NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI: American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB) Announces American Rebel Light Beer Distribution Expansion: Rebel Light Launches in Mississippi with Clark Beverage Group, Inc.

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    “Rebel Light” rollout momentum continues and now includes Mississippi in partnership with Clark Beverage Group, bringing America’s Patriotic Beer to Mississippi tailgates, retailers, and proud Rebels everywhere

    NASHVILLE, TN, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB), maker of America’s Patriotic, God-Fearing, Constitution-Loving, National Anthem-Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer, proudly announces its expansion into Mississippi as part of its ongoing national rollout of American Rebel Light Beer (americanrebelbeer.com). This marks the latest milestone in the company’s rapid growth, bringing the nation’s fastest-growing beer to yet another proud patriotic state.

    American Rebel Beverage has partnered with a division of Clark Beverage Group, Inc. (ccclark.com) to bring Rebel Light to retailers, bars, and consumers across Mississippi. Clark Beverage Group, with over 120 years of family-operated excellence, is one of the largest and most respected independent beverage distributors in the Southeast. Founded in 1903 by Carsie C. Clark in Martin, Tennessee, the company has become a regional powerhouse, serving over 85 counties across five states. Their legacy of strong community values, operational excellence, and regional influence makes them a natural and strategic partner for American Rebel.

    “We are thrilled to partner with Clark Beverage Group to bring American Rebel Light to Mississippi,” said Todd Porter, President of American Rebel Beverage. “Clark’s history, reputation, and footprint across the Southeast make them an ideal partner as we continue executing our strategic national expansion. Mississippi embodies the spirit of our brand: proud tradition, deep-rooted values, and patriotic pride.”

    “Mississippi reflects everything our beer stands for – pride in tradition, strength of character, and love of country,” added Porter. “We’re honored to raise a toast with Mississippians and continue building a nationwide community of Rebels who know that real beer reflects real values.”

    “I’m excited to bring American Rebel to the land of the Ole Miss Rebels – where pride runs deep, tradition lives loud, and freedom always finds a home,” said Andy Ross, CEO of American Rebel Holdings. “There’s nothing more American than raising a cold one that stands for what matters. It’s a cold can of conviction – America’s Patriotic, God Fearing, Constitution Loving, National Anthem Singing, Stand Your Ground Beer – brewed for those who don’t back down and won’t blend in.”

    The Mississippi launch is strategically important to American Rebel. With its rich culture, loyal consumers, and strong beverage retail landscape, Mississippi offers the ideal platform to scale both brand recognition and sales. American Rebel Light will be available in 12 oz 12-packs and 16oz Tall Boys, supported by in-store displays, on-premise promotions, and sponsorships that align with both the brand’s patriotic identity and Mississippi’s unique character.

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager: crisp, clean, and bold with a lighter feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2g carbs, and 4.3% ABV per 12oz serving, it is brewed with all-natural ingredients and no added corn, rice, or sweeteners often found in mass-market beers.

    This Mississippi launch adds to the fast-growing footprint of American Rebel Light, which has expanded rapidly since its debut in September 2024. The brand is already available in Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Ohio, Missouri, Iowa, Connecticut, Virginia, and Kansas. With new states onboarding monthly, American Rebel is quickly becoming America’s next great company in the beer and beverage industry.

    About American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB)

    American Rebel began as a designer and marketer of branded safes and personal security products and has since grown into a diversified patriotic lifestyle company with offerings in beer, branded safes, apparel, and accessories. With the introduction of American Rebel Light Beer, the company is now making waves in the beverage space. Learn more at americanrebel.com/investor-relations.

    Watch the American Rebel Story as told by our CEO Andy Ross visit The American Rebel Story

    About American Rebel Light Beer

    American Rebel Light is more than just a beer – it’s a celebration of freedom, passion, and quality. Brewed with care and precision, our light beer delivers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for every occasion.

    Since its launch in September 2024, American Rebel Light Beer has rolled out in Tennessee, Connecticut, Kansas, Kentucky, Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, North Carolina, Florida, Indiana, Virginia and now Mississippi. For more information about the launch events and the availability of American Rebel Beer, please visit americanrebelbeer.com or follow us on our social media platforms (@americanrebelbeer).

    American Rebel Light is a Premium Domestic Light Lager Beer – All Natural, Crisp, Clean and Bold Taste with a Lighter Feel. With approximately 100 calories, 3.2 carbohydrates, and 4.3% alcoholic content per 12 oz serving, American Rebel Light Beer delivers a lighter option for those who love great beer but prefer a more balanced lifestyle. It’s all natural with no added supplements and importantly does not use corn, rice, or other sweeteners typically found in mass produced beers.

    For more information about American Rebel Light Beer follow us on social media @AmericanRebelBeer.

    Media Inquiries:
    Matt Sheldon
    Matt@Precisionpr.co
    917-280-7329

    Distribution Opportunities:
    Todd Porter
    President, American Rebel Beverage
    tporter@americanrebelbeer.com

    Investor Relations:
    ir@americanrebelbeer.com

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. American Rebel Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: AREB; AREBW) (the “Company,” “American Rebel,” “we,” “our” or “us”) desires to take advantage of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and is including this cautionary statement in connection with this safe harbor legislation. The words “forecasts,” “believe,” “may,” “estimate,” “continue,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “should,” “plan,” “could,” “target,” “potential,” “is likely,” “expect” and similar expressions, as they relate to us, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

    We have based these forward-looking statements primarily on our current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that we believe may affect our financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ from those in the forward-looking statements include benefits of our continued sponsorship of high profile events, success and availability of the promotional activities, our ability to effectively execute our business plan, and the Risk Factors contained within our filings with the SEC, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2024 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the three months ended March 31, 2025.

    Any forward-looking statement made by us herein speaks only as of the date on which it is made. Factors or events that could cause our actual results to differ may emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of them. We undertake no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as may be required by law.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Thomasville Bancshares, Inc. Announces Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    THOMASVILLE, Ga., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Thomasville Bancshares, Inc. (OTCID: THVB), the parent company of Thomasville National Bank and TNB Financial Services, reported its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2025.

    Second Quarter 2025 Highlights

    • Net Income for the quarter of $11,828,466 compared to $10,206,006 for the same period last year, an increase of 16%.
    • YTD Net Income of $22,331,844 compared to $19,563,994 for the same period last year, an increase of 14%.
    • YTD Earnings per share were $3.48 (basic) and $3.36 (diluted).
    • YTD Return on Average Assets of 2.40% and Return on Average Tangible Equity of 24.88%.
    • Total Assets of $1.927 billion, an increase of $162 million over the same period in 2024.
    • Loans grew to $1.648 billion, an increase of $176 million or 12% year-over-year.
    • Deposits were $1.626 billion, an increase of $104 million or 7% year-over-year.
    • Regulatory Capital was $191 million or 10.21% of assets.
    • TNB Financial, provider of trust and investment services, has client assets over $5 billion.

    Stephen H. Cheney, Chairman and CEO, said “The combination of solid growth, improved margins and excellent operating efficiency continued to drive our strong financial performance for the quarter ended June 30, 2025. We believe that our Bank is well positioned to continue this strong performance throughout the year.”

    Bank President, Charles H. (Bert) Hodges, III stated “Our resilient culture that empowers our bankers to be creative thinkers has become extremely unique in our industry. This continues to set us apart and has led to superior credit quality, solid customer loyalty, and excellent opportunities for growth. The talent, pride and competitive spirit of our bankers makes us more confident than ever about the future of TNB.”

    About Thomasville Bancshares, Inc., and Thomasville National Bank

    Thomasville Bancshares, Inc. was founded in 1995 as the holding company for Thomasville National Bank. Today the Bank has total assets of over $1.927 billion. TNB is consistently recognized as a top performing community bank. In 2025, TNB was ranked 4th nationally in American Banker’s Top 200 Community Banks based upon three years average return on shareholders’ equity. The Bank’s trust and investment division, TNB Financial Services, has client assets over $5 billion under advisement and provides financial planning, investments, trust, brokerage, and other related financial services. TNBFS has offices located in Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Illinois, and Ohio. The Company is headquartered in Thomasville, Georgia and has over 800 local shareholders. Thomasville National Bank is Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. For more information, call 229-226-3300 or visit www.tnbank.com.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Caldwell U.S. Dividend Advantage Fund Declares Distributions for Q3 2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES
    OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

    TORONTO, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Caldwell Investment Management Ltd., the manager of Caldwell U.S. Dividend Advantage Fund (the “Fund”), is pleased to announce the payment of distributions on the actively-managed ETF Series of the Fund to unitholders of record as indicated below. The monthly distribution rate of CAD $0.038 per unit of the ETF Series represents an annualized yield on net assets of approximately 3.2%.

    Record Date Payment Date Distribution per Unit
    July 31, 2025 August 8, 2025 CAD $0.038
    August 29, 2025 September 8, 2025 CAD $0.038
    September 30, 2025 October 7, 2025 CAD $0.038
         

    ETF Series unitholders also have the option to participate in the distribution reinvestment plan (“DRIP”) offered by the Fund, which provides investors with the ability to automatically reinvest distributions and realize the benefits of compounded growth. Unitholders can enroll in the DRIP program by contacting their investment advisor.

    The ETF Series of Caldwell U.S. Dividend Advantage Fund trades on the TSX under the ticker symbol UDA.

    For further information, please visit our website at www.caldwellinvestment.com or contact us at 416-593-1798 or 1-800-256-2441.

    The Fund was first offered to the public as a closed-end investment on May 28, 2015 and was converted into an open-end mutual fund effective as of November 15, 2018, with all outstanding units designated as Series F units. The ETF Series of the Fund was launched on March 18, 2020.  Performance of the Fund prior to the conversion date would have differed had the Fund been subject to the same investment restrictions and practices of the current open-end mutual fund.

