Category: Economy

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by SDEV on quarterly land sale programme for July to September 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Following are the remarks by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, at a media session today (July 11) on the quarterly land sale programme for July to September 2025:

Reporter: Why is the Tsuen Wan land plot rolled out this time and what are the Government’s expectations on this quarter’s land sales? And secondly, what is the Government’s strategy in terms of this fiscal year’s land sales, given that only two plots are rolled out in the first two quarters? Is the Government confident in terms of the land-buying appetite of the private market and reaching the initial revenue goal?

Secretary for Development: First of all, we are rolling out this site in Tsuen Wan in the second quarter of this year because it is a readily available site. We have recently completed the resuming process for this site, and we have taken into account the fact that this is not a particularly large site, and it is relatively still small in scale and located in a mature urban area with good transport connections. So we think this kind of site will be of interest to the developers in the current climate of the property market.

As regards your second question regarding the overall supply for the second quarter, taking into account this Tsuen Wan site and together with six other cases involving lease modifications, we should be able to turn out land capable of supplying close to 5 000 flats, to be more exact, it is 4 950 units in this quarter. So it is a pretty good figure, actually, counting by a quarter. If we take into account also the supply from the first quarter, together it will reach about 6 000 units, about 45 per cent of our annual target for this year. So as a mid-term anticipated outturn, I think it suggests that we are moving in a stable manner towards our annual target.

Reporter: What is the likelihood of seeing some small and medium developers in Hong Kong facing loan defaults amid a downward trend in both the residential and commercial real estate market? And how will that affect the property market and also the sentiment in land bidding?

Secretary for Development: You have two questions. On the first one, about the financial situation of the SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) or the developers which are SMEs, I think I am not in a position to comment on the financial position of our developers in general. But looking at the lease modification figures that I have announced just now, we do have six lease modification cases, and not all are what we call major developers, some are small scale. So we can see that the market is actually still moving in quite a healthy manner, with some lease modifications taking place and some other processing. So I would not take a too-pessimistic attitude towards the financial situation of our SME developers.

On your second question, I think the property market has picked up a bit, if we look at the volume of transactions registered in the Land Registry. But again, I have to emphasise that, for the Development Bureau, we are rolling out land for the future development and the future needs of Hong Kong. So we cannot just look at the current movements in the property market. We also have to look ahead. And I think that overall, we are taking a prudent approach for our land sale programme.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Remarks by SDEV on quarterly land sale programme for July to September 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Following are the remarks by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, at a media session today (July 11) on the quarterly land sale programme for July to September 2025:

Reporter: Why is the Tsuen Wan land plot rolled out this time and what are the Government’s expectations on this quarter’s land sales? And secondly, what is the Government’s strategy in terms of this fiscal year’s land sales, given that only two plots are rolled out in the first two quarters? Is the Government confident in terms of the land-buying appetite of the private market and reaching the initial revenue goal?

Secretary for Development: First of all, we are rolling out this site in Tsuen Wan in the second quarter of this year because it is a readily available site. We have recently completed the resuming process for this site, and we have taken into account the fact that this is not a particularly large site, and it is relatively still small in scale and located in a mature urban area with good transport connections. So we think this kind of site will be of interest to the developers in the current climate of the property market.

As regards your second question regarding the overall supply for the second quarter, taking into account this Tsuen Wan site and together with six other cases involving lease modifications, we should be able to turn out land capable of supplying close to 5 000 flats, to be more exact, it is 4 950 units in this quarter. So it is a pretty good figure, actually, counting by a quarter. If we take into account also the supply from the first quarter, together it will reach about 6 000 units, about 45 per cent of our annual target for this year. So as a mid-term anticipated outturn, I think it suggests that we are moving in a stable manner towards our annual target.

Reporter: What is the likelihood of seeing some small and medium developers in Hong Kong facing loan defaults amid a downward trend in both the residential and commercial real estate market? And how will that affect the property market and also the sentiment in land bidding?

Secretary for Development: You have two questions. On the first one, about the financial situation of the SMEs (small and medium-sized enterprises) or the developers which are SMEs, I think I am not in a position to comment on the financial position of our developers in general. But looking at the lease modification figures that I have announced just now, we do have six lease modification cases, and not all are what we call major developers, some are small scale. So we can see that the market is actually still moving in quite a healthy manner, with some lease modifications taking place and some other processing. So I would not take a too-pessimistic attitude towards the financial situation of our SME developers.

On your second question, I think the property market has picked up a bit, if we look at the volume of transactions registered in the Land Registry. But again, I have to emphasise that, for the Development Bureau, we are rolling out land for the future development and the future needs of Hong Kong. So we cannot just look at the current movements in the property market. We also have to look ahead. And I think that overall, we are taking a prudent approach for our land sale programme.

(Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Orezone Lodges Prospectus to Raise A$75 Million as Part of ASX Listing
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO U.S. NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

VANCOUVER, British Columbia, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE, OTCQX: ORZCF) (the “Company” or “Orezone”) is pleased to announce that it has today lodged a prospectus (“Prospectus”) with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (“ASIC”) for an initial public offering to raise proceeds of A$75.0 million (before associated costs) (“Offer”). The Prospectus will assist the Company to meet the requirements of the Australian Securities Exchange (“ASX”) and satisfy Chapters 1 and 2 of the ASX Listing Rules, as part of the Company’s application for admission to the official list of the ASX.

Under the Prospectus, the Company is offering 65,789,474 CHESS Depository Interests (“CDIs”) over fully paid common shares in the capital of the Company (“Shares“) at an offer price of A$1.14 per CDI (the “Offer Price”) to raise gross proceeds of A$75.0 million. Each CDI represents a beneficial interest in one Share.

The Company has entered into an underwriting agreement (“Underwriting Agreement”) with Canaccord Genuity (Australia) Limited (“Canaccord”) under which Canaccord has been appointed as lead manager, bookrunner and underwriter to the Offer. Canaccord has agreed, subject to customary conditions, to underwrite applications for all CDIs under the Offer.

Euroz Hartleys Limited, Argonaut Securities Pty Limited, SCP Resource Finance LP and BMO Capital Markets Corp. have been appointed as co-managers to the Offer.

Patrick Downey, President and CEO stated, “We look forward to the ASX listing which will raise the Company’s profile by broadening its shareholder base and increase trading liquidity for all shareholders. The listing also represents an exciting opportunity for investors to participate in the Company’s growth strategy as we execute on our staged hard rock expansion at the Bomboré Mine which will significantly increase our annual gold production. First gold from the stage 1 hard rock plant is scheduled for Q4-2025 and production in 2026 from the combined oxide and stage 1 hard rock operations is forecasted to be 170,000 to 185,000 ounces. The stage 2 expansion is forecasted to increase the overall gold production profile at the Bomboré Mine to 220,000 to 250,000 ounces per annum. Subject to funding, ongoing studies and final Board approval, the stage 2 hard rock expansion will commence in H2-2025, with commissioning expected in Q4-2026.”

The net proceeds of the Offer will be used for the ongoing advancement of stage 2 of the hard rock expansion, including procurement of mechanical and electrical equipment, freight to site, engineering design and construction plus commissioning of stage 2, as well as ongoing exploration at the Bomboré Mine, in addition to administration and working capital purposes.

Additional details of the Offer and the ASX Listing
- The Offer opened on July 11, 2025 and is expected to close on July 21, 2025.
- Trading on the ASX is expected to commence on a normal settlement basis on or about August 8, 2025 under the ASX code “ORE” (subject to the Company satisfying ASX’s listing requirements, which it is currently working towards).
- Using an exchange rate of A$0.895 = C$1.00, the Offer Price per CDI is approximately C$1.02 and the gross proceeds of the Offer is approximately C$67.1 million.
- The Offer Price represents a 7.2% discount to Orezone’s closing price of C$1.10 on the Toronto Stock Exchange (“TSX”) on July 9, 2025, and an 8.5% discount to the five-day volume-weighted average price (“VWAP“) of C$1.115.
In accordance with section 734(6) of the Australian Corporations Act 2001 (Cth), the Company advises in respect of the Offer of CDIs under the Prospectus:
- The issuer of the CDIs is Orezone Gold Corporation (ARBN 686 478 875).
- The Prospectus is available online for Australian residents only at: www.computersharecas.com.au/oreipooffer.
- The Offer will only be made in, or accompanied by, a copy of the Prospectus.
- A person should consider the Prospectus in deciding whether to acquire the CDIs.
- Anyone who wishes to acquire the CDIs under the Offer will need to complete the application form that will be in, or will accompany, the Prospectus.
- The Offer under the Prospectus will only be made available to persons receiving the Prospectus in Australia and certain investors in New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore, the United Kingdom, the European Union (excluding Austria), Switzerland, Canada (Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario) and the United States.
The Offer is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including any approvals of the ASX, TSX and applicable securities regulatory authorities.

The Prospectus has not been filed with any securities commission in Canada and the CDIs may not be offered or sold within Canada or for the account of any Canadian residents except in transactions exempt from, or not subject to, the prospectus and registration requirements of applicable Canadian securities laws.

A copy of the Prospectus, containing full details of the Offer, will be available on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) under Orezone’s profile.

About Orezone Gold Corporation

Orezone Gold Corporation (TSX: ORE OTCQX: ORZCF) is a West African gold producer engaged in mining, developing, and exploring its 90%-owned flagship Bomboré Gold Mine in Burkina Faso. The Bomboré mine achieved commercial production on its oxide operations on December 1, 2022, and is now focused on its staged hard rock expansion that is expected to materially increase annual and life-of-mine gold production from the processing of hard rock mineral reserves. Orezone is led by an experienced team focused on social responsibility and sustainability with a proven track record in project construction and operations, financings, capital markets, and M&A.  

The technical report entitled Bomboré Phase II Expansion, Definitive Feasibility Study is available on SEDAR+ and the Company’s website.

Contact Information

Patrick Downey
President and Chief Executive Officer

Kevin MacKenzie
Vice President, Corporate Development and Investor Relations

Tel: 1 778 945 8977
info@orezone.com / www.orezone.com

For further information please contact Orezone at +1 (778) 945 8977 or visit the Company’s website at www.orezone.com.

The Toronto Stock Exchange nor the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization neither approves nor disapproves the information contained in this news release.

Cautionary Note – United States

The securities referred to in this news release have not been, nor will they be, registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the U.S. Securities Act), or the securities laws of any state or other jurisdiction in the United States, and may not be offered or sold within the United States except in transactions exempt from, or not subject to, the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable US state securities laws. This news release does not constitute an offer for sale of securities, nor a solicitation for offers to buy any securities in the United States, nor in any other jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful. Any public offering of securities in the United States must be made by means of a prospectus containing detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This press release and the Prospectus contain “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information”, including statements and forecasts which include (without limitation) expectations regarding the financial position of the Company, production targets, the Offer and the terms thereof, ASX listing, the stage 1 and stage 2 hard rock expansions, industry growth and other trend projections, future strategies, results and outlook of the Company and the opportunities available to the Company. Often, but not always, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of words such as “plans”, “expects”, “is expected”, “is expecting”, “budget”, “outlook”, “scheduled”, “target”, “estimates”, “forecasts”, “intends”, “anticipates”, or “believes”, or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might”, or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved. Such information is based on assumptions and judgments of the Company regarding future events and results. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, targets, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, targets, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information.

Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other important factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, the Directors and management of the Company. Past performance is not a guide to future performance. Key risk factors associated with an investment in the Company are detailed in Section 4 of the Prospectus. These and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking information and statements (including the Company’s belief that it has a reasonable basis to expect it will be able to fund the hard rock expansion at the Bomboré Mine, the Offer and the ASX listing) are (further to the above) based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analysis and opinions of the Company made in light of its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors that the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Although the Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements and information (including as described throughout the Prospectus) are reasonable, readers are cautioned that this is not exhaustive of all factors which may impact on the forward-looking information. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking information or statements, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Due to the risks, uncertainties and assumptions contained herein, investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

The MIL Network –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Kinshasa to Host Inaugural World Music and Tourism Festival Celebrating Music and Tourism as Drivers of Dialogue and Development
Source: APO

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Under the High Patronage of His Excellency Mr. Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kinshasa will host the first-ever World Music and Tourism Festival. UN Tourism joins the event as a supporting partner, reinforcing the shared value of culture and tourism for sustainable development and for building mutual understanding and peace.

