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Category: CTF

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China National Space Administration releases images of Earth and Moon taken by Tianwen-2 probe

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhua) — The China National Space Administration (CNSA) on Tuesday released images of the Earth and the Moon taken in orbit by the Tianwen-2 probe.

    The narrow-field navigation sensor on Tianwen-2 recently captured images of our planet and its natural satellite, showing good performance, the CNSA said.

    The released images include a photograph of Earth taken by Tianwen-2 from a distance of approximately 590,000 km from the planet, as well as a photograph of the Moon taken at the same distance. After transmission to Earth, these images were processed by scientific personnel.

    At the moment, Tianwen-2 has been in orbit for more than 33 days. It is separated from the Earth by more than 12 million km. All the probe systems are operating normally, the CNSA reported.

    The 10-year Tianwen-2 mission has several goals: collecting samples from the near-Earth asteroid 2016HO3 and studying the main-belt comet 311P, which is farther from Earth than Mars. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Shanghai Stock Exchange and AIX Sign MoU on Cooperation

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhua) — The Shanghai Stock Exchange and AIX (Astana International Exchange) on Monday signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation, aiming to further strengthen bilateral cooperation and exchanges between the two capital markets.

    As the Zhongguo Zhengquanbao newspaper writes, citing a representative of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, in 2017 the exchange agreed on cooperation with the Kazakhstan International Financial Center Astana and joined the AIX share. By now, AIX has formed a full-fledged infrastructure and a system of market rules, and has also achieved certain results in attracting issuers and investors.

    The signing of the memorandum will promote exchanges and cooperation between the two sides in the fields of information exchange, marketing and product development. It will also lay a solid foundation for cooperation in the capital markets of both countries to support the joint construction of the Belt and Road.

    Under the guidance of the China Securities Regulatory Commission, the Shanghai Stock Exchange will continue to deepen exchanges and cooperation with AIX and the capital market of Kazakhstan. At the same time, it will continuously expand the scope of external communication, steadily promote diversified cooperation with overseas exchanges, so as to promote high-quality opening of the capital market. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: In the first half of 2025, the total box office revenue of Chinese films exceeded 29 billion yuan.

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    BEIJING, July 1 (Xinhua) — China’s film market will continue to grow at a rapid pace in 2025. In the first half of the year, China’s box office revenue was 29.23 billion yuan (about 4.09 billion U.S. dollars), up 22.91 percent year on year, according to data released Tuesday by the National Film Administration. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: UN Security Council Extends Mandate of UN Peacekeeping Forces in Golan Heights

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    UNITED NATIONS, July 1 (Xinhua) — The United Nations Security Council on Monday unanimously adopted a resolution extending the mandate of the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights for six months, until December 31, 2025.

    Resolution 2782 emphasizes the obligation of both Israel and Syria to fully comply with the terms of the 1974 ceasefire and calls on them to exercise maximum restraint and prevent any violations of the ceasefire and the area of separation, or buffer zone.

    The document requires the Secretary-General of the world organization to ensure that UNDOF has all the necessary capabilities and resources to carry out its mandate safely and properly.

    UNDOF was established in May 1974 following the agreed disengagement of Israeli and Syrian forces on the Golan Heights, which ended the 1973 Yom Kippur War. It is tasked with maintaining the ceasefire between Israel and Syria. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Spanish PM calls for inclusive multilateralism at Financing for Development conference

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    SEVILLE, Spain, July 1 (Xinhua) — Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on Monday called for inclusive and strong multilateralism at the opening of the fourth International Conference on Financing for Development here in southern Spain.

    P. Sanchez, who is also the conference chair, said that in the current global context, inclusive and strong multilateralism is especially needed and the UN should be at its core.

    He called on delegates to translate slogans into action, resolve differences through unity and build trust through dialogue.

    Noting that two-thirds of the UN Sustainable Development Goals were behind schedule, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said at the opening of the session that the conference would take action in three areas – accelerating the flow of funds, reforming the international debt system and increasing the participation of developing countries in the institutions of the international financial system.

    The conference, dedicated to global development finance, will run until Thursday and will bring together representatives from governments, international organizations, financial institutions, businesses and other entities. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: G7 calls for resumption of Iran nuclear talks

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    OTTAWA, July 1 (Xinhua) — The Group of Seven (G7) foreign ministers on Monday called for a resumption of talks to reach a comprehensive, verifiable and lasting deal on Iran’s nuclear program.

    In a joint statement on Iran and the Middle East issued by Global Affairs Canada, the G7 foreign ministers called on Iran to urgently resume full cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in accordance with its safeguards obligations and to provide the IAEA with verifiable information on all nuclear materials in Iran, including by providing access to IAEA inspectors.

    “We underscore the central importance of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as the cornerstone of the global nuclear non-proliferation regime. It is critical that Iran remain a party to and fully implement its obligations under the Treaty,” the statement said.

    The foreign ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States, as well as the European Union’s high representative, met in The Hague on June 25 to discuss recent developments in the Middle East. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Turkish FM welcomes cooperation with UK, calls for expansion of bilateral trade

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    ANKARA, July 1 (Xinhua) — Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan here on Monday hailed “intensive cooperation” with Britain and called for further expansion of bilateral trade.

    During a joint press conference with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, he spoke about interstate cooperation in the areas of economics, defense and technology.

    The minister praised Britain’s supportive stance on issues such as the conflicts in Gaza, Syria, other parts of the Middle East and Ukraine, and welcomed London’s recent decision to lift some sanctions on Syria.

    H. Fidan stressed that ensuring a ceasefire, especially between Iran and Israel, as well as in the Gaza Strip, remains one of Ankara’s top strategic priorities.

    The annual trade turnover between Turkey and Great Britain has reached almost 30 billion US dollars, and both sides are striving to further expand economic ties, the minister noted.

    Mr Lammy highlighted the strength of Turkish-British relations, pointing to a potential free trade agreement that could bring mutual economic benefits of up to £28 billion (US$38.36 billion).

    “We look forward to negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement in the coming weeks and months,” he said.

    The Foreign Minister also praised Turkey’s efforts to promote peace in the Russian-Ukrainian conflict and stressed that both countries are working to ease the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and implement the principle of “two states for two peoples” for the Palestinians. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Delays on SH18, Greenhithe

    Source: New Zealand Police

    Police advise motorists travelling on the Upper Harbour Highway (SH18) to expect delays tonight.

    A four-car crash heading westbound has occurred just after the Tauhinu Road on-ramp, near Greenhithe.

    There are no serious injuries to report.

    While the vehicles are being cleared, there is an extensive backlog of traffic towards the Albany area.

    Please allow additional time to reach your destination safely this evening.

    ENDS

    Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Protecting retailers from shoplifting

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government is making it easier for police to punish shoplifters and is introducing stronger penalties for low-level theft, Justice Minister Paul Goldsmith and Associate Justice Minister Nicole McKee say. 

    “Public confidence in our justice system is undermined if people can steal with apparent impunity. It’s disheartening, and our government will not sit by while shoplifters rob businesses of their livelihoods,” Mr Goldsmith says.

    “Currently, the administrative burden can deter retailers from making official complaints, and lower-level offending often goes unreported or unpunished. Our government is restoring real consequences for crime, and shoplifting is no exception.”

