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Category: Commerce

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to Texas Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Winter Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Texas who sustained economic losses due to the drought beginning Jan. 28.

    The declaration includes the counties of Aransas, Austin, Bee, Brooks, Calhoun, Colorado, Concho, DeWitt, Dimmit, Duval, Fayette, Goliad, Gonzales, Hidalgo, Jackson, Jim Hogg, Jim Wells, Karnes, Kimble, Kleberg, La Salle, Lavaca, Live Oak, Mason, Matagorda, Maverick, McCulloch, McMullen, Menard, Nueces, Refugio, San Patricio, Schleicher, Starr, Sutton, Tom Green, Victoria, Webb, Wharton and Zapata.

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

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

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Offers Relief to New Mexico Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Winter Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the availability of low interest federal disaster loans to small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in New Mexico who sustained economic losses due to drought occurring Jan. 28.

    In New Mexico the declaration includes the counties of Catron, Cibola, Lincoln, Los Alamos, McKinley, Mora, Rio Arriba, Sandoval, San Juan, Santa Fe, Sierra, Socorro, Taos, Torrance and Valencia, in Arizona, Apache County, in Colorado the declaration includes Archuleta, Conejos, La Plata and Montezuma counties, and in Utah, San Juan County.

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

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

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months after the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than Dec. 1.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Score the new Pixel 9a and Google One AI Premium perk at Verizon and save big!

    Source: Verizon

    Headline: Score the new Pixel 9a and Google One AI Premium perk at Verizon and save big!

    [TL;DR]

    • Pixel 9a now at Verizon: Available in Obsidian and Iris for $13.88/month or “on us” with any myPlan for new lines.
    • Google AI Premium Perk: Verizon customers can get Google One AI Premium for $10 a month ($9.99 a month in savings), unlocking Gemini Advanced and 2TB of storage.
    • Price lock guarantee: Verizon is the first and only carrier in the industry offering new and existing customers a three-year price lock guarantee on all myPlan and myHome network plans. Price guarantee excludes taxes and fees.

    [The big news]

    The Google Pixel 9a is coming to Verizon, featuring everything you love about Pixel, including AI-power with Gemini, an amazing camera, a durable design, robust security features, Pixel Drops and seven years of Pixel updates from Google.

    Pixel 9a will be available on April 10 in Obsidian and Iris colors for $13.88 a month for 36 months (0% APR, $499.99 retail). Verizon mobile and home subscribers can also take full advantage of the Pixel 9a when they add the Google One AI Premium perk to their account. This complements the various savings Verizon offers on entertainment and productivity services. Whether it’s YouTube Premium, Travelpass or many more, you know we are giving you the best value.

    [Why Verizon is the best place to get your Google Pixel 9a]

    Three years. Free phone. Zero price hikes on network plans. It’s control, value and simplicity for all. Get the new Google Pixel 9a, on us, with a new line on any myPlan plan — no trade-in required. Also, switch to Verizon and get plans as low as $30 a line per month with four lines on Unlimited Welcome and Auto Pay (plus taxes and fees). Verizon continues to provide value for its customers with an industry-leading guarantee — a 3-year price lock on all myPlan and myHome network plans and free satellite texting. Price guarantee applies to base monthly rate only.

    Business offers. Now every business can get the new Google Pixel 9a on us, with select data plan and device payment purchase agreement..

    Epic Gemini AI perk. Verizon customers can choose Google One AI Premium as a perk on their myPlan (mobile) or myHome (internet) plan for just $10 a month — that’s half the price of the usual $19.99. This new perk unlocks access to Gemini Advanced, 2 TB of storage, and more benefits across Google — all in one incredible package, making everyday tasks easier.

    Try Verizon for free. Want a new Pixel 9a, but not yet a Verizon customer? Sign up for the Verizon Free Trial and enjoy unlimited premium data on 5G Ultra Wideband, our fastest 5G network, free for 30 days without disrupting your current service. Download the My Verizon app on your unlocked iOS or Android phone and start your free trial today.

    [How to get your Google Pixel 9a]

    The Google Pixel 9a will be available on April 10 at Verizon stores and at Verizon.com. Verizon Business customers can visit Verizon Business online for business-specific pricing and promos. Upgrade to the new Google Pixel 9a, Google’s affordable AI-powered smartphone, and take advantage of the special deals and offers from Verizon.

    Pixel 9a on us offer: $499.99 (128 GB only) purchase w/new smartphone line on Unlimited Ultimate, postpaid Unlimited Plus, or Unlimited Welcome plan for 36 mos. req’d. Less $499.99 promo credit applied over 36 mos.; promo credit ends if eligibility req’s are no longer met; 0% APR. Offer may not be combined with other offers.

    Business offer: (New / Upgrades): Taxes & fees apply. New line or device upgrade w/device payment purchase agmt, Business Unlimited Plus or Unlimited Pro plan req’d. New line offer is also available with Business Unlimited Start plan. $499.99 credit applied to acct. over the term of your agmt (up to 36 mos, 0% APR); promo credit ends when eligibility requirements are no longer met. Credits begin in 2-3 bills & will include appropriate credit amounts from order date. Cannot be combined with other device offers. Pixel 9a monthly fee after credit: $0. Offer available 4.10 through 6.30.2025.

    3-yr price guarantee: myPlan: Applies to the then-current base monthly rate for your talk, text, and data. Excludes taxes, fees, surcharges, additional plan discounts or promotions, and third-party services. Void if any of the lines are canceled or moved to an ineligible plan. Plan perks, taxes, fees, and surcharges are subject to change. myHome: Price guarantee for 3-5 years, depending on internet plan, for new and existing myHome customers. Applies only to the then-current base monthly rate exclusive of any other setup and additional equipment charges, discounts or promotions, plan perk and any other third-party services.

    Google One AI Premium perk requires line subscribed to myPlan. Must be 18 yrs or older. Cancel anytime. One offer per eligible Verizon line; add’l terms apply.

    Pixel updates for 7 years from when the device first became available on the Google Store in the US. See g.co/pixel/updates for details.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Reverend Warnock Demands Answers from Admin Trade Official on Reckless Tariffs

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock – Georgia

    Senator Reverend Warnock Demands Answers from Admin Trade Official on Reckless Tariffs

    During a Tuesday Senate Finance hearing, Senator Reverend Warnock grilled United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on the economic fallout less than a week after President Trump issued sweeping tariffs

    The Senator specifically spotlighted how small businesses and families will be backed into a corner and forced to pay an increased price for goods

    Senator Reverend Warnock uplifted the story of a Georgia small business that may have to close as a result of the tariffs

    Senators Reverend Warnock during the hearing: “This economy is not working for working families, for ordinary people. And I would submit that what the President did last week in such a reckless and sudden way is adding even more pressure on these families”

    Watch video of Senator Reverend Warnock’s questioning HERE

    Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA), ranking member of the Senate Finance Subcommittee on International Trade, Customs, and Global Competitiveness, grilled United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer during a Senate Finance Committee hearing on the fallout following President Trump’s announcement of a sweeping array of tariffs last week.

    “This economy is not working for working families, for ordinary people. And I would submit that what the President did last week in such a reckless and sudden way is adding even more pressure on these families,” said Senator Warnock.

    During the hearing, Senator Warnock specifically highlighted how the broad and indiscriminate tariffs provide no avenue for relief for ordinary American families and small business owners, backing them into a corner and forcing them to accept higher prices. Senator Warnock uplifted the story of Georgia constituent Angela Hawkins, who is the founder of Bamblu, a small business in Atlanta that sells bamboo-based sleepwear and sheets for people with severe and sensitive skin allergies. Hawkins, who imports many of her products from overseas, is now at risk of going out of business due to the price hikes caused by the tariffs.

    “Angela’s products are made overseas because you can’t find bamboo fabric made in the United States. What should Angela do? Pay the new tax? Raise her prices and risk losing customers? Or is there a process for her to apply for an exclusion from the Trump White House?” asked Senator Warnock.

    “The President has said that in connection with this action, he is not going to have exclusions or exemptions beyond what is in the program already for certain products,” responded Jamieson Greer.

    “She might even go out of business,” said Senator Warnock.

    Last week, Senator Warnock issued a statement following President Trump’s rollout of a sweeping new set of tariffs that raise the prices of everyday goods, everything from groceries to cars. In the statement opposing the tariff announcement, Senator Warnock highlighted the potential of the cost of living to go up as a result.

    Watch the Senator’s full remarks and line of questioning HERE.

    See below a transcript of Senator Warnock’s remarks:

    Senator Reverend Warnock (SRW): “Since President Trump announced his tariffs last week, the stock market has dropped more than 10%, we’ve talked about that. I’m more concerned about the impact on ordinary people. This is a regressive tax. It’s a tax on families, who are already dealing with increasing costs and trying to figure out how to make their lives work. I heard you say that you don’t think we’re in a trade war. I respect your expertise on trade. But tomorrow, the Trump Administration will implement its reciprocal tariffs, which means businesses and families have had less than one week to plan for the largest tax increase in more than 50 years.”

    “We are escalating. We can go back and forth about whether we think it is a trade war. I’m focused on how this is impacting families. Normally, when tariffs are being discussed, businesses and industries have time to plan. The government often provides an orderly and clear process for American companies to apply for exclusions from tariffs when it is not possible for them to sell a product without importing parts or all of it because no one manufactures it here. We all know uncertainty is the worst thing for business. I’m hearing this from farmers, from folks in the manufacturing sector. I hope we can provide some certainty.”

    “What should a multinational retailer do about their products made only overseas, or that contain parts only made overseas? We are seeing this in our automotive sector in Georgia. Should they just raise their prices on families to account for the new tax, or is there a process for that company to reach out to the White House for an exclusion?” 

    United States Trade Representative Jamieson Greer (JG): “Senator Warnock, the section 232 on autos is a Commerce Department action. One thing they have done is they have said that they would be willing to give some kind of credit for U.S. Content in parts and components and they can approach the Commerce Department about this. It’s not a decision I’m making, but I know this is one alternative.”

    “I am mindful, when I hear this, obviously, we are sensitive to these dynamics. It reminds me that we lost 5 million manufacturing jobs over the last 20 years. That’s part of the reason why we are in the situation now. We just have to bring those back. It’s important to bring those back now before the situation gets worse.”

    SRW: “The question is: what do they do? Do they pass that price onto consumers?” 

    JG: “What we’ve seen Ford and GM, for example, have announced that they are giving discounts. That was the big news last week, last Thursday. They would be giving discounts going forward. These companies often are going figure out how they locate costs among themselves and it rarely gets down to consumers.” 

    SRW: “The company might figure it out.” 

    JG: “They can approach the Commerce Department.” 

    SRW: “Let me go smaller, last week, my office met with Angela Hawkins, she’s the founder of Bamblu, a small business in Atlanta that sells bamboo-based sleepwear and sheets particularly for people with severe and sensitive skin allergies like her husband. Angela’s products are made overseas because you can’t find bamboo fabric made in the United States. What should Angela do? Pay the new tax? Raise her prices and risk losing customers? Or is there a process for her to apply for an exclusion from the Trump White House?” 

    JG: “The President has said that in connection with this action, he is not going to have exclusions or exemptions beyond what is in the program already for certain products.”

    SRW: “So she will just have to figure it out.” 

    JG: “She will have to work with her business partners and figure out outsourcing…”

    SRW: “She’ll have to either raise prices and risk customers [is] basically the answer, right? Because she can’t get bamboo here.”

    JG: “It will depend on the tariff rate. Every country has a different rate. Some are lower than others.”

    SRW: “So she might even go out of business.”

    “Let’s go even smaller. Early estimates show that President Trump’s tariffs will increase the costs of goods by $3,800 for the average American household. Many critical baby [gates] are produced abroad or have foreign-made components. I went through this not long ago as a parent of young children. For an expecting family in Augusta, Georgia, who may see a 50% price increase for that stroller or car seat, what is the process for that family to apply for a White House exclusion? I guess if the business owner can’t get one, they can’t get one either, correct?”