Held under the theme “The Rumba Route for Peace,” the Festival will highlight how music can connect cultures, strengthen communities, and create opportunities. It also supports national efforts to promote cultural heritage, grow the creative economy and build peace through cultural exchange.

Music, Heritage, and Innovation

The festival will spotlight Congolese Rumba recognized by UNESCO in 2021 and its role in shaping identity and tourism. UN Tourism’s involvement is part of wider efforts to link cultural assets to inclusive growth and cross-cultural exchange across Africa.

A Three-Day Programme of Culture and Collaboration

Hosted at the Central African Cultural and Arts Centre (CCAPAC), the Festival will feature Roundtables on:
- Musical diplomacy for peace
- Copyrights and fair pay for artists
- Music and destination branding
- Youth and digital innovation in culture
As well as:
- A Cultural Village and Exhibition Centre
- Performances from Congolese and international artists
- A “Fair Play” Masterclass for artists and entrepreneurs
- A Rumba-themed welcome, Gala Dinner, and cultural tours
As H.E. Mr. Didier M’Pambia Musanga, Minister of Tourism of the Democratic Republic of Congo, stated: “The Festival will bring together voices to explore how music shapes lives, drives economic opportunity, and through innovation and technology, fosters greater connection among people”.

The mix of music, dialogue, and networking reflects the Festival’s commitment to inclusive development, a goal shared by UN Tourism, which supports culture as a driver of sustainable growth and shared prosperity.

Platform for Exchange

The Festival brings together stakeholders from governments, organizations, businesses, and civil society. Confirmed partners include UNESCO, ARIPO, Sony Music Entertainment, Sound Diplomacy, and cultural leaders from Africa, Latin America, and Europe.

UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili stated, “Music speaks to people everywhere. This Festival is a valuable opportunity to celebrate Congolese creativity while supporting local development, regional cooperation, and international understanding. UN Tourism is proud to support an initiative that reflects the shared potential of tourism and culture to foster peace, build bridges and unlock opportunities.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism).

MIL OSI Africa –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Sports Minister welcomes Caster Semenya ruling

Source: Government of South Africa

Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie has expressed his support for the recent ruling by the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) involving Caster Semenya.

This ruling upheld a 2023 decision by the ECHR’s lower chamber, which found that Semenya was denied a fair and effective hearing by the Swiss Federal Tribunal.

According to reports, this was part of the two-time Olympic champion’s seven-year legal battle against the eligibility rules in track and field.

On Thursday, the court’s 17-judge panel ruled in a 15-2 vote that Semenya’s rights to a fair hearing were violated at Switzerland’s Supreme Court, where she had appealed a decision by the Court of Arbitration for Sport in favour of World Athletics.

The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) believes that the decision marks a critical moment in the long-standing battle for the dignity and human rights of female athletes with differences of sexual development.

“Caster, we as South Africa have always stood by you, and we will continue to do so as the fight for your bodily rights continues,” the Minister said.

From the outset, the department said the South African government stood firmly behind Semenya.

“Through the current DSAC and the former Department of Sport and Recreation, a coordinated and multi-sectoral response was established that included expert panels in the legal, medical, and advocacy spheres.

“The department also launched the #NaturallySuperior campaign to mobilise public awareness and international solidarity, highlighting that Semenya’s natural talents should be celebrated rather than policed.”

DSAC committed financially in support of Athletics South Africa’s legal efforts with Semenya and further engaged with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation to elevate the matter internationally, leading to a strong resolution on the matter at the United Nations Human Rights Council.

“This resolution condemned the current regulations against her as a violation of bodily integrity, equality, and freedom from cruel or degrading treatment.”

While the recent ruling has not overturned these discriminatory regulations, it is an important legal and moral victory, which opens new legal avenues and affirms the right of athletes such as Semenya to be heard on just and equal terms.

DSAC said it will continue working with Athletics South Africa, legal experts, and other African governments and federations to pursue justice through all available channels, including within the structures of World Athletics.

“Caster Semenya has become the face of defiance against injustice in global sport, and this court victory is a victory for every African child. South Africa is proud of her, and we will walk every step of this journey with you, Caster, until justice is not only seen, but felt,” said McKenzie.

“We can’t wait to see you running again,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) said they have noted the judgment handed down by the ECHR.
“The Commission is still studying the judgment. A formal statement on our position will be released in due course,” the statement read. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Ramokgopa to host G20 meetings focusing on global development

Source: Government of South Africa

Friday, July 11, 2025

The Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Maropene Ramokgopa, will host the fourth Group of 20 (G20) Development Working Group (DWG) meeting and the G20 Ministerial meeting on development from 20 – 25 July 2025 at Skukuza Lodge in the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga.

This event will take place under South Africa’s G20 Presidency, focusing on the theme: “Solidarity, Sustainability, and Equality“.

These meetings will bring together G20 Member States, invited countries, and international organisations to advance global development cooperation and the financing of sustainable development.

The gathering will focus on high-level principles on global public goods and global public investment; mobilising finance for development and means of implementation; and building resilience through universal social protection floors.

For more G20 South Africa news articles, visit https://www.sanews.gov.za/search?keyword=g20. – SAnews.gov.za

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MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Over £1bn in investment deals as UK-France launch new Industrial Strategy Partnership
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Press release

Over £1bn in investment deals as UK-France launch new Industrial Strategy Partnership

The UK and France have launched a new Industrial Strategy Partnership following a successful UK-France Summit, where over £1 billion worth of investment deals into the UK have been confirmed.
New Partnership is first of its kind in Europe, boosting UK-France collaboration in key high growth sectors.  

Follows a successful UK-France Summit, where leading firms announced a billion pounds worth of investment creating thousands of highly skilled jobs. 

Deals are the latest vote of confidence and show the Plan for Change is working – as recent survey puts UK as joint-top global investment destination.  

A new partnership between the UK and France will deepen economic collaboration and unlock billions in valuable investment into high growth-driving sectors – boosting the economy and delivering on the Plan for Change.

The announcement comes following yesterday’s 37th UK-France Summit, where leading French companies announced investments worth over £1 billion into the UK, creating thousands of highly-skilled jobs across the country – helping to put more money in people’s pockets.

This builds on the tidal wave of investment the government has welcomed into the UK since taking Office, worth over £100 billion, alongside 384,000 jobs created since the election.

The partnership forms part of the UK’s recent modern Industrial Strategy – a new approach that will create a more connected, high-skilled and resilient economy to kickstart an era of economic prosperity, the central mission in the government’s Plan for Change.

This partnership is a collaboration in key growth sectors including in technology, clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing, supporting a quicker green and digital transition and building our economic resilience to drive economic growth and innovation.

It advances a cross-Channel trade relationship worth £104 billion in 2024 and reaffirms the UK’s position as a global investment destination, the same week a Deloitte survey found that international finance leaders see the UK as the joint-most attractive destination when it comes to investment.

It also builds on the strong collaboration which already exists between the UK and France across vital areas including energy, aviation, tech and finance – all of which fall under the key growth sectors identified in the government’s modern Industrial Strategy.

Today’s announcement follows Wednesday’s roundtable attended by leading French and British firms hosted by the Chancellor Rachel Reeves, Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds, French Economy, Finance and Industry Minister Eric Lombard and French Digital Affairs Minister Clara Chappaz.

Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves said: 

This is our first Industrial Strategy Partnership with a major European partner, and will combine our joint expertise across energy, advanced manufacturing, technology and more, helping deliver our Plan for Change by boosting growth to deliver more money in people’s pockets.

Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds said:

This milestone is an exciting new chapter in our already strong relationship with France and will boost both countries’ key sectors by driving two-way innovation and investment, delivering on our Plan for Change.” 

Our Modern Industrial Strategy is a 10-year plan to kickstart an era of economic prosperity and this partnership will serve as a welcome anchor at a time of significant geopolitical uncertainty. It is built on the best of foundations, with both our businesses and citizens sharing deep links.

Today’s deals show that the UK is open for international companies to expand their businesses in a wide range of priority sectors, including: 

Veolia has announced a £70 million investment to transform an existing, disused industrial facility to a state-of-the-art plastics sorting and recycling facility in Shropshire, creating more than 130 local jobs.

Thales, in conjunction with partners, is planning £40 million of AI-focussed R&D investment as part of its CortAIx UK AI Accelerator, which will employ 200 people.

Comand AI are investing £35 million over the next five years to set up an office in the UK, in their first step to becoming a pan-European defence company. 

Pernod Ricard is investing a further £17.5 million in its Scotch whisky producer, Chivas Brothers, to create two new bottling lines at its Kilmalid site near Glasgow.  

LVMH will operate at least twenty Sephora stores by 2028, with a need of 800 additional recruitments.  

EDF confirmed earlier this week that thousands of UK jobs and apprenticeships will be created as it announced it will take a 12.5% stake in Sizewell C – in a major boost for UK growth and energy security. Assystem will double its nuclear workforce in the UK, creating 1,000 new engineering, digital and project management jobs. Urenco also signed a 15-year deal with EDF to produce fuel for nuclear power stations, supporting Urenco UK’s workforce of more than 1,400 people.

French company Ardian has also in the last week finalised its acquisition of an additional 10% stake in London Heathrow as a gateway for growth with a further £888 million investment, taking their investment into the airport to £2.85 billion, supporting the site’s 80,000 jobs. 

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds also met with French Economy, Finance and Industry Minister Éric Lombard yesterday, to discuss the importance of French investment in the UK and how this new partnership will enable more collaboration in key sectors such as clean energy, tech and economic resilience.

UK companies are also continuing to succeed in the French market, delivering on the government’s AI opportunities action plan, from capability to R&D. British tech unicorns are winning tens of millions of pounds in significant contracts with French corporates, driving jobs and growth at home.

This includes Synthesia’s new partnership with Decathlon to create a pioneering AI avatar lab, ElevenLabs’ collaboration with M6 and TV5 Monde, and Darktrace’s contract with GL Events, a French major events operator. BT is also connecting more than 80 French-headquartered companies including Alstom and Michelin in France, with operations totalling approximately £130 million last financial year.

The refresh of the Lancaster House defence partnership is also creating new opportunities in the UK’s aerospace and defence sectors, supporting over 2,750 highly skilled jobs and representing billions to the UK and French economies through joint export promotion and capability projects which benefit the UK’s defence industries, including MBDA and Airbus.

The agreement with France follows the Industrial Strategy Partnership committed to between the UK and Japan in March, preceding publication of the Strategy in June.

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Published 11 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: China will play constructive role in promoting dialogue between Thailand and Cambodia: Wang Yi

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 (Xinhua) — China and Thailand celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties in 2025, and China is willing to work with Thailand to advance the building of a community with a shared future to a higher level, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said during talks with Thai Foreign Minister Marit Sangyampong on the sidelines of the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting here on Thursday.

Wang Yi told his interlocutor that China is ready to play a constructive role in promoting dialogue and de-escalating border tensions between Thailand and Cambodia.

The construction of a China-Thailand community with a shared future continues to advance. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, the “golden jubilee of China-Thailand friendship,” he said.

China firmly supports Thailand in pursuing a development path suited to its national conditions and always gives priority to China-Thailand ties in its diplomatic relations with neighbors, Wang said. China is willing to work with Thailand to bring the building of a community with a shared future to a higher and more meaningful level, he added.

The Chinese minister advocated closer alignment of development strategies and further integration of interests between the two sides, proposing to build new growth engines in areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, cross-border e-commerce and green development to support the modernization efforts of both countries. He also called for accelerating the construction of the China-Thailand railway to give full play to the stimulating effect of model large-scale projects and realize the vision of interconnected development among China, Laos and Thailand.

On global trade, Wang Yi stressed that the US had undermined the free trade system and disrupted global production and supply chains by imposing tariffs unilaterally. He expressed confidence that Thailand and other ASEAN countries would protect their legitimate interests and oppose unilateralism, power politics and bullying. Beijing intends to sign the China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0 protocol by the end of the year to expand the common market and demonstrate joint support for WTO rules and the multilateral trading system through concrete actions, the minister added.

Touching upon the border issue between Thailand and Cambodia, Wang Yi noted that both countries are good neighbors and friends of China. He expressed hope that the parties will resolve the issue through dialogue and consultations in good faith, striving to de-escalate tensions and restore stability as soon as possible. China will adhere to an objective and impartial position and play a constructive role in promoting peaceful relations between the two countries, the Foreign Minister added.