    The proposed changes include:

    Introducing an infringement regime for shoplifting in retail premises. For stolen goods valued up to $500, infringement fees will be up to $500. For goods valued over $500, fees will be up to $1,000.
    Strengthening the penalties for theft. The maximum penalties will be one year imprisonment (if the value is approximately $2,000 or less), or seven years imprisonment (if value is approximately more than $2,000).
    Creating a new aggravated theft offence for when the value of the goods is under $2,000 and the theft is carried out in a manner that is offensive, threatening, insulting, or disorderly.  

    “Harsher penalties could mean up to twice as long behind bars for aggravated theft, and criminals will be forced to think twice before destroying more lives,” Mrs McKee says.

    “Our government is focused on restoring law and order, reducing violent crime, and putting victims first in our justice system.
    “I want to thank the Ministerial Advisory Group, and its Chair Sunny Kaushal, for their work shaping this proposal.”
    These changes fulfill a commitment in the National/New Zealand First coalition agreement to ensure real consequences for lower-level crimes such as shoplifting.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt condemns smears against NSL

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government strongly condemned and opposed the malicious attacks on and the demonisation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and other laws safeguarding national security, as well as the slanderous and fact-distorting remarks made on the city’s work in safeguarding national security by foreign politicians, anti-China organisations, and various media outlets on the important occasion of the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL.

    In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that anti-China and destabilising forces, organisations or media have made sweepingly generalised and grandstanding comments, completely disregarding the profound historical significance of the HKNSL and its undeniable positive impact on the city.

    The statement made it clear that they distorted the facts and made slanderous remarks on the Hong Kong SAR and the HKNSL. They even attempted to interfere with criminal trials conducted in Hong Kong SAR courts, thereby obstructing the course of justice.

    It also indicated that they never utter a word about the strict enforcement of national security laws by their own countries and other governments against activities that endanger their national security.

    The statement described their actions as despicable political manipulation. It stressed that the Hong Kong SAR Government must sternly denounce their wrongdoing to set the record straight and expose their shameless ‘double standards’ to the world.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government also emphasised that safeguarding national security is a top priority of every country. In accordance with international law and international relations based on the Charter of the United Nations, it is each and every sovereign state’s inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security, and it is also an international practice.

    Moreover, the statement mentioned that for a considerable period, external forces, through their agents, have conducted infiltration and sabotage activities in Hong Kong, and further instigated the “black-clad violence” and the Hong Kong version of “colour revolution” in 2019, which nearly brought the “one country, two systems” to ruin.

    With the promulgation and implementation of the HKNSL, its effect in stopping violence and curbing disorder as well as quickly restoring social stability in the Hong Kong community was immediate.

    The statement highlighted that the Hong Kong SAR fulfilled its constitutional duty by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance last year with broad societal consensus, thereby improving the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security. This has enabled Hong Kong’s transition “from chaos to order” and advancement “from stability to prosperity”.

    It said the attempts by external forces to “use Hong Kong to contain China” are doomed to fail, leaving them with no option but to smear the HKNSL.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that, over five years of its implementation, the HKNSL has restored the rights and freedoms that Hong Kong citizens were unable to enjoy during the period of “black-clad violence”, and has enabled the livelihood and economic activities of the Hong Kong community at large to swiftly return to normal and the business environment to be restored and improved continuously.

    It also stressed that human rights in Hong Kong have always been robustly guaranteed constitutionally by both the Constitution and the Basic Law, adding that the rule of law in Hong Kong is strong and robust, and withstands the test of time.

    In addition, the statement noted that, as guaranteed by the Basic Law, the HKNSL and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights, all defendants charged with a criminal offence shall have the right to a fair trial by the Judiciary exercising independent judicial power. The courts of the Hong Kong SAR shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference.

    It also mentioned that foreign politicians, anti-China organisations, and various media have recently continued to make irresponsible and absurd remarks, distorting the truth regarding the national security case involving Lai Chee-ying, as well as his custodial arrangements, with the intention of perverting the course of justice.

    The Hong Kong SAR government has repeatedly pointed out that any attempt by any country, organisation, or individual to interfere with the judicial proceedings in the city by means of political power, to prevent any defendant from receiving a fair trial that they should have, is a blatant act undermining the rule of law of Hong Kong and should be condemned.

    The suggestion that persons or organisations with certain backgrounds should be immune from legal sanctions for their illegal acts and activities is tantamount to granting such persons or organisations privileges to break the law, perverting the course of justice, and is totally contrary to the spirit of the rule of law, the Hong Kong SAR Government stated.

    The HKSAR Government strongly urges any external forces to immediately stop interfering with the city’s internal affairs and the independent exercise of judicial power by the courts of the Hong Kong SAR.

    Regarding the custodial arrangements of Lai Chee-ying, the Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that the Correctional Services Department (CSD) is committed to ensuring that the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy, and has put in place an established mechanism to safeguard the rights of persons-in-custody (PICs), including regular independent visitors, namely Justices of the Peace, who inspect the prisons to ensure the rights of PICs are protected.

    The statement specified that the CSD consistently handles matters concerning Lai Chee-ying strictly in accordance with these mechanisms, no differently from other PICs.

    Furthermore, it clarified that the arrangement for Lai Chee-ying’s removal from association with other PICs has been made at his own request and approved by the CSD after considering all relevant factors in accordance with the law all along.

    The statement added that Lai Chee-ying’s legal representative has publicly clarified that he is receiving appropriate treatment and care in prison.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that it will continue to uphold its constitutional duty and steadfastly safeguard national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

    The statement said that the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to resolutely fulfil its duties and obligations to safeguard national security while simultaneously protecting the lawful rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents and others in Hong Kong in accordance with the law.

    By ensuring high-quality development with high-level security, a new chapter in the practice of “one country, two systems” would be continuously composed, the statement added.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: INVL Asset Management raises EUR 35.43 million for investments in funds managed by 17Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, raised EUR 35.43 million for investments in funds managed by 17Capital which provides financing to the world’s largest private equity managers, investors, and funds. This success in attracting investor funds further solidifies the Invalda INVL group’s leading position in the Baltic private debt market.

    “The private debt market is experiencing rapid growth globally, and the Baltic region is no exception. Private debt is emerging as an important alternative to traditional financing, while also serving as a valuable tool for portfolio diversification. We appreciate the trust our investors place in us and their decision to leverage the access we provide to globally diversified private debt funds managed by an experienced team. To date, our group has attracted over EUR 75 million to this asset class, reinforcing our leading position in the,” says Justas Riauba, Invalda INVL’s Group Chief Investment Officer.

    A private debt fund INVL Bridge Finance, which had more than EUR 40 million of assets under management at the end of May this year, is also a part of the Invalda INVL group.

    INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds were distributed to the Baltic investors by the financial brokerage firm INVL Financial Advisors, which operates in Lithuania under the INVL Family Office brand.

    “Retail and institutional investors in the Baltic countries are showing strong and growing interest in private debt solutions as an important component of a diversified portfolio. The successful distribution of these funds through the INVL Family Office reflects increasing confidence in structured, institutional-grade products and highlights the growing maturity of investors when it comes to selecting alternative investment solutions,” says Asta Jovaišienė, who heads the INVL Family Office.

    Launched this year, the INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds invest in funds managed by 17Capital, a private credit manager active in North America and Europe. The strategy of that world-class specialised manager’s funds is to lend to the world’s best known private equity funds, managers and management companies against the net asset value (NAV) of their private equity portfolios or the management companies’ investments, as well as to the participants of such funds.