    JG: “There’s not an exclusion process, that’s right.” 

    SRW: “So they would just bear the cost?” 

    JG: “I think the studies you’re talking about, the economists got it wrong in Trump one [first Trump Administration], they said that there would be inflation because of tariffs, and it when down.  When I hear them saying the same thing, I don’t trust what they are saying. The fact of history shows that it’s not a one-to-one.” 

    “The highest inflation we ever saw was under [President] Biden for housing and education and health care, and all of these things. I don’t know where everybody was then, when that was skyrocketing.” 

    SRW: “What if their child is potassium deficient? And now bananas are more expensive. Last I checked, we don’t have the climate to grow bananas in the United States. Who should that family reach out to the White House for an exclusion for that price hike on those bananas?”

    JG: “There’s not an exclusion process. I think we have waited too long with the status quo. I know people want the status quo…” 

    SRW: “Here, you and I agree. Nobody wants the status quo. This economy is not working for working families, for ordinary people. And I would submit that what the President did last week in such a reckless and sudden way is adding even more pressure on these families.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deluzio, Jayapal, Ryan, Craig Launch Monopoly Busters Caucus

    Source: US Congressman Chris Deluzio (PA)

    The Monopoly Busters Caucus Will Fight Corporate Power and Promote a Pro-Worker, Pro-Consumer, Pro-Small Business Agenda

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Angie Craig (MN-02) are today launching the Monopoly Busters Caucus, a new caucus with nine Founding Members to fight corporate power and promote a pro-worker, pro-consumer, and pro-small business economic agenda.

    “Monopolies have been rigging the system, crushing competition and small businesses, and ripping off the American people for decades. And for too long, politicians in Congress have let it happen,” said Congressman Deluzio. “We’re launching the Monopoly Busters Caucus today because we think that it’s long overdue for Congress to step up to take on consolidated corporate power and to reinvigorate American capitalism with competition. It’s our duty to help take the squeeze off of America’s workers, small businesses, and consumers and pave a path back to the American Dream. It’s time to get real, patriotic competition back in our economy.”  

    Congressman Deluzio was joined at the press conference by Jon and Bob Akanowicz, independent pharmacists and constituents who own Towne Drugs in Aspinwall, PA. Jon shared his experience of the pain that Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) have brought to their business and their customers they help get their medicine. His remarks can be watched here. 

    “Something is wrong in this country when families go to the grocery store and can’t afford milk or eggs or cereal. As people struggle under the weight of inflation, corporate profits are higher than ever,” said Congresswoman Jayapal. “From rent to groceries, to health care — life in America has become unaffordable. The answer to why is simple: corporate monopolies. When we take on corporate power, we can make a meaningful difference in the everyday lives of working people across the country – and we must, the American people are counting on us.” 

    “When I talk with folks in the Hudson Valley, the number one thing I hear is frustration. Frustration that even though they’re working hard and doing everything that’s asked of them, they can’t afford to provide for their family – housing, health care, gas, groceries, utilities. It’s inherently un-American that only a select few are able to live out the American dream,” said Congressman Pat Ryan. “The reason for this is clear – in every one of those industries, we’ve let monopolies drive up costs and drive down quality, all while making record breaking profits. We’re gonna fight back against these big and powerful corporations, hold the bad actors accountable, and ultimately put power back where it belongs: with the American people.” 

    “As the top Democrat on the House Agriculture Committee, I have seen firsthand how consolidation in the ag industry is squeezing our family farmers and producers – and driving up costs for consumers too,” said Congresswoman Craig. “At a time when the Administration is launching our country headfirst into a global trade war, it’s more important than ever that we uplift small and local businesses right here at home. I’m proud to be joining Representatives Jayapal, Ryan and Deluzio to fight consolidation, strengthen the middle class and lower costs for producers and consumers.”   

    Throughout the pandemic and the inflation that followed, there was consistent reporting of large corporations price-gouging consumers, something they could do thanks to near-monopoly consolidation in many industries. For instance, in the cases of beef, baby food, pasta, and soda, more than 80 percent of the market is controlled by four companies. Rigorous enforcement of our antitrust laws can fix this consolidation and ensure that our markets work for all people.  

    The Caucus’s founding Members represent a large swath of the ideological makeup of the Democratic Party, highlighting the unity around a strong economic prosperity message. Joining the co-chairs in founding the Caucus are Becca Balint (VT-AL), Greg Casar (TX-35), Maggie Goodlander (NH-02), Val Hoyle (OR-04), Kristen MacDonald Rivet (MI-08), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), and Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07). 

    The full livestreamed launch event can be watched here and photos are available here. 

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Government empowers spaza shops 

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    With the launch of the R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund (SSSF), government is ready to assist entrepreneurs who want to establish startups, expand their businesses, and gain essential business skills to improve the performance of their enterprises.

    This is according to the Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Ndabeni.

    With the recent drive to have spaza shops registered, government has received 87 407 applications and of these, a total 53% is from South African-owned spaza shops.

    “Our commitment with this fund is to support those who heeded the President’s call to register their spaza shops. As the Department of Small Business Development (DSBD), we can help you when you have an idea and want to start a business.

    “We have incubators that help new and startup businesses. We can help you from being an informal trader to a formal trader, to start a spaza shop and to own a wholesale or an entire distribution channel. We will be working with you to help you to turn things around,” said Ndabeni.

    The support fund was launched on Tuesday in Soweto to support South African-owned township community convenience shops, including spaza shops, to increase their participation in the townships and rural areas retail trade sector.

    READ | Government launches R500 million Spaza Shop Support Fund 

    Jointly administered by the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA), the fund provides critical financial and non-financial support to township businesses, including community convenience stores and spaza shops.

    The fund provides various types of support, including the initial purchase of stock via delivery channel partners, upgrading of building infrastructure, systems, refrigeration, shelving and security, as well as training programmes, which includes point of sale devices, business skills, digital literacy, credit health, food safety and business compliance.

    “The fund will address economy of scale disadvantages by linking spaza shops to buying groups for aggregation and bulk purchasing; building business capacity through training and support to improve shop operations; and enhancing market competitiveness to help spaza shops compete with larger retailers,” the Minister said.

    The fund will be rolled out nationally to impact spaza shops across all major townships, as well as rural areas.

    The Minister said government endeavours to work with entrepreneurs to localise supply chain opportunities for township and rural enterprises.

    This will ensure that spaza shops do not procure imported products or simply use the platforms of large companies.

    “To achieve this, we will utilise other instruments like the Small Enterprise Manufacturing Support Programme, Township and Rural Entrepreneurship Programmes (TREP), the Informal and Micro Enterprise Development Programme (IMEDP), Asset Assist, and our Shared Economic Infrastructure Facility.

    “These programmes in turn have the potential to attract municipalities, the private sector, business and informal trader associations, and other stakeholders to work together in contributing their facilities, expertise and resources in support of new localised supply chains and distribution networks for spaza shops. 

    “Logistics management partners will offer logistics management services, including warehousing and delivery solutions. They will ensure that products are stored safely and delivered efficiently, reducing transportation costs, and improving the overall supply chain efficiency for spaza shops,” the Minister said.

    DSBD Connect

    The department has recruited 52 Business Regulation Officers across all districts and metros to support business registration using the DSBD Connect system.

    DSBD Connect is a platform which will be used to collaborate or put together small business to collaborate and/or work together on a particular project. 

    This can be businesses within the same industries or different industries but need each other for specific skills or qualifications. 

    The platform will put together small businesses within the same geographical area, interests, and skills. 

    “Despite their importance, spaza shops face several challenges, including access to capital, security concerns, and competition from formal retailers, like larger retail stores and supermarkets which are encroaching on their markets.

    “South African-owned spaza shops also face intense competition from foreign-operated spaza shops, who use more organised supply chains to gain competitiveness.

    “Therefore, I want to encourage you to collaborate and establish cooperatives so that you can leverage resources, knowledge, and work together on projects, sharing best practices,” Ndabeni said.

    Access to funding 

    To access the funding, applicants need to apply to the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) and the Small Enterprise Development Finance Agency (SEFDA) through the prescribed application process outlined on the relevant institution’s website.

    The following website can be used to apply for funding:

    Spaza Shop Support Fund – www.spazashopfund.co.za 
    NEF – www.nefcorp.co.za 
    SEDFA – https://systems.sefa.org.za/SMMEPortal/

    The contact details for the Spaza Shop Support Fund call centre are 01 1 305 8080 or via email: Spazafund@nefcorp.co.za.

    Contact details for the NEF call centre are 0861 843633, SEDFA call centre 012 748 9600 or an email can be sent to helpline@sefa.org.za. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Digital Portal for National Waterways

    Source: Government of India

    Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal Launches Digital Portal for National Waterways

    First NOC issued via the newly launched portal to Marina India Infrastructure Pvt Ltd for developing a Jetty on Malim on River Mandovi (NW 68) in Goa

    National Waterways Regulations 2025 Opens Door for Private Investment in Jetty and Terminal Development on National Waterways

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 7:40PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Sarbananda Sonowal launched a dedicated digital portal developed by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to invite private investment in infrastructure development on National Waterways. 

    With a ceremonial click, the Minister formally inaugurated the initiative, which is aimed at facilitating ease of doing business (EODB) and encouraging private investment in inland water transport (IWT) in the country. The launch follows the introduction of the National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, which lays out a framework for private players to invest in the construction and operation of jetties and terminals across India’s national waterways network.

    As per the newly notified National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025, any entity — including private players — can now develop or operate an inland waterway terminal on a National Waterway by securing a ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NoC) from the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI). The regulations apply to both existing and new terminals, whether permanent or temporary. 

    Speaking on the occasion, the Union Minister said, “The launch of the National Waterways Regulations, 2025, along with the digital portal developed by IWAI, marks a transformative step in India’s maritime and logistics ecosystem. By enabling private participation in developing jetties and terminals, we are going to unlock immense potential for sustainable infrastructure growth in the inland waterways transportation, a vision of our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi ji. This initiative not only simplifies regulatory procedures but also reflects our commitment to Ease of Doing Business (EODB), economic empowerment, and job creation. It paves the way for a modern, efficient, economical and inclusive inland water transport system powering the nation towards Viksit Bharat.”

    *First NoC Through Newly Launched Digital Portal*

    As part of the launch event, Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal handed over the first No Objection Certificate (NoC) issued through the new digital portal to Mumbai-based Marina India Infrastructure Private Limited. This is the first-of-its-kind NoC issued digitally to any private entity for construction of a terminal on any national waterway in the country.

    With an investment of approximately Rs. 8 crores, the company will establish a jetty at Malim on National Waterway-68 (River Mandovi) in Goa. Designed to berth up to 16 privately owned yachts and pleasure crafts up to 30 meters in length, the jetty will support docking and undocking for each trip, helping boost river cruise tourism along the waterway.

    The Union Minister said, “Under the visionary leadership of our Hon’ble Prime Minister, IWAI has transformed inland waterways into a powerful engine of economic growth—evident from the surge in cargo movement from 18 million tonnes to 133 million tonnes in FY 2023-24. The new National Waterways (Construction of Jetties/Terminals) Regulations, 2025 will further accelerate this momentum by encouraging private investment, improving procedural efficiency, and advancing sustainable, digitally driven development.”

    The new regulations bring both permanent and temporary terminals—existing or new—under a unified framework. Permanent terminals can operate for a lifetime, while temporary ones will have an initial five-year term with provisions for extension. This streamlined approach is aimed at encouraging private participation and reinforcing the government’s commitment to sustainable, growth-driven development in the inland waterways sector.

    The event was also attended by Shri Vijay Kumar, Chairman, Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI), among other senior officials from IWAI and the Ministry. 

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    GDH/HR

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: 8th Session of India-Russia Working Group on Priority Investment Projects held in New Delhi

    Source: Government of India

    8th Session of India-Russia Working Group on Priority Investment Projects held in New Delhi

    India and Russia agree on 6 new strategic projects to boost bilateral investment cooperation

    2nd Edition of India-Russia Investment Forum held alongside Working Group meeting

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 8:35PM by PIB Delhi

    The 8th Session of the India-Russia Working Group on Priority Investment Projects (IRWG-PIP) under the India-Russia Intergovernmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation was held in New Delhi today.