In turn, M. Sangyampong said that China is a reliable friend of Thailand. Over the 50 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, the countries have maintained mutual trust and respected each other’s core interests, he stressed. The principle of “Thailand and China are as close as one family” has stood the test of time, and the construction of a Thai-Chinese community with a common destiny continues to bear rich fruit, the minister added.

Thailand firmly adheres to the one-China principle and looks forward to strengthening high-level exchanges and practical cooperation in the areas of connectivity, trade, agriculture and combating transnational crime, Sangyampong said.

Bangkok firmly supports multilateralism and the multilateral trading system and calls for an early restoration of normal trading order, he said.

Border and territorial issues should not be resolved by force, the Foreign Minister stressed, expressing gratitude to China for its objective and balanced position on disputes, as well as for its mediation role and efforts to promote dialogue. Thailand is ready to resolve disputes with Cambodia through bilateral channels in the spirit of good neighborliness and goodwill, M. Sangyamphong said. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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MIL OSI Russia News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Russia: Canada to continue trade talks with US until August 1 – PM

Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

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

OTTAWA, July 11 (Xinhua) — Canada will continue trade talks with the United States until a new deadline of Aug. 1, Prime Minister Mark Carney said Thursday.

During the current trade negotiations with the United States, the Canadian government has stood firm in protecting the interests of workers and businesses, he wrote on social media. “We will continue to do so as we work through the new August 1 deadline,” the politician added.

Canada has made significant progress in combating the spread of fentanyl in North America, Carney said. Ottawa is committed to continuing to work with Washington to save lives and protect communities in both countries, the Canadian prime minister said.

“We are building a strong Canada. The federal government, provinces and territories are making significant progress in building a unified Canadian economy,” the premier said, adding that Canada must strengthen its trading partnerships around the world.

US President Donald Trump announced earlier on Thursday that he would impose a 35 percent tariff on imports from Canada starting August 1.

D. Trump published a letter addressed to M. Carney on his own social network Truth Social, in which he criticized Canada for retaliatory measures against previous American tariffs.

The American leader noted that the new tariff was imposed because of the flow of fentanyl from Canada to the United States, as well as alleged unfair trade practices. The head of the White House said he would consider adjusting the tariff if Canada cooperated with the United States to stop fentanyl smuggling.

The Trump administration previously imposed a 25 percent tariff on Canadian goods, but later made an exception for products covered by the U.S.-Canada-Mexico trade agreement. –0–

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

.

MIL OSI Russia News –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Have your say on council Housing Allocations Policy
Source: City of Wolverhampton

The official public consultation is now open and will run until Wednesday 3 September, 2025.

The allocations policy outlines how the council prioritises and allocates housing to applicants, in accordance with Section 166A of the Housing Act 1996. It ensures that homes are allocated fairly and transparently to those in the greatest need.

Significant changes were last introduced in 2021. However, further updates are now being proposed to:
- Ensure the policy remains aligned with its core objectives
- Reflect current legislation, government policy, and statutory guidance
- Maintain a strong focus on those with the most urgent housing needs
- Support regeneration initiatives and the delivery of new homes
- Help prevent homelessness and reduce reliance on temporary accommodation
City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Housing, Councillor Steve Evans, said: “We are delivering better homes for local people across the city and improving council housing.

“Of course, due to national factors and the financial pressures all councils are facing, we have limited housing stock – and this consultation is a vital piece of work to help frame how we best go about allocating our council homes.

“It is important people have their say and I would urge them to take part in the consultation on this policy, which addresses the challenges being experienced by residents.

“The objective is to ensure local people with the greatest housing need have the best opportunity to access suitable housing that best meets their needs, in a fair and transparent way.”

To take part in the consultation, please visit Housing Allocations Policy.

In addition, there will be in person events across the city to speak directly with residents, stakeholders, and partners. Dates and venues for these events will be confirmed and advertised during the consultation period.

All feedback gathered during the consultation will be thoroughly reviewed and carefully considered. The insights shared will directly inform the development of the revised policy, ensuring it reflects the needs, priorities, and aspirations of residents and communities.
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

July 11, 2025
India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

July 11, 2025
India’s creator economy set to shape a trillion-dollar future

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

At WAVES 2025, a new report by the Boston Consulting Group grabbed the spotlight, drawing the attention of policymakers, creators, and investors. The report revealed that India’s creator economy is already driving more than $350 billion in consumer spending, a number expected to exceed $1 trillion by 2030.

Titled From Content to Commerce: Mapping India’s Creator Economy, the report paints a vivid picture of a nation in the midst of a creative and commercial boom. With 2 to 2.5 million active creators—defined as individuals with more than 1,000 followers—India is home to one of the world’s largest and youngest digital communities. But what’s most striking is the current monetization gap. Only 8 to 10 percent of these creators are earning meaningful income from their content, revealing a vast reserve of untapped potential that may well become the fuel for the next stage of India’s economic growth story.

The report underscores the sweeping influence creators now hold over consumer decisions. Over 30 percent of purchases are directly shaped by digital content—ranging from short-form videos to long-format storytelling, tutorials, product reviews, and live streams. Comedy, film, fashion, and serials remain the dominant genres, but the expansion into new content territories like gaming, wellness, and finance is reshaping how India learns, shops, and interacts.

What makes this shift even more profound is how it is transcending generational and geographic lines. No longer confined to Gen Z or urban metros, the creator ecosystem is reaching deep into smaller towns, regional markets, and older demographics. The emergence of multilingual creators and regional influencers has catalyzed a more inclusive digital marketplace—one that mirrors the real India in all its complexity and diversity.

For brands and marketers, this evolution has not just altered strategies; it has flipped the entire funnel. Traditional advertising methods are being replaced or supplemented by more agile, creative, and targeted forms of engagement. Campaigns are now designed with creators at the core—allowing for faster content production, greater freedom of expression, and improved metrics through outcome-based testing. Virtual gifting, live commerce, subscription models, and fan-funded initiatives are rising as new revenue streams, giving creators both financial agency and deeper community ownership.

WAVES 2025 served as the perfect launchpad for this new digital vision. With its ambitious scope covering media, technology, and storytelling, the summit highlighted how India’s creator economy is not merely an offshoot of the entertainment sector, it is the engine powering a new form of commerce and cultural diplomacy. As discussions ranged from AI in filmmaking to the future of AVGC (Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming, and Comics), one theme emerged with clarity: creators are not just influencing trends—they are shaping the market.

Investors are recalibrating strategies to fund content-driven startups. Policy frameworks are being debated to offer protections and incentives for digital freelancers. Education platforms are rolling out creator economy courses. And most significantly, creators across India—from school-going influencers in Raipur to AI-powered illustrators in Chennai—are beginning to realize their role not just as entertainers, but as economic contributors.

The trillion-dollar forecast is not a distant dream—it is a pathway already in motion. With the right mix of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusivity, India’s creator economy could become one of its most significant exports. And as the world turns its eyes toward this new digital juggernaut, one thing is certain: India is no longer just telling stories. It is rewriting the script of global influence—one post, one video, one idea at a time.

July 11, 2025

MIL-OSI: CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Results

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

BROOKFIELD, Wis, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. (the “Company” or “CIB Marine”) (OTCQX: CIBH), the holding company of CIBM Bank (the “Bank”), announced its unaudited results of operations and financial condition for the quarter and six months ended June 30, 2025. During the quarter, net interest income and mortgage operations both improved operating results on a quarterly and year-to-date basis as further outlined below.

Net income for the quarter was $0.7 million, or $0.50 basic and $0.48 diluted earnings per share, compared to $0.5 million, or $0.34 basic and $0.25 diluted earnings per share, for the same period of 2024 excluding the effects of the sale-leaseback transaction gain on sale reported in the second quarter of 2024. Net income for the six months ended June 30, 2025, was $1.0 million, or $0.74 basic and $0.71 diluted earnings per share, compared to $0.6 million, or $0.80 basic and $0.35 diluted earnings per share, for the same period of 2024 also excluding the effects of the sale-leaseback transaction gain on sale.

Financial highlights for the quarter and six months ended June 30 include:

Net interest margin increased to 2.69% from 2.62% in the first quarter of 2025 and 2.38% in the second quarter of 2024. The cost of funds declined 51 basis points compared to the same quarterly period last year, due to the repricing of interest-bearing liabilities in a lower-cost interest rate environment, while yields on earning assets declined by 16 basis points. The net interest margin improved to 2.65% for the six months ended June 30, 2025, compared to 2.34% for the same period of 2024 as the cost of funds declined 45 basis points compared to a 10 basis point decline in yields on earning assets. Net interest income rose $0.3 million for the quarter compared to the same period of 2024, and $0.6 million for the six months ended June 30^th compared to the same period of 2024.
Although quarter-end loan balances declined $19 million from March 31, 2025, and $32 million from December 31, 2024, the allowance for credit losses to loans rose from 1.26% at December 31, 2024, and 1.29% at March 31, 2025, to 1.32% at June 30, 2025, primarily due to continued deterioration in the Federal Reserve’s economic forecasts used in the Company’s credit loss analysis. Non-performing assets to total assets were 0.68% and non-accrual loans to loans were 0.85% on June 30, 2025, compared to 0.67% and 0.84% on March 31, 2025, and 0.68% and 0.81% on December 31, 2024, respectively. Business plans continue to include higher loan balances by year-end 2025, primarily driven by anticipated growth in the commercial segments. Non-performing loans, other real estate loans, modified loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty and loans 90 days or more past due but still accruing to total assets increased to 1.85% at June 30, 2025, compared to 0.97% at March 31, 2025, and 0.98% at December 31, 2024. The increase was primarily due to two commercial loans—one in the transportation industry and the other in manufacturing—that were both 90 days or more past due but still accruing interest and in the collection process. Since June 30, 2025, one of the loans has been brought current and the adjusted ratio would be 1.43%.

The Banking Division reported net income of $1.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2025, a $0.4 million improvement over the same period in 2024 excluding the sale-leaseback transaction gain on sale, driven primarily by higher net interest margins and continued cost controls. The Mortgage Division’s $0.1 million net loss for the six months ended June 30, 2025, is an improvement of $0.1 million from the prior year. This modest progress reflects the decline in lending staff noted in the first-quarter earnings release. The net remaining Other Division, comprised primarily of parent company operations, had a net loss of $0.5 million with roughly one-third of that amount attributed to subordinated debt interest expense. Although the parent company has a $2 million line of credit, no draws have been made on that potential funding source to date.

Mr. J. Brian Chaffin, CIB Marine’s President and CEO, commented, “Net interest margins continue to improve as we actively manage our cost of funds in a lower rate environment compared to last year. This contributed to stronger operating results from our Banking Division. While loan balances declined again, our commercial group continues to build the loan pipeline, and we anticipate higher balances by year-end. The Mortgage Division showed modest improvement despite ongoing challenges in the residential mortgage market. Although mortgage production is expected to be lower than last year due to lender staff reductions, our current team is well-positioned to maintain consistent performance in a competitive market. Expense controls continue to support improved operating results.”

He added, “In February, we launched our 2025 common stock repurchase program, authorizing up to $1 million in share buybacks. During the second quarter of 2025, we repurchased 8,083 shares through open market transactions for a total of $262,000, at an average price of $32.37 per share. Year to date, we have repurchased 15,512 shares for a total of $497,000, at an average price of $32.02 per share. Barring unforeseen factors, we intend to complete our 2025 common stock repurchase program during the second half of the year, using available resources including $0.7 million in cash on hand at the parent company, our $2 million line of credit, and other potential sources such as a possible capital distribution from CIBM Bank.”

CIB Marine Bancshares, Inc. is the holding company for CIBM Bank, which operates nine banking offices in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Indiana, and has mortgage loan officers and/or offices in six states. More information on the Company is available at www.cibmarine.com, including recent shareholder letters, links to regulatory financial reports, and audited financial statements.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
CIB Marine has made statements in this release that may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. CIB Marine intends these forward-looking statements to be subject to the safe harbor created thereby and is including this statement to avail itself of the safe harbor. Forward-looking statements are identified generally by statements containing words and phrases such as “may,” “project,” “are confident,” “should be,” “intend,” “predict,” “believe,” “plan,” “expect,” “estimate,” “anticipate” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements reflect CIB Marine’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance that are subject to many uncertainties and factors relating to CIB Marine’s operations and the business environment, which could change at any time.

