the Biden Administration’s abuse of the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and its impact on energy costs. In a letter to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) Acting Assistant Administrator Emily Menashes, the lawmakers request a briefing on the agency’s compliance with President Trump’s National Energy Emergency declaration as part of the Committee’s larger investigation into the Biden Administration’s detrimental energy policies.

    “The Endangered Species Act (ESA) requires NOAA Fisheries to consult the Secretary of Commerce on whether a species should be listed as endangered or otherwise. Environmentalist groups abused the ESA and regulations promulgated under its authority by filing a litany of lawsuits to create regulatory delays on infrastructure projects they oppose and to influence NOAA Fisheries’ decisions,” wrote the lawmakers. “Under the Biden Administration, NOAA Fisheries tailored ESA policies to conform with these groups’ demands.”

    The Biden Administration raised the bar for delisting a species from endangered status and sought to designate more habitats as critical habitats, even when endangered species living in those habitats are no longer found in those locations. By doing so, the Biden Administration prioritized the interests of environmental groups over the needs of local communities. The environmental groups exploited the ESA to stifle development and delay necessary energy infrastructure projects. In some cases, the actions of a few radical environmentalists have resulted in tens of millions of dollars in costs that must be borne by local communities. In other cases, environmental groups have used the ESA to delay oil leases in the Gulf of America, drastically curtail the amount of water available to farmers in Agriculture, and trample on the rights of ranchers across the west. To end this abuse, President Trump is prioritizing American energy independence and demanding reform of the ESA.  

    “President Trump’s National Energy Emergency declaration mandates the ESA Committee convene and identify ‘obstacles to domestic energy infrastructure specifically when deriving from implementation of the ESA’ or other relevant laws. ESA Committee members will propose regulatory reforms, consider species listings, and improve the interagency consultation process,” continued the lawmakers. “Importantly, this process is intended to give impacted states and local communities a voice in deciding whether a federal action is in the interest of the public and its national or regional significance. To help inform the Committee’s understanding of NOAA Fisheries role in addressing energy costs, we request a staff-level briefing regarding efforts to comply with President Trump’s declaration of a National Energy Emergency as soon as possible.”

    Read the letter to NOAA Fisheries here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Bausch + Lomb Announces Voluntary Recall of enVista Aspire™, enVista Envy™ and Certain enVista® Monofocal Intraocular Lenses in the U.S.

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    April 03, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    April 07, 2025
    Product Type:
    Medical Devices
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Increased frequency of reports of toxic anterior segment syndrome

    Company Name:
    Bausch + Lomb Corporation
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    enVista Aspire

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    enVista Aspire™, enVista Envy™ and Certain enVista® Monofocal Intraocular Lenses

    Company Announcement
    Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO), a leading global eye health company dedicated to helping people see better to live better, today announced a voluntary recall of intraocular lenses (IOLs) on its enVista platform. This action was taken after the company received reports of complications, the cause of which could not immediately be explained.
    “As much as we believe in the enVista platform, patient safety will always be our number one priority,” said Brent Saunders, chairman and CEO, Bausch + Lomb. “Surgeons and patients trust Bausch + Lomb, and I believe that this voluntary recall is the best thing we can do to honor that trust.”
    The recall is in response to an increased number of reports of toxic anterior segment syndrome (TASS), and includes all lots of the following enVista Aspire, enVista Aspire Toric, enVista Envy and enVista Envy Toric, as well as enVista monofocal and enVista monofocal Toric IOL models in the U.S.
    Impacted Product

    Model Description
    Model Identifier:
    Lots
    UDI-DI

    enVista Monofocal IOL
    All models starting with EE
    ALL
    Click here for UDI list

    enVista Aspire IOL
    All models starting with EA
     
     

    enVista Envy IOL
    All models starting with EN
     
     

    enVista Monofocal Toric IOL
    All models starting with ETE
     
     

    enVista Aspire Toric IOL
    All models starting with ETA
     
     

    enVista Envy Toric IOL
    All models starting with ETN
     
     

    TASS, a potential complication in any cataract surgery, is an inflammatory reaction inside the eye that can have a variety of causes. When it occurs, this complication typically appears 12 – 48 hours after eye surgery. All enVista TASS cases reported to Bausch + Lomb to date responded quickly to treatment, and none have required removal of the lens.
    “These reports represent only 1-2% of implanted lenses, with a positive prognosis for everyone involved,” Saunders continued. “We look forward to identifying a root cause and bringing the enVista platform back to market.”
    Communications to eye care professionals are underway, with instructions for product return. Click here for a message from Saunders to customers, here for a copy of the U.S. version of the recall notice and here for a TASS fact sheet.
    For Patients: Cataract surgery patients experiencing eye discomfort should contact their eyecare professional immediately.
    For Eyecare Professionals: Please continue to closely monitor cataract surgery patients for at least 48 hours after surgery. Please instruct patients with new or worsening symptoms to contact your office immediately.
    To report an adverse event, please contact Bausch + Lomb Customer Service at 1-800-338-2020, option 1, or submit a report to U.S. FDA’s MedWatch program (call 1-800-332-1088 to request a form). For more information about this recall, please contact Bausch + Lomb Customer Service at 1-800-338-2020, option 9, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm Eastern, Monday through Friday.

    Company Contact Information

    Consumers:
    Bausch + Lomb Customer Service
    (800) 338-2020

    Content current as of:
    04/07/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: LaLota to House GOP Leadership: Be Responsible and Compassionate When Reforming Medicaid

    Source: US Representative Nick LaLota (NY-01)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Nick LaLota (R-NY-01), joined fellow House Republicans in sending a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson, GOP Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, and Energy and Commerce Chairman Brett Guthrie, reaffirming their strong support for Medicaid, urging Republican leadership to protect coverage for vulnerable Americans and reiterating a vote of opposition to any GOP bill that includes any reduction in Medicaid coverage for vulnerable populations. 

    The letter, signed by Republican lawmakers from districts with high Medicaid reliance, underscores the importance of maintaining care for children, seniors, pregnant women, and individuals with disabilities while calling for responsible reforms that improve transparency and efficiency and warning that any cuts to Medicaid could have devastating impacts on hospitals and safety-net providers, particularly in rural and underserved areas where many facilities rely heavily on Medicaid reimbursements.

    “Medicaid is a vital safety net that provides health care to millions of low-income Americans, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities. I’m committed to responsible, compassionate reforms that protect the program for those who truly need it,” said LaLota. “That’s why I joined my colleagues in calling on House GOP leadership to protect Medicaid coverage while pursuing common-sense reforms. These include work requirements for able-bodied adults, limiting benefits to legal residents, and increasing eligibility checks from every 12 months to every 6 months to help prevent fraud and abuse.”

    To read the full text of the letter, click HERE.

    Background: 

    Rep. LaLota has a strong track record in voting to defend and support Medicaid. 

    In February 2025, LaLota voted for a budget reconciliation which is a foundational measure laying the groundwork for stronger Medicaid and protection of vital programs. 

    In August 2024, Lalota led a bipartisan bill to prevent Medicaid cuts to New York Hospitals. The bill was supported by America’s Essential Hospitals, the Healthcare Association of New York State (HANYS), the Suburban Hospital Alliance of NYS, the Alliance of Safety-Net Hospitals, Nassau-Suffolk Hospital Council, and the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA).

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Ontario, P.E.I. Join Nova Scotia With Legislation to Remove Internal Trade Barriers

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Nova Scotia has received national attention for efforts to remove borders on interprovincial trade. Now, Prince Edward Island and Ontario have joined the Province by introducing reciprocal legislation that will help foster an environment of mutual recognition of goods, services and labour mobility between these provinces.

    “Leaders across the country are expressing interest in removing trade barriers, and I’m very pleased that P.E.I. and Ontario have tabled legislation to remove all their trade barriers,” said Premier Tim Houston, who is also the Minister of Trade. “This is a significant moment for our country, and these actions say a lot about our commitment to make our economies stronger. This moment is too important to miss for the sake of all Canadians.”

    P.E.I.’s and Ontario’s legislation match the spirit of Nova Scotia’s Free Trade and Labour Mobility within Canada Act, are concise and impactful and would remove barriers once and for all.

    Other provinces and territories have also indicated their willingness to remove barriers, and some have indicated that although they do not have new legislation, they have effectively removed barriers through a combination of steps, including amendments to existing legislation, ministerial notes and other correspondence. Nova Scotia is hopeful this has been achieved and will work with each to assess whether the sum total of these steps do, in fact, effectively and permanently remove all barriers.

    Nova Scotia’s Free Trade and Labour Mobility within Canada Act specifically addresses:

    • goods manufactured, produced or approved for use in a reciprocating province or territory, which will be treated the same as those produced in Nova Scotia
      • this will eliminate additional fees or testing requirements for goods from these provinces and territories
    • service providers and licensees properly certified or licensed in a reciprocating province, who will be recognized as if they are licensed in Nova Scotia if they are in good standing with no outstanding complaints in a reciprocating jurisdiction
      • they must register with the equivalent Nova Scotia regulator and obtain licensing or certification or insurance
      • this ensures that businesses providing services can operate across provincial borders without the burden of additional licensing or certification.

    Quotes:

    “I’m thrilled to be joined by Premier Houston as we take the next step in tearing down costly and unnecessary interprovincial trade barriers within Canada. Premier Houston and Nova Scotia have been leaders on this front, and I’m looking forward to working together to make our country more prosperous, more united and more able to withstand whatever comes our way.”
    — Doug Ford, Premier of Ontario

    “Nova Scotia’s Free Trade and Mobility within Canada Act shows what governments can accomplish when there is real political will. With small businesses across Canada facing increased trade uncertainty, eight in 10 are now urging their respective provinces to follow Nova Scotia’s lead. It has been positive to see other provinces table similar legislation. Small businesses now want to see governments move quickly by following through with real action.”
    — Duncan Robertson, Director of Legislative Affairs (Nova Scotia), Canadian Federation of Independent Business

    Quick Facts:

    • more than $530 billion worth of goods and services move across provincial and territorial borders every year – equal to 20 per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product
    • interprovincial exports contribute about 17 per cent of Nova Scotia’s gross domestic product and make up about half of Nova Scotia’s total exports (about 48 per cent of all goods and services)
      • in 2023, the value of Nova Scotia’s interprovincial exports was nearly $29 billion
    • Ontario is the largest market for Nova Scotia’s goods and services in Canada
    • in Canada, Prince Edward Island is Nova Scotia’s largest market on a per capita basis, followed by New Brunswick
    • last year, one-third of Canadian businesses participated in internal trade by buying or selling goods across provincial or territorial borders

    Additional Resources:

    Free Trade and Mobility within Canada Act: https://nslegislature.ca/sites/default/files/legc/statutes/free%20trade%20and%20mobility%20within%20canada.pdf

    P.E.I. news release – Premier Lantz tables bill aimed to eliminate trade barriers: https://www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/news/premier-lantz-tables-bill-aimed-to-eliminate-trade-barriers

    Bills tabled during the current session of the Ontario legislature are available at: https://www.ola.org/en/legislative-business/bills/current

    MIL OSI Canada News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Preview upcoming Dynamics 365 features at Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Preview upcoming Dynamics 365 features at Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event

    Adaptation and change are the only constants in business—and the pace is accelerating. To thrive, your business needs the right tools, from AI-powered insights to low-code solutions, designed to help you adapt faster, enhance customer experiences, and boost efficiency.