    The Working Group meeting was held successfully, with the co-chairs signing a protocol highlighting multiple projects of strategic importance to both nations. The session aimed at strengthening economic ties between India and Russia by identifying and advancing collaborative projects in sectors of mutual interest.

    The Working Group also reviewed the outcomes of the 7th session, and both sides agreed to include six new strategic projects aimed at deepening bilateral investment cooperation. Discussions were held in a constructive atmosphere, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to expand investment collaboration across various sectors.

    On the sidelines of the 8th Session of IRWG-PIP, the 2nd Edition of the India-Russia Investment Forum was also organised, in collaboration with Invest India, Indian Chamber of Commerce (ICC), and the Ministry of Economic Development of the Russian Federation.

    The Session was co-chaired by Secretary, Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Shri Amardeep Singh Bhatia from the Indian side, and Deputy Minister of the Ministry for Economic Development of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Vladimir Ilichev, from the Russian side.

    The India-Russia Investment Forum saw enthusiastic participation from over 80 Indian and Russian businesses, including entrepreneurs, financial institutions, cargo companies, business chambers, researchers, and officials.

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    Abhishek Dayal/ Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2120588) Visitor Counter : 78

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Telecom Service Providers publish mobile network coverage map on their websites as per the mandate given by TRAI

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 6:54PM by PIB Delhi

     In a significant move to enhance transparency and empower mobile subscribers, Telecom Service Providers (TSPs) have published mobile network coverage maps on their websites, as per the mandate given by the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).

    Earlier, TRAI released revised Regulations namely “The Standards of Quality of Service of Access (Wirelines and Wireless) and Broadband (Wireline and Wireless) Service Regulations, 2024 (06 of 2024)’ on 02nd August 2024. These regulations have become effective from 1st October 2024 and applicable for both access and broadband services provided on wireline as well as wireless media.

    The regulations mandates that “Every service provider providing access service (wireless) shall publish on its website the service wise geospatial coverage maps in such a manner and format, as may be directed by the Authority from time to time, for the geographical areas where wireless voice or wireless broadband service is available for subscription by consumers.” As per the regulations, the publication of mobile network coverage map was to be completed by 1st April 2025.

     To ensure uniformity of coverage maps across the TSPs and their timely rollout, TRAI issued detailed technical guidelines for publication of mobile network coverage map vide Direction no RG-17/(3)/2022-QoS dated 22nd November 2024. Copy of the same is available on TRAI website (https://trai.gov.in/sites/default/files/2024-11/Direction_22112024.pdf).

    In compliance with the requirement of the QoS regulations, TSPs have now published mobile network coverage maps on their respective websites. Details of their links are as follows:

     

    To enable easy user access, these links of mobile coverage maps have been consolidated on TRAI website. The coverage maps of different service providers can also be accessed on TRAI website using following path :

    TRAI Website (www.trai.gov.in) à Consumer Info à Mobile Coverage Map à [Service Provider]               

    The newly introduced coverage maps offer a variety of user-friendly features for easy accessibility and navigation with standard color scheme. It also provides the option to see the coverage of specific technology like 2G, 3G, 4G or 5G offered by respective TSP in their area of interest. Users can use search options or enable location on their device to navigate to their current location. The toggle switch or technology selection button may be used to select coverage maps of technology of their interest i.e. 2G/3G/4G/5G etc.

    The mobile subscribers may share their feedback or report any major discrepancy in coverage representation with their service provider through user feedback feature available on coverage maps. However, users may kindly note that actual mobile coverage experience may sometime vary from the coverage shown in map, including in indoor areas, as it depends upon various dynamic parameters.

    The mobile network coverage maps are not only useful for subscribers but also provide status of telecom coverage across the country which can be used by different stakeholders for planning and rollout of e-enabled initiatives. These maps may also be used for data driven evaluation of requirements of any regulatory or policy intervention.

    For any clarification/information, Shri Tejpal Singh, Advisor (QoS-I) TRAI may be contacted on email: adv-qos1@trai.gov.in or at Tel. No. +91-11-20907759.

     

     

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    Samrat/ Allen

    (Release ID: 2120539) Visitor Counter : 135

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal chairs a meeting on the emerging trade scenario with Export Promotion Councils and Industry bodies

    Source: Government of India

    Commerce and Industry Minister Shri Piyush Goyal chairs a meeting on the emerging trade scenario with Export Promotion Councils and Industry bodies

    Meeting was called to deliberate on the opportunities arising out of the evolving scenarios

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 7:55PM by PIB Delhi

    Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Shri Piyush Goyal, today held discussions with the Export Promotion Councils and Industry Bodies in New Delhi in the light of the emerging trade scenario. The meeting was called to deliberate on the impact as well as opportunities arising out of the evolving and very dynamic scenarios and to apprise the industry and trade about the steps being taken by the Government.

    The Commerce and Industry Minister (CIM) complemented the exporters and the industry for achieving the highest ever export of above USD 820 Billion in the fiscal 2024-25 which is nearly 6% growth over previous fiscal year. In spite of multiple headwinds including the red sea crisis, Israel-Hamas conflict spilling over to Gulf region, continuation of Russia-Ukraine conflict and slow growth in some developed economies, the Minister lauded the Exporters for their resilience and efforts.

    During the meeting, CIM also apprised the exporters regarding discussions with the US for a mutually beneficial multi-sectoral Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA), which has been ongoing due to the foresight of Honb’le PM Modi who was one of the first global leaders to agree on the BTA in his meeting with President Trump in February 2025.

    The Commerce and Industry minister assured the exporters that the Government will work to provide a conducive environment to enable them to successfully navigate the recent changes in the global trade environment.

    The Commerce and Industry Minister assured that the country is working in a proactive manner and exploring solutions which are in the best interest of the nation. The team working on BTA is exploring the right mix and the right balance and he exhorted the exporters to not panic and look at the silver lining in the present scenario. He assured that the team is working with speed but not in undue haste to ensure the right outcome for the country.

    The CIM said that different countries are approaching the tariff imposition in a different manner. However, as far as India is concerned, there is a potential for increase in manufacturing, creation of additional jobs because it can attract big players in global supply chain as India has been able to establish itself as a trusted and reliable partner and with a predictable business friendly destination.

    Various Export Promotion Councils, representing a wide array of sectors, presented their views and outlook in light of the emerging challenges in global trade and requested the government to take proactive measures to support the export industry in these challenging times.

    The meeting was attended by Export Promotion Councils, Industry bodies and officials from Commerce and line ministries.

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    Abhishek Dayal/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2120565) Visitor Counter : 60

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKS

    Source: Government of India

    PRESIDENT OF INDIA IN SLOVAKIA; MEETS POLITICAL LEADERSHIP OF THE SLOVAK REPUBLIC; LEADS DELEGATION-LEVEL TALKS

    WITNESSES EXCHANGE OF TWO MoUs IN THE FIELDS OF MSMEs AND DIPLOMATIC TRAINING COOPERATION

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 9:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu reached Bratislava on the final leg of her State Visit to Portugal and the Slovak Republic. This is the first-ever visit by an Indian President to the Slovak Republic in 29 years. The Minister of State, Smt Nimuben Bambhaniya, and Members of Parliament Shri Dhaval Patel and Smt Sandhya Ray are also part of the accompanying delegation. 

     

    The President commenced her engagements with the visit to the Presidential Palace where the President of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr. Peter Pellegrini, warmly received her. She was extended a traditional Slovak welcome with bread and salt by a couple in folk dress and accorded a ceremonial welcome with the Guard of Honour.

     

    Later, President Droupadi Murmu discussed various aspects of bilateral relations and issues of shared global and regional interests with President Peter Pellegrini of the Slovak Republic during one-to-one meeting and delegation-level talks. The President appreciated the personal commitment and initiative of President Pellegrini towards strengthening bilateral relations. She noted the rising popularity of Indian art and culture in Slovakia.  She highlighted the immense potential for the two countries to collaborate more closely in the rapidly expanding media, entertainment and creative economy sectors of India, including promotion of Slovakia as a filming destination and a partner in joint film production. She invited Slovakia to take part actively in the upcoming WAVE Summit being hosted by India in Mumbai from May 1 to 4, 2025.

    Both leaders witnessed the exchange of two MoUs, one on cooperation in the fields of MSMEs between NSIC and the Slovak Business Agency and another on diplomatic training cooperation between SSIFS and the Slovak Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs.

    In the next engagement, President Droupadi Murmu met the Speaker of National Council of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr. Richard Raši. The President congratulated Mr. Raši on his recent election as Speaker and reaffirmed the high priority attached by India to the historic friendship between the two countries. She said that Parliamentarians have an important role in enhancing goodwill and mutual understanding between India and Slovakia. She noted that there has been a tradition of a Slovak-India Friendship Group in the National Council of Slovakia, and said that it would help promote the exchange of knowledge and experience among our Parliamentarians.

    The President also met and held extensive discussions with the Prime Minister of the Slovak Republic, H.E. Mr Robert Fico. She stated that India greatly values our traditionally close and friendly ties with the Slovak Republic, based on shared values of democracy, rule of law and convergence of views on global issues. She also noted that there has been an increase in our engagements across sectors. The two leaders agreed to further diversify and strengthen bilateral relations in all areas of mutual interest.

    Please click here to see the President’s speech – 

     

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    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2120611) Visitor Counter : 60

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Bureau of Indian Standards hosts 15th Plenary meeting of Technical Committee of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)

    Source: Government of India

    Bureau of Indian Standards hosts 15th Plenary meeting of Technical Committee of International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC)

    India is ready to take on a greater role in shaping global AI standards: Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, GoI

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 6:27PM by PIB Delhi

    India is ready to take on a greater role in shaping global AI standards, said Smt. Nidhi Khare, Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India, during the inauguration of 15thPlenary meeting of the Technical Committee of the International Organisation for Standardisation (ISO) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) for developing international standards on Artificial Intelligence hosted by Bureau of Indian Standards.

    She added that the government is committed to advancing AI technology particularly LLM (Large Language Model) and SLM (Small Language Model) in a responsible manner, ensuring these are developed with both global collaboration and national priorities in mind. She further highlighted the importance of aligning national AI strategies with global standards that are inclusive, context-aware, and adaptable to local needs.

    Shri S. Krishnan, Secretary, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, reflected on India’s sustained engagements and partnerships with the key stakeholders in the field of AI as the founding member of the Global Partnership on AI (GPAI). Highlighting India’s commitment to promoting ‘AI for good and for All’, he said Government of India is working for Democratising & Decentralising the way Artificial Intelligence works and there is a need of setting standards for AI so that we stay ahead of the curve.

    BIS, the National Standards Body of India, is leading the global efforts of standardisation related to Artificial Intelligence. The 15th plenary and sub-group meetings of the ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 42 ‘Artificial Intelligence’ sub-committee in New Delhi were attended by more than 350 global experts from 70 countries.

    Speaking at the inaugural session of the plenary, Shri Pramod Kumar Tiwari, Director General, BIS, said that the Bureau has formed sector-specific groups for targeted AI standard development and strengthened partnerships with ministries, academia, regulatory bodies, and consumer bodies for targeted AI standard development.

    Informing the participants about the upcoming IEC General Meeting in India in Sep 2025, he said the IEC general meeting 2025, in New Delhi is a testament to India’s increasing participation in global standards. In addition to hosting management meetings and more than 45 technical committee and subcommittee meetings, BIS will organise seminars, workshops, and exhibitions on various emerging technologies, including AI.

    The week-long deliberations covered key aspects of the rapidly changing technology landscape of the Artificial Intelligence such as foundational AI standards, Data governance, Trustworthiness, computational approaches, and AI applications across industries including de- identification in machine learning and quality assurance in generative AI applications. India is leading a discussion on standards for the Resilience Assessment of AI systems.