    Investors are strongly encouraged to consult with a financial advisor and review the Simplified Prospectus and Fund Facts documents carefully prior to making investment decisions about the Fund. Caldwell Investment Management Ltd. makes no representations or warranties on the accuracy and completeness of the information included herein. Certain statements herein contain forward looking information based on certain historical information of the Fund and represent current expectations as of the date of this press release. Actual future results may differ materially due to but not limited to prevailing market conditions, there being no assurance of realizing capital gains and no assurance that issuers held in the portfolio will pay dividends or distributions on their securities. Commissions, trailing commissions, management fees and expenses all may be associated with mutual fund investments. Mutual funds are not guaranteed; their values change frequently and past performance may not be repeated. The payment of distributions should not be confused with a fund’s performance, rate of return or yield. If distributions paid are greater than the performance of the fund, your original investment will shrink. Distributions paid as a result of capital gains realized by a fund, and income and dividends earned by a fund, are taxable in your hands in the year they are paid. Your adjusted cost base (“ACB”) will be reduced by the amount of any returns of capital and should your ACB fall below zero, you will have to pay capital gains tax on the amount below zero.

    The MIL Network –

  • NITI Aayog unveils plan to boost state innovation ecosystem

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Thursday unveiled NITI Aayog’s roadmap to bolster State Science and Technology Councils, calling on States to align their research priorities with the Centre’s push to make India a knowledge-driven economy.

    Speaking at the launch event at NITI Aayog, Singh described science and technology as the country’s “key growth engine” that would steer India’s aim of becoming the world’s third-largest economy. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for overhauling India’s planning architecture by replacing the Planning Commission with NITI Aayog in 2014, calling it a shift towards long-term, evidence-based policymaking.

    The roadmap aims to create closer coordination between the Centre and States to unlock regional scientific talent and ensure grassroots-level impact of research. “State S&T Councils must become effective bridges between labs and communities,” Singh said, urging States to link up with industry to help start-ups scale and attract private investment.

    He underlined the Centre’s focus on public-private partnerships and called for reducing overdependence on government funding for innovation. “A mindset shift is crucial if we want to unlock innovation at scale,” he said.

    Singh also pointed to India’s recent scientific strides — from Chandrayaan-3 to indigenous vaccine development and gene therapy trials — as evidence of growing global credibility. Resident patent filings have jumped by over 50% and nearly two-thirds of India’s research output now comes from centrally funded institutions, he added.

    Describing the newly established Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF) as a “game-changer”, Singh said it would bridge gaps between academia and industry through co-investment in research. He also highlighted the liberalisation of India’s space and nuclear sectors and called for the government to play the role of facilitator rather than controller.

    NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Suman Bery said the roadmap was necessary for States to align with national development goals and drive sustainable innovation. Member V.K. Saraswat stressed the need to embed sustainability into research and strengthen state-level capacity building.

    Senior officials including CSIR Director General Dr. N Kalaiselvi, Earth Sciences Secretary Dr. M Ravichandran, and ANRF CEO Dr. Shivkumar Kalyanaraman were present at the launch.

  • MIL-OSI USA: CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business

    CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    North Carolina has been recognized as the Top State for Business by CNBC. This announcement marks the third time in the last four years that the state has earned the ranking.

    “This confirms what we have known for a long time – that North Carolina is the best state in the country for business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our people, state’s business climate, top research universities and excellent community college system, infrastructure, and high quality of life help both companies and workers thrive. I want to thank leaders like former Governor Roy Cooper and state legislators of both parties who have helped North Carolina create a welcoming climate. I am proud of the progress our state has made, and we are just getting started.” 

    “This recognition reflects our relentless commitment to building a competitive, welcoming, and dynamic economy that creates opportunity for everyone,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “From our world-class workforce to our strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and innovation, North Carolina continues to lead the way as a place where businesses thrive, and communities prosper. We share this success with all of our partners across the public and private sectors and look forward to building on this momentum.”

    “North Carolina’s recognition as the best state for business for the third year in the last four is a testament to an economic development strategy that relies on the power of partnerships,” said Christopher Chung, CEO of the EDPNC. “Our strength lies in our ability to connect companies with the workforce, infrastructure, sites, industry ecosystems, and innovation resources needed to support their growth, as well as a business-friendly environment that’s especially valuable in times of economic uncertainty. From one of the nation’s top community college systems and the nation’s oldest public university to our modern transportation networks and robust utility capacity, North Carolina is built for growth.”

    The CNBC study measures states across 10 categories of competitiveness. Weights are assigned to each category based on how frequently states cite it as a selling point. States can earn a maximum of 2,500 points, and North Carolina scored 1,614 to take the top spot. North Carolina has been the top state for business for three out of the last four years, and the state’s biggest strengths this year are Economy, Workforce, and Business Friendliness.  

    Since taking office in January, Governor Stein has announced business expansions or new projects that will yield nearly $17 billion of new capital investment in North Carolina and create more than 20,000 new, good-paying jobs. North Carolina is a leader in the clean energy economy, with more than 100,000 people employed in the sector.  

    Governor Stein believes that North Carolinians should not have to get a traditional four-year degree to get a good job that can support a family. In March, he signed an executive order creating the Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships, a bipartisan group directed to find strategies to strengthen North Carolina’s workforce development and expand access to good jobs with good wages. The council recently released its first report, which outlines 11 goals to ensure more people have the skills to build strong careers and bright futures in a changing economy. Governor Stein recently signed into law Senate Bill 124, which reduces the number of state government jobs that require a four-year college degree.

    To combat North Carolina’s child care crisis, the Governor launched his Task Force on Child Care and Early Education, which seeks to make high-quality child care more accessible, affordable, and sustainable. Governor Stein also established the Advisory Council on Student Safety and Well-Being to ensure that the state’s public schools support students’ learning growth and foster an engaging environment.

    Nine months after Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein remains committed to the economic recovery efforts in western North Carolina. He recently announced the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” tourism initiative in collaboration with Visit NC to encourage travelers to plan their next trips to western North Carolina. In partnership with the Dogwood Health Trust and the Duke Endowment, Governor Stein and the State of North Carolina invested in the Western North Carolina Small Business Initiative. The $55 million program provided grants to more than 2,000 businesses across the region. This week, Governor Stein visited the Town of Clyde to award one of the first grants from the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program, which is helping local governments rebuild public infrastructure such as sidewalks and downtown parking. Governor Stein continues to urge people to visit western North Carolina and support its small businesses.

    Click here to read CNBC’s report.  

    Jul 10, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business

    Source: US State of North Carolina

    Headline: CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business

    CNBC Names North Carolina the #1 State for Business
    lsaito

    Raleigh, NC

    North Carolina has been recognized as the Top State for Business by CNBC. This announcement marks the third time in the last four years that the state has earned the ranking.

    “This confirms what we have known for a long time – that North Carolina is the best state in the country for business,” said Governor Josh Stein. “Our people, state’s business climate, top research universities and excellent community college system, infrastructure, and high quality of life help both companies and workers thrive. I want to thank leaders like former Governor Roy Cooper and state legislators of both parties who have helped North Carolina create a welcoming climate. I am proud of the progress our state has made, and we are just getting started.” 

    “This recognition reflects our relentless commitment to building a competitive, welcoming, and dynamic economy that creates opportunity for everyone,” said N.C. Commerce Secretary Lee Lilley. “From our world-class workforce to our strategic investments in infrastructure, education, and innovation, North Carolina continues to lead the way as a place where businesses thrive, and communities prosper. We share this success with all of our partners across the public and private sectors and look forward to building on this momentum.”

    “North Carolina’s recognition as the best state for business for the third year in the last four is a testament to an economic development strategy that relies on the power of partnerships,” said Christopher Chung, CEO of the EDPNC. “Our strength lies in our ability to connect companies with the workforce, infrastructure, sites, industry ecosystems, and innovation resources needed to support their growth, as well as a business-friendly environment that’s especially valuable in times of economic uncertainty. From one of the nation’s top community college systems and the nation’s oldest public university to our modern transportation networks and robust utility capacity, North Carolina is built for growth.”

    The CNBC study measures states across 10 categories of competitiveness. Weights are assigned to each category based on how frequently states cite it as a selling point. States can earn a maximum of 2,500 points, and North Carolina scored 1,614 to take the top spot. North Carolina has been the top state for business for three out of the last four years, and the state’s biggest strengths this year are Economy, Workforce, and Business Friendliness.  

    Since taking office in January, Governor Stein has announced business expansions or new projects that will yield nearly $17 billion of new capital investment in North Carolina and create more than 20,000 new, good-paying jobs. North Carolina is a leader in the clean energy economy, with more than 100,000 people employed in the sector.  

    Governor Stein believes that North Carolinians should not have to get a traditional four-year degree to get a good job that can support a family. In March, he signed an executive order creating the Council on Workforce and Apprenticeships, a bipartisan group directed to find strategies to strengthen North Carolina’s workforce development and expand access to good jobs with good wages. The council recently released its first report, which outlines 11 goals to ensure more people have the skills to build strong careers and bright futures in a changing economy. Governor Stein recently signed into law Senate Bill 124, which reduces the number of state government jobs that require a four-year college degree.

    To combat North Carolina’s child care crisis, the Governor launched his Task Force on Child Care and Early Education, which seeks to make high-quality child care more accessible, affordable, and sustainable. Governor Stein also established the Advisory Council on Student Safety and Well-Being to ensure that the state’s public schools support students’ learning growth and foster an engaging environment.