    Register for the Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event.

    Join us on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, for the Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event, an exclusive first look at groundbreaking innovations coming to Microsoft Dynamics 365, Microsoft Power Platform, and Microsoft Copilot Studio. See firsthand how these new technologies empower your organization to proactively navigate changes and seize new opportunities.

    Event highlights include:

    • Live demonstrations of the latest updates in Dynamics 365, Microsoft Power Platform, and Copilot Studio.
    • Insights from Microsoft leaders on transforming CRM and ERP systems with agents to drive customer experiences and operational agility.
    • Real-world success stories from organizations using Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform.
    • Interactive Q&A session with product experts.

    During the event you will gain in-depth insights into how customers are adopting what’s new in Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Power Platform.

    Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales:

    • AI-powered Microsoft Copilot and agents to boost seller productivity
    • Automated research, proactive follow-ups, and prioritized actions
    • Streamlined, intuitive user experiences designed to help sellers close deals faster

    See Dynamics 365 Sales 2025 release wave 1 in action for more.

    Microsoft Dynamics 365 Customer Service:

    • AI-enhanced case and knowledge management with intelligent routing
    • Extended Copilot capabilities for improved productivity
    • Microsoft Dynamics 365 Contact Center enhancements for effortless self-service and faster issue resolution

    See Dynamics 365 Contact Center 2025 release wave 1 in action for more.

    Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance:

    • Copilot-first experiences streamlining complex tax and compliance management
    • Automated account and bank reconciliations using intelligent agents
    • Advanced analytics and planning tools to drive smarter financial decisions

    See Dynamics 365 Finance 2025 release wave 1 in action for more.

    Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management:

    • Integrated AI, analytics, and automation for improved operational efficiency
    • Enhanced supplier communication and demand planning accuracy
    • Intelligent manufacturing features aligning production data to real-world processes

    See Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management release wave 1 2025 in action for more.

    Copilot Studio:

    • Create custom autonomous agents tailored to your specific business needs
    • Extend Microsoft 365 Copilot with new embedded capabilities
    • Connect with new conversational channels, including WhatsApp and SharePoint

    See Power Automate 2025 release wave 1 in action for more.

    Catch the wave—Register today

    The Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event streams live on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, starting at 9 AM PST and will also be available on-demand. Register now to stay updated and get helpful resources ahead of the event.

    Microsoft Business Applications Launch Event

    Join us on Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

    MIL OSI Economics –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Dingell Holds Senior Forum to Highlight Importance of Social Security

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

    Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) held a seniors’ forum this morning at Fox Run Senior Living to highlight the importance of protecting Social Security. Hundreds of seniors gathered to express their anger, anxiety, and fears about cuts to Social Security.

    “Social Security is a part of the fabric of who America is and how we care for our seniors. Two out of every three retirees rely on Social Security for the majority of their income, and millions of families depend on the program for disability or benefits after the loss of a loved one. But Elon Musk and DOGE have fired 7000 Social Security employees, made it more difficult to call and use the website, continue to make the Social Security Administration less effective, and have threatened to shut it down,” Dingell said. “The Commerce Secretary has said his mother-in-law would be fine if she missed a monthly Social Security check, but the fact is that most Americans wouldn’t be. I will continue to fight in Congress to make sure we keep the promise of Social Security and will continue to look out for the wellbeing of aging Americans and vulnerable populations who need our help.”

    There are 2.3 million Social Security beneficiaries in Michigan, including more than 137,000 children. In response to Social Security Administration (SSA) field office closures, Rep. Dingell is co-leading the Keeping Our Field Offices Open Act, which would place a moratorium on the closure of field offices for the rest of the Trump Administration. Rep. Dingell also co-leads the Beneficiary Data Protection Act that would stop DOGE and political appointees from accessing sensitive data systems at SSA. It would also codify SSA data privacy requirements into law, and strengthen oversight and civil penalties for any privacy and disclosure violations of Social Security beneficiaries’ personal information.

    View photos from the event here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pelosi Joins Congressional Democrats in Fighting Back Against Trump’s Attacks on the FTC and Independent Agencies

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

    San Francisco —  Yesterday, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi joined Senate and House Democrats in filing an amicus brief opposing President Donald Trump’s unlawful attempt to fire members of the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). FTC Commissioners Rebecca Slaughter and Alvaro Bedoya are duly appointed, Senate-confirmed Commissioners at an independent federal agency created by Congress. Trump’s illegal attempts to terminate them threaten the integrity of independent federal agencies and the FTC’s ability to enforce civil antitrust law and protect the public from fraudsters and monopolists.

    The brief was led in the Senate by Judiciary Antitrust Subcommittee Ranking Member Cory Booker (NJ), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (NY), Judiciary Ranking Member Dick Durbin (IL), Commerce Ranking Member Maria Cantwell (WA), Senator Elizabeth Warren (MA), and Senator Amy Klobuchar (MN). Co-Chairs of the House Litigation and Rapid Response Task Force, Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Jamie Raskin (MD-08) and Assistant Democratic Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02), in conjunction with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Energy and Commerce Committee Ranking Member Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), and Antitrust Subcommittee Ranking Member Jerry Nadler (NY-12) are leading the brief in the House of Representatives. 251 Congressional Democrats signed the amicus brief. 

    In Slaughter v. Trump, a case filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia challenging the unlawful attempted firings of FTC Commissioners Slaughter and Bedoya, the congressional amicus brief argues: 

    1. The Supreme Court’s 1935 decision in Humphrey’s Executor makes clear that Congress has the power to create independent multimember agencies like the FTC and provide removal protections for FTC Commissioners;

    2. Throughout our nation’s history, Congress has created independent agencies with multimember boards or commissions whose members enjoy removal protections, like the Commissioners of the FTC, and this established practice has been consistently upheld by the Supreme Court; and

    3. Constitutional text and history support Congress’ constitutional authority to temper the President’s exercise of removal.

    The full brief is available here.

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Active Longevity: Finding a Balance Between Tourism and Being a Grandmother

    Translartion. Region: Russians Fedetion –

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

    © Higher School of Economics

    Within the framework XXV Yasinsky (April) International Scientific Conference A round table was held on the topic of active longevity. Experts discussed the implementation of state policy and corporate experience in this area.

    The round table “Active Longevity Programs: Regional and Corporate Experience” was organized jointly Institute of Social Policy HSE University and the D.I. Mendeleyev Institute of Demographic Policy.

    Vice-Rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics, Director of the Institute of Social Policy Liliya Ovcharova recalled that the President’s decree on national development goals contains two target demographic indicators: increasing the total fertility rate and increasing life expectancy.

    “There are many events aimed at promoting the birth rate, and the topic of increasing life expectancy is still not sufficiently represented in the information agenda. At the same time, there are many scientific publications confirming the contribution of active longevity programs to healthy life expectancy,” she noted.

    Deputy Director of the Institute of Social Policy at the National Research University Higher School of Economics Oksana Sinyavskaya spoke about the specifics of socio-demographic processes that influence the priorities of social policy in the interests of the older generation. She noted that the population of Russia is aging, but the reserves for increasing life expectancy are high. According to the definition of the speaker, active longevity is “a state of social, economic, physical and psychological well-being that provides older citizens with the opportunity to meet their needs and be included in various spheres of society, achieved with the active participation of the citizens themselves.”

    Oksana Sinyavskaya also spoke about the implementation of the principles of active longevity in the Strategy of Actions in the Interests of Senior Citizens in the Russian Federation until 2030. Its goal is to increase the life expectancy and quality of life of the elderly. In addition to health protection and the development of medical care in the geriatrics profile, it talks about strengthening the value of a multi-generational family in society, creating conditions for the realization of the personal potential of senior citizens, increasing their financial security and developing infrastructure for a high-quality and safe life.

    More than 12 million people are currently participating in regional active longevity programs. Among the most popular areas of these programs are physical education and sports, education and enlightenment, socio-cultural events and social tourism. At the same time, the speaker noted the rather low awareness of citizens about the possibilities of the programs, as well as some limitations in the offer of services, especially in the area of social tourism.

    Ivan Efimov, Executive Director of the D.I. Mendeleyev Institute of Demographic Policy, noted that despite the beneficial effects of active longevity programs, research shows that they often “take grandparents away from the family.” “I think it is important to work from the point of view that no nanny can replace a grandmother. If we are talking about improving demographics, including the birth of children, it is important that there is a favorable environment for a grandmother to be with her family, with her grandchildren,” he believes.

    Deputy Executive Director of the D.I. Mendeleyev Institute of Demographic Policy, Head Responsible Business Laboratory HSE University Oleg Krivokhizhin told which indicators related to active longevity are taken into account by the Business Reputation Index of Entrepreneurs (EKG-rating). He noted that many enterprises take care of pensioners, make them additional payments and pension supplements, issue voluntary health insurance, organize spa treatment and various cultural events.

    “Today, the ECG rating of companies is becoming an indicator not only of how the company stimulates birth rates, but also of how it supports employees after retirement,” the expert noted.

    Deputy Director of the State Budgetary Institution “Moscow Longevity” Anna Skorik informed about the positive experience of the project implemented in the capital, and the head of the public projects department of the Russian Gerontological Scientific and Clinical Center of the Russian National Research Medical University named after N.I. Pirogov Vadim Samorodov spoke about the medical aspects of working with the elderly and the importance of a systematic approach in this work aimed at improving the quality of life in old age. He noted that in the last five years of life, people spend about 50% of their lifetime treatment costs.