    Extending his gratitude to BIS for hosting the SC 42 plenary, Mr. Wael William Diab, the incumbent chairperson of the Committee informed that the Committee has successfully published 35 ISO standards on AI and 47 other ISO standards on AI are under development

    On the sidelines of the plenary summit, BIS organised an International Workshop on ‘Enabling Trust in Technology in the Age of LLMs and Generative AI’. Speaking at the workshop Shri Abhishek Singh, Additional Secretary MeitY and CEO of IndiaAI Mission highlighted how Trust in AI can be built through Fairness, Transparency, and Accountability with diverse and inclusive data sets. He said this can be achieved only through a set of standards generated through Extensive consultation and deliberation in a forum like this. He also shared India’s experience and highlighted the need for standards for voice and image data in a linguistically diverse country like India.

    Shri Bharat Khera, Additional Secretary, DoCA said during the event that to fully harness AI’s power, it is imperative to establish robust, inclusive, and internationally recognized standards that ensure trust, fairness, security, and accessibility. These standards will not only safeguard AI’s ethical deployment but also help create a level playing field for developing nations, enabling them to adopt and implement AI responsibly and effectively. He cited the example of the AI-enabled National Consumer Helpline (NCH) system for transformation of the grievance redressal through AI-powered automated classification and predictive analysis, reducing resolution time.

    The meetings and workshops highlighted India’s pivotal role in shaping the future of global AI governance. As the national standards body of India, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) represents the country in international committees of ISO and IEC, which are involved in the development of international standards. These standards play a vital role in the global economy, ease of trade, ensuring interoperability, safety, security, reliability of systems, and achieving the UN SDGs.

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    Abhishek Dayal/Nihi Sharma

    (Release ID: 2120521) Visitor Counter : 112

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  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: RBI Issues April 2025 Policy Update

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 09 APR 2025 6:14PM by PIB Delhi

    RBI Cuts Repo Rate to 6%, Projects 6.5% GDP Growth for FY 2025-26

    Introduction

    The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), in its 54th meeting and the first of the financial year 2025–26, unanimously decided to reduce the policy repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 6 per cent with immediate effect. The repo rate is the rate at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to commercial banks, and a cut in this rate is aimed at boosting lending and investment. This decision comes at a time when global economic conditions are becoming increasingly uncertain. Trade tensions have resurfaced, leading to a decline in crude oil prices, weakening of the US dollar, softening bond yields, and corrections in equity markets. While central banks across the world are adjusting their policies to address domestic concerns, they are doing so cautiously.

    Within India, the outlook has shown signs of improvement. Inflation, particularly food inflation, has declined more than expected, offering some relief, though global and weather-related risks remain. Growth is recovering after a weak first half in the previous financial year, but it still falls short of the country’s potential. The Monetary Policy Report of April 2025, released alongside the MPC resolution, also outlines the GDP growth forecast and inflation projection for the coming months. This year also marks a milestone for the RBI as it completes 90 years since its establishment on 1st April 1935. Over the decades, it has evolved into a full-service central bank, balancing its roles of managing inflation, supporting growth, and ensuring financial stability.

    Key Policy Decisions

    • The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) unanimously decided to reduce the policy repo rate by 25 basis points, bringing it down to 6 per cent with immediate effect. The repo rate is the rate at which the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) lends money to commercial banks.
    • As a result, the Standing Deposit Facility (SDF) rate under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) has been adjusted to 5.75 per cent. The SDF allows banks to park excess funds with the RBI without any collateral.
    • The Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate have both been revised to 6.25 per cent. MSF stands for Marginal Standing Facility, a provision made by the RBI that enables scheduled commercial banks to obtain overnight liquidity if inter-bank funds completely dry up. It is an emergency facility that allows banks to borrow at a rate higher than the repo rate.
    • These rate adjustments are consistent with the RBI’s objective of achieving the Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation target of 4 per cent, within a flexible band of ±2 per cent, while also supporting economic growth.

    Growth Assessment

    The Reserve Bank of India has projected real GDP growth at 6.5 per cent for 2025–26, maintaining the same rate as estimated for 2024–25, following a strong expansion of 9.2 per cent in the preceding year. The quarterly projections stand at 6.5 per cent in Q1, 6.7 per cent in Q2, 6.6 per cent in Q3, and 6.3 per cent in Q4. This marks a downward revision of 20 basis points from the February estimate, reflecting heightened global volatility. Agriculture remains on a positive footing, supported by healthy reservoir levels and robust crop production, which is expected to sustain rural demand. Manufacturing is showing early signs of revival amid improved business sentiment, and the services sector continues to demonstrate resilience.

    On the investment side, activity is gaining pace on the back of higher capacity utilisation, continued government focus on infrastructure, and strong balance sheets of banks and corporates. Easing financial conditions have also aided this recovery. While services exports are likely to remain steady, merchandise exports could face headwinds from global uncertainties and trade disruptions. Looking ahead, the RBI has projected real GDP growth at 6.7 per cent for 2026–27, suggesting continued recovery momentum.

    Inflation Outlook

    Headline inflation eased during January and February 2025, driven by a sharp decline in food prices. With uncertainties around the rabi crop largely resolved, and second advance estimates indicating record wheat output and higher pulse production than last year, food inflation is expected to soften further. This favourable trend is supported by robust kharif arrivals and a sharp fall in inflation expectations over the next three and twelve months, as reflected in recent surveys. The decline in crude oil prices has further strengthened the disinflationary outlook. Accordingly, Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation for 2025–26 is projected at 4.0 per cent, with quarterly estimates at 3.6 per cent in Q1, 3.9 per cent in Q2, 3.8 per cent in Q3, and 4.4 per cent in Q4.

    While the inflation outlook appears stable, global uncertainties and the possibility of weather-related supply shocks continue to pose upside risks to the inflation path. The Reserve Bank of India has assumed a normal monsoon in framing its projections, and it considers the risks to be evenly balanced at this stage.

    External Sector Snapshot

    • Robust Services and Remittances: Services exports remained strong in January–February 2025, led by software, business, and transportation services. Net services and remittance receipts are expected to remain in large surplus, cushioning the merchandise trade deficit.
    • Sustainable Current Account Deficit: The current account deficit (CAD) for both 2024–25 and 2025–26 is projected to stay well within sustainable levels, supported by resilient external inflows.
    • Mixed Investment Flows: While gross FDI remained strong due to stable macroeconomic fundamentals, net FDI moderated because of higher repatriations and outward investments. Net FPI inflows touched USD 1.7 billion in 2024–25, driven by debt inflows despite equity outflows.
    • Healthy Forex Reserves: As of April 4, 2025, India’s foreign exchange reserves stood at USD 676.3 billion, offering an import cover of nearly 11 months and reflecting the strength of the external sector.

    Liquidity and Financial Market Conditions

    • Liquidity Shortage and RBI Intervention: In January 2025, the banking system faced a shortage of funds, known as a liquidity deficit. To address this, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provided up to ₹3.1 lakh crore on 23rd January through the Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) – a tool that allows banks to borrow money from the RBI for short periods to manage temporary mismatches in cash flow.
    • Improved Liquidity Position: The RBI later infused about ₹6.9 lakh crore into the system, and increased government spending in late March helped further. These actions improved the situation, and by 7th April 2025, the system had a liquidity surplus of ₹1.5 lakh crore – meaning there was more money available in banks for lending and investment.
    • Softening of Market Rates: With more liquidity available, the Weighted Average Call Rate (WACR) – the average interest rate at which banks lend to each other overnight – declined and hovered close to the repo rate, which is the interest rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks. This indicates stable short-term borrowing costs.
    • Lower Funding Costs in Debt Market: The difference between interest rates on Commercial Papers (CPs) and Certificates of Deposit (CDs) – short-term borrowing instruments used by companies and banks – and the 91-day Treasury Bill – a short-term government security – reduced. This narrowing of spreads means that borrowing became cheaper in financial markets. The RBI has stated it will continue to monitor these conditions and take action as needed to maintain sufficient liquidity.

    Conclusion

    The Monetary Policy Report of April 2025, released alongside the 54th meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee, reflects a balanced approach by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to support growth while maintaining price stability. The decision to cut the policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 6 per cent is underpinned by easing inflation, particularly in food prices, and a gradual recovery in economic activity. With GDP growth for 2025–26 projected at 6.5 per cent and inflation expected to remain within the 4 per cent target band, the report signals cautious optimism despite global uncertainties.

    On the external front, robust services exports and strong remittance inflows have helped cushion the merchandise trade deficit, keeping the current account deficit at sustainable levels. Meanwhile, improved system liquidity, lower short-term borrowing costs, and stable foreign exchange reserves underscore the resilience of India’s financial system. The RBI has affirmed its commitment to closely monitor evolving conditions and take timely, calibrated measures to preserve macroeconomic and financial stability.

    References:

    Click here to see PDF.

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    Santosh Kumar/ Sarla Meena/ Saurabh Kalia

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  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley Discusses Trade Goals with U.S. Trade Representative Greer

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Finance Committee and a lifelong family farmer, today questioned U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer about the impact of and goals for tariff usage. As one immediate way to support farmers, Grassley is calling on the administration to restore integrity to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) by raising Renewable Volume Obligation (RVO) levels for biomass-based diesel and advanced biofuels. 

    In response to Grassley, Greer reiterated President Trump’s recent comments that he is “happy to engage in negotiations immediately with countries that believe that they can help us reduce our deficit and get rid of non-tariff barriers…” Further, Greer noted that tariff negotiations will happen “country by country.” 

    Video and excerpts of Grassley’s questions follow.

    [embedded content]

    VIDEO

    On U.S. Trade with China:

    “I support President Trump’s agenda to lower tariffs and non-tariff barriers other countries impose on American goods. I support President Trump’s agenda to get a better deal from China and other countries for our farmers and manufacturers.

    “In fact, even back in 2003, I sent a letter to the Chinese Minister of Commerce at that time pointing out China’s failure to live up to its World Trade Organization (WTO) obligations. And then, I went further in 2018 when I was on Senator Daines’ CODEL. I told top Chinese leaders I made a mistake supporting China in the WTO.”

    On Goals for Tariffs:

    “So far in this administration, we’ve seen even more sweeping tariffs, with some countries already retaliating [against] agriculture, including China. I have been very vocal in my wait-and-see approach to these tariffs because I believe President Trump and you, Mr. Ambassador, are using them to get fairer trade for Americans with many countries. If that’s not the case, level with me.

    …

    “My question to you is, in the medium to the long term, do you plan to turn these tariffs into trade deals to reduce tariffs and non-tariff barriers? I support that. On the other hand, if the purpose is to stall on negotiations in order to keep tariffs high for the sole purpose of feeding the U.S. Treasury, I oppose that.”

    On Support for Farmers:

    “We all know agriculture is usually the first place of retaliation. In response to Chinese retaliation to tariffs, the first Trump administration set up the Market Facilitation Program for farmers, which gave direct payments to farmers affected by the tariffs. This helped farmers weather the short-term impact of trade retaliation. But as you know, farmers still overwhelmingly want to get their money from the marketplace and not from a government check.” 

    On Restoring Integrity to the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS):

    “To help farmers in the meantime, instead of relying on payments from the government, I’m going to give a suggestion … The administration could move very quickly to increase RVOs on the Renewable Fuel Standard so that farmers get more robust domestic markets for their crops. And one place to start would be where the Biden administration came up short with RVOs, only three and 1/10th billion over a three-year period of time on biodiesel, to make that 5.3 [billion] as far as you can see into the future. And that would very dramatically increase soybean prices.”

    On Congress’ Authority to Regulate Interstate and Foreign Commerce:

    “I made very clear throughout my public service that I’m a free and fair trader. The Constitution gives Congress the authority to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. I believe that Congress delegated too much authority to the president in the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 and Trade Act of 1974.” 

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    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Grassley, Ernst, Marshall Introduce Legislation to Preserve Interstate Ag Trade, Halt California’s Damaging Proposition 12

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Iowa Chuck Grassley

    WASHINGTON – Senate Agriculture Committee Members Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced legislation to strike down California’s Proposition 12 and its burdensome regulatory overreach. The Food Security and Farm Protection Act would prohibit any state or local government from interfering with commerce and agricultural practices in another state outside their jurisdiction.  