    Nine months after Hurricane Helene, Governor Stein remains committed to the economic recovery efforts in western North Carolina. He recently announced the “Rediscover the Unforgettable” tourism initiative in collaboration with Visit NC to encourage travelers to plan their next trips to western North Carolina. In partnership with the Dogwood Health Trust and the Duke Endowment, Governor Stein and the State of North Carolina invested in the Western North Carolina Small Business Initiative. The $55 million program provided grants to more than 2,000 businesses across the region. This week, Governor Stein visited the Town of Clyde to award one of the first grants from the Small Business Infrastructure Grant Program, which is helping local governments rebuild public infrastructure such as sidewalks and downtown parking. Governor Stein continues to urge people to visit western North Carolina and support its small businesses.

    Click here to read CNBC’s report.  

    Jul 10, 2025

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Annual Trading Competition KCGI Launches With $6 Million Prize Pool

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading crypto exchange and Web3 company, has officially opened registration for KCGI 2025, the most anticipated trading competition of the year, featuring a massive 6 million USDT prize pool, brand-new segments, and early-bird rewards that make joining early a winning move.

    From team battles to bot duels, KCGI 2025 isn’t just a tournament — it’s a spectacle. This year’s edition takes competition to the next level with enhanced challenge modes, region-based leaderboards, and incentives for everyone from strategic captains to high-velocity newcomers. Whether you’re a pro with a polished strategy or a rookie with something to prove, the game is on. There is a spot with your name on it.

    “Every year during KCGI we witness traders across the globe strategize, synchronize and innovate,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “There’s a lot of community and teamwork involved, KCGI is our way of showing gratitude to our top traders. That said, we’re excited to kick off this year’s competition with 6 million USDT up for grabs and a range of dynamic challenges ahead. We’re inviting our community to lead, win, and shape the future of trading.”

    6 Million USDT Promotion Pool

    This year’s 6 million USDT promotion pool is packed with surprises. Top-performing participants may unlock VIP experiences with Bitget partners. Those partners include LALIGA matchday access, MotoGP circuit passes, and other premium rewards that go beyond the charts. It’s not just about who trades best. It’s also about who dares to play big, lead boldly, and win in style.

    KCGI 2025 introduces four high-stakes categories:

    • Team Battle – Form alliances, build your squad, and rise through the ranks together.
    • Copy Trading Showdown – Let your strategy do the talking, or ride with the best.
    • Bot Trading Competition – Code it. Launch it. Dominate the charts.
    • On-chain Arena – The ultimate test of decentralized skill and chain-savvy moves.

    Early registrants unlock exclusive perks like trading bonuses, entry into mystery prize draws, and first dibs on team captaincy slots. Participants from over 100 countries are expected to join. Thus, it has not only become the largest KCGI yet but also the most global, collaborative, and competitive.

    The official Team Battle segment begins July 24, but the smart money moves early. Traders who register now not only secure their seat, but they also set the tone for the event.

    Get in early. Build your team. Shape the leaderboard.

    KCGI 2025: This isn’t just trading, it’s a full-on battle with rewards.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices.

    Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

    Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist), and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c7165dcd-738c-44c1-a485-b90d3695b922

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Topnotch Crypto Launches New Cloud Mining Contracts to Support Workers, Savers, and Young Investors

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —  Topnotch Crypto, a leading provider in the digital mining industry, has officially announced the launch of a new series of cloud mining contracts aimed at supporting individuals facing modern financial challenges. The new offering targets three specific groups: office workers dealing with job instability, savers struggling with inflation, and young investors eager to enter the digital space.

    Designed for the Modern Worker

    As layoffs and unstable income continue to affect office workers worldwide, Topnotch Crypto provides a simplified way to engage with digital mining. The newly launched contracts are easy to activate and require no special equipment or technical knowledge. Users can begin with just an internet connection and a few clicks.

    “Many individuals today are looking for stability in uncertain times,” said a spokesperson for Topnotch Crypto. “We created this solution to be accessible and reliable for everyday people.”

    A Practical Option for Inflation-Weary Savers

    Inflation continues to erode the value of traditional savings. For those watching their money lose value in banks, Topnotch Crypto offers a digital alternative. These cloud mining contracts enable engagement to an enlarging digital ecosystem without the typical risks or difficulties associated with hardware based mining. 

    Additionally, with no hardware purchases and an effortless onboarding process, even first time users can participate comfortably.

    Opening Doors for the Next Generation

    Young individuals are increasingly drawn to digital finance and blockchain. Topnotch Crypto’s new contracts give them a starting point to explore mining safely and independently. It’s a chance to engage with a new financial landscape and gain valuable digital experience.

    The platform simplifies everything—users register, pick a contract, and activate it. The dashboard provides real-time data and easy-to-understand mining metrics, making the process transparent and manageable.

    Simple, Secure, and Accessible

    To get started:

    • Visit https://topnotchcrypto.com
    • Create a free account
    • Choose a mining contract
    • Activate and begin

    Topnotch Crypto ensures every contract runs on secure, professionally managed systems. The platform operates 24/7 and prioritizes transparency and user protection.

    A Responsible Step Forward

    This latest launch showcases Topnotch Crypto’s commitment to corporate responsibility and digital accessibility. By reaching three important groups with solutions designed for their needs, the company reinforces its position as an engaged and progressive participant in cloud mining.

    For more information or to activate a mining contract, visit: https://topnotchcrypto.com

    Media Contact:
    Topnotch Crypto PR Team
    info@topnotchcrypto.com

    Disclaimer: The information provided in this press release does not constitute an investment solicitation, nor does it constitute investment advice, financial advice, or a trading recommendation. Cryptocurrency mining and staking involve risks and may result in the loss of funds. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Changes in the Supervisory and Management Boards and Audit Committee of Admiral Markets AS

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    The Supervisory Board of Admiral Markets AS has appointed Mr Anton Tikhomirov as a new member of the Management Board, effective 7 July 2025. Mr Tikhomirov will strengthen the Company’s management team with his extensive expertise in marketing investment services and fostering long-term client relationships. His areas of responsibility on the Management Board will include marketing, sales, communication, and product development.

    To assume this executive role, Mr Tikhomirov has stepped down from his position as a member of the Supervisory Board of Admiral Markets AS.

    Mr Tikhomirov has been active in the financial services sector since 1999 and has held multiple managerial positions in the brokerage industry. He joined Admirals in 2012, when he was first appointed to the Supervisory Board of Admiral Markets AS, and subsequently, in 2016, to the Supervisory Board of Admirals Group AS. Since January 2024, he has also been serving as a member of the Management Board of Admirals Group AS. 

    As of 7 July 2025, the Management Board of Admiral Markets AS will consist of the following members: Eduard Kelvet, Andrey Koks, Aleksandr Ljubovski, and Anton Tikhomirov.

    In addition, the Company has restructured its internal governance framework by dissolving the Risk and Audit Committee. Going forward, matters related to auditing will be overseen directly by the Supervisory Board.

    This structural change reflects corporate governance best practices for investment firms of Admiral Markets AS’s size and operational complexity, ensuring that audit oversight remains a direct responsibility of the Supervisory Board.

    Additional information: 

    Alexander Tsikhilov
    Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Admiral Markets AS
    alexander.tsikhilov@admirals.com 
    +372 6309 300
    https://www.admirals.group/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Dedicated E-Signature Provider SignWell Now Integrates with Intuit QuickBooks

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PORTLAND, Ore., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SignWell, a leading e-signature platform trusted by over 65,000 businesses, now seamlessly integrates with Intuit QuickBooks. This integration will empower financial professionals and companies to get estimates and invoices signed faster, eliminate paperwork bottlenecks, and reduce approval delays.

    Business owners and financial professionals, especially accountants and bookkeepers, rely on QuickBooks Online to manage transactions efficiently. This integration streamlines the process of e-signature capture, allowing users to collect legally binding e-signatures directly within QuickBooks workflows, streamlining estimate and invoice approvals, contract execution, and financial documentation.

    “I implemented a new app, SignWell, which I don’t take lightly. I need a compelling reason to bring something new into my tech stack. It has to solve a real problem and improve our workflow,” says Certified Professional Bookkeeper and Tech Enthusiast Kellie Parks. “SignWell solves the issue in QuickBooks Online of getting estimates signed, letting me know when they’re approved, and converting them to invoices. Aside from its many other uses—like getting reports signed off by clients and creating beautiful engagement agreements—it’s a seamless solution for our (and our clients’) AR hiccups.”

    “Speed and compliance are essential for finance teams managing approvals and revenue,” said Sam Wehbe, CEO of SignWell. “By integrating directly with QuickBooks Online, we’ve made it effortless for businesses to move faster, without sacrificing security or audit readiness.”

    Why Finance Teams Use SignWell for QuickBooks Online:

    • Purpose-Built E-Signature Integration for QuickBooks Online – Designed specifically for estimate approvals and invoicing workflows.
    • Audit-Ready Compliance – SignWell is SOC 2 Type 2-certified, with legally binding signatures, secure storage, and full tracking.
    • Eliminate Manual Work – Automate reminders, reduce approval errors, and simplify financial documentation.
    • Cost-Effective – SignWell is one of the most affordable solutions available.

    The SignWell integration is now live in the QuickBooks App Store. QuickBooks Online users can activate the app and start streamlining their approval process today. Follow SignWell on social media to stay up-to-date on future integrations with other popular accounting and banking technology tools. Visit www.signwell.com or explore the integration in the QuickBooks App Store.