    Olga Eremenko, Vice President and Director of the Department of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Compliance of PSB Bank, Anastasia Gorelkina, Deputy Chairman of the Board of Directors of SDS Holding Company, Member of the Board of Directors of Azot JSC, Vice President of the Association of Communication Agencies of Russia (AKAP), and Alexey Basisty, Deputy General Director for HR Management of Gazprom Transgaz Moscow, shared their companies’ experience in creating conditions for employment of people of different ages and implementing active longevity projects.

    “As part of the implementation of the social support program in 2024, the company allocated more than 190 million rubles to improve the quality of life of people of silver age,” Anastasia Gorelkina reported, in particular.

    According to her, the events cover a wide range of areas – from regular financial assistance to providing free mobile communications. In addition, the company provides additional payments for holidays. For example, Victory Day, Miner’s Day.

    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 –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Growing Rural Businesses: Pioneering Hydroponics Business Plants Roots in Las Animas County

    Source: US State of Colorado

    TRINIDAD — The Business Funding & Incentives Division of the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade (OEDIT) announced today that Bird & Squirrel Hydroponics, LLC, a pioneering hydroponics business, has been accepted into the Rural Jump-Start Program. Focused on cultivating and supplying high-quality herbs and leafy greens, hydroponic systems and technology, Bird & Squirrel Hydroponics will create new jobs and help diversify the local economy. 

    “Rural Jumpstart is supporting businesses across Colorado and I’m excited to see that Bird & Squirrel are making their home in Trinidad. This investment will support the local economy and strengthen the community overall. Their focus on hydroponics builds on Colorado’s rich agricultural industry, bringing new cutting-edge technology to support sustainable agriculture,” said Governor Jared Polis. 

    “We’re thrilled to see Bird & Squirrel expand in Las Animas County. The Rural Jump-start Program was created in partnership with rural communities to support the unique needs of rural businesses, and today’s announcement highlights the innovation these entrepreneurs are bringing to their communities,” said OEDIT Executive Director Eve Lieberman. 

    Utilizing advanced hydroponic techniques, Bird & Squirrel Hydroponics is committed to sustainable farming practices that ensure year-round production of fresh, pesticide-free produce, as well as developing industry leading hydroponic systems and technology. The company focuses on three distinct products and services: 1) cultivating and supplying high-quality herbs and leafy greens to regional restaurants, 2) designing and building custom hydroponic systems for personal and business use, and 3) small-scale manufacturing of an AI automated hydroponic controller. 

    “We are excited to bring Bird and Squirrel Hydroponics to Trinidad, Colorado. This opportunity allows us to provide the surrounding communities with fresh, pesticide-free herbs and greens year-round, while also fostering technological innovation in the area with our AI Hydroponics Controller. We’re passionate about contributing to the local economy and advancing sustainable agricultural practices in this region,” said Jeff Layton, Co-Founder of Bird & Squirrel Hydroponics. 

    The Rural Jump-Start (RJS) program encourages economic development and job creation in economically distressed, rural counties of Colorado. Businesses that start in or move to RJS zones can qualify for relief from the state business income tax, the sales and use tax, and county/municipal business personal property taxes. Qualified employees also receive relief from their state personal income tax. In addition, businesses are eligible for a general operating grant of up to $20,000. These grants are intended to support regional economic and workforce development activities that expand local business, create new good-paying jobs, and strengthen and diversify local economies. Sponsoring entities like Trinidad State College help identify RJS candidates in their communities and work with the business to help ensure its success in the program and in the community. 

    “We are very pleased to be a sponsor for this exciting and innovative hydroponics venture. Trinidad State College is committed to growing workforce and economic development opportunities within our multi-county service area. Our support of Bird and Squirrel Hydroponics, LLC is an important step towards solidifying the TSC strategic vision of driving shared prosperity within our communities,” said James Kynor and Vice President of Operations and Workforce Development. 

    To learn more about the Rural Jump-Start program, please contact 
    Quina Weber-Shirk at quina.webershirk@state.co.us. 

    About the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade 

    The Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) works to empower all to thrive in Colorado’s economy. Under the leadership of the Governor and in collaboration with economic development partners across the state, we foster a thriving business environment through funding and financial programs, training, consulting and informational resources across industries and regions. We promote economic growth and long-term job creation by recruiting, retaining, and expanding Colorado businesses and providing programs that support entrepreneurs and businesses of all sizes at every stage of growth. Our goal is to protect what makes our state a great place to live, work, start a business, raise a family, visit and retire—and make it accessible to everyone. Learn more about OEDIT.

     ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: RTI to Exhibit and Speak at DeviceTalks Boston 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Real-Time Innovations (RTI), the infrastructure software company for smart-world systems, will exhibit at DeviceTalks Boston 2025, taking place April 30–May 1 at the Boston Convention Center. At booth #700, RTI will demonstrate how its Connext® software enables intelligent connectivity across complex, distributed medical systems—from remote robotic surgery to next-generation monitoring, imaging, and beyond.

    On day one of the event, RTI CEO Stan Schneider will join NVIDIA’s Senior Director of Business Development for Healthcare, David Niewolny, for a discussion on how next-generation, edge-AI systems operate. NVIDIA provides the AI brain, while RTI delivers the connectivity nervous system for intelligent physical systems. Attendees will learn how AI is being integrated into today’s most advanced systems and what it takes to make them work in real time.

    RTI will also co-present with MedAcuity at the co-located Robotics Summit on “Advancing Remote Surgery: Tackling Latency, Precision, and Security Issues.”

    At booth #700, RTI will demonstrate remote teleoperation technology in collaboration with MedAcuity. The demo will highlight how Connext® software enables real-time control of an off-site robotic arm, showcasing the potential of low-latency connectivity in remote surgery applications.

    With its proven track record among leading healthcare innovators, Connext provides the data backbone that accelerates development and unlocks the potential of intelligent, distributed systems.

    Event Details

    What: RTI at DeviceTalks 2025, Booth #700
    When: April 30 – May 1, 2025
    Where: Boston Convention Center, 415 Summer St, Boston, MA 02210

    Speaking Session Details
    What: Advancing Remote Surgery: Tackling Latency, Precision, and Security Issues
    When: April 30, 2025, from 1:45 PM – 2:30 PM (EDT)
    Where: Room 260, Robotics Summit (co-located with DeviceTalks Boston)
    Who: Darren Porras, Market Development Manager at RTI, and Tom Amlicke, Technical Director, Robotics at MedAcuity

    What: Inside the Machine: How AI Operates in MedTech
    When: April 30, 2025, from 2:30 PM – 3:15 PM (EDT)
    Where: Room 162A, DeviceTalks Boston
    Who: Stan Schneider, CEO at RTI, and David Niewolny, Senior Director of Business Development for Healthcare at NVIDIA

    For more information about RTI at DeviceTalks or to meet with one of our experts, please visit this link.

    About RTI

    Real-Time Innovations (RTI) is the infrastructure software company for smart-world systems. RTI Connext® is the world’s leading software framework for intelligent distributed systems. Uniquely, Connext users can build systems that combine advanced sensing, fast control, and AI algorithms.

    With 2,000 customer designs, RTI excels at getting customers to production. RTI software runs over 300 autonomous vehicle programs, supports dozens of automotive ADAS and software-defined architectures, controls the largest power plants in North America, integrates over 500 major defense programs, drives a new generation of MedTech systems and robotics, and underlies Canada’s air traffic control and NASA’s launch control systems.

    RTI runs a smarter world.

    RTI is the market leader in products compliant with the Data Distribution Service (DDS™) standard. RTI is privately held and headquartered in Silicon Valley with regional offices in Colorado, Spain, and Singapore.

    Download a free trial of the latest, fully-functional Connext software today: www.rti.com/downloads

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Africa: New business rescue practitioner appointed for troubled North West Transport Investment

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    The appointment of Mahomed Mahier Tayob as the new Business Rescue Practitioner (BRP) for the troubled North West Transport Investment (NTI) has been welcomed.

    This follows the recent Gauteng High Court’s ruling in favour of the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, which led to the removal of the then BRP, Thomas Hendrick Samons.

    The department confirmed that NTI had applied for a voluntarily business rescue in July 2022, after facing financial difficulties.

    According to the department, Samons was tasked with turning the entity around to make it more sustainable and to generate income to pay creditors, primarily the employees. 

    However, he failed to account for the funds that the government had injected into the entity.

    The BRP also failed to pay salaries, which resulted in the cancellation of employees’ medical aid coverage, as well as the non-payment of their pay-as-you-earn (PAYE) and Unemployment Insurance Fund (UIF) contributions.

    The salaries of over 1 500 employees at NTI companies were not paid from September to December 2022, March to May 2023, June to November 2023, and February to March 2024.

    The NTI group, through its subsidiary Northwest Star, was established in 1973 as a wholly owned company of the North West Provincial Government and has served as the primary transport source in the province for decades.

    NTI can still be rescued

    Meanwhile, the Portfolio Committee on Community Safety and Transport Management, led by Freddy Sonakile, said it remains resolute in its belief that NTI can still be rescued. 

    “To this end, we will conduct a follow-up oversight visit to the NTI headquarters and depots within a month to assess the current state of the entity and to receive the official turnaround plan from both the newly appointed BRP and the department.

    “We note with concern that the former BRP, Mr Thomas Sammons, has launched a further appeal against the ruling. However, we take comfort in the fact that the Court invoked Section 18 of the Superior Courts Act, which ensures that the judgment is enforceable despite any application for leave to appeal,” said Sonakile.

    The committee expressed concern that the BRP continues to issue correspondence despite his removal.

    “What is deeply alarming, however, is the information received by the committee indicating that Mr Sammons continues to issue correspondence to NTI staff purporting to act as the BRP, despite his removal. Should these allegations prove to be true, we call on the department to urgently investigate this matter, and to lay criminal charges for fraud where appropriate.” 

    The committee has also called on the new BRP to prioritise a comprehensive turnaround strategy, within the 25-day window prescribed by the Companies Act.

    “At the heart of this plan must be the regularisation of NTI’s structural challenges, the restoration of salary payments to its employees who have suffered prolonged uncertainty, and a clear audit of previous disciplinary processes, many of which were reportedly handled arbitrarily,” said the Chairperson.

    The have since committed to maintaining its strict oversight role to ensure accountability, transparency, and ultimately, the restoration of NTI as a viable public transport entity that can serve the people of the North West with reliability and dignity.