    “California’s Proposition 12, along with Massachusetts’ Question 3, are based on arbitrary, nonsensical standards and have resulted in a harmful patchwork of regulations across the 50 states, and risk pushing smaller hog producers out of business. They’re a threat to Iowa, which leads the nation in pork production, and to farmers and consumers across this country. Consistent with its authorities under the Commerce Clause, it’s time for Congress to solve this problem by passing legislation. Our bill will end California’s war on breakfast and make sure delicious Iowa pork can be sold everywhere,” Grassley said. 

    “Proposition 12 is dangerous and arbitrary overregulation that stands in direct opposition to the livelihoods of Iowa pork producers, increases costs for both farmers and consumers, and jeopardizes our nation’s food security,” Ernst said. “I’m proud to be leading the charge to strike down this harmful measure and will keep fighting to make sure the voices of the farmers and experts who know best – not liberal California activists – are heard.”

    “The United States is constantly faced with non-tariff trade barriers from protectionist countries, which hurts American agriculture’s access to new markets. The last thing we need is for states like California imposing its will on ag-heavy states like Kansas with regulations that will also restrict our ability to trade among the states,” Marshall said. “Midwest farmers and ranchers who produce our nation’s food supply should not be hamstrung by coastal activist agendas that dictate production standards from hundreds of miles away, and I am proud to support this legislation that gives Kansas agriculture producers the freedom to produce safe, affordable food for all.”  

    Background:

    Grassley has consistently opposed regulatory overreach in America’s heartland, like California’s Proposition 12 and Massachusetts’ Question 3. Grassley cosponsored similar legislation last Congress, and in a Des Moines Register op-ed, wrote, “We don’t tell California grape or almond growers how to produce wine or almond butter, so Iowa producers would appreciate not being told how to raise livestock.”

    When the Supreme Court chose to uphold Prop 12, Grassley opposed the decision. In its ruling, the Court cited the Commerce Clause and opened the door for future legislative solutions to address the situation. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution grants Congress explicit commerce authorities, stating the legislative branch has the power to “regulate Commerce with foreign Nations and among the several States.”

    Text of the legislation can be found HERE.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Statement By U.S. Attorney Leah B. Foley Regarding Lowell Sun Editorial on Injection Sites

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    “The April 6th Editorial by the Lowell Sun suggested that the “Feds’ blind eye would give safe inject sites a try.” The Editorial began by asking if the time has arrived to challenge prevailing federal law that criminalizes so-called “safe injection sites”; it ended with the hope that the time would come when the federal government would turn a blind eye to any such sites in Massachusetts.

    I have a one-word answer to the Editorial’s opening question: No.  

    As to the hope for a blind eye, I guarantee that such a time will never come during this Administration. “Safe injections sites,” “harm reduction sites,” or however they are branded by advocates, are categorically illegal and do nothing to help people overcome their addictions. To the contrary, they facilitate destructive behavior that ruins lives, consumes families and devastates communities.

    Not too long ago, the open-air drug market operating with impunity along “Methadone Mile” in Boston was shut down because of skyrocketing increases in drug trafficking, sex trafficking and violence, which were the direct result of the ill-conceived experiment allowing drug users to flout the law. Businesses left and have not come back. Creating environments that assist people with pumping poisons into their bodies is neither compassionate nor constructive. We should continue to direct all our resources to the prevention efforts that steer people, especially our youth, away from drug use and treatment protocols that truly save peoples’ lives from their addictions.”

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Video: BE BEST: A SAFER DIGITAL FUTURE

    Source: United States of America – The White House (video statements)

    “Thank you Committee on Energy & Commerce for advancing the Take It Down Act this week. I urge Congress to swiftly pass this important legislation.” –First Lady Melania Trump

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2M53fLzRIdY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Marshall on Fox Business: We’re Going to Bring Jobs Back

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Kansas Roger Marshall
    Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) joined The Bottom Line on Fox Business to discuss President Donald Trump’s America First trade policy, tariffs, and tax cuts.
    Senator Marshall emphasized that President Trump’s tariffs are just the beginning of trade negotiations to bring back American jobs and ensure our ranchers and farmers are not being taken advantage of. He also highlighted the importance of saving taxpayer dollars and making President Trump’s tax cuts permanent through the budget reconciliation process.
    [embedded content]
    You may click HERE or on the image above to watch Senator Marshall’s full interview.
    Highlights from Senator Marshall’s interview include:        
    On leveling the playing field for American manufacturing and agriculture:
    “American manufacturing [and] agriculture has not been treated fairly for decades. It’s not fair that Europe charges my farmers and ranchers a 50% tariff. India, 100%. Canada, 200%. Look, we can’t sell a cheeseburger, not one cheeseburger in Europe, in Russia, Australia, or China. That’s what’s not fair.
    “And we have a president now who is going to stand up and fight. Look, this game is early. This is just the top of the first inning of trade negotiations. We’re going to bring jobs back, and we’re going to get new and improved reciprocal trade agreements done.”
    On nontariff barriers:
    “Right now, the EU [is] saying a 0% tariff, but they’re not going to let us sell any beef there. They’re not going to let us sell any wheat there as well. They’re going to use sanitary, phytosanitary rules, regulations that are going to keep American beef, American agriculture products out of there. So they’re going to do other methods other than just the tariff. The nontariff barriers, I think is actually the bigger problem.”
    On making President Trump’s tax cuts permanent:
    “I think that we could use all the certainty we can get right now. Making the Trump tax cuts permanent… would be a thrill for all, for all of us. I’m even willing to talk about lowering the corporate rate from 21% to 15%. You want to do something to stimulate the stock market, that’s what we can talk about. So this is definitely a tool in the president’s toolbox, and I’m willing to use it.”
    On the federal government’s spending problem:
    “I think that all of us agree that the federal government has a spending problem and not a taxing problem. In all of my conversations with the president, he’s focused on making his Trump tax cuts permanent. He’s focused on extending the debt limit. He’s focused on adding no tax on tips, no tax on overtime, no tax on Social Security. That’s what the president is talking about when I’m around him.”
    On the market’s reaction to tariffs:
    “I also think that we need to be this in for the long haul. I think that this is that the market is… overreacting right now. Again, this is the first inning of a long ball game. I think it’s a great time to buy. And actually, I have more of my friends that are saying, you know, “Is this the bottom of the market? Is this the time to buy?” I believe in America. I think that our best days are ahead of us yet, and then I’m in this for the long haul.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Pythian launches Agentspace QuickStart

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    OTTAWA, April 09, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Pythian Services Inc. (“Pythian”), a leading global services company specializing in data, analytics, and AI solutions, announced the launch of its Google Agentspace QuickStart service. This new offering is designed to provide businesses with a fast and efficient pathway to leverage the power of Agentspace, putting industry-leading AI and Google quality search to work for their enterprise. Pythian’s new Agentspace QuickStart service enables businesses to rapidly deploy Agentspace, unlocking enhanced productivity, improved decision-making, and faster accessibility to AI-curated insights grounded in enterprise data.

    “AI-powered enterprise search presents opportunities for organizations to enhance business operations and simplify access to their internal information,” said Kevin Ichhpurani, Global Partner Organization, Google Cloud. “Pythian’s Agentspace QuickStart offers a framework for organizations looking to implement Google Agentspace and understand its impact on internal productivity.”

    Powered by Google’s decades-long leadership in AI, Agentspace delivers high-quality search, insights and recommendations, driving tangible business value across numerous areas. Pythian’s Agentspace QuickStart service facilitates the creation of a unified search interface, integrating various enterprise applications and enabling a Google-like search experience with generative AI, intent-based search, conversational interfaces and clear source citations. This empowers employees to unlock enterprise expertise, search across enterprise data and public websites, and utilize expert agents for all business workflows.

    “Businesses can easily license and set up Agentspace in just four weeks with our new QuickStart service,” stated Brooks Borcherding, CEO at Pythian. “Our Agentspace QuickStart service is designed to quickly boost employee productivity and provide a clear path to the organization’s success with AI Adoption.”

    Pythian’s Agentspace QuickStart service includes a structured four-week process:

    • Discovery: establish project governance, define success criteria, and confirm technical setup. 
    • Solution design: design a solution architecture unique to the customer’s environment to meet the outlined business and technical requirements including specifics around the security and system designs, data model design, and connector configuration.
    • Solution development: Configure platforms and the identity provider for Agentspace. Configure and connect each of the identified data sources to Agentspace, ensuring each connector supports user-specific access.
    • Testing and optimization: Configure and test data source connections within Agentspace ensuring user-specific access and proper access controls. Evaluate the solution against a customer-provided dataset and refine based on feedback, with ongoing technical assistance provided throughout testing.
    • Deployment: The project will conclude with a knowledge transfer meeting to review goals, lessons learned and deliverables, including a Technical Design Document. Operational guidelines will be provided alongside regular status reports and meetings throughout the project lifecycle.

    Get started today with Pythian’s Agentspace QuickStart, and visit Pythian in booth #2787 at Google Cloud Next 25 in Las Vegas from April 9 to 11 to discuss Agentspace.

    “Agentspace enterprise search connects the hundreds to thousands of applications businesses use,” said Paul Lewis, chief technology officer at Pythian. “With Agentspace, employees have easier and faster access to information, can make better decisions with greater data accuracy and availability, enhance customer experiences by empowering customer-facing roles, and save significant developer time.” 

    Agentspace ensures data privacy with Google Cloud’s robust commitments: customers own their data, Google Cloud guards against insider access, never sells customer data and does not use customer data for model training or advertising.

    The enterprise AI adoption is undergoing a rapid transformation. AI spending has surged to $13.8 billion, an increase of 600 percent from the previous year. Enterprises are shifting from AI proof of concepts (PoC) to execution, integrating AI into their core  business strategies. 

    “One of the biggest challenges business leaders face, specifically CIOs, is delivering real results from AI investments,” said Lewis. “The AI services Pythian offers have high impact, delivering appreciated ROI to demonstrate clear business outcomes. Organizations need to demystify the complex concept of AI and think about its immediate impact, starting from within their organization.” 

    The greatest impact of AI will be to drive adoption within an organization. Pythian’s Agentspace QuickStart service aims to deliver clear improvements in productivity and employee satisfaction, driving internal demand to onboard more applications onto the platform to improve access to information and data–boosting productivity and better decision-making. 

    About Pythian

    Founded in 1997, Pythian is a leading data and AI services provider specializing in digital transformation and operational excellence for enterprise customers. We help organizations optimize their data estates, helping them to drive AI enablement, innovation, and growth. Through strategic consulting, managed services and cloud migrations, we enable cost savings, risk reduction and seamless operations while preparing businesses to adopt AI and for the future of data management. A Google Cloud Premier Partner with multiple Specializations, including Data Analytics, Marketing Analytics, Machine Learning, Data Management, Infrastructure, Cloud Migration and a certified Google Cloud MSP, we’ve delivered thousands of professional and managed services projects for leading enterprises. For more information, visit www.pythian.com or follow us on X, LinkedIn, and our Blog. 

    Pythian Media Contacts        

    Matt Malanga
    Senior Vice President, Marketing
    mmalanga@pythian.com    		 Elisabeth Grant
    Branch Out Public Relations
    egrant@branchoutpr.com
    +1 612-599-7797    		  

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Governor Pillen and the Nebraska Business Development Center Recognize Business Award Winners

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    .

    “NBDC provides businesses with the resources and guidance they need to grow, at no cost,” said Gov. Pillen. “Today’s award winners show the spirit of entrepreneurship is alive and well across Nebraska. The businesses being recognized create jobs, solve problems and show that Nebraska is the place to bring innovative ideas to life, in part because of the level of support available in this state through organizations like NBDC.”