    About SignWell

    SignWell is a leading e-signature provider, trusted by over 65,000 businesses worldwide. Backed by SOC 2-certified security, audit-ready tracking, and an intuitive API, SignWell makes document signing effortless, fast, and secure for organizations of all sizes. As the only e-signature software partner integrating with QuickBooks Online, SignWell helps users get estimates approved faster, ensures compliance with legally binding e-signatures, and automates workflows to reduce errors. SignWell is available in the Intuit App Store or sign up at www.signwell.com.

    Disclaimer: Intuit, QuickBooks, and QuickBooks Online are registered trademarks of Intuit Inc. Used with permission.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: SunRocket Capital Announces $15 Million Financing for Renewable Energy Project Supporting AI and Data Center Market

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MIAMI, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — SunRocket Capital, a premier financial partner to solar developers, announced the successful closing of $15 million in construction to permanent financing for a significant renewable energy project in Illinois. This 4 MW (DC) Solar Installation + 21,000 Kwh Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project is strategically designed to provide clean power to the burgeoning AI and datacenter market.

    This latest funding underscores SunRocket Capital’s unwavering commitment to advancing the renewable energy sector and supporting the critical infrastructure needs of the digital age, particularly for data centers with investment-grade rated offtakers. The firm’s origination team is recognized for its deep industry expertise and its collaborative approach, working closely with developers to bring impactful projects to fruition. SunRocket Capital is dedicated to fostering partnerships with innovative developers across the market who are focused on powering data centers with sustainable solar energy solutions.

    “SunRocket Capital is proud to facilitate the growth of renewable energy infrastructure that powers the future of technology,” said Derek Gabriel, Head of Origination for SunRocket Capital. “Our focus is on providing efficient and effective financing solutions that enable developers to meet the increasing demand for green energy in high-growth sectors like AI and data processing. We are committed to working with developers who share our vision for a sustainable future and possess strong projects with creditworthy offtakers.”

    The financing will support a project that enables data centers to operate with greater efficiency and sustainability, contributing positively to the grid and the broader adoption of clean energy. This initiative aligns with the increasing demand for environmentally responsible power solutions within the technology industry.

    About SunRocket Capital:

    SunRocket Capital is a leading private lender specializing in the financing of commercial, industrial, and community solar projects. Powered by a seasoned team with deep expertise in solar development and structured finance, SunRocket Capital is committed to accelerating the transition to clean energy by serving as a trusted capital partner to developers and EPCs.

    The firm’s flagship structured credit solution, SolarC2P™, is designed to finance projects at or near Notice to Proceed (NTP) and seamlessly convert to term debt upon reaching Commercial Operation Date (COD). This efficient structure empowers developers to maintain long-term ownership, scale operations, and grow sustainable portfolios.

    For more information please visit: www.sunrocketcapital.com.

    For media inquiries, please contact:

    Noah Levine
    Marketing and Communications Officer
    SunRocket Capital
    noah@sunrocketcapital.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Farmsent Reveals its Superapp: A Swiss Knife dApp for Smart Agriculture with Wallet Abstraction and .grow Domains

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Jakarta, July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    Farmsent, a leading innovator in agricultural blockchain technology, today announced the launch of its groundbreaking Farmsent Superapp — a one-stop-shop dApp for farmers around the world. The Superapp is designed as a comprehensive toolkit for farmers, handling everything from onboarding and managing their commodities for sale to facilitating payment receipt for their produce and managing day-to-day microtransactions. This intuitive, non-custodial mobile application seamlessly integrates cutting-edge Web3 functionalities, including on-chain wallet abstraction powered by Arcana, and .grow Web3 domains, bringing unprecedented simplicity and security to agricultural trade.

    The Farmsent Superapp works as a powerful non-custodial wallet that ensures farmers retain full control over their digital assets, a core principle of Web3 empowerment. For its initial launch, the Superapp supports the peaq, Polygon, and Ethereum networks, enabling broad interoperability across the decentralized ecosystem.

    A cornerstone of the Superapp’s user experience is its integrated on-chain wallet abstraction, powered by Arcana. This innovative solution dramatically simplifies the complex world of crypto wallets by allowing farmers to log in using familiar methods like email or Google login, abstracting away the need for traditional seed phrases and private key management. This lowers the barrier to entry for millions of farmers, enabling seamless participation in the digital agricultural economy.

    Farmsent, a groundbreaking blockchain-based platform, is revolutionizing agriculture by empowering farmers directly. Having already onboarded over 200,000 farmers, it cuts out intermediaries, ensuring they receive fairer prices for their produce and gain control over their livelihoods. By integrating real-time data from soil sensors and weather stations, alongside transparent Decentralized Product Passports (DePPs), all available via the Superapp, Farmsent optimizes crop management and builds consumer trust. The platform also focuses on financial inclusion and streamlined logistics, fostering a thriving, farmer-centric ecosystem, with an ambitious goal of onboarding 2 million farmers by 2026.

    “Our vision at Farmsent has always been to empower farmers by bringing them directly into the modern economic landscape, cutting out unnecessary middlemen and ensuring fair value for their hard work,” said Sim Khela, Co-founder of Farmsent. “The Farmsent Superapp, with its intuitive design and robust Web3 integrations, is a monumental step towards achieving that. It’s technology serving humanity, putting food security front and center.”

    The Superapp further enhances user experience through the integration of .grow Web3 domains. Farmers can use easy-to-remember, human-readable domain names (e.g., ‘yog.grow’) linked directly to their decentralized wallet, simplifying transactions and making digital payments as straightforward as sending an email.

    Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains, added, “The integration of .grow domains into the Farmsent Superapp is a perfect example of how Web3 domains create a truly user-friendly and inclusive internet. Giving farmers a simple, memorable ‘.grow’ identity to manage their digital assets and transactions is key to mass adoption and building the future of decentralized agriculture.”

    Budi, an Indonesian farmer, one of the 600 people currently using the beta version of the Superapp, shared his excitement: “Before, crypto wallets seemed very complicated, with long addresses and seed phrases. With the Farmsent Superapp, I just log in with my email, and it’s so easy to manage my sales and receive payments. Using my ‘.grow’ address makes it even simpler for buyers. This truly helps me focus on what I do best: farming.”

    Mayur Relekar, Founder of Arcana, praised the collaboration: “Arcana is thrilled to see our wallet abstraction SDK being utilized to onboard farmers onto the Web3 ecosystem through the Farmsent Superapp. Our goal is to make Web3 accessible to everyone, and by abstracting away the complexities of traditional crypto, Farmsent is pioneering financial inclusion for a vital global industry.”

    The Farmsent Superapp promises to deliver unparalleled transparency, efficiency, and empowerment to the agricultural sector, showcasing the transformative potential of Web3 technologies in addressing real-world challenges.

    *** END OF THE PRESS RELEASE ***

    About Farmsent: Farmsent revolutionizes agriculture by combining a cutting-edge blockchain platform with advanced agricultural technology solutions. Their platform directly connects farmers and buyers, fostering transparency, sustainability, and fair trade. Simultaneously, their innovative sensors and data analytics provide real-time insights for optimized crop management and efficiency. By ensuring traceability and fair pricing, Farmsent empowers farmers, builds consumer trust, and promotes a more ethical and sustainable food system.

    For more information, visit Farmsent, follow farmsent on Twitter/X for updates, and join the conversation on Discord.

    About Arcana Network: Arcana Network is a full-stack platform for Web3 app development, offering modular SDKs that enable seamless onboarding, identity, and privacy solutions. Their wallet abstraction solutions make Web3 accessible to mainstream users by simplifying wallet management and transactions.

    www.arcana.network

    About Unstoppable Domains: Unstoppable Domains is a leading platform for Web3 domains, building decentralized digital identities for users on the blockchain. These domains simplify crypto addresses, replace complex usernames, and provide universal login across Web3 applications.

    www.unstoppabledomains.com

    About peaq

    peaq is the Machine Economy computer and operating system leading a global infrastructure revolution, empowering people to own and earn from the devices, robots, vehicles, and infrastructure they use. peaq is designed to be the go-to backbone for the human-centric Machine Economy, and is already home to more than 60 applications in 20+ industries and to the millions of devices and machines that run on them. peaq serves as permissionless, borderless digital infrastructure for increasingly intelligent machines to serve all of humanity in the Age of AI and automation. An economy that anyone can opt-in to and share in the Age of Abundance.

    For more information, visit peaq or follow peaq on Twitter/X for updates.

    For Media Inquiries: Sim Khela Co-Founder, Farmsent sim@farmsent.io

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Trump’s budget cuts are adding to risk in life-threatening floods and emergencies

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Clodagh Harrington, Lecturer in American Politics, University College Cork

    Acclaimed author Michael Lewis wrote a book about the first Trump administration entitled The Fifth Risk, outlining the consequences when people who don’t understand how the government of a vast, complex and multifaceted nation works are put in charge of said government.

    The bestseller was more gripping and fascinating than any work of fiction. It outlined the realities that followed Donald Trump’s 2016 campaign promises to shrink the federal bureaucracy. In it, Lewis quotes lawyer Max Stier, who he describes as the American with the greatest understanding of how his nation’s government worked. Stier offers the truism that “the basic role of governments is to keep us safe.”

    You might deduce that this means those in charge during, and ahead of, emergencies should know what to do and how to do it. And, they have to want to do it. In the case of Trump term one, there was often evidence that some or all of these three elements were lacking. Evidently, planning for distant risk was not something that Trump and his team were interested in prioritising.