    The department stated that Tayob is a senior BRP with impressive qualifications obtained from South Africa and the United Kingdom.

    “Among other entities Mr Tayob has rescued, include a State bus company in Gauteng and has also investigated R2.6 billion investment scheme on behalf of the Hawks.” 

    According to the department, Tayob will collaborate closely with Dr Ntlhopeng Dikobe, who has been appointed by the department as the Acting CEO of NTI. 

    Tayob is also expected to present a turnaround plan and provide regular reports to the shareholder representative, ensuring that NTI is restored to profitability. – SAnews.gov.za
     

    MIL OSI Africa –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: NextNav Announces Appointment of H. Wyman Howard and Lorin Selby to its Board of Directors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RESTON, Va., April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — NextNav Inc. (NASDAQ: NN), a leader in next-generation position, navigation and timing (PNT) and 3D geolocation, today announced that its board of directors has elected Rear Admiral H. Wyman Howard and Rear Admiral Lorin Selby to serve as board members, effective May 1, 2025.

    “We are honored to welcome Rear Admiral Howard and Rear Admiral Selby to the NextNav Board of Directors,” said Mariam Sorond, NextNav’s Chief Executive Officer and Board Chair. “Their extensive military and national security leadership, experience in technology research and development, and management capabilities will be invaluable to NextNav as we execute on our strategic goals in providing a terrestrial backup and complement to GPS to address a major national security threat.”

    Rear Admiral Howard (Retired) served 32 years in the U.S. Navy, including serving most recently as Commander, Naval Special Warfare Command and previously as Commander, Special Operations Command Central, Assistant Commander, Joint Special Operational Command, and Director of Operations for the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency. He has commanded at all levels of naval special operations, including as the commanding officer of the Naval Special Warfare Development Group from 2011-2013. Admiral Howard also serves on the board of Bridger Aerospace Group Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: BAER), an aerial firefighting and aerospace services company, and Invitation Homes Inc. (NYSE: INVH), a single-family home leasing and management company. Admiral Howard graduated from the United States Naval Academy and holds a Master of Business Administration from the TRIUM consortium of the London School of Economics, HEC Paris School of Management, and New York University’s Stern School of Business. Admiral Howard holds a Master of Science in National Security and Resource Strategy with a focus on commercial, civil, and military space sectors from the Eisenhower School and a Professional Certificate in Artificial Intelligence and Business Strategy from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory.

    Rear Admiral Selby (Retired) served nearly 37 years in the U.S. Navy, including serving most recently as the Chief of Naval Research, leading the workforce at the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Research Laboratory where they develop leading-edge technologies for the Navy and Marine Corps. Prior assignments include serving as the Commander of the Naval Surface Warfare Centers and as the Chief Engineer of the United States Navy and Deputy Commander for Ship Design, Integration, and Naval Engineering at the Naval Sea Systems Command, where he drove innovation, optimized performance, and generated new ways of doing business. Admiral Selby also held highly visible roles like the Deputy Director of the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs to the U.S. House of Representatives and command of a fast-attack nuclear submarine. Following his retirement, he has taken on various consulting roles, advising small and mid-sized technology companies. He currently serves as President and CEO of Selby Partners Consulting LLC and is a founding partner in a maritime-focused growth equity fund, Mare Liberum Capital Partners. Admiral Selby holds a B.S. in Nuclear Engineering from the University of Virginia, an M.S. in Nuclear Engineering, and a Nuclear Engineer Degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He has also completed extensive executive business coursework, and his achievements have been recognized through numerous personal and unit awards.

    About NextNav
    NextNav Inc. (Nasdaq: NN) is a leader in next-generation positioning, navigation and timing (PNT), enabling a whole new ecosystem of applications and services that rely upon 3D geolocation and PNT technology. Powered by low-band licensed spectrum, NextNav’s positioning and timing technologies deliver accurate, reliable, and resilient 3D PNT solutions for critical infrastructure, GPS resiliency and commercial use cases.

    For more information, please visit https://nextnav.com/ or follow NextNav on X at https://x.com/NextNav or LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/nextnav/.

    Source: NN-FIN

    Contacts:
    Investor Contact:
    IR@nextnav.com

    Media Contact:
    NNmedia@nextnav.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ciscomani Highlights Accomplishments from the First 100 Days of the 119th Congress

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Juan Ciscomani (Arizona)

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Congressman Juan Ciscomani is marking the first 100 days of the 119th Congress by celebrating the key wins that benefit Arizona’s 6th Congressional District. 

    “I hit the ground running in January, continuing on our success during my first term, serving our district and prioritizing the needs of our community,” said Ciscomani. “From working with President Trump to secure the border, to passing legislation for our nearly 80,000 veterans, to working with my colleagues to get rid of waste, fraud and abuse in the federal government while protecting vital services for the most vulnerable among us, to returning nearly $3 million directly back to constituents, to appointing more than 20 students to our military academies, and more, I am fully committed to continue delivering real results – which earned me the honor of being named the most effective member of the Arizona congressional delegation. I’m very proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish so far and we’re just getting started!” 

    Ciscomani participates in a mining lunch in Casa Grande (left), attends Vail Unified School District Pride Day (middle), and talks to students (right) 

    Ciscomani’s 100 Days of the 119th Congress: 

    • Ranked as the most effective member of Congress from Arizona during the 118th Congress, the 3rd most effective freshman, and the 15th most effective member of the House of Representatives by the Center for Effective Lawmaking  

    • Returned $2.8 million in savings to constituents in the 119th Congress, including $1.25 million for veterans, and over $1 million in savings in one week. 

    • Co-led or co-sponsored 107 pieces of legislation 

    • Had two bills pass the House of Representatives with bipartisan approval: 

      • The Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act (H.R. 35) to impose federal penalties on individuals who engage in high-speed car chases with Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agents or law enforcement officers assisting CBP within 100 miles of the border.  
      • The Prioritizing Veterans’ Survivors Act (H.R. 1228) to ensure that surviving families of veterans receive the benefits and support they deserve, even after their loved one has passed away.  
    • Sent a letter to Speaker Johnson urging him to protect Medicaid, SNAP benefits, and Pell Grants, which Ciscomani is a recipient of. 
    • Named as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security.  
    • Led a letter to the Secretary of the Army to review regulations and provide greater flexibility to ensure veterans and servicemembers are able to receive their Purple Heart award. 
    • Named as Vice Chair of the Conservative Climate Caucus. 
    • Hosted the third annual Service Academy Day for students planning to attend a prestigious military academy. 

    • Attended a roundtable with Department of Veterans Affairs Secretary Doug Collins 

    • Published the following op-eds: 

    • Met with constituents and attended events across all five counties in Arizona’s 6th District. 

    • Attended a fireside chat with the U.S. Hispanic Business Council.  

    By the numbers: 

    • Returned $2.8 million in casework for constituents in the 119th Congress.  

    • Attended 74 meetings with constituents, stakeholders, elected leaders, and more both in the district and Washington D.C. 

    • Appointed 24 students to Military Service Academies. 

    • Took 20 flights between Tucson and Washington D.C. 

    • Introduced 13 pieces of legislation  

    • Passed 2 bills through the House 

    • Gave 15 speeches from the floor of the House of Representatives. 

    • #1 – Most effective member of Arizona’s congressional delegation in the U.S. House and U.S. Senate 

    In the News  

    You can find a list of pictures from the 119th Congress here! 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Stairway to jail over GST fraud

    Source: New places to play in Gungahlin

    A Melbourne man has been sentenced to 2 years and 11 months imprisonment after obtaining over $390,000 in fraudulent GST refunds and attempting to obtain a further $330,000, as well as failing to comply with a court order.

    Acting Deputy Commissioner Kath Anderson commended the latest outcome under the ATO-led investigation Operation Protego.

    ‘There are no ifs, ands or buts here – if you don’t run a business, you don’t need an ABN and you cannot claim GST refunds. This is fraud,’ Ms Anderson said.

    ‘Fraud against the ATO is not tolerated and we continue the fight against criminals seeking to exploit the tax system.’

    Joshua Merrett was sentenced for one count of obtaining a financial advantage by deception, one count of attempting to obtain a financial advantage by deception and one count of failing to comply with an order. The failing to comply with an order charge was due to Mr Merrett refusing to provide his phone passcode to the Australian Federal Police after they seized his phone.

    Mr Merrett had registered for an Australian Business Number (ABN) for a business that specialises in staircase manufacturing and antique furniture repairs. Between June 2021 and June 2022, he submitted 31 business activity statements (BAS) containing false information. This resulted in $394,801 in refunds being paid within a 3-month period, which triggered an audit and account lock down.

    In addition, he attempted to obtain over $330,000 in GST refunds, however this was stopped by the ATO.

    Mr Merrett tried to avoid ATO auditors but could not escape the consequences of his deceptive actions. Two months following the last GST refund being paid, ATO investigators and the Australian Federal Police conducted a search warrant at Merrett’s residence. The search showed no evidence of any commercial activity, or sales or purchases consistent with running a business.

    He was ordered to be released after serving 1 year and 8 months, upon entering into a recognisance to the sum of $1,000 on condition he be of good behaviour for a period of 2 years. He was also ordered to pay reparations to the amount of $392,917.74.

    This conviction is not the end of the story for Mr Merrett. The debt from the fraudulent GST returns is still on his record and the ATO will continue to chase it down, which includes seizing any future refunds.

    This matter was prosecuted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (Cth) (CDPP) following a referral from the ATO.

    The ATO reminds the community that GST fraud is not a victimless crime. Those who engage in this illegal activity are actively taking away funds that would otherwise be used for essential services such as healthcare, infrastructure, and education.

    The ATO will continue to pursue those who commit fraud through criminal investigations and debt recovery actions to enforce repayment.

    As part of Operation Protego, the ATO has taken compliance action against more than 57,000 alleged offenders, and those involved in this fraud have already been handed in the order of $300 million in penalties and interest.

    As of 31 March 2025:

    • 103 people have been convicted with a range of sentencing outcomes, including jail terms of up to 7 years and 6 months and with orders made to restrain real property.
    • The ATO has 3 individuals currently under active investigation.
    • The ATO has finalised 61 investigations and referred 51 briefs of evidence to Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions.

    You can confidentially report suspected tax crime or fraud to us by making a tip-off online or call 1800 060 062.

    For more information about Operation Protego visit ato.gov.au/GSTrefundfraud.