    The minimum investment in the funds for informed investors is EUR 125,000 or, if investments are made in US dollars, USD 145,000. The INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds target an expected net average annual investment return of more than 10%. The anticipated duration of the funds is 7 years.

    Founded in 2008, 17Capital operates primarily from London and New York. The company has completed more than 100 investments and more than 50 exits and since its inception has raised more than USD 13 billion.

    About INVL Asset Management 

    INVL Asset Management is the leading Baltic alternative asset manager. We strive to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns to our investors while positively impacting our region’s economic development. 

    We are part of the Invalda INVL group with a track record spanning over 30 years. Our group manages or has under supervision more than EUR 1.9 billion of assets across multiple asset classes including private equity, forests and agricultural land, renewable energy, real estate as well as private debt. Our scope of activities also includes family office services in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, management of pension funds in Latvia, and investments in global third-party funds.

    The person for additional information:
    Justas Riauba, Invalda INVL Group Chief Investment Officer
    Justas.Riauba@invl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: INVL Asset Management raises EUR 35.43 million for investments in funds managed by 17Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    INVL Asset Management, the leading alternative asset manager in the Baltics, raised EUR 35.43 million for investments in funds managed by 17Capital which provides financing to the world’s largest private equity managers, investors, and funds. This success in attracting investor funds further solidifies the Invalda INVL group’s leading position in the Baltic private debt market.

    “The private debt market is experiencing rapid growth globally, and the Baltic region is no exception. Private debt is emerging as an important alternative to traditional financing, while also serving as a valuable tool for portfolio diversification. We appreciate the trust our investors place in us and their decision to leverage the access we provide to globally diversified private debt funds managed by an experienced team. To date, our group has attracted over EUR 75 million to this asset class, reinforcing our leading position in the,” says Justas Riauba, Invalda INVL’s Group Chief Investment Officer.

    A private debt fund INVL Bridge Finance, which had more than EUR 40 million of assets under management at the end of May this year, is also a part of the Invalda INVL group.

    INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds were distributed to the Baltic investors by the financial brokerage firm INVL Financial Advisors, which operates in Lithuania under the INVL Family Office brand.

    “Retail and institutional investors in the Baltic countries are showing strong and growing interest in private debt solutions as an important component of a diversified portfolio. The successful distribution of these funds through the INVL Family Office reflects increasing confidence in structured, institutional-grade products and highlights the growing maturity of investors when it comes to selecting alternative investment solutions,” says Asta Jovaišienė, who heads the INVL Family Office.

    Launched this year, the INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds invest in funds managed by 17Capital, a private credit manager active in North America and Europe. The strategy of that world-class specialised manager’s funds is to lend to the world’s best known private equity funds, managers and management companies against the net asset value (NAV) of their private equity portfolios or the management companies’ investments, as well as to the participants of such funds.

    The minimum investment in the funds for informed investors is EUR 125,000 or, if investments are made in US dollars, USD 145,000. The INVL Partner Strategic Lending funds target an expected net average annual investment return of more than 10%. The anticipated duration of the funds is 7 years.

    Founded in 2008, 17Capital operates primarily from London and New York. The company has completed more than 100 investments and more than 50 exits and since its inception has raised more than USD 13 billion.

    About INVL Asset Management 

    INVL Asset Management is the leading Baltic alternative asset manager. We strive to deliver superior risk-adjusted returns to our investors while positively impacting our region’s economic development. 

    We are part of the Invalda INVL group with a track record spanning over 30 years. Our group manages or has under supervision more than EUR 1.9 billion of assets across multiple asset classes including private equity, forests and agricultural land, renewable energy, real estate as well as private debt. Our scope of activities also includes family office services in Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia, management of pension funds in Latvia, and investments in global third-party funds.

    The person for additional information:
    Justas Riauba, Invalda INVL Group Chief Investment Officer
    Justas.Riauba@invl.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Over half of sports fans are turning to AI or gen AI for more personalized content

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press contact:
    Elsa Estager Bergerou
    Tel: +33 6 59 62 55 13
    Email: elsa.estager-bergerou@capgemini.com

    Over half of sports fans are turning to AI or gen AI for more personalized content

    • AI has overtaken traditional search engines as the main source for sports information, with 67% of fans wanting all sports data aggregated in one place.
    • Digital insights are filling gaps in the live sports experience, with nearly 70% of fans seeking stats related to team, players and playing conditions primarily pre-match and during breaks.
    • Spectators want balance between tech innovation and authenticity, with almost three out of five fans worrying that too much technology could impact the thrill of live sport.

    Paris, July 1, 2025 – The Capgemini Research Institute today released its latest report, “Beyond the game: The new era of AI-powered sports engagement”, revealing how AI and generative AI (gen AI) are reshaping the global fan experience. As AI-powered tools become the primary gateway for sports content and data, fans still seek the thrill of authentic, in-person moments, therefore highlighting the need to strike a balance between the digital and physical worlds of sport.

    AI and gen AI power the next era of fan engagement
    AI is redefining how fans interact with sports. Over half (54%) of them now use AI or gen AI tools as their main source of information with 59% trusting content generated by these technologies. From personalized match summaries to real-time highlights reels, fans increasingly expect AI and gen AI to aggregate all sports-related content – 67% want a single, streamlined platform where they can discover information aggregated from websites, search engines and social media.

    However, personalization and interactivity are key to ensuring a genuine and authentic fan experience. While the report finds fans are returning to stadiums since the pandemic, with 37% already having attended live matches this year, AI is transforming how fans engage with sports overall. The technology is delivering tailored updates that enhance their experience of the game, with stats and facts about their favorite teams, fixtures, and players.

    Indeed, 64% of fans want AI to provide updates customized to their preferences, a similar number want to compete against well-known players in a virtual space during live games, and 58% would like to replay matches using ‘what-if’ scenarios. Just over a quarter (27%) are even willing to pay a premium for these AI-driven, interactive experiences. For instance, Tour de France fans can now play and follow their Fantasy team in real time, vote and elect the most combative rider of the day or even experience the race from inside an official fans car.

    “The true power of AI in sports, and especially gen AI, lies in its ability to transform how fans connect with the game, with athletes, and with each other,” explained Pascal Brier, Chief Innovation Officer at Capgemini and Member of the Group Executive Committee. “As technology evolves, unlocking new ways for fans to curate their own unique experience, will be a blend of real-time data with immersive, interactive opportunities. The challenge is to ensure that these innovations deepen the emotional connections that make sport so powerful for passionate supporters, while preserving the authenticity and integrity that defines the spirit of the game.”

    Balancing innovation with responsibility and the thrill of live sports
    Sports fans today are hungry for data but the report shows their digital engagement peaks before matches and during breaks, rather than during the live play itself. Nearly 70% of fans want access to player metrics and live match data, using these insights to enrich their understanding when the action pauses. By meeting fans’ appetite for insights at these key moments, data enriches the overall viewing experience while keeping the thrill of live sports intact.

    While digital innovation is widely embraced, nearly 60% of sports fans are concerned that too much technology could dampen the excitement of attending events, and over half fear it could diminish their overall enjoyment of the game or match. This highlights the importance of finding the right balance – leveraging technology to elevate the fan experience while preserving what makes live sports so uniquely compelling.

    The report finds that there is a lack of awareness about data privacy aspects of AI-powered sports viewing tools.
    For example, whereas about half of Gen Y and Gen Z fans are aware of the various kinds of data collected and explicitly consent to its storage, this is true for only 38% and 36% of baby boomers, respectively.