    Fast forward to July 2025, and US headlines are filled with images of devastating flash floods in which more than 100 Texans, many of them children, lost their lives. In Kerr County, outside of San Antonio, water levels of the Guadalupe River rose to what was considered a once in a “100-year catastrophe”. Nobody saw it coming, or at least not to the extent that it did. Despite official warnings, the result was one of the worst natural disasters ever faced by the state.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Days earlier, Trump’s “big beautiful bill” was passed in the Senate with a tight 51:50 majority. Republican Texas senator Ted Cruz was among the supporters of a bill which will cut funding for the National Weather Service (NWS) by 6.7% in 2026. These come on the back of earlier resource reductions to the NWS and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA).

    Within days of the Texas floods, Democrats were calling for an investigation into whether previous budget cuts might have affected capacity for flood preparedness in Kerr County.



    Read more:
    How Donald Trump’s economic policies, including uncertainty around tariffs, are damaging the US economy

    For the bereaved, talk of culpability will hardly bring solace. And any immediate political blame game presents as unseemly in the middle of so much personal tragedy. But a New York Times article reported that “some experts say that staff shortages might have complicated forecasters’ ability to coordinate response”. Such speculative language does not offer clarity or reassurance, and even the often brash president has thus far refrained from finger pointing.

    Nonetheless, uncomfortable conversations are necessary, as it is clear that slashing federal funding does not serve the nation well. Trump already had budget cutting form, as his first-term efforts to slash NOAA and related programme funding demonstrated.

    In 2017, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) was also targeted for staff and funding reductions. This came along with the appointment of EPA chiefs who appeared uninterested in prioritising the climate crisis. More recently, the controversial spending cuts agency the Department of Government Efficiency (Doge), headed by Elon Musk, included NOAA in its sights.



    Read more:
    Why Texas Hill Country, where a devastating flood killed dozens, is one of the deadliest places in the US for flash flooding

    Yale University’s Center for Environmental Communication said that while there was no clear evidence that budget cuts had affected weather forecasting in the Texas case, Trump’s planned additional cuts would affect some of NOAA’s key flash flood forecast tools. This includes the Flash project, which improves accuracy, timing and specificity of warnings, such as those that occurred in Texas on July 4. It also said that the weather service had lost many of its most senior staff, which would increase the risks associated with weather-related tragedies.

    Flood water in Texas rose spectacularly fast causing dozens of deaths.

    Cuts and the climate

    Across the board, Doge has targeted other agencies that the public rely on in a crisis, including the Federal Emergency Management Agency (Fema), where plans to reduce staffing by about 20% are currently coming into effect. With responsibility for managing natural and climate-fuelled disasters from hurricanes to floods, the agency has become busier in recent years as disasters have evolved from seasonal to perennial.

    Rob Moore, the director of flooding solutions at the Natural Resources Defense Council, an influential environmental body, argued that “America’s disaster safety net is unraveling.”

    There are likely to be more floods, and other nature-based catastrophes with multiple probable causes and features. While outright prevention may not always be possible, governmental risk and disaster management can help to preclude the devastation seen on July 4 in Texas.

    The problem with responding to long-term risk with short-term or inadequate solutions is that one day, an existential threat could arrive for which the US will not be ready. The danger may not even be as overwhelming as a global pandemic or nuclear threat. It could be as mundane as a local river overflowing. For those who lost their loved ones in Texas, there is nothing distant about their anguish.

    A country with the world’s largest economy does not have to cut federal bureaucracy corners. Wasting tax dollars is never a vote winner, but funding vital emergency services like Fema and the National Weather Service is a fundamental feature of an advanced democracy. As is investing in the technology and personnel to do all possible to predict flash floods. Trump would do well to remember this as he meets the bereaved in Kerr County.

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

    – ref. Trump’s budget cuts are adding to risk in life-threatening floods and emergencies – https://theconversation.com/trumps-budget-cuts-are-adding-to-risk-in-life-threatening-floods-and-emergencies-260710

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI Analysis: Over 1.6 million children live in families made poorer by the two-child limit on benefits – new data

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Ruth Patrick, Professor in Social Policy, University of Glasgow

    New government statistics released today show the reach of the two-child limit. There are 1,665,540 children in England, Scotland and Wales living in households affected by the two-child limit, an increase of over 35,000 from the same time in 2024.

    The two-child limit restricts means-tested child benefits to the first two children in a household, subject to some exceptions.

    Its sister policy, the benefit cap, affects over 115,000 households, including 300,000 children. It routinely pushes families into deep poverty, far below the standard poverty line of 60% of median income.

    The benefit cap places a limit on the total amount a household can receive if no-one in the household earns a minimum amount, again subject to some exceptions linked to receipt of disability benefits.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Over the past five years, we have been part of a team of academic researchers investigating the impact of both policies on families with three or more children. We’ve found that these policies drive up poverty, creating deprivation and hardship. This in turn causes sustained and severe harm to children and their families.

    The two-child limit and benefit cap leave many families living with extreme financial insecurity. They harm parental mental health, as mothers and fathers struggle to try and make an inadequate income stretch to meet the needs of their children.

    Parents are struggling to make their income go far enough.
    Odua Images/Shutterstock

    In addition, these policies do not fall evenly across the population when looking at ethnicity. Overall, 70% of the families affected by the two-child limit are white, as are 66% affected by the benefit cap. But our new analysis shows that children from an ethnic minority are up to three times as likely as white children to be affected by the two-child limit. They are also up to four times as likely to be affected by the benefit cap.

    Alongside administrative statistics, we have analysed household survey data, published today as a policy brief. We find that one in five children from Pakistani families and one in four children from Bangladeshi families are now affected by the two-child limit.

    Rising poverty

    Our analysis also indicates that these policies are contributing to very high and rising levels of poverty. We estimate that 66% of Bangladeshi children, 60% of Pakistani children, and nearly half (48%) of black children live in poverty. This compares to one in four (24%) white children living below the poverty line – still far too many.

    This new analysis provides us with better understanding of where the damage done by both policies is falling. It’s an important reminder of how the two-child limit and benefit cap directly conflict with ambitions not only to act on child poverty, but also to reduce systematic inequalities linked to ethnicity.

    Scrapping the two-child limit would give larger families access to benefits they currently miss out on – but it would not have any effect on smaller families living in poverty, so isn’t the only policy solution needed.

    Nonetheless, analysis by the Resolution Foundation has shown that getting rid of the two-child limit – which would cost £1.4 billion – is by far the most cost-effective way to reduce the number of children living in poverty. Spending £1.4 billion in other ways – for example by increasing benefits for all families – would make less difference to child poverty than if the two-child limit were ended.

    It’s also important to keep in mind the impact on the depth of poverty. Larger families tend to be living further below the poverty line. Scrapping the two-child limit will make a big difference in many households, even if they are not lifted out of poverty as a result.

    Labour came into government on a manifesto of “change”, and Keir Starmer has promised to be “laser-focused” in his commitment to drive down poverty.

    Labour have already said that they want to get rid of the two-child limit, arguing that they just need to find the money to do so. The government has established a child poverty taskforce, due to report in the autumn, and made a first concrete policy commitment with the extension of free school meals provision for families in England. But there is no alternative to serious action on social security benefits if significant progress is to be made.

    Ruth Patrick receives funding from a range of funders including Nuffield Foundation, AFFT, Trust for London, The Robertson Trust and the Centre for Impact on Urban Health. She is a member of The Labour Party.

    Kitty Stewart has received funding from the Nuffield Foundation and from LSE for the research reported in this article.

    – ref. Over 1.6 million children live in families made poorer by the two-child limit on benefits – new data – https://theconversation.com/over-1-6-million-children-live-in-families-made-poorer-by-the-two-child-limit-on-benefits-new-data-260449

    MIL OSI Analysis –

  • MIL-OSI: Quantum Computing Emerging as a Transformative Technology with Potential Applications in Drone Technology

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    PALM BEACH, Fla., July 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — FN Media Group News Commentary – Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics to process and manipulate information in ways that differ fundamentally from those used by classical computers while disrupting a growing number of applications and industries. This represents a revolutionary shift in computing. Quantum computers leverage phenomena such as superposition, entanglement, and quantum interference to perform complex calculations and solve problems that are currently intractable for classical computers. The quantum computing market is witnessing rapid growth and innovation, driven by advancements in quantum technology and increasing demand for powerful computing solutions. As businesses and research institutions seek to tackle complex computational problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers, the market for quantum computing is poised for significant expansion. Market trends indicate a surge in investment from both public and private sectors, with major technology companies, governments, and startups dedicating resources to quantum research and development. This influx of investment has fueled breakthroughs in quantum hardware, software, and algorithms, propelling the market forward. A report from Polaris Market Research said that the Quantum Computing Market size was valued at USD $1.187.92 Billion in 2023 and that the market is anticipated to grow from USD $1.410.65 Billion in 2024 to USD $5.714.80 Billion by 2032, exhibiting the CAGR of 19.1% during the forecast period. Active Companies in the markets today include ZenaTech, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZENA), IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT), AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS).

    The report continued: “There is a growing market trend toward computational power to address real-world challenges in fields such as cryptography, drug discovery, materials science, and optimization. Quantum computing has the potential to solve intricate problems at an exponential rate compared to classical computing, opening up new avenues for scientific exploration and innovative solutions. The growing concerns about data security and encryption vulnerabilities have triggered a surge in interest for quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions, which has further fueled the demand for quantum computing capabilities. In a period of increasingly complex computational challenges across various industries, traditional computing methods often need help to meet the demands for processing power and speed required to address these issues effectively. Quantum computing offers a revolutionary approach to computing by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations at an unprecedented scale and speed. As demand for quantum computing grows across various industries, including drone operations, surveillance, pharmaceuticals, and cybersecurity, the system segment becomes increasingly vital in delivering comprehensive solutions tailored to meet diverse customer needs.”