    MIL OSI News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI USA: Supplement Manufacturing Partner, Inc. Issues Recall on Dorado Nutrition Brand Spermidine Supplement 10mg Vegetable Capsules (Spermidine 3HCL) Due To Undeclared Wheat Allergen

    Source: US Department of Health and Human Services – 3

    Summary

    Company Announcement Date:
    April 14, 2025
    FDA Publish Date:
    April 16, 2025
    Product Type:
    Food & BeveragesAllergens
    Reason for Announcement:

    Recall Reason Description
    Undeclared wheat

    Company Name:
    Supplement Manufacturing Partners, Inc.
    Brand Name:

    Brand Name(s)
    Dorado Nutrition/Space Garden

    Product Description:

    Product Description
    Spermidine/Spermidin

    Company Announcement
    Supplement Manufacturing Partners, Inc. is recalling Dorado Nutrition brand Spermidine Maximum Strength 10 MG per serving, because it contains undeclared wheat. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to wheat run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume this product.
    Spermidine Maximum Strength 10 MG per serving was sold online at Amazon from 05/22/2024 to 04/04/2025.
    Product was also sold in Germany as Spermidin 60 Kapseln 38g under Deep Green GmbH aka Space Garden.
    The Dorado Nutrition brand Spermidine Maximum Strength 10mg per serving is packaged in a white capsule bottle containing 120 capsules. The product is labeled with a blue outlined label, with a best by date of 04/2026 located on the bottom of the bottle, with Lot Number 12792402-44 and 12792402-44J. No allergic or adverse reactions have been reported to date.
    The recall was initiated after a Supplement Manufacturing Partner investigation following a test of the product. It was discovered that product containing wheat was distributed in packaging that did not reveal the presence of wheat. The mislabeled product has been removed from sale.
    Consumers who have purchased the product are urged to return them to the place of purchase for a full refund. Consumers with questions may contact the company at SMPQuality@smpnutra.com or at 833-810-9896, 9-5 EST.

    Company Contact Information

    Product Photos

    Content current as of:
    04/16/2025

    Regulated Product(s)

    Topic(s)

    Follow FDA

    MIL OSI USA News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Surgent Unveils New Lineup of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Courses on CPA Day 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RADNOR, Pa., April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Surgent CPE, a leader in continuing professional education for accounting and finance professionals, on April 16 — in celebration of CPA Day — announced the launch of nearly 50 new CPE courses as the 2025 post-busy season begins.

    These courses arrive just after the tax filing and year-end audit report deadlines — a critical time for CPAs to pivot their focus toward fulfilling their CPE credit requirements by the June 30 deadline and before summer breaks.

    “Understanding the pressing needs of our audience, Surgent is excited to offer a robust selection of timely and practical courses that empower accounting professionals to stay ahead in a dynamic industry,” said Elizabeth Kolar, executive vice president and managing director of Surgent. “Our new offerings include engaging webinars and on-demand options ensuring busy professionals can select learning paths that fit their schedules.”

    This new CPE lineup includes 30 live webinars starting April 22, along with 18 new on-demand Microsoft Excel and Power BI courses, which are available now for immediate access.

    Nick Spoltore, vice president of tax and advisory content at Surgent, emphasized the importance of staying informed post-tax season. “With new tax laws expected to emerge in 2025, our tax-focused courses provide essential tools for enhancing practitioner effectiveness and delivering value to clients,” said Spoltore.

    For professionals navigating the growing influence of technology in accounting, the addition of five specialized courses on artificial intelligence will enhance knowledge and skills in this critical area.

    Jack Castonguay, Surgent’s vice president of learning and development, highlighted the relevance of the AI-focused courses, “These courses are designed to help professionals harness the power of generative artificial intelligence and data analysis tools such as Excel and Power BI, thereby transforming how they analyze complex information.”

    The new CPE offerings cover a variety of fields of study, including courses on taxes (12), information technology (12), specialized knowledge (three), governmental auditing (two) and regulatory ethics (one).

    New Live Webinars:

    • April 22: Exploring Business Valuation Fundamentals (BVF2) – Learn the foundational concepts and practical application of business valuation and corporate finance in determining what makes a business valuable. Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge | Credits: 2
    • April 29: A Complete Guide to Form 1099-K (GFK2) – Gain insights into the IRS filing requirements for payment settlement entities and how Form 1099-K helps improve tax compliance. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • May 7: Introduction to Required Minimum Distributions (RMD2) – Understand the complex rules behind required minimum distributions (RMDs) for retirement accounts and how to help clients meet their obligations efficiently. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • May 8: Data at 30,000 Feet: Traveling Smart with Client and Personal Information (TSA2) – Explore essential strategies for safeguarding sensitive client and firm data while traveling, addressing cybersecurity risks and ethical obligations. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • May 13: Introduction to AI in Accounting (AIA2) – Discover the fundamentals of AI and its transformative potential for accounting practices, including applications, challenges, and future trends. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • May 14: Defending Firms: Email Fraud, Cloud Risks, Cyber Insurance, and Remote Work Security (DEF2) – Strengthen your firm’s cybersecurity defenses by addressing common threats such as email fraud, cloud risks, and remote work vulnerabilities. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • May 14: Basis Shifting: Final Regulations (BSR4) – Delve into the IRS’s final regulations targeting partnership-based tax abuses and learn how to navigate complex transactions to avoid scrutiny. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 4
    • May 15: Navigating AI Compliance: The EU AI Act for U.S. Finance and Accounting Leaders (AIC2) – Master the EU AI Act’s compliance requirements and prepare your organization for regulatory challenges in the age of artificial intelligence. Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge | Credits: 2
    • May 20: AI and Data Ethics in Accounting (ETA2) – Examine the ethical implications of AI use in accounting, focusing on data ethics, regulatory requirements, and best practices for ethical AI implementation. Field of Study: Regulatory Ethics | Credits: 2
    • May 21: Leveraging AI for Data Analytics in Accounting (LDA2) – Learn to apply AI tools to enhance data analytics in accounting, improving decision-making and operational efficiency. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • May 23: A Complete Guide to Reporting Form 1099-DA (FDA2) – Understand the IRS reporting rules for digital asset transactions and how to properly file Form 1099-DA for 2025 sales. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • June 4: Forms 7217 and 7203 (F722) – Explore new IRS reporting forms, Form 7217 for partnership property distributions, and Form 7203 for S corporation shareholder basis calculations. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • June 6: IT Systems and Data Management (ITD2) – Strengthen your organization’s IT infrastructure by mastering data management, business resiliency, and disaster recovery strategies. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • June 10: Where To Live in Retirement (WTR2) – Help clients evaluate key factors in choosing their ideal retirement location, based on lifestyle, finances, and personal goals. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • June 17: Fraud In Single Audits (FSA4) – Learn from real-world fraud cases that slipped through single audits, improving your ability to detect and prevent fraud in future audits. Field of Study: Auditing (Governmental) | Credits: 4
    • June 17: Elder Fraud (EFR2) – Protect vulnerable seniors from fraud by understanding common scams and implementing effective cybersecurity practices. Field of Study: Specialized Knowledge | Credits: 2
    • June 24: IT Governance and Risk Management (GRM2) – Master IT governance frameworks and risk management techniques to safeguard your organization’s technology infrastructure. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • June 24: Home Office Rules (HOF2) – Explore the tax implications of home office deductions for the self-employed and understand the rules for office-related expenses. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • June 26: Information Security and Privacy (SPR2) – Learn the latest strategies to protect data privacy and security in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • June 30: System and Organization Controls (SOC) Engagements (SOC2) – Gain a deep understanding of SOC reports and their application in safeguarding financial reporting and operations through effective internal controls. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • July 2: Simply Auditing Not-for-Profits Efficiently (SAN4) – Learn how to audit not-for-profit entities effectively by incorporating their unique characteristics into audit planning and execution. Field of Study: Auditing (Governmental) | Credits: 4
    • July 15: Virtual Currency: Keeping Up with the Tax Code (VCR2) – Explore recent tax law changes and the nuances of virtual currency, including new reporting requirements for tax practitioners. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • July 22: Tax Planning for Rental Real Estate (RRE4) – Delve into the complex taxation of real estate, exploring exceptions, qualifications for material participation, and strategies for minimizing tax liabilities. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 4
    • Aug. 5: Introduction to Charitable Gifting for Individual Taxpayers (CGI2) – Understand charitable gifting strategies and their tax implications for individuals, including methods to maximize tax efficiency. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 5: Incident Response and Case Studies in AI-powered Cybersecurity (CYC2) – Examine AI-powered cybersecurity incident response through real-world case studies and enhance crisis management skills. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 11: Foundations of Cybersecurity for Financial Professionals (CFY2) – Learn essential cybersecurity concepts tailored to financial professionals and their critical role in risk management and financial reporting. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 14: Tax Research – Intermediate Concepts (TRS2) – Master intermediate tax research techniques to efficiently answer clients’ questions with clear, concise explanations. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 19: Generative AI and Cybersecurity: Opportunities and Threats (CYG2) – Understand the transformative impact of generative AI on cybersecurity, focusing on both the benefits and risks in financial contexts. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 25: Capital Assets: Basis and Taxation for Financial Professionals (CAB2) – Explore the intricacies of capital asset taxation, including basis determination, gain/loss classification, and advanced tax planning strategies. Field of Study: Taxes | Credits: 2
    • Aug. 25: Cybersecurity Risk Management for Financial Professionals: Policies, Controls, and Emerging Threats (CYR2) – Learn to implement effective cybersecurity policies and controls tailored to financial environments, with a focus on global compliance standards. Field of Study: Information Technology | Credits: 2

    On-Demand Webcasts: The 18 new on-demand Microsoft Excel and Power BI courses can be accessed immediately via Surgent’s course catalog here.

    Surgent CPE remains committed to delivering flexible, relevant and premium CPE content tailored for busy professionals. With a goal to keep accounting and finance professionals at the forefront of industry changes, Surgent offers unmatched resources to foster ongoing career development.

    Professionals can now register for the nearly 50 new courses through the Surgent CPE website, providing the flexibility needed to earn CPE credits while balancing their busy schedules.

    For further details about the new course offerings, please visit SurgentCPE.com.

    About Surgent Accounting & Financial Education
    Surgent Accounting & Financial Education, a division of KnowFully Learning Group, is a provider of the high-impact education experiences that accounting, tax and financial professionals need throughout their careers. For most of the company’s 40-year history, Surgent has been a trusted provider of continuing professional education (CPE), continuing education (CE) and skill-based training that professionals need to maintain their credentials and stay current on industry changes. More recently, Surgent became one of the fastest-growing certification exam review providers, offering adaptive learning-based courses that help learners pass accounting and finance credentialing exams faster. Learn more at Surgent.com.