    There are also concerns about misinformation, as two-thirds of fans admit being worried that the spread of unverified content on AI or gen AI platforms could increase the risk of athletes being targeted or harassed by disgruntled supporters. What’s more, 57% of fans are concerned about the generation of false content resulting in the spread of misinformation about players or sports teams.

    Stadiums invest in tech to meet rising fan expectations
    The report finds that stadium operators are investing in apps and smart technologies to create smoother, more immersive experiences for digital-native audiences. Over half of attendees say ticketing, scheduling, and real-time apps enhance their stadium experience, while facial recognition entry and digital navigation are also valued.

    Download the full report here.

    Report methodology
    The Capgemini Research Institute surveyed f 12,017 sports fans across 11 countries, in March and April 2025: Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Spain, Sweden, the UK, and the US. The research explored fan behaviors, attitudes, and expectations around AI, gen AI, and digital innovations in sports.

    About Capgemini
    Capgemini is a global business and technology transformation partner, helping organizations to accelerate their dual transition to a digital and sustainable world, while creating tangible impact for enterprises and society. It is a responsible and diverse group of 340,000 team members in more than 50 countries. With its strong over 55-year heritage, Capgemini is trusted by its clients to unlock the value of technology to address the entire breadth of their business needs. It delivers end-to-end services and solutions leveraging strengths from strategy and design to engineering, all fueled by its market leading capabilities in AI, generative AI, cloud and data, combined with its deep industry expertise and partner ecosystem. The Group reported 2024 global revenues of €22.1 billion.

    Get The Future You Want | www.capgemini.com

    About the Capgemini Research Institute
    The Capgemini Research Institute is Capgemini’s in-house think-tank on all things digital. The Institute publishes research on the impact of digital technologies on large traditional businesses. The team draws on the worldwide network of Capgemini experts and works closely with academic and technology partners. The Institute has dedicated research centers in India, Singapore, the United Kingdom and the United States. It was ranked #1 in the world for the quality of its research by independent analysts for six consecutive times – an industry first.

    Visit us at https://www.capgemini.com/researchinstitute/

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Danish households buy European stocks

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Investments in defense stocks are significant

    Defense stocks account for 32 per cent of Danish households’ total purchases of European stocks in the first five months of 2025. At the top of the list are Rheinmetall and Saab. In May, for the first time, Rheinmetall became the European stock in which Danish households have the largest investment. This is primarily driven by price increases and, to a lesser extent, new purchases. Although Danish households have sold American stocks and bought European ones in 2025, American stocks still make up 29 per cent of the total stock portfolio as of May. In comparison, European stocks account for 16 per cent, Danish stocks 48 per cent, and other listed stocks 7 per cent.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Danish households buy European stocks

    Source: Danmarks Nationalbank

    Investments in defense stocks are significant

    Defense stocks account for 32 per cent of Danish households’ total purchases of European stocks in the first five months of 2025. At the top of the list are Rheinmetall and Saab. In May, for the first time, Rheinmetall became the European stock in which Danish households have the largest investment. This is primarily driven by price increases and, to a lesser extent, new purchases. Although Danish households have sold American stocks and bought European ones in 2025, American stocks still make up 29 per cent of the total stock portfolio as of May. In comparison, European stocks account for 16 per cent, Danish stocks 48 per cent, and other listed stocks 7 per cent.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Multi-purpose Arena in Odaiba Aomi Area TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO Construction Completed

    Source: Toyota

    Headline: Multi-purpose Arena in Odaiba Aomi Area TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO Construction Completed

    Toyota Fudosan Co., Ltd. (Toyota Fudosan), the owner of TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO (the Arena), held a construction completion ceremony on June 30. The arena project is being developed in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Toyota Alvark Tokyo Corporation (Toyota Alvark Tokyo).

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Multi-purpose Arena in Odaiba Aomi Area TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO Construction Completed

    Source: Toyota

    Headline: Multi-purpose Arena in Odaiba Aomi Area TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO Construction Completed

    Toyota Fudosan Co., Ltd. (Toyota Fudosan), the owner of TOYOTA ARENA TOKYO (the Arena), held a construction completion ceremony on June 30. The arena project is being developed in collaboration with Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) and Toyota Alvark Tokyo Corporation (Toyota Alvark Tokyo).

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide

    Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

    US President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementing so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on some 180 trading partners ends on July 8.

    How are countries responding to the threat, and will the tariffs be re-applied from July 9?

    What the US thinks ‘reciprocal’ means

    The United States is demanding four things from all trading partners, while offering little in return. So these negotiations are anything but “reciprocal”.

    The main demand is to rebalance bilateral goods trade between the US and other countries. Nations with trade surpluses – meaning they export a greater value of goods than they import from the US – will be encouraged to import more from the US and/or export less to it.

    The US is also pushing countries to eliminate a range of “non-tariff barriers” that may affect US export competitiveness. These barriers are drawn from the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) March 2025 report and include a variety of perceived “unfair” practices, from value-added taxes (such as the Goods and Services Tax) to biosecurity standards such as those Australia applies to agricultural imports.

    In a nod to the “tech bros”, (alleged) restrictions on digital trade services, such as Australia’s media bargaining code, and digital service taxes must be removed, along with taxes on the tech giants. On Monday, Canada dropped a new digital service tax on firms such as Google and Meta after Trump suspended trade talks.

    Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Tesla CEO Elon Musk at President Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
    Saul Loeb/Pool/AFP via Getty Image

    Countries must also agree to reduce reliance on inputs from China in any exports to the United States. That means companies that moved manufacturing from China to countries such as Vietnam during President Trump’s first term trade wars will face challenges in sourcing input components from China.

    Put together, this is a difficult package for any government to accept without securing something in return.

    Who holds the cards?

    Trump has been fond of saying the United States holds “all the cards” in trade negotiations.

    It’s not known precisely how many countries are negotiating bilateral deals with Washington. Between 10 and 18 countries are priority “targets”, or to use an early, colourful phrase, were targeted as the “Dirty 15”.

    Category 1 likely comprises many more countries than those in the US’s naughty corner. These countries were saddled with large reciprocal tariffs despite the tariff formula’s evident shortcomings. To paraphrase Trump, these countries don’t hold the cards and have limited negotiating power.

    They have no choice but to make concessions. The smarter ones will take the opportunity to make reforms and blame the bully in Washington. Mostly these are developing countries, some with high dependency on the US market, including the poorest such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Lesotho.

    To make matters worse, they must keep one eye on China for fear of retribution in case Beijing perceives any promises to reduce dependence on Chinese inputs would compromise Chinese interests.

    Category 2 consists of countries that “hold cards”, or have some degree of leverage. Some, such as Canada, Japan, India and the EU, will secure limited US concessions although they may resort to retaliation to force this outcome. From discussions with our government and academic sources, Japan and India likely won’t retaliate, but Canada has previously and the EU likely will.

    Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially said he would not negotiate and has repeated US reciprocal tariffs “are not the act of a friend”.

    However, the Australian government is wisely looking to bolster its negotiation cards, such as creating a critical minerals strategic reserve.



    Read more:
    Plans to stockpile critical minerals will help Australia weather global uncertainty – and encourage smaller miners

    No doubt policy makers are also reminding the US of their favourable access to Australia’s military infrastructure which could be essential to any US-China military confrontation.

    China is category 3.

    The Chinese government is determined not to kowtow to Washington as they did in Trump’s first term. The so-called “Phase 1 deal” was signed but instantly forgotten in Beijing.