    ZenaTech (NASDAQ:ZENA) Creates First Quantum Computing Prototype Enabling Disruptive AI Drone Speed and Precision for Future Commercial and US Defense Applications – ZenaTech, Inc. (FSE: 49Q) (BMV: ZENA) (“ZenaTech”), a business technology solution provider specializing in AI (Artificial Intelligence) drones, Drone as a Service (DaaS), Enterprise SaaS, and Quantum Computing solutions, today announces the successful development of its first quantum computing prototype consisting of a framework for the rapid analysis and processing of large datasets for its AI drone solutions. Using weather forecasting algorithms as part of its Clear Sky project as a test case, the company has created a precedent framework for real time analysis of massive amounts of data that can be captured through AI drone sensors while in the air.

    The Company envisions commercial applications ranging from highly efficient precision agriculture to predictive energy infrastructure inspections. Defense applications include enhancing real-time battlefield decision-making with faster and more precise threat detection, reconnaissance, and advance electronic warfare capabilities.

    “We’re not just building smarter drones, we’re building a quantum-intelligent edge where data becomes decisions in an instant, whether it’s a battlefield or a farm field,” said Shaun Passley, Ph.D., ZenaTech CEO. “We believe this quantum framework we are creating is just the beginning as we’ve now demonstrated it can use it for large datasets. We plan to keep expanding R&D capabilities, with the goal of growing our team of 6 to 25 over the coming months. The end goal is clear: accelerate time to market, reduce operational costs, and lead the industry as a true innovator,” added Dr. Passley.

    ZenaTech’s Clear Sky project is one of the company’s quantum computing R&D initiatives focused on weather forecasting that will use AI drones and drone fleets plus quantum to better predict localized weather for more accurate prediction of extreme weather events saving lives and reducing costs and destruction. The weather application and algorithms used for the prototype track and analyze multiple key atmospheric parameters such as temperature, humidity, wind, barometric pressure, and precipitation. Internal testing using historical open-source data has shown a high degree of accuracy with trusted weather platforms and actual data, validating both its accuracy and reliability.

    Quantum computing combined with AI-powered drone applications enables disruptive speed, precision, and autonomy by dramatically accelerating data analysis, optimizing complex decisions, and enhancing real-time responsiveness. In commercial sectors, this means drones can autonomously inspect vast energy grids or farmland, instantly analyze multispectral data, and adjust actions on the fly—leading to lower costs and higher productivity in agriculture, logistics, and infrastructure. In defense, the same capabilities empower autonomous surveillance drones to process sensor data and identify threats in real time, coordinate swarm or drone fleet movements, and dynamically adapt to changing battlefield conditions—all with minimal human input. This fusion of technologies allows drones to make faster, smarter decisions in unpredictable, data-intensive environments—reshaping what’s possible across industries.

    For weather forecasting, quantum computing can rapidly process and simulate complex atmospheric models by analyzing massive datasets from AI-enabled drones equipped with weather sensors, LiDAR, and imaging systems. This allows for highly accurate, real-time weather forecasting and microclimate prediction, improving response times for disaster management, aviation safety, and environmental monitoring.

    Quantum computing is a next-generation computing technology that uses the principles of quantum physics to process information exponentially faster than traditional computers, enabling it to solve highly complex problems that are otherwise unsolvable by even the most powerful classical computers of today. Continued… Read this full release by visiting: https://www.financialnewsmedia.com/news-zena/

    Other recent developments in the markets include:

    IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leading commercial quantum computing and networking company, recently extended its congratulations to the Korea Institute of Science and Technology Information (KISTI) on securing a multi-million dollar government award through the “Quantum Computing Service and Utilization System Construction Project.” This initiative marks a pivotal step toward establishing South Korea’s first National Quantum Computing Center of Excellence.

    KISTI will lead the development and operation of a quantum computing service and research platform designed to support both academic and enterprise applications. KISTI has identified IonQ as the primary quantum technology provider for the project, alongside Megazone Cloud, one of South Korea’s leading cloud service and infrastructure providers.

    Red Cat Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ: RCAT), a drone technology company integrating robotic hardware and software for military, government, and commercial operations, recently issued a statement of support for a series of executive orders from the White House that advance U.S. leadership in uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and reinforce the resilience of America’s domestic industrial base.

    The executive actions are expected to remove regulatory barriers and modernize federal approval processes to prioritize U.S.-manufactured drones. Additional provisions include expanded detection and mitigation authority, and streamlined regulations to accelerate the deployment of UAS across federal and commercial sectors.

    Quantum Computing Inc. (NASDAQ: QUBT) recently announced the successful shipment of its first commercial entangled photon source to support research in quantum networking and secure communications. The order, placed by a leading research institution in South Korea, marks a milestone in QCi’s transition of proprietary quantum technologies from the lab to commercial markets.

    The product is a broadband, standalone entangled photon source built on Spontaneous Parametric Down-Conversion (SPDC) using a periodically-poled, bulk format lithium niobate (PPLN) structure. Designed for stability and compatibility, the source operates in the C-band telecommunication range and is compatible with current fiber optics infrastructure. It integrates seamlessly into research environments advancing quantum communication protocols.

    AgEagle Aerial Systems Inc. (NYSE: UAVS), a leading provider of advanced drone and aerial imaging solutions, recently announced the upcoming demonstration of AI-enabled autonomous Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) teaming, developed through a strategic partnership with an Israeli defense/technology firm. The system is designed for use in border security, surveillance, and intrusion detection missions and will showcase advanced autonomous capabilities with minimal human intervention while delivering real-time operational intelligence.

    The joint effort integrates AgEagle’s eBee VISION drones with partner-developed AI-powered mission planning and autonomous control tools, enabling the drones to operate as a cohesive, intelligent unit. The system leverages adaptive algorithms and decentralized decision-making within a “system of systems” architecture that dynamically adjusts to mission conditions in real time. This integration is expected to significantly enhance Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) effectiveness by delivering actionable data with increased speed and precision.

    About FN Media Group:

    At FN Media Group, via our top-rated online news portal at www.financialnewsmedia.com, we are one of the very few select firms providing top tier one syndicated news distribution, targeted ticker tag press releases and stock market news coverage for today’s emerging companies. #tickertagpressreleases #pressreleases

    Follow us on Facebook to receive the latest news updates: https://www.facebook.com/financialnewsmedia

    Follow us on Twitter for real time Market News: https://twitter.com/FNMgroup

    Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialnewsmedia/

    DISCLAIMER: FN Media Group LLC (FNM), which owns and operates FinancialNewsMedia.com and MarketNewsUpdates.com, is a third party publisher and news dissemination service provider, which disseminates electronic information through multiple online media channels. FNM is NOT affiliated in any manner with any company mentioned herein. FNM and its affiliated companies are a news dissemination solutions provider and are NOT a registered broker/dealer/analyst/adviser, holds no investment licenses and may NOT sell, offer to sell or offer to buy any security. FNM’s market updates, news alerts and corporate profiles are NOT a solicitation or recommendation to buy, sell or hold securities. The material in this release is intended to be strictly informational and is NEVER to be construed or interpreted as research material. All readers are strongly urged to perform research and due diligence on their own and consult a licensed financial professional before considering any level of investing in stocks. All material included herein is republished content and details which were previously disseminated by the companies mentioned in this release. FNM is not liable for any investment decisions by its readers or subscribers. Investors are cautioned that they may lose all or a portion of their investment when investing in stocks. For current services performed FNM has been compensated fifty one hundred dollars for news coverage of the current press releases issued by ZenaTech, Inc. by the Company. FNM HOLDS NO SHARES OF ANY COMPANY NAMED IN THIS RELEASE.

    This release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended and such forward-looking statements are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. “Forward-looking statements” describe future expectations, plans, results, or strategies and are generally preceded by words such as “may”, “future”, “plan” or “planned”, “will” or “should”, “expected,” “anticipates”, “draft”, “eventually” or “projected”. You are cautioned that such statements are subject to a multitude of risks and uncertainties that could cause future circumstances, events, or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements, including the risks that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors, and other risks identified in a company’s annual report on Form 10-K or 10-KSB and other filings made by such company with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You should consider these factors in evaluating the forward-looking statements included herein, and not place undue reliance on such statements. The forward-looking statements in this release are made as of the date hereof and FNM undertakes no obligation to update such statements.

    Contact Information:

    Media Contact email: editor@financialnewsmedia.com – +1(561)325-8757

    SOURCE: FN Media Group

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Video: WhatsApp Video 2025-07-10 at 10.45.46 (1).mp4

    Source: Republic of South Africa (video statements)

    Government News | July is National Savings Month in South Africa and is aimed at raising awareness about the importance of saving and to foster responsible financial behaviour among South Africans

    #GovZAUpdates

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SodKbpUdSWo

    MIL OSI Video –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Ethiopia: His Excellency Ato Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance meets the World Bank Executive Director

    Source: APO

    H.E. Ahmed Shide meets with the World Bank Executive Director for Africa Group 1 Constituency, Dr. Zarau Kibwe arrives for a three-day official visit in Ethiopia. Dr. Kibwe represents Ethiopia and a group of 21 other African countries in the World Bank Board. 

    His Excellency briefed the Executive Director on the successful implementation of the macroeconomic reform, strong portfolio performance, and discussed ways to deepen cooperation between Ethiopia and the World Bank. 

    During the meeting, H.E. Minister Ahmed Shide commended the World Bank’s critical role in supporting Ethiopia’s development priorities, with a portfolio exceeding $16 billion across key sectors, including the recent USD 1 billion support for Development Policy Operations II. The Minister mentioned the importance of continued support from IDA21 allocations to sustain the macroeconomic reform and to finance key priority areas, including infrastructure, agricultural productivity, and climate resilience initiatives to further advance the country’s development agenda. 