    About KnowFully Learning Group
    The KnowFully Learning Group provides continuing professional education, exam preparation courses and education resources to the accounting, finance and healthcare sectors. KnowFully’s suite of learning solutions helps learners become credentialed, satisfy required credit hours to maintain credentials and stay informed on the latest trends and critical changes in their industries over the course of their careers. The company provides exam preparation and continuing education for accounting, finance and tax professionals headlined by the Surgent Accounting & Financial Education brand. KnowFully’s healthcare education brands include American Fitness Professionals & Associates, ChiroCredit, freeCE, Impact EMS Training, Online CE, PharmCon, Rx Consultant and Psychotherapy.net. For more information, please visit KnowFully.com.

    Contact:
    marketing@surgent.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/362cc968-4df5-431f-bb4a-d5b2c183deed

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Security: Machining Supplier Settles PPP Lawsuit for $1.5 Million

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SW North America, Inc., a machining and automation supplier, agreed to pay $1,520,958.14 to resolve allegations that the company violated the False Claims Act by applying for and receiving a loan it was not eligible for in the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), announced Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.

    Congress created the PPP in March 2020, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide emergency loans to small businesses suffering economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.  Whether an applicant qualified for a PPP loan depended on various factors, including employee-count size standards for applicants.

    SW North America applied for and received a PPP loan in the principal amount of $1,204,400 in 2021, which was later forgiven in full.  It was alleged in the lawsuit, however, that SW North America with its affiliates exceeded the applicable size standards for the loan, and was ineligible for that reason.

    “PPP loans were intended, first and foremost, to help eligible small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Acting United States Attorney Chad E. Meacham.  “This office will continue to aggressively pursue loan recipients who were not eligible to obtain taxpayer funds, whether due to their size or for any other reason.”

    The settlement resolved a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States and share in a portion of the government’s recovery.  The qui tam lawsuit is case number 3:24-CV-1123-N in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, and the qui tam relator, GNGH2 Inc., will receive $187,003.05 in connection with the settlement.  

    The government was represented in the lawsuit by Assistant United States Attorney Andrea Hyatt, with assistance from Amber Perez of the SBA.  The civil claims settled by the agreement are allegations only; there has been no determination of civil liability.

    MIL Security OSI –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Derby LIVE wins ‘Public’s Business’ award after panto success

    Source: City of Derby

    Derby City Council’s Derby LIVE has been named as the Public’s Business of the Year following a public vote.

    The win at the Lots for Tots Awards follows closely on the heels of Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment’s record-breaking production of Cinderella receiving nominations in two categories at the UK Pantomime Association’s Pantomime Awards.

    The Lots for Tots Awards recognise and celebrate the exceptional businesses and individuals who make a positive impact on the lives of families throughout Derbyshire.

    The Public’s Business of the Year Award specifically honours family-focused organisations that work with or support families and children in the Derbyshire area. This award, along with only one other category, was entirely decided by public vote, highlighting the strong connection Derby LIVE has with the local community.

    Upcoming family entertainment presented by Derby LIVE and partners includes the St George’s Day celebrations in the city centre on Saturday 26 April, the Pop-up Theatre events at Markeaton Park in June and Derby Parks’ Superhero Picnics in July.

    Derby LIVE’s award success comes after their spectacular pantomime Cinderella, a collaboration with Little Wolf Entertainment, was recognised on a national stage at the UK Pantomime Association’s Pantomime Awards. Facing competition from hundreds of productions across the country, Cinderella received nominations for:

    Carmen Silvera Award for Best Magical Being – Mina Anwar (Fairy Godmother)
    Best Sisters – Morgan Brind and Roddy Peters

    While Cinderella didn’t take home the trophies at last weekend’s Awards Ceremony, the nominations themselves are a testament to the high-quality family entertainment produced by Derby LIVE and Little Wolf Entertainment.

    The cast of Cinderella

    Little Wolf won two awards, with their production of Snow White at Loughborough Town Hall named as Best Pantomime (500-900 seats), and Emma Robertson receiving the award for Best Newcomer to the Industry for her role in the same show.

    Derby LIVE and Little Wolf are already hard at work creating this year’s magical Derby Arena pantomime, Dick Whittington. Following the unprecedented success of Cinderella, which was Derby’s highest-grossing and best-attended pantomime in the arena’s history, tickets for Dick Whittington are expected to be in high demand. Tickets are on sale now, and families are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment.

    Councillor Nadine Peatfield, Leader of Derby City Council and Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, said: 

    Since I passed on the ownership of Lots for Tots back in 2022, the business has gone from strength to strength and it’s wonderful to see their annual awards taking off here in Derby. Derby LIVE has been rightly recognised for their tireless work, bringing vibrancy and family fun to Derby. I’m so proud of the entire team.

    This recognition, together with the incredible success of Cinderella, fuels our passion for providing these events and we can’t wait to share the magic of Dick Whittington this year.

    Book tickets for Dick Whittington at derbylive.co.uk or by calling 01332 255800. The show will be at Derby Arena from Friday 5 December until Wednesday 31 December 2025. Book before 31 May to get tickets at the Early Bird price of £20-£35. Concessions and family ticket savings are available.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Global: King Charles visits the Vatican: my research shows countries that cut ties with the Catholic Church perform better

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jason Garcia-Portilla, Lecturer in Business Management, University of Winchester

    King Charles’s recent visit to the Vatican may appear to be simply a symbolic gesture of ecumenical goodwill. But moments like this provide an opportunity to look at the long-term consequences of church-state relations around the world.

    Britain, of course, has a complicated history with the Catholic church. Edward VII (Charles’s great-great-grandfather) was the first UK monarch to visit the Vatican since the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century.

    The UK (and much of western Europe) is largely secular today, but this is a global exception: 85% of the world’s population identifies as religious. These beliefs are often passed down through generations, not necessarily chosen freely.

    Today’s religious identities have more to do with political decisions made centuries ago than with personal faith. Spain and Portugal are predominantly Catholic not because of the individual choices of their population, but because their monarchs aligned (and maintained the hegemony) of the Roman Catholic church-state. In England, on the other hand, King Henry VIII broke away from Rome in the 1530s, challenging (“protesting”) against the universal papal authority and leading to the establishment of the Church of England.

    This religious split also carried over to former colonies. Compare the US, (a Protestant country) to Mexico or Brazil (Catholic countries), and you’ll see the long shadow of these old decisions. My research shows the profound and lasting consequences of religion on these societies.

    Diverging nations

    In my book Ye Shall Know Them by Their Fruits, I analysed data from 65 countries across Europe and the Americas using both qualitative and quantitative methods.

    My findings suggest that countries with historical and legal alignments with the Catholic church — such as Spain, Portugal, Austria, Ireland and much of Latin America — tend to underperform on a number of metrics, including inequality and education, and have more political corruption compared to states that maintained institutional separation (such as through the Protestant Reformation). Historical Protestant countries include the UK, Switzerland, Scandinavian and North American countries.

    In particular, countries with strong traditional links to the Catholic church tend to exhibit higher levels of corruption and inequality. They also perform weaker in education, sustainability and competitiveness compared to Protestant countries.

    Prosperity and educational differences between Protestants and Roman Catholics are evident even within countries. In Switzerland, the Protestant cantons (such as Geneva and Zurich) are currently the most competitive, while the Roman Catholic cantons (such as Ticino and Valais) are the least competitive. In Germany, Protestants are more educated (0.8 years more) and more prosperous (5.4% higher income) than Catholics.

    Differences in economic prosperity and education are even higher comparing data across Protestant and Catholic countries.

    Before the Reformation, literacy in England was below 10%, and the Roman church largely monopolised education. The Protestant emphasis on individual reading – especially of the Bible – dramatically increased literacy rates and access to knowledge. This paved the way for broader democratic participation, industrialisation and innovation.

    Protestantism similarly proved influential in historical law revolutions, gradually separating society from feudal institutions and papalist medieval canon law.

    In Britain, the Reformation was not just a theological shift, but a political one, breaking institutional ties with Rome and affirming national sovereignty. The long-term effects of that decision have echoed through the UK’s democratic and economic development.

    Church-state relations

    The Vatican’s political influence is often underestimated. The Roman Catholic church is the only religious body that is, at the same time, a sovereign political state – with ambassadors, diplomatic immunity and seats at international forums. The pope holds absolute executive, legislative and judicial authority.

    Many of today’s Catholic-majority countries maintain formal relations with the Roman See through bilateral treaties called concordats. These agreements exert the power of the church in countries that have them, and are rarely democratically consulted with the population.

    In Colombia, for example, concordats throughout history have linked religion and politics, have given church-influenced groups power over the economy, and allowed Rome to control what is taught in public and private education at all levels.

    Since then, liberal efforts have reestablished much of the state’s power. But the effects are still evident in the strong cultural identity and presence of Catholicism in the country. Colombia has one of the highest proportions of adults raised as Roman Catholics in the world (92%), after Paraguay (94%).

    The Vatican remains a political actor whose influence is often underestimated.
    Collection Maykova/Shutterstock

    Historically, informal gestures of religious diplomacy have laid the groundwork for further cooperation and formal agreements with Rome.

    But King Charles’s recent Vatican visit is more diplomatic than anything. It reflects modern efforts to maintain and strengthen state-to-state relations and discuss shared global concerns like climate change and peacebuilding.

    It is for this reason that the king’s visit matters – not because a formal treaty is on the table, but because it shows the strength of the UK’s experience since the Reformation. An exemplary model of the success of church-state separation, British democracy and prosperity have thrived for centuries – without formal entanglements with the Catholic church.

    Dr Jason Garcia-Portilla earned his PhD in Organization Studies and Cultural Theory at the University of St. Gallen (Switzerland), financed with a Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship–ESKAS. Additionally, he holds an MSc in Climate Change and Policy from the University of Sussex in the UK (funded by the British Chevening Scholarship).

    – ref. King Charles visits the Vatican: my research shows countries that cut ties with the Catholic Church perform better – https://theconversation.com/king-charles-visits-the-vatican-my-research-shows-countries-that-cut-ties-with-the-catholic-church-perform-better-254357

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Starting today, we’re bringing computer use agent capabilities to Copilot Studio – enabling anyone to build agents that take action on the UI across both desktop and web apps. Excited to see what this unlocks!