    With nine offices across the state and headquartered at the University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO), NBDC offers no-cost consulting services that span from start-up to succession. NBDC is also the home of the SourceLink Nebraska program, which plays a key role in the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting businesses with the resources they need to succeed.

    UNO Chancellor Dr. Joanne Li noted that her own parents were entrepreneurs, and  she saw firsthand the hard work and dedication it took to grow an enterprise from the ground up.

    “NBDC is very important to the state of Nebraska. It’s one goal is to promote growth and development for our businesses – and you are the lifeline, the bloodline, for economic development,” Li told the award recipients. “I thank the Governor for having today’s ceremony to celebrate your hard work, because you set the example for us to continue to be entrepreneurs for the state of Nebraska.”

    K.C. Belitz, Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) Director, emphasized the importance of growing talent right in Nebraska. “We have to home grow our own,” he said. “That’s going to be an important strategy for building the Nebraska economy. It’s great to be celebrating today’s business owners who are showing that Nebraska is the best place to be an entrepreneur.”

    Dan Curran, NBDC’s executive director, announced the awards and highlighted the wide range of services NBDC offers.

    “This year’s NBDC award recipients embody the innovation and determination that fuel Nebraska’s economy,” said Curran. “Entrepreneurship is about tackling challenges head-on, and the dedication of these individuals and businesses helps make Nebraska an exceptional place to live and work. We are honored to celebrate their achievements today.”

    Nebraska Business Development Center – 2024 Business Award Winners

    Champion of Small Business – Elevator (Omaha)

    Entrepreneurs Shannon and Emiliano Lerda created Elevator, a co-warehousing and community space in downtown Omaha, to support more than 150 small business owners. Recognizing their commitment to fostering Nebraska’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, NBDC has named Elevator the 2024 Champion of Small Business.

    The Lerdas launched Elevator after struggling to find flexible warehouse space for their e-commerce business. With guidance from NBDC, they developed a business plan and financial strategy, transforming a four-story building into a thriving hub for startups. Their innovative approach has attracted funding for expansion into Des Moines and Kansas City, ensuring more entrepreneurs have the resources to succeed.

    Government Contractor of the Year – Daycos (Norfolk)

    Daycos, a transportation revenue solutions company, has been recognized as the 2024 Government Contractor of the Year for securing a Tier 1 subcontractor role in a Department of Defense (DoD) contract. CEO Brandon Day credits the company’s growth to its commitment to workforce retention, government contracting, and community involvement.

    Daycos, which has worked with NBDC since 2009, processes more than 400,000 invoices annually and earned a B Corp Certification for its high standards in performance and transparency. The company’s success underscores the impact of Nebraska businesses in the federal contracting space.

    Innovation Business of the Year – Set Your Sites (Lincoln)

    Lincoln-based Set Your Sites has been honored as the 2024 Innovation Business of the Year for revolutionizing campground management. Stacy and Dustin Dam created Set Your Sites to provide real-time availability checks, mobile payments, and Wi-Fi services for campers, solving a long-standing issue in the industry.

    Inspired by a frustrating campground reservation experience, the Dams developed a technology-driven solution. With guidance from NBDC, they transformed their idea into a business that improves efficiency for campgrounds and enhances experiences for campers nationwide.

    SourceLink Nebraska Resource Partner of the Year – Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative (Statewide)

    The Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative (EEC), led by Blake Martin, has been named the 2024 SourceLink Nebraska Resource Partner of the Year for an unwavering commitment to supporting and connecting Nebraska’s entrepreneurial community.

    A founding member and leader of the Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative (EEC), Martin has played a pivotal role in developing free learning opportunities to help entrepreneurs succeed.  Martin says the organization sponsors six or seven educational events a year, with more if a topic warrants attention. His efforts have enhanced access to entrepreneurial education, streamlined resources, and expanded outreach beyond metropolitan areas to a statewide audience. Under his leadership, EEC has continued to grow since its founding in 2016.

    About the Nebraska Business Development Center

    The Nebraska Business Development Center (NBDC) provides confidential, no-cost business consulting services to any Nebraskan wanting to start, grow, or transition a business. NBDC is a University of Nebraska at Omaha center with nine locations, partnering with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, University of Nebraska at Kearney, Wayne State College, and Chadron State College to deliver its services statewide.

    In 2024, NBDC served over 2,000 clients, leading to a $716.5 million impact to the Nebraska economy through job start or creation, business investments, government contracts, and SBIR awards.

    KC Belitz, Chancellor Li, Shannon and Emiliano Lerda, Gov. Pillen

    Champion of Small Business

    KC Belitz, Chancellor Li, Brandon Day, Gov. Pillen

    Government Contractor of the Year

    KC Belitz, Chancellor Li, Stacy and Dustin Dam & family, Gov. Pillen

    Innovation Business of the Year

    KC Belitz, Chancellor Li, Winsley Durand, Gov. Pillen

    SourceLink Nebraska Resource Partner of the Year

    (Winsley is with MCL Construction, a sponsor of the Entrepreneur’s Education Collaborative)

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Europe tops global ranking of dynamic and sustainable cities – here’s why

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Pascual Berrone, Head of Strategic Management Department and Chair of Sustainability and Business Strategy, IESE Business School (Universidad de Navarra)

    London, New York and Paris have been named the world’s most dynamic and liveable cities. This is according to a new ranking of global cities that highlights Europe’s ability to balance sustainability and growth in its urban centres.

    The IESE Cities in Motion index looks at 183 cities in 92 countries, and ranks them in nine key areas: human capital, social cohesion, economy, governance, environment, mobility and transportation, urban planning, international profile and technology. It’s different from other indices in that it takes into account so many metrics – more than 100 – on everything from ease of starting a business to number of museums and art galleries, internet speed and commute times.

    The idea is to systematically gauge what makes a city the sort of place where people want to live and work. This is important not just for the quality of life of habitual residents, but also because location is vital for attracting global talent, especially among younger generations.

    What makes the winners?

    The top 10 cities in the 2025 edition were London, New York, Paris, Tokyo, Berlin, Washington DC, Copenhagen, Oslo, Singapore and San Francisco.

    The top three all do particularly well in human capital, which includes features like educational and cultural institutions. They also score highly on international profile, which looks at indicators of global interest, such as the number of airport passengers and hotels.

    Beyond those two areas, London cements its status as a global hub of high-level innovation and development, also standing out for governance and urban planning. The UK capital is somewhat weaker in social cohesion, where it came 20th, though not nearly as bad as second-place New York, which ranked 127th out of 183 cities in this category – among the lowest of developed countries. New York does, however, stand out for its economic performance, and does very well in mobility and transportation.

    Paris, meanwhile, performs well across many metrics, including urban planning as well as international profile and human capital.

    What Europe gets right

    We’ve been calculating the index for a decade now, and European cities consistently perform well. This year, five of the top 10 cities – London, Paris, Berlin, Copenhagen and Oslo – are European.

    We adjust the index on a regular basis in order to make sure that we’re measuring what’s relevant. For example, this year we introduced new metrics on women’s leadership, renewable energy sources and green spaces, as well as on availability of coworking spaces.

    There’s no single reason behind Europe’s success, but there are patterns. Its large global metropolises, such as London and Paris, offer advanced technology, international communities and diversified economies in services, technology and finance. They have generally stable political systems and reasonable urban planning, along with advanced public and private transport options. However, while highly diverse, they also suffer from income inequalities.

    In addition to these mega cities, Europe is home to a large number of sustainable and culturally vibrant cities of many sizes. All the Spanish cities included in the index (10 in total, including Madrid and Barcelona) are part of this cluster.

    These are mature economies that prioritise sustainability over rapid growth, seeking to balance liveability and stability. They also have steady political systems, a commitment to green policies and urban planning strategies that give weight to sustainable infrastructure that enhances liveability.

    They do well in social cohesion, with high levels of integration and relatively low levels of inequality. In terms of technology, they are steady adopters but they are not, for the most part, trailblazing innovators.

    It’s also interesting to note the performance of North American cities, which show that economic might and technological prowess don’t always translate into more liveable metropolises. US cities dominate the economic dimension – eight of the top 10 in economic performance are American – but there’s not a single American city in the top 10 for social cohesion or environment. They do well in our ranking – New York, Washington, San Francisco, Chicago and Boston are all in the top 20 – as would be expected of high-income cities, but their performance in different areas varies widely.

    Meanwhile, developing countries continue to struggle to break into the top ranks. In Latin America, the highest-ranked city is Santiago (89th), followed by Buenos Aires (117th) and Mexico City (118th). In Africa, Cape Town (156th) is the top-ranked city. At the very bottom of the ranking are Lagos, Lahore and Karachi.

    Recommendations for cities

    In this tenth edition, we are starting to see greater homogeneity of cities, suggesting that urban planners are learning how to confront similar social, economic and geopolitical challenges. Here are some of our recommendations for how they can improve further:

    • Adaptive and participatory planning: Cities should adopt an approach to planning that is both inclusive and adaptive. This means actively engaging residents, businesses and organisations in identifying priorities, and establishing mechanisms to respond to unexpected developments.

    • Sustainability as a core principle: A commitment to environmental sustainability and innovation in urban planning is key. Cities should pursue policies that reduce carbon emissions, such as adopting renewable energy. Their strategies must also factor in environmental impact and preparedness for extreme climate events, such as wildfires or floods.

    • Economic and social resilience: To address economic inequalities and a lack of social cohesion, cities should implement policies that foster economic equity, such as incentives for small businesses and job training programs that improve access to employment. They should also develop community support networks that strengthen social ties and promote the integration of vulnerable groups.

    • Inclusive technology: To close the digital divide, cities should develop a robust technological infrastructure that ensures connectivity across all urban areas and provides digital skills training for residents. Open data platforms that enhance transparency and encourage citizen participation can play a key role in this.

    • International cooperation: Cities should actively participate in international networks to foster mutual learning and best practices, and to collaborate on joint projects.

    • Continuous measurement: Metrics are essential, both to track progress and to benchmark against other cities with similar characteristics. While cities should develop their own performance dashboards with relevant indicators, our index can serve as an initial framework for identifying key dimensions and the most important indicators.

    Las personas firmantes no son asalariadas, ni consultoras, ni poseen acciones, ni reciben financiación de ninguna compañía u organización que pueda obtener beneficio de este artículo, y han declarado carecer de vínculos relevantes más allá del cargo académico citado anteriormente.

    – ref. Europe tops global ranking of dynamic and sustainable cities – here’s why – https://theconversation.com/europe-tops-global-ranking-of-dynamic-and-sustainable-cities-heres-why-253887

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pingree Leads 86 Lawmakers in Demanding Restoration of Manufacturing Funding

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

    Today, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) and Sarah McBride (D-Del.) led more than 80 of their House colleagues in calling on the Trump-Vance Administration to reverse its abrupt and harmful decision to eliminate federal funding for Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) centers in ten states—including Maine.

    In a letter to Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Acting Under Secretary Craig Burkhardt, Pingree and her colleagues pressed the administration to restore MEP funding that Congress already authorized and appropriated. These centers provide small and mid-sized manufacturers with the tools they need to modernize, grow, and compete in a global economy—supporting good-paying jobs and local economies across the country.

    “Given the Trump Administration’s goals to revive and advance American manufacturing, we believe funding MEP centers remains essential. If we want to build at home, we must equip American manufacturers of all sizes with the tools, funding, and technology to compete and thrive,” Pingree and her colleagues wrote.

    “Simply put, to manufacture at home we must support American manufacturers. Denying American workers and small businesses from the resources they need to develop their talents, modernize their operations, and grow their business is counterproductive,” the lawmakers continued. “At a time when we must harness the power of technology to be effective and competitive producers, we must continue to fund MEPs and provide American businesses with the tools they need. We call on the Administration to reverse course, renew funding for the ten MEP centers that lapsed April 1st, and continue to support the MEP program to advance American manufacturing.”

    The full text of the letter is available here and copied below.

    The Maine MEP has a direct and powerful impact on Maine’s economy. In 2024 alone, Maine MEP supported $60.5 million in new investments, generated $95.5 million in new and retained sales, and helped create and retain more than 1,100 manufacturing jobs. Eliminating federal funding and access to the national MEP network threatens Maine MEP’s ability to continue delivering these critical services.