    The Executive Director congratulated the Government of Ethiopia on concluding the MoU under the G20 Common Framework, praised the macroeconomic reform implementation, and reaffirmed his commitment to supporting the country’s development priorities. 

    During his visit, Dr. Kibwe will also meet with different government officials and stakeholders to discuss collaborative efforts between Ethiopia and the World Bank.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Finance, Ethiopia.

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Benin: Launch of the third edition of the information and awareness campaign for women small-scale cross-border traders along the Abidjan – Lagos corridor

    Source: APO

    On Tuesday 8th of July 2025, the ECOWAS Commission, through its Department of Human Development and Social Affairs, in collaboration with the Department of Economic Affairs and Agriculture, officially launched the Cotonou stage of the third edition of the information and awareness-raising campaign for women small-scale cross-border traders along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor.

    The aim of this initiative is to build on the achievements of previous events held on the Tema-Paga and Dakar-Banjul-Bissau corridors. The aim is to increase women traders’ knowledge of the legislation governing cross-border trade, existing Community initiatives and the tools developed for them, particularly in terms of border transparency and the fight against gender-based violence.

    In Cotonou, the activities began with field visits, notably to the modern market and to an SME run by a woman entrepreneur specialising in the manufacture of cosmetic products distributed nationally and sub-regionally. A visit to the Sèmè-Kraké juxtaposed control post is also planned, with a view to reinforcing exchanges between the various players involved.

    The official launch ceremony was held at the Golden Tulip hotel. It was co-chaired by Benin’s Ministries of Social Affairs and Microfinance, and of Industry and Trade. It was also attended by Her Excellency Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, ECOWAS Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, and His Excellency Amadou DIONGUE, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Benin.

    Other participants included the Deputy Secretary General of the Ministry of Social Affairs and Microfinance, the Director of the ECOWAS National Office in Benin, representatives of the Cotonou Chamber of Commerce, associations of small-scale cross-border traders, and technical and financial partners.

    This third edition marks a major step forward in the ECOWAS’ commitment to the economic empowerment of women and to improving the fluidity of cross-border trade in the West African region.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

    Media files

    .

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Building Trust through Effective Service Delivery in Africa

    Source: APO


    .

    The World Bank’s annual Country Policy and Institutional Assessment (CPIA) report for Sub-Saharan Africa, released today, reveals that despite a stable average CPIA score for the region, there is an urgent need for governments in Africa to improve the delivery of essential services to promote inclusive, sustainable growth.

    The CPIA Africa report evaluates the quality of policy and institutional reforms in IDA-eligible countries in Sub-Saharan Africa for the calendar year 2024. According to the report, the average CPIA score for the region remained similar to 2023 at 3.1 points (out of 6). While some areas saw strong reforms, poor performance in governance offset these gains, and improvements were concentrated in already well-performing countries.

    The CPIA report underscores that meeting the needs of African citizens will require mobilizing the government to provide services amidst limited external financing. The report serves as a vital guide for policymakers and international investors, identifying specific reform actions to support effective public service delivery and foster a more resilient and prosperous future for Sub-Saharan Africa.

    Against this backdrop, the report notes a trend in public discontent in 2024 – a year that was marked by youth protests and a notable decline in political support for incumbents across the continent. This is mirrored in survey results in the region that have shown growing dissatisfaction with the quality of public services, which continue to lag other regions, particularly in infrastructure, human capital, security, and administrative capabilities.

    “Confidence in a government’s ability to efficiently transform public resources into essential services is fundamental to fostering a shared purpose with citizens and improving trust,” said Andrew Dabalen, World Bank Chief Economist for Africa. “Populations across Africa are clearly asking for more from their leaders to enable them to realize their aspirations. Our CPIA Africa report underscores the urgent need for transparent management of public resources and effective delivery of quality services to address growing dissatisfaction and enable citizens to reach their full potential.”

    The report details significant shortfalls across various public service sectors. Infrastructure-related services, including transport, remain underdeveloped, hindering economic activity and quality of life. High poverty levels are exacerbated by a lack of access to public infrastructure, particularly in sanitation. Human capital development is hampered by poor educational quality and inadequate health services, limiting citizens’ well-being and earning prospects as they enter the workforce. Furthermore, the ability of governments to provide basic security has been undermined, with conflict-related casualties nearly tripling between 2014 and 2024. Administrative services, crucial for a thriving business environment, also lag, with Sub-Saharan Africa performing poorly in areas like business location and financial services.

    Despite these challenges, the report notes some positive developments. Many countries have shown improved fiscal discipline, tackling high wage bills and fuel subsidies, and making progress in debt consolidation. Efforts to implement trade facilitation agreements, leverage digital technologies, and strengthen financial sector regulation are also underway. The report also highlights progress in empowering adolescent girls through legal and policy reforms and strengthening of social protection systems.

    “While some countries have made commendable strides in fiscal prudence and digital transformation, issues of weak governance, limited transparency, and insufficient implementation capacity continue to undermine efforts to deliver essential services. Addressing these fundamental challenges is not just about economic growth; it’s about showing people that governments can work for them to help create a better path for the future,” added Nicholas Woolley, the CPIA report’s lead author.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The World Bank Group.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Health leaders commit to accelerate action against severe chronic diseases in Africa

    Source: APO


    .

    Health leaders, policymakers and development partners across Africa have renewed commitment to accelerate the implementation of the PEN-Plus strategy to significantly expand access to care for severe noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).

    Held under the theme “Advancing Implementation of PEN-Plus for Severe NCDs in Africa: Technical Innovations, Operational Insights, and Scalable Solutions,” the second International Conference for PEN-Plus in Africa served as a crucial follow-up to the inaugural 2024 gathering in Dar es Salaam. This year’s meeting focused on reviewing country-level progress, sharing operational experiences, and strengthening the technical foundation for the strategy’s scale-up.

    Hosted by the Government of Nigeria, in collaboration with World Health Organization (WHO) in the African region and other partners including The Leone M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust, the three-day event provided a platform for NCD stakeholders and policy makers to develop actionable recommendations countries can use to accelerate PEN-Plus implementation and draft country-specific strategies to sustain and expand PEN-Plus, an innovative healthcare delivery model birthed in Africa.

    “In the last couple of years, global attention has shifted to NCDs because of the morbidity and mortality from these diseases. This conference marks a pivotal moment in our collective efforts to combat the growing burden of NCDs in Africa,” said Dr Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Nigeria’s Honorable Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare. “PEN-Plus addresses a critical gap in healthcare for the world’s poorest billion. By scaling up the model, we can ensure that lifesaving care reaches those who need it most, regardless of their location.”

    In 2022, WHO in Africa set ambitious goals to have 50% of Member States rolling out PEN-Plus services to district hospitals by the year 2025, 65% by 2028, and 70% by 2030. PEN-Plus offers a promising approach to tackle the growing burden of severe chronic diseases. The model equips district and community hospitals with a specialized team of mid-level healthcare providers, such as clinical officers and nurses, specifically trained to manage severe complex NCD conditions.  

    Since its adoption by African Member States, the implementation of the model has shown promising results in Liberia, Malawi and Rwanda, with a significant increase in the number of people accessing treatment for severe noncommunicable diseases and improvements in health.

    Twenty countries have since increased access to services for severe chronic disease such as type 1 diabetes, sickle-cell disease and rheumatic and congenital heart diseases. In addition to training local experts on severe NCD care, the services provided through PEN-Plus are free of charge – helping to reduce the significant financial burden on families caring for children living with severe chronic diseases.  

    “PEN-Plus has not only improved patient outcomes in implementing countries, but it has also strengthened health systems by providing training, mentorship, and referral pathways,” said Dr Mohamed Yakub Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “It is now time to scale up the model and bring lifesaving care to the people who need it most”

    Despite this progress, participants at the ICPPA conference noted that scaling up the model requires more investments by countries.  Previous implementing countries assessments underscored the urgency to improve the availability of critical medications like insulin and diagnostic equipment in district hospitals. Participants also stressed the “grossly inequitable access to prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care” for severe NCDs conditions, particularly in rural areas where healthcare services are severely limited.

    A key highlight of the meeting was the finalization of the African Agenda for the upcoming United Nations High-Level Meeting (UNHLM) on NCDs in September 2025. The agenda outlines Africa’s priorities, commitments and expectations for the global stage, with PEN-Plus positioned as a central pillar in the region’s response to severe NCDs.

    “Scaling up and investing in PEN-Plus will save and improve millions of lives and take the continent a step towards ending diseases and achieving global health goals Scaling up PEN-Plus to address NCDs burden in Africa requires adequate and sustained resources,” said James Reid, Programme Officer at the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “By working together and pledging the necessary resources, countries can drive collective action to improve health and quality of life for millions of people around the world.

    With support from Helmsley Charitable Trust, and collaboration of the NCDI Poverty Network, the WHO Regional Office for Africa has been supporting countries to provide technical expertise and guidance to countries on various aspects of the PEN-Plus programme, developing training materials, supporting assessment, conducting supervisory visits to identify challenges at implementing facilities, coordinating partners and co- organizing platforms such as the ICPPA for countries to share and learn from successful PEN-Plus models.  

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of World Health Organization (WHO) – Nigeria.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Caroline Abel: Monetary and financial sector issues in Seychelles and how ATI training can help build human capital in these areas

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Madam Chair, Hon. Minister of Economy and Finance of Madagascar, Rindra Hasimbelo Rabarinirinarison,

    Director of AFS/ATI Mr Sukhwinder Singh,

    All Colleagues attending the meeting,

    Good afternoon.