    Beijing has several cards, notably dominance of processed critical minerals and their derivative products, particularly magnets, and the US’s lack of short-term alternative supply options.

    After China expanded export controls on rare earths and critical minerals, shortages hit the auto industry around the world and Ford was forced to idle plants.

    What happens next?

    Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, suggested on Friday more deals may be signed before July 8. But Trump is likely to undermine and/or negate them as his transactional whims change.

    The British, after announcing their US deal that included relatively favourable automotive and steel export market access, watched in horror as Trump doubled tariffs on steel imports to 50%, and reimposed the 25% tariff on the UK.

    The UK government was reminded this US administration cannot be trusted. That is why countries negotiate binding trade treaties governed by domestic and international laws.

    Many countries are waiting on the outcomes from various US court battles testing whether the president or Congress should have the power to impose unilateral tariffs. After all, if there is a chance the Supreme Court rules Trump cannot change tariffs by decree, then why negotiate with a serially untrustworthy partner?

    The Japanese government, for example, recently announced it is pausing negotiations after the US demanded increased defence spending.

    ‘I’m going to send letters’

    Trump on Sunday suggested he would simply send letters to foreign nations setting a tariff rate. “I’m going to send letters, that’s the end of the trade deal,” he said.

    That does not bode well for countries negotiating in good faith. It’s likely tariffs will be reimposed and bilateral negotiations will drag on to September or beyond as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said.

    After all, even the US government has limited bandwidth to process so many simultaneous negotiations. Category 2 trading partners will increasingly test their own political limits. And the rest of the world is hoping for a favourable Supreme Court ruling that may, like the character Godot in the play Waiting for Godot, never come.

    Nathan Gray receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Kumuthini Sivathas and Peter Draper do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming – https://theconversation.com/im-going-to-send-letters-the-deadline-for-trumps-reciprocal-trade-tariffs-is-looming-259983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Peter Draper, Professor, and Executive Director: Institute for International Trade, and Director of the Jean Monnet Centre of Trade and Environment, University of Adelaide

    Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

    US President Donald Trump’s 90-day pause on implementing so-called “reciprocal” tariffs on some 180 trading partners ends on July 8.

    How are countries responding to the threat, and will the tariffs be re-applied from July 9?

    What the US thinks ‘reciprocal’ means

    The United States is demanding four things from all trading partners, while offering little in return. So these negotiations are anything but “reciprocal”.

    The main demand is to rebalance bilateral goods trade between the US and other countries. Nations with trade surpluses – meaning they export a greater value of goods than they import from the US – will be encouraged to import more from the US and/or export less to it.

    The US is also pushing countries to eliminate a range of “non-tariff barriers” that may affect US export competitiveness. These barriers are drawn from the United States Trade Representative’s (USTR) March 2025 report and include a variety of perceived “unfair” practices, from value-added taxes (such as the Goods and Services Tax) to biosecurity standards such as those Australia applies to agricultural imports.

    In a nod to the “tech bros”, (alleged) restrictions on digital trade services, such as Australia’s media bargaining code, and digital service taxes must be removed, along with taxes on the tech giants. On Monday, Canada dropped a new digital service tax on firms such as Google and Meta after Trump suspended trade talks.

    Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, Google CEO Sundar Pichai and Tesla CEO Elon Musk at President Trump’s inauguration ceremony.
    Saul Loeb/Pool/AFP via Getty Image

    Countries must also agree to reduce reliance on inputs from China in any exports to the United States. That means companies that moved manufacturing from China to countries such as Vietnam during President Trump’s first term trade wars will face challenges in sourcing input components from China.

    Put together, this is a difficult package for any government to accept without securing something in return.

    Who holds the cards?

    Trump has been fond of saying the United States holds “all the cards” in trade negotiations.

    It’s not known precisely how many countries are negotiating bilateral deals with Washington. Between 10 and 18 countries are priority “targets”, or to use an early, colourful phrase, were targeted as the “Dirty 15”.

    Category 1 likely comprises many more countries than those in the US’s naughty corner. These countries were saddled with large reciprocal tariffs despite the tariff formula’s evident shortcomings. To paraphrase Trump, these countries don’t hold the cards and have limited negotiating power.

    They have no choice but to make concessions. The smarter ones will take the opportunity to make reforms and blame the bully in Washington. Mostly these are developing countries, some with high dependency on the US market, including the poorest such as Bangladesh, Cambodia, and Lesotho.

    To make matters worse, they must keep one eye on China for fear of retribution in case Beijing perceives any promises to reduce dependence on Chinese inputs would compromise Chinese interests.

    Category 2 consists of countries that “hold cards”, or have some degree of leverage. Some, such as Canada, Japan, India and the EU, will secure limited US concessions although they may resort to retaliation to force this outcome. From discussions with our government and academic sources, Japan and India likely won’t retaliate, but Canada has previously and the EU likely will.

    Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese initially said he would not negotiate and has repeated US reciprocal tariffs “are not the act of a friend”.

    However, the Australian government is wisely looking to bolster its negotiation cards, such as creating a critical minerals strategic reserve.



    Read more:
    Plans to stockpile critical minerals will help Australia weather global uncertainty – and encourage smaller miners

    No doubt policy makers are also reminding the US of their favourable access to Australia’s military infrastructure which could be essential to any US-China military confrontation.

    China is category 3.

    The Chinese government is determined not to kowtow to Washington as they did in Trump’s first term. The so-called “Phase 1 deal” was signed but instantly forgotten in Beijing.

    Beijing has several cards, notably dominance of processed critical minerals and their derivative products, particularly magnets, and the US’s lack of short-term alternative supply options.

    After China expanded export controls on rare earths and critical minerals, shortages hit the auto industry around the world and Ford was forced to idle plants.

    What happens next?

    Kevin Hassett, director of the National Economic Council, suggested on Friday more deals may be signed before July 8. But Trump is likely to undermine and/or negate them as his transactional whims change.

    The British, after announcing their US deal that included relatively favourable automotive and steel export market access, watched in horror as Trump doubled tariffs on steel imports to 50%, and reimposed the 25% tariff on the UK.

    The UK government was reminded this US administration cannot be trusted. That is why countries negotiate binding trade treaties governed by domestic and international laws.

    Many countries are waiting on the outcomes from various US court battles testing whether the president or Congress should have the power to impose unilateral tariffs. After all, if there is a chance the Supreme Court rules Trump cannot change tariffs by decree, then why negotiate with a serially untrustworthy partner?

    The Japanese government, for example, recently announced it is pausing negotiations after the US demanded increased defence spending.

    ‘I’m going to send letters’

    Trump on Sunday suggested he would simply send letters to foreign nations setting a tariff rate. “I’m going to send letters, that’s the end of the trade deal,” he said.

    That does not bode well for countries negotiating in good faith. It’s likely tariffs will be reimposed and bilateral negotiations will drag on to September or beyond as Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has said.

    After all, even the US government has limited bandwidth to process so many simultaneous negotiations. Category 2 trading partners will increasingly test their own political limits. And the rest of the world is hoping for a favourable Supreme Court ruling that may, like the character Godot in the play Waiting for Godot, never come.