There are inherent difficulties in predicting factors that may affect the accuracy of forward-looking statements.

Stockholders should note that many factors, some of which are discussed elsewhere in this Earnings Release and in the documents that are incorporated by reference, could affect the future financial results of CIB Marine and could cause those results to differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements contained or incorporated by reference in this document. These factors, many of which are beyond CIB Marine’s control, include but are not limited to:

operating, legal, execution, credit, market, security (including cyber), and regulatory risks;
economic, political, and competitive forces affecting CIB Marine’s banking business;
the impact on net interest income and securities values from changes in monetary policy and general economic and political conditions; and
the risk that CIB Marine’s analyses of these risks and forces could be incorrect and/or that the strategies developed to address them could be unsuccessful.

These factors should be considered in evaluating the forward-looking statements, and undue reliance should not be placed on such statements. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made. CIB Marine undertakes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise. Forward-looking statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties and CIB Marine’s actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in forward-looking statements.

FOR INFORMATION CONTACT:
J. Brian Chaffin, President & CEO
(217) 355-0900
brian.chaffin@cibmbank.com

CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Selected Unaudited Consolidated Financial Data

	At or for the
	Quarters Ended															6 Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,			June 30,			June 30,
		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024			2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
Selected Statement of Operations Data:
Interest and dividend income	$	11,017		$	10,941		$	11,408		$	12,283		$	12,052		$	21,958		$	23,853
Interest expense		5,541			5,652			6,259			6,707			6,897			11,193			13,737
Net interest income		5,476			5,289			5,149			5,576			5,155			10,765			10,116
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses		9			42			(332	)		(113	)		10			51			(18	)
Net interest income after provision for
(reversal of) credit losses		5,467			5,247			5,481			5,689			5,145			10,714			10,134
Noninterest income (1)		1,765			1,552			1,724			2,897			6,904			3,317			8,531
Noninterest expense		6,311			6,373			6,678			7,163			6,904			12,684			13,325
Income before income taxes		921			426			527			1,423			5,145			1,347			5,340
Income tax expense		253			105			123			347			1,361			358			1,378
Net income (loss)	$	668		$	321		$	404		$	1,076		$	3,784		$	989		$	3,962

Common Share Data:
Basic net income (loss) per share (2)	$	0.50		$	0.24		$	0.60		$	0.79		$	2.79		$	0.74		$	2.94
Diluted net income (loss) per share (2)		0.48			0.23			0.54			0.59			2.06			0.71			2.17
Dividend		0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00			0.00
Tangible book value per share (3)		59.55			58.46			57.37			57.80			55.36			59.55			55.36
Book value per share (3)		59.59			58.51			57.42			56.06			53.61			59.59			53.61
Weighted average shares outstanding – basic		1,349,613			1,348,995			1,357,737			1,357,259			1,356,255			1,344,573			1,348,440
Weighted average shares outstanding – diluted		1,397,365			1,396,274			1,507,344			1,833,586			1,833,881			1,392,090			1,826,911
Financial Condition Data:
Total assets	$	838,441		$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634		$	838,441		$	901,634
Loans		665,393			684,787			697,093			707,310			719,129			665,393			719,129
Allowance for credit losses on loans		(8,793	)		(8,818	)		(8,790	)		(8,973	)		(9,083	)		(8,793	)		(9,083	)
Investment securities		126,795			124,109			120,339			120,349			123,814			126,795			123,814
Deposits		684,480			692,028			692,378			747,168			768,984			684,480			768,984
Borrowings		59,292			67,214			81,735			33,583			28,222			59,292			28,222
Stockholders’ equity		80,492			79,309			77,961			92,358			89,008			80,492			89,008
Financial Ratios and Other Data:
Performance Ratios:
Net interest margin (4)		2.69	%		2.62	%		2.44	%		2.55	%		2.38	%		2.65	%		2.34	%
Net interest spread (5)		2.06	%		1.99	%		1.74	%		1.80	%		1.71	%		2.03	%		1.67	%
Noninterest income to average assets (6)		0.83	%		0.73	%		0.82	%		1.25	%		3.09	%		0.78	%		1.91	%
Noninterest expense to average assets		3.00	%		3.05	%		3.06	%		3.17	%		3.09	%		3.02	%		2.98	%
Efficiency ratio (7)		87.24	%		93.65	%		96.17	%		85.32	%		57.19	%		90.35	%		71.34	%
Earnings (loss) on average assets (8)		0.32	%		0.15	%		0.19	%		0.48	%		1.69	%		0.24	%		0.88	%
Earnings (loss) on average equity (9)		3.36	%		1.65	%		1.94	%		4.71	%		17.92	%		2.52	%		9.38	%
Asset Quality Ratios:
Nonaccrual loans to loans (10)		0.85	%		0.84	%		0.81	%		0.44	%		0.47	%		0.85	%		0.47	%
Nonperformance assets to total assets (11)		0.68	%		0.67	%		0.68	%		0.38	%		0.41	%		0.68	%		0.41	%
Nonaccrual loans, modified loans to borrowers experiencing
financial difficulty, loans 90 days or more past due and still
accruing to total loans (12)		2.33	%		1.21	%		1.19	%		1.62	%		1.38	%		2.33	%		1.38	%
Nonaccrual loans, OREO, modified loans to borrowers
experiencing financial difficulty, loans 90 days or more past
due and still accruing to total assets (12)		1.85	%		0.97	%		0.98	%		1.32	%		1.14	%		1.85	%		1.14	%
Allowance for credit losses on loans to total loans (10)		1.32	%		1.29	%		1.26	%		1.27	%		1.26	%		1.32	%		1.26	%
Allowance for credit losses on loans to nonaccrual loans,
modified loans to borrowers experiencing financial difficulty loans
and loans 90 days or more past due and still accruing (10)		56.76	%		106.25	%		105.95	%		82.53	%		91.24	%		56.76	%		91.24	%
Net charge-offs (recoveries) annualized
to average loans (10)		-0.02	%		-0.01	%		-0.01	%		-0.01	%		0.03	%		-0.01	%		0.03	%
Capital Ratios:
Total equity to total assets		9.60	%		9.31	%		9.00	%		10.40	%		9.87	%		9.60	%		9.87	%
Total risk-based capital ratio		13.55	%		13.34	%		13.02	%		14.54	%		13.90	%		13.55	%		13.90	%
Tier 1 risk-based capital ratio		10.82	%		10.62	%		10.33	%		11.89	%		11.27	%		10.82	%		11.27	%
Leverage capital ratio		8.54	%		8.40	%		8.14	%		9.30	%		8.93	%		8.54	%		8.93	%
Other Data:
Number of employees (full-time equivalent)		144			152			165			170			172			144			172
Number of banking facilities		9			9			9			9			9			9			9

(1) Noninterest income includes gains and losses on securities.
(2) Net income available to common stockholders in the calculation of earnings per share includes the difference between the carrying amount less the consideration paid for redeemed preferred stock of $0.4 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2024.
(3) Tangible book value per share is the stockholder equity less the carry value of the preferred stock and less the goodwill and intangible assets, divided by the total shares of common outstanding. Book value per share is the stockholder equity less the liquidation preference of the preferred stock, divided by the total shares of common outstanding. Book value measures are reported inclusive of the net deferred tax assets. As presented here, shares of common outstanding excludes unvested restricted stock awards.
(4) Net interest margin is the ratio of net interest income to average interest-earning assets.
(5) Net interest spread is the yield on average interest-earning assets less the rate on average interest-bearing liabilities.
(6) Noninterest income to average assets excludes gains and losses on securities.
(7) The efficiency ratio is noninterest expense divided by the sum of net interest income plus noninterest income, excluding gains and losses on securities.
(8) Earnings on average assets are net income divided by average total assets.
(9) Earnings on average equity are net income divided by average stockholders’ equity.
(10) Excludes loans held for sale.
(11) Nonperforming assets includes nonaccrual loans and securities and other real estate owned.
(12) A large loan 90 days or more past due and still accruing was brought current after June 30, 2025. The adjusted ratio to total loans would be 1.80% and to total assets 1.43%.

CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)

	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,
		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024
	(Dollars in Thousands, Except Shares)
Assets
Cash and due from banks	$	10,363		$	7,717		$	6,748		$	13,814		$	10,690
Reverse repurchase agreements		–			–			–			–			–
Securities available for sale		124,618			121,939			118,206			118,145			121,687
Equity securities at fair value		2,177			2,170			2,133			2,204			2,127
Loans held for sale		7,733			7,685			13,291			19,472			17,897

Loans		665,393			684,787			697,093			707,310			719,129
Allowance for credit losses on loans		(8,793	)		(8,818	)		(8,790	)		(8,973	)		(9,083	)
Net loans		656,600			675,969			688,303			698,337			710,046

Federal Home Loan Bank Stock		3,401			2,607			2,607			2,238			2,238
Premises and equipment, net		1,660			1,486			1,570			1,526			1,569
Accrued interest receivable		2,733			2,680			2,651			2,926			3,230
Deferred tax assets, net		12,160			12,529			12,955			12,796			14,840
Other real estate owned, net		–			–			200			211			283
Bank owned life insurance		6,536			6,486			6,437			6,388			6,340
Goodwill and other intangible assets		64			64			64			64			64
Other assets		10,396			10,686			11,309			10,162			10,623
Total assets	$	838,441		$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Equity
Deposits:
Noninterest-bearing demand	$	87,479		$	98,403		$	86,886		$	95,471		$	95,457
Interest-bearing demand		74,921			77,620			84,833			90,095			86,728
Savings		226,663			232,046			224,960			234,969			244,595
Time		295,417			283,959			295,699			326,633			342,204
Total deposits		684,480			692,028			692,378			747,168			768,984
Short-term borrowings		49,514			57,444			71,973			23,829			18,477
Long-term borrowings		9,778			9,770			9,762			9,754			9,745
Accrued interest payable		1,656			1,614			1,911			2,101			2,145
Other liabilities		12,521			11,853			12,489			13,073			13,275
Total liabilities		757,949			772,709			788,513			795,925			812,626

Stockholders’ Equity
Preferred stock, $1 par value; 5,000,000 authorized shares at periods prior to December 31, 2024; 7% fixed rate noncumulative perpetual issued; 14,633 shares of series A and 1,610 shares of series B; convertible; $16.2 million aggregate liquidation preference		–			–			–			13,806			13,806
Common stock, $1 par value; 75,000,000 authorized shares; 1,385,842 and 1,372,642 issued shares; 1,351,397 and 1,358,473 outstanding shares at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively (1)		1,386			1,383			1,372			1,372			1,372
Capital surplus		181,908			181,801			181,708			181,603			181,486
Accumulated deficit		(98,498	)		(99,167	)		(99,487	)		(100,297	)		(101,373	)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net		(3,273	)		(3,939	)		(5,098	)		(3,592	)		(5,749	)
Treasury stock, 35,167 shares on June 30, 2025 and 14,791 shares December 31, 2024 (2)		(1,031	)		(769	)		(534	)		(534	)		(534	)
Total stockholders’ equity		80,492			79,309			77,961			92,358			89,008
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity	$	838,441		$	852,018		$	866,474		$	888,283		$	901,634

(1) Both issued and outstanding shares as stated here exclude 46,686 shares and 42,259 shares of unvested restricted stock awards at June 30, 2025 and December 31, 2024, respectively.
(2) Treasury stock includes 722 shares held by subsidiary bank CIBM Bank.