    Congress recently appropriated $175 million for the MEP program through the Full-Year Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act of 2025, maintaining the levels enacted in FY2024. Despite this, on April 1st, the Department of Commerce informed MEP centers in Delaware and nine other states that it would not renew their funding—circumventing both the intent of Congress and the statutory guardrails on transferring or impounding funds.

    Since 1988, MEP centers have worked with over 150,000 manufacturers and helped create and retain more than 1.6 million jobs. Every federal dollar invested in the program generates more than $27 in new client investment and nearly $25 in new sales growth for small manufacturers.

    The letter also asks the administration to clarify whether it plans to shutter the entire MEP program and demands transparency around the decision-making process, including whether any impact assessments or stakeholder consultations were conducted.

    +++

    Dear Secretary Lutnick and Acting Under Secretary Burkhardt,

    We are writing to express support for continued funding of the Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. Recently, MEP centers in Delaware, Hawaii, Iowa, Kansas, Maine, Mississippi, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wyoming, were notified by the U.S. Department of Commerce that it would not renew their funding — despite Congress authorizing and appropriating funding for this purpose.Given the Trump Administration’s goals to revive and advance American manufacturing, we believe funding MEP centers remains essential. If we want to build at home, we must equip American manufacturers of all sizes with the tools, funding, and technology to compete and thrive.

    The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership was established by Congress in 1988 in response to a growing concern over the loss of manufacturing jobs and a decline in industrial productivity. A public-private partnership, MEPs continue to evolve and to provide U.S. manufacturers with timely and dynamic support. Today there are 51 centers across the United States. This robust network provides small and medium-sized manufacturers with the tools, training, and expertise they need to improve their processes, increase their manufacturing capacity, and bolster their workforce development, cybersecurity, technology adoption, and supply chain management activities.

    Since 1988, MEPs have worked with more than 154,000 manufacturers and helped create and retain more than 1.6 million jobs. The network has over 1,440 trusted advisors and experts across 460 MEP Center service locations nationwide. MEPs have also helped create $148.7 billion in sales and $31.6 billion in cost savings. Furthermore, the return on investment for American taxpayers is indisputable – for every federal dollar invested in FY 2023, MEP generated more than $27 in new client investment and nearly $25 in new sales growth for small and medium-sized manufacturers.

    The Administration has talked about bringing manufacturing and supply chains back to the United States. To reach this goal, it is crucial that decision-makers have access to accurate information about supply chain dynamics across the country. Through the Supply Chain Optimization Intelligence Network, authorized by the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act, the MEP program has collected insightful data and nurtured relationships to help the Commerce Department make strategic decisions affecting the supply chain. The MEP program also uses this information to help small and medium-sized companies respond to supply chain shocks from regional and global events, like severe weather events or fluctuations in trade.

    Finally, the Administration cited a refocus on “agency science and technology priorities” as the reason for the funding cuts. It is crucial that MEPs remain funded to ensure this very priority is met. Through MEP, small and medium-sized manufacturers have access to the MEP-Assisted Technology and Technical resource (MATTR) Program. This program provides small and medium-sized manufacturers with access to “laboratory’s core scientific and engineering capabilities, in advanced manufacturing technology, collaborative robotics, additive manufacturing, materials design and characterization, nanotechnology, information and communications technology, quantum information, biosciences, industrial standards, cybersecurity, and other fields.” This effort is proven to move the results of science and technology out of the lab and into use to the benefit of the U.S. economy.

    Simply put, to manufacture at home we must support American manufacturers. Denying American workers and small businesses from the resources they need to develop their talents, modernize their operations, and grow their business is counterproductive. At a time when we must harness the power of technology to be effective and competitive producers, we must continue to fund MEPs and provide American businesses with the tools they need. We call on the Administration to reverse course, renew funding for the ten MEP centers that lapsed April 1st, and continue to support the MEP program to advance American manufacturing.

    As the Administration continues to evaluate funding for MEPs across the country, we ask that you provide the following information:

    • Has the Administration assessed how closing the MEP centers will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the 10 states, including those in rural communities? If so, please provide the analysis.
    • Is the Administration planning to shutter the entire MEP program? If so, has the Administration assessed how ending the MEP program will affect small and medium-sized manufacturers across the country, including those in rural communities? If so, please provide the analysis.
    • In making this decision, has the Administration consulted with the MEP centers, the MEP advisory committee, businesses who use these centers, or other relevant stakeholders? If so, please elaborate.

    We request your prompt and detailed response to the questions outlined above no later than April 11, 2025.

    Sincerely,

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General James Seeks to Protect Consumers from High Overdraft Fees

    Source: US State of New York

    EW YORK – New York Attorney General Letitia James and a coalition of 22 other attorneys general sent a letter to the leadership of the U.S. House of Representatives and the House Financial Services Committee urging the House to vote against a resolution that would overturn the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) 2024 rule limiting overdraft fees imposed by the country’s largest banks. The rule prevents big banks from charging excessive overdraft fees that can hurt their customers’ credit and sometimes lead to account closures.

    “Overturning this rule will only do one thing: help big banks profit at your expense,” said Attorney General James. “Accidentally overdrawing your checking account by a few dollars shouldn’t result in an outrageous fee. The CFPB took action to protect consumers from outrageous overdraft fees, and Congress should do the same. At a time when working families are struggling to make ends meet, our leaders should be protecting Americans’ wallets, not empowering big banks to charge junk fees.”

    House Joint Resolution 59 would overturn a 2024 rule issued by the CFPB that applies only to banks with over $10 billion in assets. The rule imposes reasonable limits on the overdraft fees these big banks may charge when customers overdraw their accounts. Nevertheless, late last month, the Senate narrowly passed its version of the resolution overturning the CFPB’s rule by a vote of 52-48, with Republican Senator Josh Hawley joining Senate Democrats to vote against it.

    The average overdraft fee imposed by banks is about $35 and is usually significantly larger than the overdraft itself. Overdraft fees are also a major profit center for banks, accounting for about $5.8 billion in revenue in 2023. As Attorney General James and the coalition state in their letter, under the CFPB’s rule, if banks intend to continue profiting from such fees, they must treat them as interest on a loan, which is what they effectively are. Given that most overdraft fees are paid back in less than three days, a typical fee of $35 on an average overdraft of $26 is the equivalent of an annual interest rate of 16,000 percent.

    As Attorney General James and the coalition argue in the letter, the CFPB’s rule plays a valuable role in protecting bank customers from excessive and often unexpected charges that can sometimes lead to involuntary account closures, damaging customers’ credit and even driving them out of the banking system altogether. In addition, excessive overdraft fees are unnecessary. As Attorney General James and the coalition point out in the letter, many banks – including Citigroup, Capital One, and Ally Bank – have already eliminated overdraft fees while still providing the convenience of overdraft protection.

    Joining Attorney General James in sending this letter are the attorneys general of Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. The Hawaii Office of Consumer Protection also joined the coalition.

    Attorney General James is a national leader in protecting consumers. In January 2025, Attorney General James secured more than $1 million from Netspend corporation, a provider of reloadable debit and payroll cards, based in part on the wide range of illegal fees Netspend charged its customers. In August 2024, Attorney General James sued predatory lender Acima for misleading consumers about the cost of its financing, including usurious “rental” fees. In April 2024, Attorney General James led a group of 17 state attorneys general in drafting a comment in support of passing the CFPB overdraft rule that is now threatened with reversal. In February 2024, Attorney General James obtained a $77 million judgment against three merchant cash advance companies and their principals for charging usurious interest rates and undisclosed fees. In January 2024, Attorney General James, along with the CFPB and six other state attorneys general, sued a debt relief company and its affiliates and principals in connection with a scam to trick consumers into paying exorbitant fees while providing nearly no useful services in return. In April 2022, Attorney General James led a coalition of 18 state attorneys general to call on the CEOs of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America, U.S. Bank, and Wells Fargo to eliminate all overdraft fees on consumer bank accounts.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Attorney General Bonta to the U.S. House of Representatives: Protect American Consumers from Predatory Overdraft Fees

    Source: US State of California

    Why would we help the big banks at the expense of working people? 

    OAKLAND — California Attorney General Rob Bonta today joined 23 attorneys general in sending a letter to the U.S. House of Representatives urging policymakers to reject an effort to overturn a Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) rule that would protect American consumers from predatory overdraft fees. If allowed to take effect, this rule will limit overdraft fees to $5 and will save Americans struggling with high prices billions of dollars each year by preventing the largest banks from exploiting consumers in order to rake in profits. Last month, Attorney General Bonta issued a statement after the Senate voted to overturn this rule. 

    “High overdraft fees serve no purpose other than to help the wealthy get wealthier, while American families who are already struggling get poorer. Banks aren’t shy about how these fees pad their wallets: a big bank CEO named his yacht Overdraft,” said Attorney General Bonta. “President Trump has promised to make life for Americans affordable — allowing expensive overdraft fees would do the complete and total opposite. Americans are counting on their elected leaders to protect them. My fellow attorneys general and I urge the House, the last line of defense, to protect its constituents’ wallets by voting “no” on the Resolution and preserving the CFPB’s overdraft rule.” 

    The largest U.S. banks generate billions of dollars in profits by charging burdensome fees whenever customers overdraft their accounts. In 2023, banks generated $5.8 billion in revenue from overdraft fees. These fees average around $35 for each overdraft — and are applied even where the overdraft is minimal. For example, many consumers have reported paying overdraft charges of over $30 after purchasing a $5 cup of coffee. Overdraft fees are effectively extremely high-interest loans. Most overdrafts are less than $26 and are repaid within three days. That means overdraft protection with a typical $35 fee amounts to a loan with a 16,000% APR. 

    Banks can manipulate the timing of deposits and withdrawals to maximize fees, charging customers even when they have enough money for an approved transaction. By creating significant barriers to maintaining a positive account balance, overdraft fees can contribute to involuntary account closures, thereby driving consumers out of the banking system altogether and damaging their credit. 

    In submitting today’s letter, Attorney General Bonta joins the attorneys general of New York, Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, and the District of Columbia. 

    Attorney General Bonta has been an outspoken advocate of the CFPB and its essential work protecting for American consumers and their financial future. 

    • In February, Attorney General Bonta filed amicus briefs (here and here) in lawsuits challenging the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the CFPB, arguing that the shuttering of the agency would cause catastrophic and irreparable harm to consumers nationwide.
    • In April 2024, Attorney General Bonta supported a rule that would close a regulatory loophole that enables banks to extract billions of dollars from consumers by charging overdraft fees without adequately disclosing basic credit terms.
    • In February 2024, Attorney General Bonta warned smaller banks and credit unions that overdraft fees disproportionally penalize lower-income consumers and consumers of color and may violate consumer protection laws.

    A copy of the letter can be found here. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Georgia Man Sentenced for $300,000 Romance Fraud Scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Georgia man was sentenced in federal court for his role in an online romance scam with elderly victims in Missouri, Minnesota, and New Jersey.

    Badetito O. Obafemi, 42, was sentenced by U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to 24 months in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Obafemi to three years of supervised release following incarceration and ordered him to pay restitution of $311,520 to the victims of his crime.

    On April 18, 2024, Obafemi pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Obafemi admitted to his participation in a romance scam which targeted victims in Taney County, Mo., Northfield, Minn., and Bergen County, N.J., from June 2016 through at least March 2018.

    The perpetrators of the romance scams used online communications to develop relationships with the victims. The scammers then began to request money from the victims for a variety of reasons, including business expenses, medical expenses, travel expenses, and food.

    According to court records, the Taney County victim was contacted via Facebook by an individual claiming to be “Kevin Condon” in May 2016. Following several conversations by email, phone, and Facebook, “Condon” convinced the victim to send him money for expenses related to his overseas business project and various medical issues. Conspirators stole a total of $27,460 from the Taney County victim. “Condon” also attempted to convince the victim to deposit $40,000 into an account controlled by Obafemi, purportedly to pay a court in South Africa for his release from jail.