    Nathan Gray receives funding from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

    Kumuthini Sivathas and Peter Draper do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. ‘I’m going to send letters’: the deadline for Trump’s ‘reciprocal’ trade tariffs is looming – https://theconversation.com/im-going-to-send-letters-the-deadline-for-trumps-reciprocal-trade-tariffs-is-looming-259983

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A new ‘prac payment’ has just kicked in. But it ignores many uni students

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Lambert, Associate Professor Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wollongong

    Fly View Productions/ Getting Images

    On Tuesday, some Australian university students got access to a new payment. The Commonwealth Prac Payment is available to eligible teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work students.

    It will provide A$331.65 a week during compulsory professional placements, to help with living and study expenses. This could include travel, accommodation, uniforms and lost income from other employment.

    But while the payment is a much-needed step in the right direction, many students are still missing out.

    Who’s not covered?

    The prac payment was a recommendation from the federal government’s 2024 Universities Accord review. It is designed to help students complete essential professional placements, so they can graduate and enter the workforce.

    But numerous other health degrees with time-consuming work placements are excluded from the payment.

    This includes medicine, physiotherapy, dietetics, psychology, radiography and other allied health professions. Veterinary medicine students are also ineligible. Many of these professions are also experiencing serious workforce shortages.

    The payment is also only available to teaching, nursing and social work students who already qualify for Ausstudy (the income support payment for students and apprentices who are 25 and over).

    So this means the prac payment is means tested. It is also considered taxable income and paid at the rate of Austudy – which is not generous. The basic Austudy rate is below the national poverty line.

    The payment is also only available to Australian domestic students, even though many international heath students end up working in the Australian health system after graduating.

    Why is this an issue?

    Researchers, including ourselves, use the term “placement poverty” to describe the impact mandatory placements can have on students. It can be a major barrier to students completing their degrees.

    Students have repeatedly described widespread impacts of doing up to 1,000 hours of unpaid work to graduate – taking a toll on their income and mental health.

    Kelly Lambert’s 2024 research suggests health and teaching students can incur a further $12,500–15,000 to the cost of degrees during unpaid placements.

    Students have explained the placement hours mean they can’t work in their regular paid casual or part-time jobs – and may lose this work as a result.

    What does this mean for students?

    In the short term, if students are not supported to complete their placements, they may not have enough money for food or accommodation.

    Our research found 29% of teaching and allied health students regularly skip meals while on placement. Some students also described sleeping in cars or driving excessive distances due to limited or expensive accommodation options near their placements.

    If students are not supported in their placements, research suggests they can experience burnout and may not finish their degrees. Or they may not even begin them in the first place.

    This is particularly the case for students from regional or rural communities (who may have further to travel), students with parenting or caring responsibilities, and students from low economic and otherwise disadvantaged backgrounds.

    We also know its important to support students to do placements in rural, regional and remote areas – students who complete placements in these communities are more likely to return and work in those communities.

    What do we need to do instead?

    As a first measure, the government should expand eligibility criteria for the current payment to include other health disciplines and those who don’t currently meet the means testing threshold.

    Research tells us financial hardship is not confined to students who qualify for Austudy, it is experienced across the board.

    Students have also suggested interest-free short-term loans, subsidised parking (similar to hospital employees), and greater transparency about the costs associated with unpaid placements. International students have also said public transport subsidies would help them complete their placements.

    Other, more significant changes could include apprenticeship-type compensation models for healthcare students, where students get paid to study as part of their training. These schemes are already available in Scotland.

    Ultimately, we want to support more students to do health and teaching degrees to fill workforce gaps – not discourage them with high costs of studying.

    Kelly Lambert has received funding from the Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success.

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

    – ref. A new ‘prac payment’ has just kicked in. But it ignores many uni students – https://theconversation.com/a-new-prac-payment-has-just-kicked-in-but-it-ignores-many-uni-students-260087

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: A new ‘prac payment’ has just kicked in. But it ignores many uni students

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kelly Lambert, Associate Professor Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Wollongong

    Fly View Productions/ Getting Images

    On Tuesday, some Australian university students got access to a new payment. The Commonwealth Prac Payment is available to eligible teaching, nursing, midwifery and social work students.

    It will provide A$331.65 a week during compulsory professional placements, to help with living and study expenses. This could include travel, accommodation, uniforms and lost income from other employment.

    But while the payment is a much-needed step in the right direction, many students are still missing out.

    Who’s not covered?

    The prac payment was a recommendation from the federal government’s 2024 Universities Accord review. It is designed to help students complete essential professional placements, so they can graduate and enter the workforce.

    But numerous other health degrees with time-consuming work placements are excluded from the payment.

    This includes medicine, physiotherapy, dietetics, psychology, radiography and other allied health professions. Veterinary medicine students are also ineligible. Many of these professions are also experiencing serious workforce shortages.

    The payment is also only available to teaching, nursing and social work students who already qualify for Ausstudy (the income support payment for students and apprentices who are 25 and over).

    So this means the prac payment is means tested. It is also considered taxable income and paid at the rate of Austudy – which is not generous. The basic Austudy rate is below the national poverty line.

    The payment is also only available to Australian domestic students, even though many international heath students end up working in the Australian health system after graduating.

    Why is this an issue?

    Researchers, including ourselves, use the term “placement poverty” to describe the impact mandatory placements can have on students. It can be a major barrier to students completing their degrees.

    Students have repeatedly described widespread impacts of doing up to 1,000 hours of unpaid work to graduate – taking a toll on their income and mental health.

    Kelly Lambert’s 2024 research suggests health and teaching students can incur a further $12,500–15,000 to the cost of degrees during unpaid placements.

    Students have explained the placement hours mean they can’t work in their regular paid casual or part-time jobs – and may lose this work as a result.

    What does this mean for students?

    In the short term, if students are not supported to complete their placements, they may not have enough money for food or accommodation.

    Our research found 29% of teaching and allied health students regularly skip meals while on placement. Some students also described sleeping in cars or driving excessive distances due to limited or expensive accommodation options near their placements.

    If students are not supported in their placements, research suggests they can experience burnout and may not finish their degrees. Or they may not even begin them in the first place.

    This is particularly the case for students from regional or rural communities (who may have further to travel), students with parenting or caring responsibilities, and students from low economic and otherwise disadvantaged backgrounds.

    We also know its important to support students to do placements in rural, regional and remote areas – students who complete placements in these communities are more likely to return and work in those communities.

    What do we need to do instead?

    As a first measure, the government should expand eligibility criteria for the current payment to include other health disciplines and those who don’t currently meet the means testing threshold.

    Research tells us financial hardship is not confined to students who qualify for Austudy, it is experienced across the board.

    Students have also suggested interest-free short-term loans, subsidised parking (similar to hospital employees), and greater transparency about the costs associated with unpaid placements. International students have also said public transport subsidies would help them complete their placements.

    Other, more significant changes could include apprenticeship-type compensation models for healthcare students, where students get paid to study as part of their training. These schemes are already available in Scotland.

    Ultimately, we want to support more students to do health and teaching degrees to fill workforce gaps – not discourage them with high costs of studying.

    Kelly Lambert has received funding from the Australian Centre for Student Equity and Success.

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

    – ref. A new ‘prac payment’ has just kicked in. But it ignores many uni students – https://theconversation.com/a-new-prac-payment-has-just-kicked-in-but-it-ignores-many-uni-students-260087

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Video: International development financing conference adopts commitment and action platform in Sevilla

    Source: United Nations (video statements)

    The Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development adopted the Compromiso de Sevilla as well as a Platform for Action laying the foundation for a renewed global framework to close the $4 trillion financing gap for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), address the debt crises, and make the international financial system fairer and more transparent.
    #ffd4 #sustainabledevelopment

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7gwhdRz3W40

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

            

    BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF
    AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    PRESS RELEASE

    Paris, 01 July 2025,

    BNP Paribas Cardif has finalised the acquisition of AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) and signed a long-term partnership with the AXA Group to manage a large part of its assets.