CIB MARINE BANCSHARES, INC.
Consolidated Statements of Operations (Unaudited)

	At or for the
	Quarters Ended															6 Months Ended
	June 30,			March 31,			December 31,			September 30,			June 30,			June 30,			June 30,
		2025			2025			2024			2024			2024			2025			2024
	(Dollars in thousands)

Interest Income
Loans	$	9,653		$	9,623		$	9,999		$	10,573		$	10,582		$	19,276		$	20,976
Loans held for sale		149			137			215			300			213			286			355
Securities		1,186			1,150			1,151			1,183			1,217			2,336			2,448
Other investments		29			31			43			227			40			60			74
Total interest income		11,017			10,941			11,408			12,283			12,052			21,958			23,853

Interest Expense
Deposits		4,795			5,029			5,638			6,354			6,466			9,824			12,693
Short-term borrowings		625			504			500			232			310			1,129			803
Long-term borrowings		121			119			121			121			121			240			241
Total interest expense		5,541			5,652			6,259			6,707			6,897			11,193			13,737
Net interest income		5,476			5,289			5,149			5,576			5,155			10,765			10,116
Provision for (reversal of) credit losses		9			42			(332	)		(113	)		10			51			(18	)
Net interest income after provision for
(reversal of) credit losses		5,467			5,247			5,481			5,689			5,145			10,714			10,134

Noninterest Income
Deposit service charges		65			59			55			63			67			124			133
Other service fees		(10	)		(9	)		(5	)		(5	)		1			(19	)		(4	)
Mortgage banking revenue, net		1,424			1,140			1,564			2,264			2,166			2,564			3,375
Other income		279			177			192			150			273			456			436
Net gains on sale of securities available for sale		0			0			0			0			0			0			0
Unrealized gains (losses) recognized on equity securities		7			36			(71	)		78			(14	)		43			(32	)
Net gains (loss) on sale of SBA loans		0			161			0			420			0			161			202
Net gains on sale of assets and (writedowns)		0			(12	)		(11	)		(73	)		4,411			(12	)		4,421
Total noninterest income		1,765			1,552			1,724			2,897			6,904			3,317			8,531

Noninterest Expense
Compensation and employee benefits		4,060			4,066			4,344			4,852			4,700			8,126			8,989
Equipment		583			559			467			504			457			1,142			919
Occupancy and premises		519			549			500			495			391			1,068			827
Data Processing		212			221			220			243			208			433			420
Federal deposit insurance		101			129			144			182			219			230			418
Professional services		218			278			240			254			219			496			418
Telephone and data communication		57			52			74			51			51			109			107
Insurance		75			64			71			78			80			139			161
Other expense		486			455			618			504			579			941			1,066
Total noninterest expense		6,311			6,373			6,678			7,163			6,904			12,684			13,325
Income from operations
before income taxes		921			426			527			1,423			5,145			1,347			5,340
Income tax expense		253			105			123			347			1,361			358			1,378
Net income (loss)		668			321			404			1,076			3,784			989			3,962
Preferred stock dividend		0			0			0			0			0			0			0
Discount from repurchase of preferred stock		0			0			406			0			0			0			0
Net income (loss) allocated to
common stockholders	$	668		$	321		$	810		$	1,076		$	3,784		$	989		$	3,962

The MIL Network –

July 11, 2025

China’s GDP growth set to slow, raising pressure on policymakers

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

China’s economy is expected to have slowed down in the second quarter from a solid start to the year as trade tensions with the United States added to deflationary pressures, reinforcing expectations that Beijing may need to roll out more stimulus.

The world’s second-largest economy has so far avoided a sharp slowdown in part due to a fragile U.S.-China trade truce and policy stimulus, but markets are braced for a gloomier second half pressured by slowing exports, weak consumer demand, and a persistent property downturn.

Gross domestic product growth in April-June is forecast at 5.1% year-on-year, cooling from 5.4% in the first quarter, a Reuters poll of 40 economists showed on Friday.

The projected pace would still exceed the 4.7% growth forecast in a Reuters poll in April and remain broadly in line with the official full-year target of around 5%.

Investors are closely watching for signs of fresh stimulus at the upcoming Politburo meeting due in late July, which is likely to shape economic policy for the remainder of the year.

“We expect second-quarter GDP growth to exceed 5%, compared to 5.4% in the first quarter, indicating that there is no immediate need for additional stimulus,” analysts at Societe Generale said in a note.

GDP growth is projected to slow to 4.5% in the third quarter and 4.0% in the fourth, according to the poll, underscoring mounting economic headwinds as U.S. President Donald Trump’s global trade war leaves Beijing with the tough task of getting households to spend more at a time of uncertainty.

“We see a demand cliff in the second half, driven by multiple factors,” said Ting Lu, chief China economist at Nomura, in a note. Lu cited slowing exports under U.S. tariffs, the fading boost from a consumer goods trade-in program, austerity measures, and a protracted property slump.

“We believe Beijing will very likely rush to roll out a new round of supportive measures at some point during H2.”

For the whole of 2025, China’s GDP growth is forecast to cool to 4.6% – falling short of the official goal – from last year’s 5.0% and ease further to 4.2% in 2026, according to the poll.

On a quarterly basis, the economy is forecast to have expanded 0.9% in the second quarter, slowing from 1.2% in January-March, the poll showed.

The government is due to release second-quarter GDP data and June retail sales, industrial production and investment data at 0200 GMT on July 15.

STIMULUS ALONE NOT ENOUGH

Beijing has ramped up infrastructure spending and consumer subsidies, alongside steady monetary easing. In May, the central bank cut interest rates and injected liquidity as part of broader efforts to cushion the economy from Trump’s trade tariffs.

Analysts polled by Reuters expect the central bank to cut its key policy rate – the seven-day reverse repo rate – by 10 basis points in the fourth quarter, along with a similar cut to the benchmark loan prime rate (LPR). The central bank is also expected to lower the weighted average reserve requirement ratio (RRR) by 20 basis points during the same period.

But China observers and analysts say stimulus alone may not be enough to address deflation, which deepened to its worst level in almost two years in June.

China’s GDP deflator – the broadest measure of prices across goods and services – is expected to decline further in the second quarter, marking a ninth consecutive quarterly drop, the longest streak since records began in 1993.

Analysts polled by Reuters estimate a 0.1% rise in China’s consumer prices for this year, well below the government’s target of around 2%, before picking up 1.0% in 2026.

Expectations are growing that China could accelerate supply-side reforms to curb excess industrial capacity and find new ways to boost domestic demand.

Chinese government advisers are stepping up calls to make the household sector’s contribution to broader economic growth a top priority at Beijing’s upcoming five-year policy plan, as the trade tensions and deflation threaten the outlook.

(Reuters)

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Boost for GP practices to help people back to work
Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

Press release

Boost for GP practices to help people back to work

A new pilot programme will support people with health conditions back into employment and ease pressure on doctors.
15 pioneering regions to trial groundbreaking approach to reduce GP pressure and help local people back to work

Pilot scheme to transform how fit notes are issued

Part of Plan for Change to grow the economy, get Britain back to work and make an NHS fit for the future

15 regions will benefit from a new pilot programme to support people with health conditions back into employment, while reducing pressure on GPs in the area.

The WorkWell Primary Care Innovation Fund, backed by £1.5 million across 15 regions, will combat the practice of immediately writing people off with a fit note, and instead look to find other ways to help people back into work. Workwell is expected to support up to 56,000 disabled people and people with health conditions into work by Spring 2026 and forms part of this government’s wider efforts to get the NHS back on its feet, reduce economic inactivity, and grow the economy by supporting more people into work and out of poverty as part of its Plan for Change.

This fresh approach addresses a critical challenge facing both patients and the NHS. Currently, of the 11 million fit notes issued electronically in primary care across England last year, 93% simply declared people “not fit for work” – offering no constructive alternative or support pathway.

The new funding will enable WorkWell sites – funded by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) – to connect patients to local support services to provide work and health advice to more patients receiving a fit note.

Patients will receive targeted and timely support to manage their health condition whilst exploring realistic options for staying in or returning to work, rather than facing a dead-end “not fit for work” declaration.

Interventions via the WorkWell Primary Care Innovation Fund could include:

Hiring work and health coaches, social prescribers, or occupational therapists for GP teams to refer patients to for holistic support, help and advice, from gym memberships to career coaching.

Supporting and upskilling occupational therapists or physiotherapists to issue fit notes and improve the quality of work and health advice given to a patient.

Upskilling GPs and wider GP teams to improve their ability to support patients with local work and health advice.

Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:

This pilot is a step towards transforming a broken system that’s been failing people for years.

It isn’t just about freeing up GPs to treat patients rather than fill in forms. It’s about fundamentally changing the conversation from ‘you can’t’ to ‘how can we help you?’ When someone walks into their doctor’s surgery worried about their job, they should walk out with a plan, not just a piece of paper that closes doors.

We can’t afford to keep writing people off. Every person we help back into work isn’t just transforming their own life – they’re contributing to our communities, our economy, and breaking the cycle that’s been holding Britain back. This is what building an NHS fit for the future through our Plan for Change looks like.

WorkWell sites have already been exploring ways to get patients back into work. For example, June, a patient in the West Midlands, had been on sick leave following a period of poor mental and physical health suffering from anxiety, PTSD and arthritis. She had sessions with a Work and Health Coach via her local WorkWell site, getting support to communicate her needs to her employer and seek reasonable adjustments. This allowed her to return to work with amended hours and responsibilities, avoiding the need for her to be signed off work.

Though a range of healthcare professionals can issue fit notes, 90% of fit notes issued electronically in primary care in England last year were issued by doctors – adding to GP workload pressures.

Instead GPs spending valuable consultation time on administrative fit note processes, WorkWell sites will use this funding to explore how specialist professionals like pharmacists and occupational therapists can provide comprehensive support that benefits patients, employers, and reduces pressure on primary care services.

The initiative directly supports the commitment in the government’s 10 Year Health Plan to embed employment advice within new Neighbourhood Health Services, shifting care from hospitals to communities. This government has recruited over 1900 extra GPs in the last year in a bid to fix the front door of the NHS.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall said:

We know that good work is good for people’s health and good for the economy too, but the current system is holding too many people back – denying many the dignity and self-respect this work brings.

WorkWell is transforming lives by helping people stay in and get back to work, and this significant investment will help even more people unlock good jobs and boost living standards.

With 2.8 million people currently out of work due to health conditions, this pilot will take a crucial step toward breaking the cycle of poor health and poverty that holds back people’s lives and economic growth.

It is a key part of the government’s pledge to cut waiting lists – crack teams of clinicians have already been sent to areas where more people are out of work, and new community diagnostic centres are opening 12 hours a day, 7 days a week across the country. Overall waiting lists have fallen by over 260,000 since last July.

This also comes on the same day as an £100 million funding boost to Connect to Work programmes, which will help thousands of people who are out of work due to health conditions, disabilities or other reasons to find and stay in jobs.

As part of a significant package of support to reform to the broken welfare system, the government is making changes to genuinely support sick or disabled people and those with health conditions into work, amounting to £1 billion per year by the end of the decade, while the Get Britain Working White Paper is overhauling Jobcentres, and empowering Mayors and local leaders to tackle inactivity.

Evidence from the pilot scheme will be used to inform our wider approach to work, health and skills, as this government gets Britain working through the Plan for Change, backed by an NHS fit for the future.

Notes to editors:

The WorkWell Primary Care Innovation Fund will provide a share of £1.5 million to each of the 15 WorkWell pilot sites – £100,000 per site.

The WorkWell pilot programme is expected to support up to 56,000 disabled people and people with health conditions into work by Spring 2026.

This innovative model brings together Integrated Care Boards, local authorities and Jobcentre Plus to provide a single, coordinated gateway to work and health support services.

The regions in the pilot are: Birmingham and Solihull; Black Country; Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire; Cambridgeshire and Peterborough; Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly; Coventry and Warwickshire; Frimley; Herefordshire and Worcestershire; Greater Manchester; Lancashire and South Cumbria; Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland; North Central London; North West London; South Yorkshire; Surrey Heartlands

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Published 11 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Africa Scales Up Mineral Mapping to Attract Exploration Investment Ahead of African Mining Week (AMW) 2025

Source: APO

.

Across Africa, mineral-rich nations are intensifying nationwide geological surveys to gain a deeper understanding of their mineral resources. These initiatives aim to attract new investment in exploration and production, bolstering the continent’s role in the global supply of transition and fourth industrial revolution metals.

In June, Zambia’s Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development reported that its high-resolution airborne geophysical survey had covered 22% of the country’s land area, with plans to reach 70% by December 2025. The program is on track for completion by mid-2026 and forms part of Zambia’s strategy to de-risk mining investment and scale annual copper output to 3 million tons by 2031. At African Mining Week 2025 – taking place in Cape Town on October 1-3 – a panel on Zambia: Accelerating Exploration and Development Through License Allocation will highlight the country’s ongoing efforts to expand its mineral resource base and streamline development.

AMW serves as a premier platform for exploring the full spectrum of mining opportunities across Africa. The event is held alongside the African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025 conference from October 1-3 in Cape Town. Sponsors, exhibitors and delegates can learn more by contacting sales@energycapitalpower.com.