    Source: Microsoft

    Headline: Starting today, we’re bringing computer use agent capabilities to Copilot Studio – enabling anyone to build agents that take action on the UI across both desktop and web apps. Excited to see what this unlocks!

    Starting today, we’re bringing computer use agent capabilities to Copilot Studio – enabling anyone to build agents that take action on the UI across both desktop and web apps. Excited to see what this unlocks!

    Charles Lamanna

    Corporate Vice President, Business & Industry Copilot at Microsoft

    16h

    Exciting news from Microsoft Copilot Studio today – computer use is here! With computer use, you can enable your agents to automate interactions across desktop and web apps effortlessly, responding to changes in real-time. Read all about it in this blog: https://lnkd.in/g-TwS4xV

    MIL OSI Economics –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Temporary duties imposed on engine oils and hydraulic fluids

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    News story

    Temporary duties imposed on engine oils and hydraulic fluids

    The Government  has accepted the TRA’s recommendation to impose provisional duties on imports of engine oils and hydraulic fluids from Lithuania and the UAE.

    The Secretary of State for Business and Trade has today (16/04/2025) accepted the Trade Remedies Authority (TRA)’s recommendation to impose provisional anti-dumping duties on imports of engine oils and hydraulic fluids from Lithuania and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), following evidence of dumping that has caused injury to UK industry. These measures will be in effect for a period of up to six months. 

    A Provisional Affirmative Determination (PAD) allows temporary duties to be imposed while a full investigation is completed.  

    The investigation, which was initiated in June 2024, found on a preliminary basis that UK producers were being undercut by an average of 37% of UK sales prices, causing material injury to domestic industry. The TRA’s investigation followed an application from UK manufacturer Aztec Oils Ltd.  

    The investigation covers certain engine oils and hydraulic fluids, including passenger car motor oils, heavy-duty commercial vehicle oils, and hydraulic oils.  

    In its Provisional Affirmative Determination, the TRA has recommended provisional duties ranging from 11.60% to 24.95% for individual participating companies and countrywide rates of 49.59% for Lithuania and 59.40% for the UAE.  

    UK producers are expected to benefit from these measures by between £5 million and £55 million, depending on their ability to adjust prices in response to the duties.  

    The TRA will continue its full investigation while these provisional measures are in place.  

    Note to editors:  

    • The Trade Remedies Authority is the independent UK body that investigates whether new trade remedy measures are needed to counter unfair import practices and unforeseen surges of imports.   

    • The TRA is an arm’s length body of the Department for Business and Trade.   

    • Anti-dumping duties allow a country or union to act against goods which are being sold at less than their normal value – this is defined as the price for ‘like goods’ sold in the exporter’s home market.  

    • The period of investigation is from 1 April 2023 to 21 March 2024.

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    Published 16 April 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI China: Chinese commerce minister calls for efforts to expand service consumption

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

    BEIJING, April 16 — Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao has called for multiple measures to bolster service consumption, amid efforts to spur domestic demand and economic growth.

    He made the remarks in a signed article published Wednesday in Qiushi Journal, the flagship magazine of the Communist Party of China Central Committee.

    Expanding service consumption is an important lever for stimulating domestic demand across the board, a task that has been identified as the top priority for 2025 in China’s government work report, according to the commerce minister.

    In recent years, service consumption has gained steam in China. Per capita service consumption expenditure in 2024 among residents rose 7.4 percent compared to the previous year, contributing 63 percent to the overall growth in per capita consumption expenditure.

    China has tailwinds to expand service consumption, driven by the unlocking of market potential, upgrading consumption structure and accelerating industry development, according to Wang.

    However, the minister cautioned that several challenges, such as the relatively low level of service industry openness, insufficient supply of high-quality services, and the room for improvement in consumption environment, still pose constrains on the sector’s expansion.

    To further stimulate service consumption, the government plans to roll out policies that support sectors such as household services and digital consumption, Wang said, adding that support will also be directed toward industries related to tourism, ultra-high-definition, the sports events economy, and traditional Chinese medicine health services.

    China will develop fiscal, tax, and financial policies to introduce targeted and practical measures, he said.

    A fresh move in this direction, China on Wednesday unveiled a work plan to boost service consumption. The plan proposes 48 specific measures across a broad spectrum of industries, covering both main service sectors as well as new forms of business and new consumption scenarios.

    MIL OSI China News –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Veeco Announces Date for First Quarter Financial Results and Conference Call

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PLAINVIEW, N.Y., April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Veeco Instruments Inc. (NASDAQ: VECO) plans to release its first quarter 2025 financial results after the market closes on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. The company will host a conference call to review these results starting at 5:00 PM ET that day.

    To join the call, dial 1-877-407-8029 (toll free) or 1-201-689-8029. Participants may also access a live webcast of the call by visiting the investor relations section of Veeco’s website at ir.veeco.com. A replay of the webcast will be made available on the Veeco website beginning at 8:00 PM ET that same evening.

    About Veeco
    Veeco (NASDAQ: VECO) is an innovative manufacturer of semiconductor process equipment. Our laser annealing, ion beam, single wafer etch & clean, lithography, metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD), and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) technologies play an integral role in the fabrication and packaging of advanced semiconductor devices. With equipment designed to optimize performance, yield and cost of ownership, Veeco holds leading technology positions in the markets we serve. To learn more about Veeco’s systems and service offerings, visit www.veeco.com.

    To the extent that this news release discusses expectations or otherwise makes statements about the future, such statements are forward-looking and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the statements made. These factors include the risks discussed in the Business Description and Management’s Discussion and Analysis sections of Veeco’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and in our subsequent quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and press releases. Veeco does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect future events or circumstances after the date of such statements.

    Veeco Contacts:                                
    Investors: Anthony Pappone | (516) 500-8798 | apappone@veeco.com
    Media: Brenden Wright | (516) 714-1202 | bwright@veeco.com

            

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Pillar Security Raises $9M to Help Enterprises Build and Run Secure AI Software

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TEL AVIV, Israel, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Today, Pillar Security, a pioneering AI security startup that helps enterprises build and run secure AI software, announced it has raised $9 million in Seed funding. The round was led by Shield Capital, joined by Golden Ventures, Ground Up Ventures and other strategic angel investors. Funds will support expanding Pillar’s R&D and go-to-market efforts.

    As organizations rapidly build and deploy AI-driven software systems, traditional cybersecurity tools and processes are struggling to keep pace, creating critical protection gaps. A recent Deloitte survey of 1,200 cybersecurity leaders identified major AI-specific risk areas – including evasion attacks, data poisoning, data privacy, and intellectual property leakage, with 77% of respondents expressing significant concern about these threats. Moreover, two in five organizations have already experienced an AI-related security or privacy incident, one in four of which were malicious. The need for a purpose-built AI security solution has never been more urgent. Pillar Security addresses this need head-on, providing an end-to-end security platform specifically designed for AI-integrated software systems.

    “AI is fundamentally changing the way we build software — it doesn’t just add another step to traditional processes; it introduces an entirely new lifecycle,” said Dor Sarig, CEO & Co-Founder at Pillar Security. “We are entering the intelligence age, where software has gained agency and data itself has become executable. Pillar’s technology, backed by real-world AI threat intelligence, is built with this understanding, delivering a new class of protection designed explicitly for AI-related security risks. We are redefining application security to match the agentic and autonomous software of the Intelligence Age. This funding accelerates our mission to set new AI security benchmarks, empowering organizations to innovate securely and confidently, while uniting AI teams and security teams around a common language and toolset.”

    Pillar’s end-to-end platform addresses the complete AI lifecycle and its evolving threat landscape. Pillar seamlessly integrates with existing code repositories, data infrastructures, and AI/ML platforms that teams already rely on, delivering immediate value without disrupting established workflows. It automatically maps all AI-related assets across the organization — from models and datasets to prompts, notebooks, and frameworks. Pillar rigorously tests AI models and their underlying infrastructure, applications, and agentic layers on which they’re built upon. This comprehensive approach enables Pillar to deploy customized and adaptive guardrails aligned with each AI application’s unique risk profile and specific business objectives, proactively preventing failures that directly impact operational continuity.

    Shield Capital’s lead investor, Elias Manousos, former CVP at Microsoft responsible for AI Copilot for Security and Threat Intelligence, and former CEO of RiskIQ, commented, “As agentic AI systems are increasingly being deployed within businesses, hand in hand with an equally burgeoning threat surface, Pillar uniquely understands that securing software in the AI era requires more than incremental improvements. Their visionary approach sets a new standard for how organizations secure and manage intelligent systems. Pillar’s team expertise, together with their holistic security vision, is precisely why we led this investment round.”

    “Enterprise AI adoption can only scale with security and compliance evolving in tandem,” added Nick Chen, Partner at Golden Ventures. “Pillar is a pioneer in defining and provisioning “trust infrastructure” that streamlines and secures AI procurement, development and deployment across the enterprise. Its platform is critical to enable leaders in any industry to drive AI transformation quickly, responsibly and securely.”

    “What impressed us most about Pillar was their holistic approach to AI security. With dozens of AI initiatives in development, we needed a security partner that not only pinpoints vulnerabilities but also helps remediate them automatically. Pillar’s tailored red teaming provides critical insights that continuously enrich their adaptive guardrails, uniquely aligned with each AI application’s specific risk profile and business objectives — this was a game-changer for us,” said Tomer Maman, CISO @ Similarweb.

    “Businesses leveraging AI face a rapidly evolving set of risks — from model integrity and data poisoning to supply chain threats, and sophisticated inference attacks,” said Navot Volk at Ground Up Ventures. “Pillar was purpose-built for this reality, delivering robust protection amid the radical impact of AI, ensuring organizations remain secure, compliant, and agile.”

    Pillar is reshaping the AI security landscape through groundbreaking research powered by unmatched real-world threat intelligence. By establishing the industry’s largest AI threat intelligence feed, Pillar has analyzed insights from over 50 million AI application interactions to date. This unique visibility fuels Pillar’s advanced threat modeling and precision risk engines, proactively detecting and countering live AI attacks in production. In addition, Pillar’s research team recently exposed critical vulnerabilities, including the “Rules File Backdoor” in GitHub Copilot and Cursor, and published an industry-first report on real-world attacks against LLMs — revealing that attacks average just 42 seconds, with 20% of jailbreaks succeeding. Alongside the proven impact of its pioneering end-to-end platform, Pillar’s research demonstrates the company’s unwavering commitment to advancing industry-wide AI security standards.