    This operation, announced on 1st August 2024, will enable the BNP Paribas Group to create a leading European asset management platform with over EUR 1.5 trillion in assets under management entrusted by its clients. It allows the Group to become the European leader in long-term savings management for insurers and pension funds with around EUR 850 billion, with the ambition to become the European leader in fund collection for private asset investments and positioning itself among the main providers of ETFs in Europe. This operation is also part of the Group’s core mission to support the economy by mobilising savings to finance future-oriented projects in the best interests of its clients.

    By combining the expertise of AXA IM, BNP Paribas Asset Management, and BNP Paribas REIM, this new platform will have a wide range of traditional and alternative assets, an expanded global distribution network, enhanced innovation capabilities, and a more comprehensive offering in responsible investment. It will benefit from AXA IM Alts’ market position and expertise in private assets, which are key drivers of future growth for institutional and individual clients, as well as AXA IM’s know-how in long-term asset management for insurance and retirement. In this context, BNP Paribas Cardif will leverage the capabilities of this platform for the management of a large part of its assets, notably its general funds.

    The formation of this new platform marks a major milestone in the development and growth journey of the IPS division. It will fully benefit from BNP Paribas’ integrated model, in close collaboration with the CPBS and CIB businesses, particularly within the framework of the “originate to distribute” approach.

    “This acquisition is an important moment for the entire BNP Paribas Group. We are delighted to welcome the AXA IM teams, who will find within the BNP Paribas Group a strong culture of customer service as well as ambitious growth and innovation prospects. These are teams with recognised and complementary expertise that will build together a European industrial project to better serve our clients. I have every confidence in the ability of the management teams of our asset management activities to grow the business and create value for our clients and employees,” said Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, Director and Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas.

    Joint working groups with AXA IM teams are already in place to reflect on and develop a common roadmap, particularly with regard to offerings and services. This roadmap will be submitted to the appropriate employee representative bodies.

    The project to merge the legal entities of AXA IM, BNP Paribas AM and BNP Paribas REIM, which would create the new platform held by BNP Paribas Cardif, is currently the subject of consultation with employee representative bodies.

    Sandro Pierri, CEO of BNP Paribas AM, will lead the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities and Marco Morelli, the current Executive Chairman of AXA IM, will chair the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities.

    From a financial perspective:

    • The Group’s revenue growth by 2026, including the impact of the transaction, will be greater than +5% (CAGR 24-26), with an average annual jaws effect of +1.5 pts.
    • Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) will be more than 14% in year three (2028) and more than 20% in year four (2029).
    • From a prudential perspective, the impact of the operation on the Group’s CET1 ratio is estimated at approximately -35bp as of the 3rd quarter 2025 results, discussions with supervisory authorities are still on going.

    An update on the progress of the operation will be provided upon the release of the third-quarter 2025 results ahead of a Deep Dive, that will take place during the first quarter 2026, focused on the Group’s trajectory including this operation.

    About BNP Paribas
    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    BNP Paribas Press Contacts
    Hacina Habchi: hacina.habchi@bnpparibas.com +33 7 61 97 65 20
    Sandrine Romano: sandrine.romano@bnpparibas.com +33 6 71 18 13 05

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

            

    BNP PARIBAS CARDIF COMPLETES THE ACQUISITION OF
    AXA INVESTMENT MANAGERS

    PRESS RELEASE

    Paris, 01 July 2025,

    BNP Paribas Cardif has finalised the acquisition of AXA Investment Managers (AXA IM) and signed a long-term partnership with the AXA Group to manage a large part of its assets.

    This operation, announced on 1st August 2024, will enable the BNP Paribas Group to create a leading European asset management platform with over EUR 1.5 trillion in assets under management entrusted by its clients. It allows the Group to become the European leader in long-term savings management for insurers and pension funds with around EUR 850 billion, with the ambition to become the European leader in fund collection for private asset investments and positioning itself among the main providers of ETFs in Europe. This operation is also part of the Group’s core mission to support the economy by mobilising savings to finance future-oriented projects in the best interests of its clients.

    By combining the expertise of AXA IM, BNP Paribas Asset Management, and BNP Paribas REIM, this new platform will have a wide range of traditional and alternative assets, an expanded global distribution network, enhanced innovation capabilities, and a more comprehensive offering in responsible investment. It will benefit from AXA IM Alts’ market position and expertise in private assets, which are key drivers of future growth for institutional and individual clients, as well as AXA IM’s know-how in long-term asset management for insurance and retirement. In this context, BNP Paribas Cardif will leverage the capabilities of this platform for the management of a large part of its assets, notably its general funds.

    The formation of this new platform marks a major milestone in the development and growth journey of the IPS division. It will fully benefit from BNP Paribas’ integrated model, in close collaboration with the CPBS and CIB businesses, particularly within the framework of the “originate to distribute” approach.

    “This acquisition is an important moment for the entire BNP Paribas Group. We are delighted to welcome the AXA IM teams, who will find within the BNP Paribas Group a strong culture of customer service as well as ambitious growth and innovation prospects. These are teams with recognised and complementary expertise that will build together a European industrial project to better serve our clients. I have every confidence in the ability of the management teams of our asset management activities to grow the business and create value for our clients and employees,” said Jean-Laurent Bonnafé, Director and Chief Executive Officer of BNP Paribas.

    Joint working groups with AXA IM teams are already in place to reflect on and develop a common roadmap, particularly with regard to offerings and services. This roadmap will be submitted to the appropriate employee representative bodies.

    The project to merge the legal entities of AXA IM, BNP Paribas AM and BNP Paribas REIM, which would create the new platform held by BNP Paribas Cardif, is currently the subject of consultation with employee representative bodies.

    Sandro Pierri, CEO of BNP Paribas AM, will lead the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities and Marco Morelli, the current Executive Chairman of AXA IM, will chair the BNP Paribas Group’s asset management activities.

    From a financial perspective:

    • The Group’s revenue growth by 2026, including the impact of the transaction, will be greater than +5% (CAGR 24-26), with an average annual jaws effect of +1.5 pts.
    • Return on Invested Capital (ROIC) will be more than 14% in year three (2028) and more than 20% in year four (2029).
    • From a prudential perspective, the impact of the operation on the Group’s CET1 ratio is estimated at approximately -35bp as of the 3rd quarter 2025 results, discussions with supervisory authorities are still on going.

    An update on the progress of the operation will be provided upon the release of the third-quarter 2025 results ahead of a Deep Dive, that will take place during the first quarter 2026, focused on the Group’s trajectory including this operation.

    About BNP Paribas
    Leader in banking and financial services in Europe, BNP Paribas operates in 64 countries and has nearly 178,000 employees, including more than 144,000 in Europe. The Group has key positions in its three main fields of activity: Commercial, Personal Banking & Services for the Group’s commercial & personal banking and several specialised businesses including BNP Paribas Personal Finance and Arval; Investment & Protection Services for savings, investment and protection solutions; and Corporate & Institutional Banking, focused on corporate and institutional clients. Based on its strong diversified and integrated model, the Group helps all its clients (individuals, community associations, entrepreneurs, SMEs, corporates and institutional clients) to realise their projects through solutions spanning financing, investment, savings and protection insurance. In Europe, BNP Paribas has four domestic markets: Belgium, France, Italy and Luxembourg. The Group is rolling out its integrated commercial & personal banking model across several Mediterranean countries, Türkiye, and Eastern Europe. As a key player in international banking, the Group has leading platforms and business lines in Europe, a strong presence in the Americas as well as a solid and fast-growing business in Asia-Pacific. BNP Paribas has implemented a Corporate Social Responsibility approach in all its activities, enabling it to contribute to the construction of a sustainable future, while ensuring the Group’s performance and stability.