Zambia’s efforts are part of a broader continental movement to fast-track geo-mapping using advanced technologies. Tanzania, for example, is pursuing a national mapping program with a strong focus on critical minerals. Led by the Ministry of Minerals and the State Mining Corporation, the initiative targets 50% territorial coverage by 2030. In March, Tanzania partnered with the Korea Institute of Geoscience and Mineral Resources to enhance technical capabilities through knowledge and technology exchange. This program forms a central component of Tanzania’s Vision 2030 Strategy, which identifies mining as a key engine for GDP growth.

In Liberia, Minister of Mines and Energy Wilmot J.M. Paye confirmed in February 2025 that the country’s national survey had identified significant deposits of critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, copper and nickel. Meanwhile, South Sudan’s ongoing mapping efforts have revealed geological similarities with the mineral-rich Democratic Republic of Congo – the continent’s leading copper producer and the world’s largest supplier of cobalt. In Eswatini, preliminary findings from its 2024 survey indicate promising deposits of lithium tantalum, and soft earth minerals.

As these programs gain momentum, AMW 2025 offers a timely platform for governments to present survey findings, share progress and forge new partnerships with global investors and technology providers. Held alongside African Energy Week: Invest in African Energies 2025, the event brings together the full spectrum of mining stakeholders to shape the future of Africa’s mineral economy.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Energy Capital & Power.

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Aurora Mobile Evaluates Solana (SOL) for its Cryptocurrency Treasury Strategy

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHENZHEN, China, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Aurora Mobile Limited (NASDAQ: JG) (“Aurora Mobile” or the “Company”), a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China, today announced that it is evaluating the integration of Solana as a cornerstone of its forward-looking cryptocurrency treasury strategy, which was approved by the Board of Directors in June 2025.

Mr. Weidong Luo, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Aurora Mobile, commented, “Our potential Solana-focused strategy is rooted in long-term vision rather than speculation. Solana’s speed and low costs solve critical pain points for our app developer and exchange clients. This prospective investment aligns with our vision to become the connective tissue between mobile ecosystems and blockchain innovation.

This also reflects our strong conviction in Solana’s growing institutional adoption. As a top-tier Layer 1 blockchain, Solana has demonstrated resilience and innovation, making it both a strategic hedge against inflation and a vehicle for treasury diversification. This move underscores our long-term commitment to blockchain innovation and value creation.”

About Aurora Mobile Limited

Founded in 2011, Aurora Mobile (NASDAQ: JG) is a leading provider of customer engagement and marketing technology services in China. Since its inception, Aurora Mobile has focused on providing stable and efficient messaging services to enterprises and has grown to be a leading mobile messaging service provider with its first-mover advantage. With the increasing demand for customer reach and marketing growth, Aurora Mobile has developed forward-looking solutions such as Cloud Messaging and Cloud Marketing to help enterprises achieve omnichannel customer reach and interaction, as well as artificial intelligence and big data-driven marketing technology solutions to help enterprises’ digital transformation.

For more information, please visit https://ir.jiguang.cn/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates,” “confident” and similar statements. Among other things, the Business Outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Aurora Mobile’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Aurora Mobile may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about Aurora Mobile’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: Aurora Mobile’s strategies; Aurora Mobile’s future business development, financial condition and results of operations; Aurora Mobile’s ability to attract and retain customers; its ability to develop and effectively market data solutions, and penetrate the existing market for developer services; its ability to transition to the new advertising-driven SAAS business model; its ability to maintain or enhance its brand; the competition with current or future competitors; its ability to continue to gain access to mobile data in the future; the laws and regulations relating to data privacy and protection; general economic and business conditions globally and in China and assumptions underlying or related to any of the foregoing. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of the press release, and Aurora Mobile undertakes no duty to update such information, except as required under applicable law.

For more information, please contact:

Aurora Mobile Limited
E-mail: ir@jiguang.cn

Christensen

In China
Ms. Xiaoyan Su
Phone: +86-10-5900-1548
E-mail: Xiaoyan.Su@christensencomms.com

In US
Ms. Linda Bergkamp
Phone: +1-480-614-3004
Email: linda.bergkamp@christensencomms.com

The MIL Network –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: HTX Hot Listings Weekly Recap (June 30 – July 7): $M Leads the Rally, Meme, AI, Gaming, and RWA Sectors Shine — HTX’s Wealth Effect in Full Force

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PANAMA CITY, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global crypto exchange, continues to deliver notable investment opportunities amid a volatile market. According to platform data, from June 30 to July 7, multiple assets across diverse narratives, such as Meme, AI, Gaming, and Real-World Assets (RWA), all recorded significant gains.

$M Tops the Charts: Meme Tokens Make a Strong Comeback

The standout performer of the week was HTX’s newly listed asset $M, posting a remarkable 157% gain in just five days, topping the leaderboard. This momentum underscores the persistent power of the Meme narrative and its wealth-generating potential.

HTX continues to evaluate Meme tokens based on factors like community activity, viral potential, and on-chain engagement. Other Meme tokens like $BONK (+52%), $SCA (+50%), and $SWARMS (+32%) also demonstrated explosive growth.

Gaming and AI Rally Across Solana and BSC

Crypto’s version of “sector rotation” was in full play. The Solana ecosystem drew renewed attention, especially through the flagship gaming token $PORTAL (+43%).

Within BSC, $BOBBSC (+49%) and $BANANAS31 (+26%) delivered strong weekly returns. $SKYAI (+42%) carries both AI and Meme narratives, illustrating the growing appeal of cross-narrative tokens, which benefit from both community hype and future-facing narratives — making them a strategic focus for HTX.

RWA Sector Rebounds

Another key signal was the revival of the RWA narrative, as $PLUME surged 37%. As stablecoin regulation progresses and rate cut expectations grow, tokenization of real-world assets is transitioning from theory to real valuation. Against this backdrop, $PLUME’s trading volume and user attention on HTX have surged, reflecting both strong fundamentals and growing capital recognition.

Wealth Is a Matter of Choice — HTX’s Wealth Effect Unfolds

In the short term, Meme and AI remain the focal narratives, while RWA and Gaming may follow with catch-up rallies driven by macro and thematic momentum. HTX demonstrates acute sensitivity to market sentiment and structural shifts, enabling early-stage exposure to high-growth assets through rigorous listings and rapid response to emerging trends.

Choosing the right platform and the right narrative is key to navigating all market cycles. The wealth effect is never a coincidence — it’s the result of strategic selection and trusted infrastructure. The next breakout asset might just be on HTX.

About HTX

Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at :

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/85ba2d48-8ddb-4080-b0fb-914e9dd4d4e9

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/01b44022-b019-4278-9b93-c4425388d535

The MIL Network –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: HTX Kicks Off HTTC S1 Trading Competition: Team Up to Vie for Million-Dollar Prize Pool and Xiaomi YU7 SUVs!

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

PANAMA CITY, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, officially announces the launch of the team competition phase for its “HTTC S1: Blades Out” spot trading event. Ten prominent team leaders have been selected and are actively recruiting users worldwide to join their teams. Participants will compete for a share of a million-dollar prize pool, and a chance to win a Xiaomi YU7 MAX SUV.

Team formation for the HTX event is now open and runs until 10:00 (UTC) on July 22, 2025. To register, participants must complete the provided form, submit their HTX UID, and select a preferred team. All successful registrants will receive a 10 USDT Cashback Voucher. Additionally, the 8th, 588th, and 888th registrants will each win a Xiaomi YU7 Max SUV, valued at $50,000.

The trading competition will continue until 10:00 (UTC) on July 25, 2025, and covers all spot trading pairs on the platform. The event includes two main challenges:

1. Team Trading Volume Challenge. The platform will rank all participating teams based on their cumulative spot trading volume. A total prize pool of $70,000 in $HTX will be distributed according to their final rankings. The top-ranked team will receive 25% of the prize pool, totaling $17,500.

To ramp up the excitement, a special “Final 24-Hour Push” mechanism will be in effect. Trading volume generated during the final 24 hours will be weighted at 2x for team volume calculations.

2. Team PnL Challenge. To promote stable profitability in spot trading, HTX will calculate the total PnL generated by all members with positive returns within each participating team. Teams will be ranked based on their total PnL, and a prize pool of $30,000 in $HTX will be distributed accordingly. The first-place team will receive 30% of the rewards.

As a key highlight of HTX’s 12th-anniversary celebration, “HTTC S1” aims to enhance user trading skills and profitability through an innovative team competition format and robust incentive mechanisms. Moving forward, HTX will continue to roll out more interactive and engaging trading events, offering global users enriched trading experiences and long-term value.

About HTX

Founded in 2013, HTX has evolved from a virtual asset exchange into a comprehensive ecosystem of blockchain businesses that span digital asset trading, financial derivatives, research, investments, incubation, and other businesses.

As a world-leading gateway to Web3, HTX harbors global capabilities that enable it to provide users with safe and reliable services. Adhering to the growth strategy of “Global Expansion, Thriving Ecosystem, Wealth Effect, Security & Compliance,” HTX is dedicated to providing quality services and values to virtual asset enthusiasts worldwide.

To learn more about HTX, please visit HTX Square or https://www.htx.com/, and follow HTX on X, Telegram, and Discord. For further inquiries, please contact glo-media@htx-inc.com.

Disclaimer: This content is provided by HTX. The statements, views, and opinions expressed in this content are solely those of the content provider and do not necessarily reflect the views of this media platform or its publisher. We do not endorse, verify, or guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information presented. We do not guarantee any claims, statements, or promises made in this article. This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or trading advice.Investing in crypto and mining-related opportunities involves significant risks, including the potential loss of capital. It is possible to lose all your capital. These products may not be suitable for everyone, and you should ensure that you understand the risks involved. Seek independent advice if necessary. Speculate only with funds that you can afford to lose. Readers are strongly encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial advisor before making any investment decisions. However, due to the inherently speculative nature of the blockchain sector—including cryptocurrency, NFTs, and mining—complete accuracy cannot always be guaranteed.Neither the media platform nor the publisher shall be held responsible for any fraudulent activities, misrepresentations, or financial losses arising from the content of this press release. In the event of any legal claims or charges against this article, we accept no liability or responsibility. Globenewswire does not endorse any content on this page.

Legal Disclaimer: This media platform provides the content of this article on an “as-is” basis, without any warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied. We assume no responsibility for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions. We do not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information presented herein. Any concerns, complaints, or copyright issues related to this article should be directed to the content provider mentioned above.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7713fc93-21a5-4878-a92e-d477e87700d8

The MIL Network –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Sale of fund administration business in HSBC Germany
Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

Press Release

11 July 2025

Sale of fund administration business in HSBC Germany

HSBC Continental Europe has reached an agreement to sell its fund administration business, Internationale Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH (‘INKA’), to a fund managed by BlackFin Capital Partners S.A.S. (‘BlackFin’) (the ‘Potential Transaction’), reinforcing its focus on being the leading corporate and institutional bank in Germany and across Europe for international clients.

This decision forms part of the simplification strategy of HSBC announced in October 2024. HSBC is focused on increasing its leadership and market share in the areas where it has a clear competitive advantage, and where it has the greatest opportunity to grow and support its clients. This includes connecting European clients to opportunities across HSBC’s international network. For Securities Services, this means focusing on HSBC’s market-leading franchise in Asia and the Middle East and providing best in class custody and fund services to clients in the UK and in Europe via its strategic hubs in London, Ireland and Luxembourg.

INKA is an indirectly held subsidiary of HSBC Germany, with c.€430 billion assets under administration as of December 2024. BlackFin is a pan-European private equity fund manager that has been successfully investing in Germany since 2013 and is well-placed to support INKA’s future growth.

Completion of the Potential Transaction is expected in the second half of 2026 and is subject to customary regulatory and anti-trust approvals and the conclusion of negotiations with HSBC Germany’s Works Council.

Under the terms of the Potential Transaction, all staff would remain employed by INKA at completion, when the company would transfer to BlackFin.

All parties are focused on enabling a smooth transition for clients and staff.

Contact:

Elvira Stark | elvira.stark@hsbc.de | +49-211-910-6900

Sophie Ricord | sophie.ricord@hsbc.fr | +33 6 89 10 17 62

HSBC Continental Europe
Headquartered in Paris, HSBC Continental Europe is an indirectly held subsidiary of HSBC Holdings plc. HSBC Continental Europe comprises corporate and institutional banking, private banking, insurance and asset management activities across Continental Europe, including the business activities of 10 European branches (in Belgium, Czech Republic, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Poland, Spain and Sweden) and two banking subsidiaries in Luxembourg and Malta. HSBC Continental Europe’s mission is to serve both customers in Continental Europe for their needs worldwide and Group customers for their needs in Continental Europe.