    Obafemi conspired with the perpetrators to receive wire transfers from the victims, coordinating the necessary bank account information, the timing of transfers, and the transfer of funds across accounts. Obafemi received funds in his personal accounts as well as those of two businesses, EasyTickets, LLC, and Goeasy Logistics, LLC, which he owned and operated out of his Georgia residence.

    This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Clark. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the FBI and the Northfield, Minn., Police Department.

    Information about the Department of Justice’s Elder Fraud Initiative is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its elder fraud enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311).

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Rosen Leads Colleagues in Demanding Trump Administration Reverse Course on Tariffs, Provide Relief for Small Businesses

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV)
    WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV) led 12 of her Senate colleagues in a letter demanding that Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and President Donald Trump immediately reverse course on the sweeping tariffs that are devastating small businesses in Nevada and across the nation. In the letter, the senators emphasized how these new taxes on imported goods are raising prices for hardworking Americans and creating additional challenges for small businesses at a time when high costs are already making it difficult for them to operate. 
    In addition to Senator Rosen, this letter was signed by Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Mark Warner (D-VA), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Patty Murray (D-WA), Gary Peters (D-MI), and Maria Cantwell (D-WA).
    “At a time when our nation is experiencing an unprecedented affordability crisis, President Trump’s decision to impose sweeping tariffs on goods from virtually every country in the world will send a chill through small businesses across the country,” wrote the senators. “Given this, we urge you to work with the President to immediately reverse course on these broad-based tariffs to end the needless suffering this administration has imposed on small businesses across the country.”
    “With small businesses already being crushed under the weight of high costs and interest rates, we must do all we can to cut red tape and help them thrive – not create additional affordability challenges and uncertainty,” they continued. “To that end, we respectfully ask that you work with the President to reverse course on the 10 percent tariffs on all countries, as well as the exorbitantly high reciprocal tariffs placed on others. Failure to do so will raise costs, rob our small businesses of the certainty they rely on and undermine the economic security of small businesses across the country.”
    The full letter can be found HERE.
    Senator Rosen has been fighting back against President Trump’s reckless tariffs and the destructive impacts they’re having on Nevada’s economy. Last week, she took to the Senate floor to oppose President Trump’s tariffs and highlight a letter she received from a small business owner in Reno outlining the devastating impact these tariffs will have on his business. Senator Rosen also helped pass a Congressional resolution to reverse President Trump’s devastating tariffs on virtually all Canadian goods that have raised prices for families and hurt Nevada’s businesses and economy. Senator Rosen also sent a letter urging the Trump Administration to reverse course on imposing tariffs on Canada and Mexico to prevent housing prices from rising even further.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Pressley, Sánchez, Connolly, Beyer Demand Trump Trade Official Resign from Holding Multiple Positions

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

    Amid Mass Firings, Ethics Violations, and Reckless Trade War, Pressley Sounds Alarm on US Trade Rep’s Triple Appointment to Lead Key Watchdog Agencies

    Clear Conflicts of Interest Threaten to Further Harm Federal Workers

    Text of Letter (PDF)

    WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Congresswoman Linda Sánchez (CA-38), House Oversight Ranking Member Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), and Congressman Don Beyer (VA-08) sent a letter to United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer, who was recently appointed as Acting Special Counsel of the Office of Special Counsel (OSC), a key watchdog agency charged with protecting federal workers, and Acting Director of the Office of Government Ethics (OGE), the agency responsible for Executive Branch ethics programs. Citing the conflicts of interest among these three appointments, Congresswoman Pressley and her colleagues questioned how Greer will be able to oversee Trump’s trade war while also holding multiple roles—and calls on him to resign from his roles as Acting Special Counsel and Acting Director.

    Congresswoman Pressley has led efforts in Congress to protect federal workers, and her letter comes as the Musk-Trump Administration continue their unjust and unlawful terminations of federal workers across the country and accumulation of numerous ethics complaints.

    “Since President Trump has launched a global trade war, it is critical that you remain focused on mitigating the economic turmoil that has already began. Taking on at least two other jobs is misguided and a disservice to the public who expect a competent and effective USTR, OSC, and OGE. We urge you to immediately relinquish your roles as Acting Special Counsel, Acting Director, and any other positions,” the lawmakers wrote in their letter to USTR Ambassador Jamieson Greer.

    In their letter, the lawmakers questioned the ability of Ambassador Greer to fulfill the massive responsibilities of each role, as well as the unethical conflicts of interest that the triple role present. The lawmakers emphasize that as USTR, Ambassador Greer should remain focused on mitigating the economic turmoil that has already begun. While in his OSC role, Greer would also be responsible for protecting more than 2.2 million federal workers in the civil service from discrimination, political coercion, and retaliation for exposing wrongdoing. In addition, in his OGE role, Greer would lead ethics programs in more than 140 agencies in the Executive Branch. However, since OSC’s and OGE’s jurisdictions include oversight of USTR, where cases of wrongful termination, ethics complaints, and whistleblower reprisals may arise, these responsibilities are impossible to carry out impartially.

    “Given these concerns, we do not have confidence in your ability to impartially or effectively fulfill the demanding responsibilities of each office,” the lawmakers continued. “We urge you to immediately resign as Acting Special Counsel and Acting Director. Anything less fails to meet the ethical and professional standards required to preserve the independence and effectiveness of both offices.”

    The lawmakers requested Ambassador Greer provide the following information by April 16, 2025:

    • In addition to your positions as USTR, Acting Special Counsel, and Acting Director, what other roles do you hold in the Trump Administration?
    • In the course of a normal day, how many hours are you spending working on USTR matters compared to OSC matters and OGE matters?
    • Have you recused yourself from any OSC or OGE investigations involving the Office of the United States Trade Representative? If not, why not? If so, who is responsible for handling those complaints?
    • Were ethics officials at any of the agencies consulted before you assumed multiple roles? If so, please provide a copy of any guidance or recommendations you received.
    • Has any information regarding OSC or OGE complaints related to DOGE been shared with DOGE staff?

    A copy of the letter is available here.

    In February, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in writing to the Office of Special Counsel (OSC) urging OSC to ensure all unfairly fired civil servants are immediately rehired and protected from greater abuse, and she has applauded numerous court rulings mandating their reinstatement.

    In March, Rep. Pressley led her colleagues in the Massachusetts congressional delegation in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.

    Congresswoman Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress speaking out against Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s unprecedented assault on our democracy and federal agencies, and she has been a steadfast advocate for protecting the essential services that federal workers and agencies provide.

    • On March 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s executive order to end collective bargaining rights for hundreds of thousands of federal employees.
    • On March 21, 2025, Rep. Pressley led Massachusetts lawmakers in a letter to the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) sharply criticizing and demanding answers about the impact of the Musk-Trump Administration’s mass firings of federal workers in Massachusetts.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley spoke out against the U.S. Department of Education’s mass layoffs of over 1,300 workers, which effectively guts the agency.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley voted against Republicans’ shameful government budget bill, which would harm vulnerable families and provide a blank check for Elon Musk and Donald Trump to continue their unprecedented assault on our democracy. She later issued a statement condemning its final passage in the Senate.
    • On March 11, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined 13 of her colleagues on a letter to the Department of Homeland Security demanding answers and the immediate release of Columbia student Mahmoud Khalil, whose illegal abduction is an attack on his constitutional right to free speech and due process.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley walked out of the House chamber in protest during Donald Trump’s presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On March 4, 2025, Rep. Pressley welcomed Claire Bergstresser, an Everett constituent, dedicated public servant, AFGE union member, and former HUD worker who was unjustly terminated as part of Musk and Trump’s assault on federal agencies as her guest to the presidential joint address to Congress.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley led 85 lawmakers in a letter urging the Office of Special Counsel to immediate reinstate and expand protections for all unfairly fired federal workers.
    • On February 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined over 200 Democrats in filing an amicus brief defending the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau before a U.S. District Court.
    • On February 26, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed what true government efficiency looks like and denounced Elon Musk and Donald Trump for utilizing DOGE to gut the essential services that keep people safe, fed, and housed.
    • On February 25, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley condemned Elon Musk’s abuse of government efficiency through the fraudulent Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
    • On February 25, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered a floor speech in which she railed against Republicans’ cruel budget resolution that would slash Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion.
    • On February 20, 2025, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
    • On February 13, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley emphasized the critical role of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in safeguarding consumers and sharply criticized Donald Trump and Elon Musk for halting the critical work of the agency.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied with Senator Elizabeth Warren, Ranking Member Maxine Waters, and advocates to protest Donald Trump and Elon Musk’s unlawful takeover of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
    • On February 11, 2025, in a House Financial Services Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley criticized the Trump-Musk administration for halting the critical work of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) with crypto scams on the rise.
    • On February 10, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming the Trump Administration’s harmful cuts to National Institutes of Health (NIH) funding to support hospitals, universities, and research institutions conducting lifesaving research.
    • On February 10, 2025, as Trump and Musk threaten to dismantle the essential work of the U.S. Department of Education, Rep.  Pressley delivered a powerful floor speech to affirm the role of public education in American democracy.
    • On February 6, 2025, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Rep. Pressley delivered a powerful rebuke of Republicans’ efforts to gut diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and eliminate essential services for vulnerable communities.
    • On February 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley rallied outside the U.S. Department of Treasury to protest Elon Musk’s unlawful assault on federal agencies and our democracy.
    • On January 30, 2025, Rep. Pressley slammed Donald Trump for blaming the tragic plane crash at Reagan National Airport, which killed over 60 people, including some families from Massachusetts, on diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.
    • In January 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement slamming Trump’s illegal freeze on federal grants and loans and its harmful impact on vulnerable communities.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley delivered an impassioned floor speech condemning Republicans’ cruel anti-abortion bill that criminalizes providers and denies families care.
    • On January 23, 2025, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues to reintroduce the Neighbors Not Enemies Act, a bill to repeal an outdated law that has been used to target innocent immigrants without due process rights.
    • On January 22, 2025, Rep. Pressley issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s harmful executive actions on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Wyoming Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by August Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Wyoming of the deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning on Aug. 6 and 13, 2024, respectively.

    The disaster declarations cover the counties listed below:

    Declaration Number

    Primary
    Counties

    Neighboring
    Counties

    Incident Type

    Incident Date

    Deadline

    WY 20763

    		 Fremont, Hot Springs, Park, Sublette and Teton Big Horn, Carbon, Lincoln, Natrona, Sweetwater and Washakie in Wyoming;
    Bonneville, Fremont and Teton in Idaho;
    Carbon, Gallatin and Park in Montana.    		 Drought Beginning Aug. 6, 2024, and continuing 5/30/25

    WY 20772

    		 Lincoln Sublette, Sweetwater, Teton and Uinta in Wyoming;
    Bear Lake, Bonneville and Caribou in Idaho;
    Rich in Utah.    		 Drought Beginning Aug. 13, 2024, and continuing 6/9/25

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

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

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

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

    For disaster declaration WY 20763, submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 30, and for WY 20772, submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than June 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Oklahoma Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by September Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Oklahoma of the May 9, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning Sept. 3, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Caddo, Comanche, Cotton, Grady, Kiowa, Stephens and Tillman.

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

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

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: SBA Relief Still Available to Colorado Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by July Drought

    Source: United States Small Business Administration

    SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Colorado of the May 9, deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the drought beginning July 16, 2024.

    The disaster declaration covers the counties of Adams, Arapahoe, Boulder, Broomfield, Clear Creek, Denver, Douglas, Gilpin, Jefferson, Morgan, Park, Teller, Washington and Weld.

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

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

    “Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”

    The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs, with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due, until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.

    The SBA encourages applicants to submit their loan applications promptly. Applications will be prioritized in the order they are received, and the SBA remains committed to processing them as efficiently as possible.

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

    Submit completed loan applications to SBA no later than May 9.

    ###

    About the U.S. Small Business Administration

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

    MIL OSI USA News –