    The company is already working with leading AI innovators from Fortune 500 companies to cutting-edge tech enterprises such as Similarweb, Eleos Health, and AvidXchange, while actively collaborating with key players throughout the AI ecosystem and industry-leading organizations.

    Learn more about Pillar’s platform and vision on the Pillar website and blog.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e1a9c979-b0c1-4d6f-ac70-d73f7d30cf57

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-OSI: Kingsoft Cloud Announces Pricing of Public Equity Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    BEIJING, April 16, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Limited (“Kingsoft Cloud” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: KC and HKEX: 3896), a leading cloud service provider in China, today announced the pricing of its underwritten public offering (the “Public Offering”) of 18,500,000 of American depositary shares (the “ADSs”), each representing 15 ordinary shares of the Company, at a price of US$11.27 per ADS or a total of 277,500,000 ordinary shares at a price of HK$5.83 per ordinary share, based upon each ADS representing 15 ordinary shares and an exchange rate of HK$7.7574 to US$1.00, the spot rate of exchange at the time of pricing. All ADSs will be offered by Kingsoft Cloud. Investors have an option to receive ordinary shares of the Company to be traded on the HKEX (the “Shares”) in lieu of ADSs in this offering.

    Subject to customary closing conditions, the underwriters expect to (i) deliver the ADSs against payment to the purchasers on or about April 17, 2025, on a “T+1” basis, through the facilities of the Depository Trust Company in the U.S.; and (ii) deliver the ordinary shares against payment therefor through the facilities of the Central Clearing and Settlement System in Hong Kong on or about April 25, 2025, on a “T+5” basis. In addition, Kingsoft Cloud has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional 2,775,000 ADSs at the Public Offering price, less underwriting discounts and commissions, which purchase, if applicable, will be settled only in ADSs.

    Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, Goldman Sachs (Asia) L.L.C., China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities Limited, Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited, and Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Limited are acting as the underwriters for the Public Offering.

    Concurrently with, and subject to, among other closing conditions, the completion of the Public Offering, the Company’s existing shareholder, Kingsoft Corporation Limited (“Kingsoft Corporation”) has agreed to purchase from the Company 69,375,000 of its ordinary shares at a price per share equal to the Public Offering price per ordinary shares, in a concurrent private placement (the “Concurrent Private Placement”). The Concurrent Private Placement to Kingsoft Corporation is being made pursuant to Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. The Concurrent Private Placement constitutes connected transactions within the meaning of the Listing Rules of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited and are subject to, among other conditions, (i) the approval by independent shareholders in a shareholder meeting the Company plans to convene, and (ii) the completion of the Public Offering.

    The gross proceeds to Kingsoft Cloud from the Public Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement, assuming the underwriters do not exercise its option to purchase additional ADSs, before deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and other offering expenses, are expected to be approximately US$260.7 million. The Company plans to use the net proceeds from the Public Offering and the Concurrent Private Placement for (i) investments in upgrading and expanding infrastructure, (ii) investments in technology and product development, and (iii) general corporate and working capital purposes.

    The ADSs and ordinary shares are offered in the Public Offering pursuant to an automatic shelf registration statement on Form F-3 filed with the SEC and is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. A preliminary prospectus supplement and an accompanying prospectus related to the proposed Public Offering have been filed with the SEC and are available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The final prospectus supplement will be filed with the SEC and will be available on the SEC’s website at: http://www.sec.gov. Copies of the preliminary prospectus supplement and the accompanying prospectus may be obtained by contacting Morgan Stanley Asia Limited, c/o Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC, 180 Varick Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10014, United States, or by telephone at +1-866-718-1649 or by emailing prospectus@morganstanley.com; Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Prospectus Department, 200 West Street, New York, NY 10282, telephone: 1-866-471-2526, facsimile: 212-902-9316 or by emailing Prospectus-ny@ny.email.gs.com; China International Capital Corporation Hong Kong Securities Limited, 29/F International Finance Center, No.1 Harbor View Street, Central, Hong Kong, by email at ecm_supernova_plus@cicc.com.cn; Deutsche Bank AG, Hong Kong Branch, Attention: Asia Equity Capital Market, Level 60, International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Road West Kowloon, Hong Kong, or by phone at +852 2203-8166 or by email at asia.ecm.internal@list.db.com; HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. sales representative or by emailing ny.equity.syndicate@us.hsbc.com; or Merrill Lynch (Asia Pacific) Limited, c/o BofA Securities, Inc., Attention: Prospectus Department, One Bryant Park, New York, NY, 10036, United States, or by telephone at +1 (800) 294-1322 or by email at dg.prospectus_requests@bofa.com.

    This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy ADSs, Shares or any other securities of the Company, nor shall there be any sale of ADSs or Shares in any state or jurisdiction in which such an offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

    Safe Harbor Statement

    This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “likely to”, “could”, “potential” or other similar expressions. Among other things, the Business Outlook, and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Kingsoft Cloud’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Kingsoft Cloud may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the SEC, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Kingsoft Cloud’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Kingsoft Cloud’s goals and strategies; Kingsoft Cloud’s future business development, results of operations and financial condition; relevant government policies and regulations relating to Kingsoft Cloud’s business and industry; the expected growth of the cloud service market in China; Kingsoft Cloud’s ability to monetize its customer base; general economic and business conditions in China and globally; and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in Kingsoft Cloud’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and Kingsoft Cloud does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

    About Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Limited

    Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Limited (NASDAQ: KC and HKEX:3896) is a leading cloud service provider in China. With extensive cloud infrastructure, cutting-edge cloud-native products based on vigorous cloud technology research and development capabilities, well-architected industry-specific solutions and end-to-end fulfillment and deployment, Kingsoft Cloud offers comprehensive, reliable and trusted cloud service to customers in strategically selected verticals.

    For more information, please visit: http://ir.ksyun.com.
      
    For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

    Kingsoft Cloud Holdings Limited
    Nicole Shan
    Tel: +86 (10) 6292-7777 Ext. 6300
    Email: ksc-ir@kingsoft.com

    The MIL Network –

    April 17, 2025

  • MIL-Evening Report: Election Diary: there were a couple of ‘moments’ in second Albanese-Dutton encounter

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra

    Two “moments” stuck out in Wednesday’s leaders’ debate, the second head-to-head of the campaign.

    Peter Dutton cut his losses over his faux pas this week when he wrongly named Indonesian president Prabowo Subianto as having said there had been a Russian approach to base aircraft in Papua.

    So that was a mistake, ABC moderator David Speers asked. “It was a mistake.”

    The other “moment” was in a discussion about negative gearing, when Anthony Albanese denied the government had sought modelling on that. The public service “certainly wasn’t commissioned by us to do so”. In fact, we know Treasurer Jim Chalmers asked Treasury to do it.

    That enabled Dutton to repeat a favourite Coalition line. “This prime minister has a problem with the truth.” (Albanese has given grist for this line by his denial earlier in the campaign that he fell off a stage, when the footage contradicted him.)

    While the leaders were predictably well-rehearsed across the broad sweep of issues, they could not prevent their weak spots being put on display.

    Albanese struggled with something that has not been canvassed enough.Wasn’t there a case for more means testing of some of the big spending the government has undertaken?

    Then of course there was the perennially unanswerable question: when will power prices come down? The PM squirmed.

    Dutton left us no more informed about what a Coalition government would cut to finance his programs, although he did concede, when asked whether cuts to the public service would be enough to cover all his spending, “The short answer is no”.

    On climate change, the opposition leader looked awkward, when asked what seemed simple questions, such as whether the impact of climate change was getting worse. That’s a judgement he’d prefer to leave to others, “because I’m not a scientist”.

    Aware that he is paying a political cost by being painted as Trump-lite, Dutton dodged when asked whether he trusted Trump. “I don’t know Donald Trump” was his lame response (although he continues to declare himself confident of being able to get a deal on tariffs with him).

    Albanese, for his part, said he had “no reason not to trust him”.

    The PM reconfirmed that in tariff discussions with the US, Australia’s critical minerals were on the table, but lacked clarity when pressed on what precisely was Australia’s proposed critical minerals reserve.

    The two leaders were at one on being behind AUKUS (just like they are on not touching negative gearing) despite increasing criticism of the agreement in Australia.

    Housing was thoroughly canvassed but without taking us much further. It now seems it is the politicians against the experts, many of whom are sceptical of much of both sides’ offerings.

    Speers’ raising the issue of renters was a reminder that the housing issue in this campaign – at least as it’s being argued by the main parties – has been firmly focused on promoting ownership. The plight of renters has been the bailiwick of the Greens.

    Asked about the one big reform change they’d like to be remembered for, Albanese nominated affordable child care.

    Dutton went to a more ambitious level, nominating energy, which was, he said, “the economy”, an inevitably more contestable area than childcare. This opened the usual claims and counter-claims about nuclear.

    For those who want to hear the next round of the leaders’ duelling, they will meet again on April 27 on commercial TV.

    Business signals post-election fight on gender-based undervaluation of work

    The Albanese government has made reducing the gender pay gap one of its signature issues. Among other initiatives, its legislation in 2022 required the Fair Work Commission to take into account the need to achieve gender equality.

    The commission’s expert panel for pay equity has been investigating five areas: pharmacists, health workers, social and community services employees, dental assistants, and child care workers.

    On Wednesday its results were released, finding gender-based undervaluation of work in all these areas and proposing pay rises up to 35%.

    There is an immediate determination for pharmacists, who will receive a 14.1% pay rise phased in over three years. In the other areas, a process of further hearings will commence.

    The government reacted cautiously. The bill for the wages of many workers in the care sector falls on to the public purse.

    A Labor spokesperson said: “A re-elected Albanese Government will engage positively with the Commission consistent with the principles set out in our submission [to the expert panel] , including our obligation to manage any changes in a fiscally and economically responsible manner”.

    The Australian Industry Group declared “many employers will struggle to meet the scale of the increased costs proposed”.

    “Industry will be  anxiously awaiting  the response of the major sides of politics  to the decision and what concrete commitments will be made to assist employers in grappling  with its implications.”

    The last thing the government wants to make on this before the election is a “concrete commitment”.

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

    – ref. Election Diary: there were a couple of ‘moments’ in second Albanese-Dutton encounter – https://theconversation.com/election-diary-there-were-a-couple-of-moments-in-second-albanese-dutton-encounter-254586

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

    April 17, 2025
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