HSBC Continental Europe S.A., Germany (‘HSBC Germany’)
HSBC Germany is the German branch of HSBC Continental Europe, whose activities comprise corporate and institutional banking, private banking and asset management.

HSBC Holdings plc
HSBC Holdings plc, the parent company of the HSBC Group, is headquartered in London. HSBC serves customers worldwide from offices in 58 countries and territories. With assets of US$3,054bn at 31 March 2025, HSBC is one of the world’s largest banking and financial services organisations.

Internationale Kapitalanlagegesellschaft mbH (INKA)
INKA is an indirectly held subsidiary of HSBC Continental Europe S.A., Germany. It is one of the leading capital management companies (KVG) in Germany and offers institutional investors solutions for structuring diversified investment portfolios.

BlackFin
BlackFin is a pan-European private equity fund manager specialised in investing in asset-light financial services companies. BlackFin established its Frankfurt office in 2018 and has been actively investing in the DACH region since 2013. It manages commitments of above €4bn and invests from its two most recently launched funds: BlackFin Tech 2 (€390m) and BlackFin Financial Services Fund IV (€1.8bn). Founded by former banking and insurance executives and entrepreneurs, BlackFin’s +50 team of financial services experts operates from offices in Paris, Frankfurt, London, Brussels, and Amsterdam. Since 2010, BlackFin has made over 30 acquisitions and more than 55 complementary add-on acquisitions in DACH, France, BeNeLux, UK, Iberia, the Nordics and the Baltics.

Attachment
- Press release – Sale of fund administration business in HSBC Germany – 11-07-25
The MIL Network –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Free State entrepreneurs encouraged to apply for support incentives

Source: Government of South Africa

The Free State Department of Economic, Small Business Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) has urged spaza shop owners, informal business traders, Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), including Cooperatives, to apply for online funding incentives.

This follows the commitment made during the tabling of the department’s 2025/26 Budget Vote Speech.

“In less than a month after the tabling of the departmental Budget Vote, we deliver on what we promised to the business community of the Free State.

“We are committed to ensuring that MSMEs have access to strategic resources, such as skills, knowledge, network, and access to finance, amongst others, that will enable them to nurture their innovative ideas.

“The incentives are aimed at providing financial and non-financial support for businesses to remain sustainable, acquire production equipment and machinery to create more jobs, and improve the township economy,” the department said in a statement.

The applications window period outlining the processes and the required documents will be opened and accessible from Friday, 11 July 2025 to 21 July 2025 on https://client.fsdestea.kwantu.me/.

The department has designed the following three incentives:

1) Spaza Shop Support Incentive

•            This funding incentive is targeted at informal traders and spaza shops with an annual turnover of less than R1 million.

•            In this category, the enterprises will be supported with equipment, upgrade of business premises, training and stock to a maximum of R100 000.

Documents needed for applications and other requirements:

•            Identity Document (ID);

•            Municipal business permit;

•            Proof of address;

•            51% or higher black-owned or managed business, and

•            Applicant must be a South African citizen residing in the Free State.

2) Small Enterprise Support

•            This specific funding focuses on small businesses with a turnover of less than R10 million.

•            Enterprises will be assisted with a financial injection amounting to a maximum of R250 000, as per the business requirements.

•            This category’s critical areas are general retail, manufacturing, agro-processing, aquaculture, travel/accommodation/lodging/hospitality, waste economy, automative repairs, digital technologies, health and beauty.

3) Medium Enterprise Support

•            The category is targeted at medium-sized enterprises.

•            It is aimed at providing expansion capital and co-funding contribution on behalf of the applicant to developmental funding institutions (DFIs) or commercial banks to a maximum amount of R1 million.

•            Sectors falling under this category are chemicals, pharmaceuticals, automotive, green energy, manufacturing, agro-processing, clothing/textiles/footwear and leather (CTFL), hospitality and digital technologies.

Makume said the department aims to promote and facilitate financial as well as non-financial support to enhance financial inclusion by increasing access to finance for women, youth, and people with disabilities, township and rural entrepreneurs.

“Our MSMEs incentive is a unique fund that is meant to mainly address a particular gap in the funding landscape. It includes funding for business expansion.”

What applicants can expect

Successful applicants will have to enter into a funding agreement with the department.

It is also important to note that clients who still owe the department invoices for the previous funding, including those who have received letters of demand from the department, will not be considered for funding.

For more information, please contact the following officials:

* Spaza Shop Support Incentive: Ms Moipone Mohono on 082 559 7944.

* Small Enterprise Support Incentive: Ms Tshidi Maleka on 066 051 1279.

* Medium Enterprise Support: Ms Nnana Matlepe on 082 443 5513.

* Industrialisation Support: Ms Portia Nyokong on 082 828 0259.

Failure to comply with the qualifying criteria will result in automatic disqualification from funding consideration. – SAnews.gov.za

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
NPCI International Accelerates UPI Adoption Across UAE to Support Cashless Economy Vision

Source: Government of India

Source: Government of India (4)

NPCI International Payments Limited has announced significant progress in expanding India’s Unified Payments Interface acceptance across the United Arab Emirates, unveiling strategic initiatives to deepen the digital payment platform’s integration as both countries strengthen their financial connectivity.

The expansion supports the UAE’s ambitious vision of achieving a cashless economy while enhancing cross-border payment experiences for millions of Indians who travel between the two nations annually. UPI, India’s real-time account-to-account payment system, enables instant and secure transactions through mobile applications, currently handling over 18 billion transactions monthly to become one of the world’s leading digital payment infrastructures.

The UAE represents one of India’s most active travel and remittance corridors, with India’s Ministry of Tourism reporting over seven million Indians visiting the UAE annually, making them the country’s largest group of international visitors. This substantial flow of travelers creates significant opportunities for digital payment integration, allowing visitors to use familiar mobile payment applications from India while providing UAE merchants access to a digitally sophisticated customer base.

Satish Kumar Sivan, Consul General of India in Dubai, emphasized the transformative impact of the integration, stating that the experience of Indian diaspora and travelers to the UAE will be revolutionized after complete integration of UPI with the UAE’s digital payments architecture. He praised NPCI International’s aggressive efforts with merchant establishments, payment solution providers, and banks in the UAE to ensure seamless experiences for Indian customers.

NPCI International has established a solid foundation for UPI in the UAE through strategic collaborations with leading financial institutions and payment solution providers. Key partnerships with NeoPay from Mashreq Bank, Network International, and Magnati have enabled QR-based UPI acceptance across a rapidly expanding merchant network. High-profile outlets including Dubai Duty Free and Lulu Hypermarket are already accepting UPI payments, allowing Indian customers to settle purchases directly from their Indian bank accounts.

Ritesh Shukla, Managing Director and CEO of NPCI International, highlighted the milestone as bringing unparalleled convenience to millions of Indian travelers and residents while strengthening the digital bridge between the two economies. He emphasized that the expansion demonstrates growing global confidence in India’s digital payment innovations and supports the UAE’s cashless economy vision through seamless, secure, and real-time payment capabilities.

To accelerate adoption, NPCI International is working closely with UAE regulators and acquirers to enable UPI in high-frequency sectors including retail, hospitality, entertainment, transportation, and essential services. The platform supports real-time payments in Indian rupees, displays transparent exchange rates, and complies with safeguards such as transaction limits, two-factor authentication, and international usage controls issued by the Reserve Bank of India.

The initiative aligns with the Government of Dubai’s announced goal of achieving 90 percent digital transactions by 2026. NPCI International is enhancing its presence in the country by expanding UPI acceptance through sustained collaboration with UAE-based partners, committed to delivering seamless and secure digital payment experiences that generate lasting value for consumers, merchants, and the wider economy.

The expansion represents a significant step in cross-border financial connectivity, leveraging UPI’s open and interoperable architecture along with its rigorous security framework that allows smooth adaptation to regulatory environments beyond India. The initiative demonstrates the practical application of digital payment innovation in supporting bilateral economic relationships and facilitating international commerce.

NPCI International, incorporated as a wholly owned subsidiary of the National Payments Corporation of India in April 2020, serves as NPCI’s international arm devoted to deploying India’s indigenous real-time payment system and card scheme outside of India. The company focuses on transforming payments globally through technology and innovation, enabling payments for Indians while supporting other countries in enhancing their payment capabilities through technological assistance, consulting, and infrastructure development.

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Technology and innovation driving UK growth and closer partnerships with the Indo-Pacific
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 3

Press release

Technology and innovation driving UK growth and closer partnerships with the Indo-Pacific

Britain will deepen relations with countries across the Indo-Pacific to bring together UK and Southeast Asian innovation and technology.
Strengthened ties with Southeast Asia open up new trade and security opportunities to create jobs and boost growth in the UK

Free and open Indo-Pacific central to Plan for Change – delivering growth and opportunities for British businesses across the country.

UK to participate in ASEAN Regional Forum for first time – an important forum for security dialogue with one of the fastest growing regional economies

Britain will deepen relations with countries across the Indo-Pacific to bring together UK and Southeast Asian innovation and technology to drive economic growth and create new business opportunities at key meetings in Malaysia today (Friday 11 July).

Stepping up cooperation with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on regional security, the visit will see the Foreign Secretary participate in the region’s main security forum– the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) – for the first time as Guest of Chair. The UK aims to become a permanent member of the ARF, in recognition of the fact that the greatest threats to ASEAN’s security also impact UK national security, from instability driven by climate change to risk of conflict.

These strengthened security ties demonstrate the government’s Plan for Change in practice – delivering on the commitment to strengthen national security for working people.

The UK will also strengthen cooperation with ASEAN nations to tackle transnational crime including scam centres, illicit finance and illegal migration – protecting our citizens from criminals and the shared threats we face. This builds on the ASEAN-UK Plan of Action as we approach the fifth anniversary of our Dialogue Partnership.

Secure and resilient growth depends on working with Indo-Pacific partners to preserve a stable balance of power, manage conflicts and protect our people from threats such as cyber scams and illicit finance. Strengthening our cooperation builds on recent success in strengthening ties with key allies and partners, and ensuring the UK’s national security.

Foreign Secretary, David Lammy, said:

There is enormous economic potential in the Indo-Pacific with over 50% of the world’s population and 40% of global GDP. This government is breaking down barriers between businesses in the UK and Southeast Asia to tap into this market.

We are working together to tackle key threats to our mutual prosperity – illegal migration, illicit finance and scam centres. Engaging with our partners on these enemies of growth protects our people and their hard-earned money.

We want to work with partners like Singapore to seize the benefits of AI and technology and manage the risks – supporting the delivery of the ASEAN Community’s Vision 2045 and the UK’s Plan for Change.

Southeast Asia is already the fifth largest economy in the world, home to almost 700 million people, half of whom are under 30. The UK’s accession last December to CPTPP, one of the world’s biggest trade blocs, marked a breakthrough in connecting the UK to a group of economies now worth £11.7 trillion, putting money into UK businesses up and down the country.

On top of attending the ASEAN Foreign Ministerial Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, the Foreign Secretary will also meet the Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan to reinforce the shared ambition to elevate the relationship between the UK and Malaysia to a Strategic Partnership, particularly in the areas of education, energy, defence and trade which will help generate growth.

Investment into clean, renewable energy will reduce British people’s energy bills and enshrine climate resilience and energy security. Catalysing the clean energy transformation, the Foreign Secretary, alongside Deputy Prime Minister Gan, will announce a landmark pledge of up to £70 million into Singapore’s Financing Asia’s Transition Partnership (FAST-P), advancing the UK and Singapore’s joint efforts to accelerate sustainable infrastructure and investment across Southeast Asia. The UK’s funding, to be delivered through British Investment International’s (BII), will support low-carbon energy projects and innovative business models, protecting energy security and insulating UK billpayers.

Media enquiries

Email newsdesk@fcdo.gov.uk

Telephone 020 7008 3100

Email the FCDO Newsdesk (monitored 24 hours a day) in the first instance, and we will respond as soon as possible.

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Published 11 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Gauteng Education allocates funds to schools

Source: Government of South Africa

Gauteng Education allocates funds to schools

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that it has provided the necessary funds to all schools for payment of their respective municipal billing accounts.