    BNP Paribas Press Contacts
    Hacina Habchi: hacina.habchi@bnpparibas.com +33 7 61 97 65 20
    Sandrine Romano: sandrine.romano@bnpparibas.com +33 6 71 18 13 05

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    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Minister of State for International Cooperation Meets Swiss Official

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Seville, June 30, 2025

    HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad met on Monday with HE Vice-Minister for International Cooperation and Director General of the Swiss Development Cooperation Agency (SDC) Patricia Danzi, on the sidelines of the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), held in Seville, Kingdom of Spain.

    The meeting discussed cooperation relations between the State of Qatar and the Swiss Confederation and ways to support and enhance them, particularly in the areas of international development and humanitarian aid.

    In this regard, the two sides stressed the importance of integrating roles and coordinating efforts to enhance sustainable humanitarian responses in conflict-affected areas, particularly in Syria and Afghanistan.

    Regional and international developments, along with a number of topics of common interest, were also discussed.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI China: Peranakan culture exhibition in Beijing marks China-Singapore ties

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

    Editor’s Note: In celebration of the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Singapore, the Capital Museum in Beijing is currently hosting “A Peranakan Culture Exhibition on the Maritime Silk Road,” showcasing the vibrant cultural legacy of the Peranakan Chinese — descendants of early Chinese settlers who integrated into Southeast Asian societies.

    This special exhibition, supported by the Asian Civilisations Museum and the Peranakan Museum, both operating under the National Heritage Board of Singapore, presents the dynamic history and multicultural identity of the Baba-Nyonya communities, whose distinctive way of life blends Chinese, Malay, Southeast Asian and Western influences.

    Through artifacts, culinary traditions, religious customs, fashion and contemporary design, the exhibition underscores the enduring relevance of cultural exchange and the spirit of mutual understanding across regions.

    The entrance to “A Peranakan Culture Exhibition on the Maritime Silk Road” at the Capital Museum, Beijing, June 24, 2025. The exhibition celebrates the vibrant legacy of the Peranakan Chinese, a community shaped by centuries of maritime exchange between China and Southeast Asia. [Photo by Liu Ziying/China.org.cn]

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Beijing exhibition presents vibrant thangka paintings

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

    Editor’s Note: The exhibition “Heavenly Colors of Nature: Thangka Art and Natural Pigments,” featuring 20 treasured thangka works from the Cultural Palace of Ethnic Communities, is currently underway at the White Pagoda Temple in Beijing. Offering a systematic display of extraordinary historical, cultural and artistic significance, the exhibition will run until Oct. 19.

    Visitors admire thangka artworks in the “Heavenly Colors of Nature: Thangka Art and Natural Pigments” exhibition at the White Pagoda Temple, Beijing, June 25, 2025. [Photo by Liao Jiaxin/China.org.cn] 

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: S China’s Guangdong devoted to building industrial cluster for high-end equipment

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

    A staff member sets parameters before welding at Guangdong Lyric Robot Automation Co., Ltd. in Huizhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, June 27, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    Guangdong Province has been bolstering its pivot cities including Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Foshan and Dongguan to engage in manufacturing intelligent equipment, an effort to build an industrial cluster for manufacturing high-end equipment. In 2024, the province’s operating revenue from the high-end equipment manufacturing reached 390.565 billion yuan (54.5 billion U.S. dollars) with the total profit standing at 18.873 billion yuan (2.63 billion U.S. dollars).

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    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China announces 26-man squad for EAFF E-1 Football Championship

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

    The Chinese Football Association (CFA) on Monday announced a 26-player roster for the upcoming East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) E-1 Football Championship, with four new players earning call-ups.

    The CFA has confirmed the dismissal of head coach Branko Ivankovic following China’s failure to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Serbian coach Dejan Djurdjevic will serve as caretaker.

    Several veterans have been phased out and replaced by younger players. In goal, Yan Junling remains on the squad alongside two newcomers, Xue Qinghao and Yu Jinyong. Midfielders Kuai Jiwen and Liao Jintao, both of whom have delivered consistent performances in the Chinese Super League, received their first national team call-ups. All forwards named to the squad are familiar faces, having featured in World Cup qualifiers under Ivankovic.

    The EAFF E-1 Football Championship is scheduled for July 7-15, with China facing host South Korea in the opening match. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI China: China loses to Canada at 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League

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

    Jiang Chuan (R) of China spikes during the Pool 5 match between China and Canada at the Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) 2025 in Chicago, the United States, June 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

    The Chinese team lost 3-0 to Canada in the 2025 Men’s Volleyball Nations League (VNL) Chicago leg on Sunday.

    In the first set, the two teams were tied from 1-1 to 12-12 before Canada pulled away with five straight points to lead 17-12. China closed the gap to 20-21 with blocks from Zhang Zhejia and Li Yongzhen and powerful attacks by Jiang Chuan. However, Canada held on to take the set 25-23 with strong serving and offense.

    China fell behind 4-7 in the second set but responded with four straight points to lead 8-7. The teams stayed close until 16-16, when Canada pulled ahead to win 25-20. China committed more errors, saw a drop in offensive efficiency, and struggled to contain Canada’s momentum.

    In the third set, China trailed 6-1 early but narrowed the gap to 8-7 before losing steam. Led by captain Jiang Chuan, the team rallied to 19-17, but Canada held on to win the set 25-23 and seal the match.

    Zhang Jingyin missed the match due to a knee injury, while Jiang Chuan returned to the starting lineup. China had opportunities to tie or take the lead in both the first and third sets but fell short in key moments.

    The team continues to face challenges with first-pass stability, quick-attack execution from middle blockers, and setter variation.

    Ranked 11th in the world, Canada holds a clear advantage over 24th-ranked China. This latest defeat marks China’s fourth straight loss to Canada, compounding a psychological disadvantage.

    Jiang expressed his frustration. “Losing four matches in the Chicago leg is a wake-up call. We need to change some things in the next leg and strive for better performance,” he said.

    “We didn’t play our best match. One or two players did a good job, a lot of players could not bring what they can do,” said China’s Belgian head coach Vital Heynen. “But (for sports) sometimes you don’t play as good as you are. We have to accept.”

    “Seeing our whole situation, injuries, putting players coming back, some players have to take a lot of loads who are not used to do that, and cannot always bring that, that’s normal,” Heynen said. “I blame myself and the team, like we together are not good enough.”

    “I think every match is so difficult for us. So we will try next week to win at least one match, to have at least a good ending of this VNL.”

    Five national teams from China, the United States, Brazil, Italy and Canada competed in the Chicago leg of the 2025 VNL. China lost all four of its matches.

    The VNL group stage spans three weeks, with Chicago hosting the second week. The third week will take place in Gdansk, Poland; Ljubljana, Slovenia; and the Kanto region of Japan. The finals are scheduled for July 30 to August 3 in Ningbo Beilun, east China’s Zhejiang Province. 

    MIL OSI China News –