In a statement on Thursday, the provincial department said the funds were transferred to the accounts of all identified schools in June 2025.

“The Department wishes to reiterate that, in line with legislation, schools – specifically those granted Section 21 functions – are entrusted with managing their own finances. These schools are responsible for a range of functions, including the payment of municipal services such as electricity and water,” it said.

Once funds have been transferred, the schools and their respective School Governing Body (SGB) assume full responsibility in ensuring that their municipal accounts are settled and paid on time to avoid water and electricity cuts.

In addition to allocating funds, the GDE provides oversight and support to these schools, having previously settled outstanding accounts on behalf of schools in April 2025. The department also provides financial management training to schools and SGBs to convey and educate on the importance of compliance of all relevant financial processes.

It further added that it remains committed to maintaining a conducive learning and teaching environment in all schools and continues to work with school leadership structures to ensure sound financial governance and uninterrupted access to basic services in its institutions.

“No public school in Gauteng is currently, or will ever be, disconnected from water and electricity services now and in the near future. Schools must work hand in hand with the GDE to continue achieving this by ensuring their municipal accounts are up to date at all times, and that they comply to all necessary procedures,” said Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane.

The MEC called on parents, communities, and stakeholders to support schools and their School Governing Bodies in executing their duties not just responsibly; but to the benefit of all learners, educators, and school-based staff. –SAnews.gov.za

Neo
Fri, 07/11/2025 – 09:41

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: SIU obtains R67m recovery order against Public Works plumbing contractor

Source: Government of South Africa

SIU obtains R67m recovery order against Public Works plumbing contractor

The Special Investigating Unit (SIU) has secured a recovery order of R67 million against a plumbing contractor associated with the Department of Public Works, preventing a potential loss of R33 million.

This action follows the Special Tribunal’s review, which led to the cancellation of contracts totaling R67 million that were awarded to Kroucamp Plumbers between 2015 and 2019.

These contracts were for services related to vacuum pumping of septic tanks and emergency interventions for sewage blockages.

“The Tribunal has declared these contracts invalid and unlawful and has ordered the service provider to refund the funds received from the department in relation to these contracts,” a statement from the SIU read.

According to the SIU, the comprehensive financial recovery includes R46.6 million from invalid 2015 to 2017 contracts, and R20 million from unlawful 2017 to 2019 tenders.

The Tribunal also dismissed a counterclaim of R33 million, which Kroucamp Plumbers had submitted against the department.

“This counterclaim was effectively contested by the SIU, resulting in a favourable outcome for the department.”

The order follows an investigation conducted by the SIU, which uncovered a complex network of corruption involving falsified bidding documents, undisclosed conflicts of interest, and payments made to officials who manipulated the tendering process.

“The investigation revealed that Kroucamp Plumbers misrepresented its Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) status, submitted incomplete bidding information, and colluded with departmental officials to secure contracts totalling millions of rands.”

In addition, the Tribunal determined that the company’s Director, Johannes Jacobus Kroucamp, exploited the corporate structure for personal gain, thereby jeopardising the interests of the State.

“Judge David Makhoba emphasised the gravity of the misconduct, indicating that the tenders breached constitutional procurement regulations and eroded public trust.

“The ruling annuls both contracts and revokes the juristic personality of Kroucamp Plumbers, requiring the company to compensate the State for the financial losses incurred. Consequently, Mr Kroucamp may be held personally accountable for the company’s debts owed to the State,” the statement said.

The SIU conducted its investigation into the Kroucamp Plumbers corruption case under Proclamation R20 of 2018.

“This proclamation authorised the SIU to investigate allegations of serious maladministration, improper conduct, and corruption in the awarding of tenders by the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure.”

The SIU explained that it is also empowered to institute civil action in the High Court or a Special Tribunal to address any wrongdoing uncovered during investigations related to corruption, fraud or maladministration.

In line with the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act 74 of 1996, the SIU refers any evidence of criminal conduct it uncovers to the National Prosecuting Authority for further action. – SAnews.gov.za

Gabisile
Fri, 07/11/2025 – 09:56

MIL OSI Africa –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: UK and France pledge joint funding for international biodiversity
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

News story

UK and France pledge joint funding for international biodiversity

The UK and France reaffirm their leadership in nature finance with matched contributions to support the International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits
Following the UK-France Summit and the State Visit of President Macron, the UK and France have committed joint financial support for the International Advisory Panel on Biodiversity Credits (IAPB) to support its transition to an independent not-for-profit entity.

The new funding will support the initiative as it works globally to unlock finance, and support IAPB’s ambitious programme through to COP30 in Belém, including a Policy Lab to help governments develop enabling regulatory frameworks for biodiversity credit markets. It will also advance guidance and standards for robust market infrastructure and grow IAPB’s Community of Practice as a key forum for project developers and practitioners.

IAPB was co-launched by the UK and France in 2023 at the Summit for a New Global Financing Pact in Paris and brought together over 25 senior representatives from finance, business, science, NGOs, Indigenous Peoples, and local communities from more than a dozen countries. The Panel’s Framework for High Integrity Biodiversity Credit Markets, launched at CBD COP16 in Cali, Colombia, was well received globally, and featured 31 pilot projects showcasing how biodiversity credit markets are emerging worldwide. In June 2025, IAPB became fully operational as an independent not-for-profit entity.

His Majesty King Charles III and President Emmanuel Macron have both expressed strong support for IAPB’s mission since its inception, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in protecting and restoring nature.

The UK has committed £500,000 to support IAPB’s transition to an independent not-for-profit entity. The French Ministry of Environment, together with the French Treasury, has confirmed a matching contribution of €580,000.

This joint commitment highlights the UK and France’s leadership in shaping nature markets and aligning finance with global biodiversity goals to deliver real outcomes for people and planet.

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Published 11 July 2025
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI: Lightchain AI Launches Bonus Round as Community-Driven Funding Crosses $21M Milestone

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SHREWSBURY, United Kingdom, July 11, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lightchain AI, a decentralized blockchain protocol built for artificial intelligence applications, today announced the launch of its Bonus Round following the successful conclusion of its 15-stage presale campaign. The Bonus Round offers LCAI tokens at a fixed price of $0.007, with the project now surpassing $21.1 million in decentralized funding from global participants.

Unlike centralized blockchain launches that rely on exchange ecosystems or institutional backers, Lightchain AI’s growth has been fueled entirely by its community—through validator node engagement, presale participation, and builder activity. The platform’s open infrastructure, AI-native virtual machine, and interoperability framework are attracting contributors ahead of the upcoming mainnet.

“We’ve intentionally built Lightchain AI to align with decentralized principles from the ground up,” said a Lightchain AI spokesperson. “Crossing $21 million with no central control, no private allocations, and no insider listing deals shows what’s possible when builders and participants share a long-term vision.”

The protocol’s roadmap includes support for AI-optimized smart contracts, developer grants, cross-chain integrations, and decentralized finance (DeFi) partnerships. These integrations are actively underway, enabling real-world applications such as data-driven derivatives, compute markets, and decentralized yield strategies.

To further incentivize ecosystem development, Lightchain AI has launched a $150,000 Developer Grant Program, aimed at onboarding open-source contributors, infrastructure developers, and dApp builders. Community members can apply directly to receive funding and technical resources to build within the Lightchain ecosystem.

Staking mechanisms and validator onboarding tools are also now live, allowing token holders to participate in network security and begin simulating long-term reward behavior in advance of the protocol’s full network launch.

The community-focused architecture is backed by a tokenomics model that reallocates former team allocations into ecosystem growth. Specifically, the initial 5% team token share has been redirected entirely into validator, builder, and liquidity incentives—further reinforcing the protocol’s decentralized mission.

With its Bonus Round now active and DeFi partnerships underway, Lightchain AI is preparing for its next phase: mainnet activation and cross-chain deployment. Developers, investors, and infrastructure contributors are invited to join the network ahead of launch and participate in its decentralized build-out.

For more information, visit:
lightchain.ai
Whitepaper
Twitter/X
Telegram

Contact:
SHAJAN SKARIA
media@lightchain.ai

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The MIL Network –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Euro Area Policies: 2025 Annual Consultation-Press Release; Staff Report; and Statement by the Executive Director for Member Countries

Source: International Monetary Fund

Summary

Despite recurring shocks, Europe’s economy remains resilient with record-low unemployment, declining inflation, and a stable financial system. However, policymakers face mounting challenges, including trade tensions, rising demand for defense spending, and the need to ensure energy security, all while addressing longstanding productivity challenges, rapid aging, and weak medium-term growth.

MIL OSI Economics –

July 11, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) Participates in Global Conference on Ethical Finance and Sustainable Growth
Source: APO

The International University of Sarajevo (IUS), in strategic partnership with the Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) (https://IsDBInstitute.org/) and in collaboration with esteemed institutions including the University of Dundee (UK), Istanbul Sabahattin Zaim University (Türkiye), INCEIF University (Malaysia), and the Center for Advanced Studies (Bosnia and Herzegovina), successfully hosted the international conference “Values for Impact: Ethical Finance, Innovation, and Sustainable Growth.”

The event, held at the IUS Campus in Sarajevo from 18-19 June 2025, was supported by platinum sponsor Kuveyt Türk Katılım Bankası and BH Telecom, which sponsored a key panel on artificial intelligence.

The conference was inaugurated by IUS Rector, Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, who highlighted its global significance, stating, “This conference represents a pivotal moment for global collaboration, uniting diverse perspectives to advance ethical finance and sustainable development, aligning with IUS’s commitment to fostering innovation and moral responsibility in economic systems.”

Dr. Sami Al-Suwailem, Acting Director General of IsDBI, delivered a keynote address, articulating a bold vision for Islamic finance. He stated: “Islamic finance offers the blueprint for aligning finance with markets, technology with values, and innovation with sustainability. As the world desperately seeks a new paradigm, we must rise to the challenge and contribute to a better future that we all aspire to. The path ahead will not be easy. But the mission is worth the journey.”

Dr. Ahmet Albayrak, Executive Vice President of Kuveyt Türk Katılım Bankası and Patron of the IUS Center for Islamic Finance, Innovation, and Sustainability, emphasized the importance of uniting global thought leaders to strengthen the moral and digital foundations of economic systems.

One of the highlights of the conference was the participation of three distinguished recipients of the Islamic Development Bank Prize in Islamic Economics:
- Dr. Mehmet Asutay, Professor of Middle Eastern and Islamic Political Economy & Finance, Durham University Business School, UK
- Dr. Mohammad Kabir Hassan, Professor of Economics and Finance, University of New Orleans, USA
- Dr. Habib Ahmed, Sharjah Chair in Islamic Law and Finance, Durham University Business School, UK
These luminaries enriched discussions with their expertise, offering profound insights into the intersection of ethics, innovation, and finance.

Over 160 participants from more than 20 countries, including academics, industry leaders, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations, engaged in dynamic sessions exploring topics such as Islamic fintech, sustainable investment, and the moral foundations of economic systems.

Notable sessions included “Reviving the Moral Foundations of Economic Life,” “Islamic FinTech for Inclusive and Ethical Futures,” and “Green Waqf: Islamic Sustainable Solutions to Climate Change.” A special parallel session, led by Dr. Beebee Salma Sairally, Editor of the International Journal of Islamic Finance and Sustainable Development (a jointly produced journal by IsDBI and INCEIF), provided valuable guidance on publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

The conference is expected to pave the way for Bosnia and Herzegovina to become an intellectual hub for the development of Islamic economics and finance in the region and to contribute to the national and regional sustainable development agenda.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI).

Social media handles:
X (Twitter): https://apo-opa.co/44XESSI
Facebook: https://apo-opa.co/44WpR3t
LinkedIn: https://apo-opa.co/40L6ec8

About the Islamic Development Bank Institute:
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) is the knowledge beacon of the Islamic Development Bank Group. Guided by the principles of Islamic economics and finance, the IsDB Institute leads the development of innovative knowledge-based solutions to support the sustainable economic advancement of IsDB Member Countries and various Muslim communities worldwide. The IsDB Institute enables economic development through pioneering research, human capital development, and knowledge creation, dissemination, and management. The Institute leads initiatives to enable Islamic finance ecosystems, ultimately helping Member Countries achieve their development objectives. More information about the IsDB Institute is available on https://IsDBInstitute.org/

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MIL OSI Africa –
July 11, 2025

Category: Economy

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Summary