    Thank you for the opportunity to briefly share our experience in terms of monetary and financial sector developments, and capacity building received in these areas.

    Major reforms in these two areas began late 2008, when Seychelles embarked on an IMF-supported macroeconomic reform programme. Aside from addressing the prevailing macroeconomic imbalances then, there was also a need to strengthen the regulatory framework and modernise the financial system. In addition, the Bank had to put in place the required market-based instruments to support the introduction of its new monetary policy framework. So, to better understand the extent of the task that laid ahead, we received technical assistance from the IMF in 2007, to assess the Bank’s capacity building needs in the field of foreign exchange, bank supervision and monetary policy, aside from others.

    With regard to monetary policy, reforms were crucial in view of the change in the foreign exchange regime. Whilst we started off with a reserve money targeting framework, over the years, the Central Bank of Seychelles has gradually moved towards providing more guidance to the domestic market. In 2019, the Bank adopted an interest-rate based framework, whereby the focus is on guiding short-term interest rate through the announcement of a Monetary Policy Rate by the Bank. We received extensive technical assistance throughout – from the design of the policy tools to the finer details of communication – and this was complemented by short-term courses that staff attended.

    In terms of capacity building, the IMF, ATI and AFRITAC South have been very supportive. Our staff have benefitted from various training opportunities, both in-person and through online learning platforms. These have been in key areas, such as various aspects of monetary policy analysis and implementation, the Forecasting and Policy Analysis System (FPAS), nowcasting, liquidity forecasting and management, to name a few. To note that, at the Bank, the knowledge acquired is applied in daily operations and underpins many outputs, including the collection of statistics on the monetary, real, and external sectors, which align with IMF manuals and guidelines. With regard to the financial sector, support was received to align the Bank’s supervisory framework with best international practices. These focused on areas such as financial sector policies, bank supervision, AML/CFT, financial stability, and lately, climate change issues, amongst others. The Bank has been pursuing steps to strengthen its supervisory framework, so that it is more risk-sensitive and forward-looking, through its Risk-Based Supervision (RBS) framework. The Bank is also actively pursuing the climate change agenda, given the implications such a phenomenon could have on our economy. This is an area where we have reached out to various partners in an effort to build internal capacity, as we are conscious of the limited expertise that exists out there as well.

    As we operate in an increasingly interconnected world, we also need to move in tune with innovations in the industry. The digitalisation of the financial sector brings countless opportunities and rewards, yet as we are all aware, very high risks. Another area that the Central Bank has been increasingly focusing on is cybersecurity, as this could have far-reaching repercussions. Just last week, the AFS completed a 5-day workshop for the Central Bank staff on strengthening cybersecurity practices, with particular emphasis on their application to both onsite and offsite banking supervision, as well as oversight of financial market infrastructures. The sessions provided valuable insights into identifying and assessing cyber risks, integrating cybersecurity into supervisory frameworks, and enhancing institutional resilience. Practical case studies and supervisory tools were also shared to support the effective implementation of cyber risk oversight across regulated entities and systemically important infrastructures.

    Being a small economy, Seychelles faces certain challenges in terms of human resources. In general, the financial sector finds it difficult to meet its human resource needs, as often times, qualified labour in specialised fields is scarce, and everyone is chasing the same few candidates available. In this context, the training provided by institutions like ATI and AFRITAC South goes a long way in helping to bridge the gap for our existing staff.

    As both global and domestic economies evolve, building capacity remains essential. Current discussions revolve around critical topics such as financing climate change adaptation and mitigation, tackling climate-related risks, FinTech innovations, the increasing role of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and cybersecurity. The IMF and its partners offer a wealth of resources – including training, seminars, conferences and technical assistance – to help member countries enhance their staff’s technical capabilities, ensuring they are equipped to navigate these challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

    To conclude, I would like to underscore the role and importance of organisations like ATI and AFRITAC South in supporting the development of national institutions, enabling the implementation of best practices across various jurisdictions. Moreover, shared experiences among participants and drawing on the knowledge of the lecturers help in building capacity at different levels. As such, I urge members to continue supporting the capacity development programmes of ATI and AFRITAC South, as collectively, we are all benefitting greatly from them.

    Thank you. 

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Eddie Yue: Launch of the Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    Good afternoon everyone. It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the launch of the Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0.  

    Digitalisation has proven to be positive and constructive in many ways, such as the convenience brought by digital payments and online shopping. Unfortunately, increased digital activities have also made fraud and scams easier to set up and reach members of the public on an unprecedented scale. According to the Police, more than 44,000 cases of deception were recorded in 2024, representing a fourfold increase over the past five years.

    While the Hong Kong Monetary Authority and the banking sector have been at the forefront in fighting digital fraud and scams, this fight cannot be won by any single party or sector alone. It requires cross-sectoral collaboration, bringing together the public and private sectors, as well as the community at large. That is why we launched the first two Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charters in 2023 and 2024. More than 300 financial institutions and merchants participated in these two earlier Charters, committing not to send out messages with embedded links requesting key personal information, thereby raising public awareness against phishing scams.

    However, digital fraud and scams have evolved far beyond phishing links. The threats of fraud and scams via online instant messaging or social media platforms, phone calls, and SMSs are becoming increasingly sophisticated.  Many of us, including myself, are receiving numerous suspicious messages and phone calls on a frequent basis. Some of these messages or calls may be advertising fake investment or job opportunities, while some pretend to be law enforcement agencies, family members, or friends. Scammers are even using technology such as deepfake to fabricate voices and images of government officials and reputable businessmen to try to make these fake online contents look more convincing.  

    To combat these evolving threats, it is crucial to collaborate with technology and telecommunications companies to tackle the problem at the platform level. Internationally, there is a growing recognition of the need to take down fraudulent contents and check the authenticity of advertisers more efficiently on these platforms. Here in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority, together with our fellow regulators and great partners in our previous Charter 2.0, the Securities and Futures Commission, the Insurance Authority and the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority, have also been proactively reaching out to the technology and telecommunications companies to explore anti-fraud collaborations.

    Today, we are taking a significant step forward by jointly launching the Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0 together with the major technology and telecommunications companies that operate in Hong Kong to combat fraud and scams. We are glad to see many representatives from these companies here today, demonstrating their commitment to this initiative. We are also thankful to the support of the Consumer Council, the Hong Kong Association of Banks, the Hong Kong Police Force and the Office of the Communications Authority to this important initiative. 

    The Anti-Scam Consumer Protection Charter 3.0 consists of six principles specifically designed to proactively prevent and detect fraud and scams on online platforms and telecommunication networks. These principles focus on four main areas:

    • The first area is on reporting.  Under the Charter 3.0, participating firms will provide users with reporting functions and provide financial regulators with a direct and efficient channel for reporting suspected fraud and scams for follow-up in a reasonable manner.
    • The second area is on checking the identity of advertisers and ongoing monitoring of advertisements and contents. Firms participating in the Charter 3.0 will adopt a risk-based approach to facilitate verification of advertisers and put in place internal policies and tools to monitor advertisements and contents that promote financial products or services on their platforms, with a view to creating a safe online environment for users.
    • The third area is on taking down fraudulent advertisements and contents. Participating firms commit to enforcing their own terms of service by detecting and removing financial scam advertisements or contents that violate their platform policies.
    • Finally, educating the public to be aware and capable of recognising suspicious activities is always essential in stopping fraud and scams. We will work closely with participating firms to launch various anti-deception promotional campaigns through a wide range of platforms and channels to raise public awareness. 
    • At the panel discussions later this afternoon, representatives from the technology and telecommunications sectors will elaborate on how they apply the Charter principles in their daily work.

    Charter 3.0 represents an important milestone in the collaboration among the financial, technology, and telecommunications sectors in fighting fraud and scams. It lays the foundation of cooperation from which we will further build upon. We thank the participating firms for your support and commitment to the Charter 3.0 and we will continue to work closely with each other to provide a safe online environment and protect the public from fraud and scams. 

    Thank you very much.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Philip R Lane: The monetary agenda at the European Central Bank

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    My goal today in these remarks is to outline the current monetary agenda at the ECB. I will start with the monetary policy stance before turning to our updated monetary policy strategy. I will then briefly discuss the euro area bond market before concluding with a monetary perspective on the digital euro project.

    The monetary policy stance

    In a recent speech, I assessed that the challenge of returning inflation to the target after the 2021-2022 inflation surges can be considered to be largely complete. The orientation now for the monetary policy stance is to make sure that the current shocks and prospective new shocks hitting the economy do not lead to medium-term deviations of inflation from our two per cent target.

    In terms of significant data developments in recent months, there has been a marked drop in energy prices and a substantial appreciation of the euro. These forces played an important role in the June 2025 Eurosystem staff macroeconomic projections. In addition, the fiscal outlook has materially changed for the coming years, with the overall fiscal deficit looking set to remain above three per cent over the projection horizon.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Piero Cipollone: Shifting payment landscape – what a digital euro will bring

    Source: Bank for International Settlements

    It is a pleasure to speak to you today.

    The ongoing shift in the way we pay is affecting the fundamental fabric of our economies. Whether we are consumers browsing digital marketplaces, entrepreneurs pursuing digital innovation, or decision-makers facing the digital transition, we are all involved in reshaping payments.

    Payments are more than a means of settling transactions, they are the lifeblood of a modern economy. And in a digital world, our economies will only be as competitive, inclusive, autonomous and resilient as our payments are.

    Slovenia has put the digital transformation at the heart of its economic strategy, aiming to place the country among the top five most digitalised economies in Europe by 2030. An innovative and striving digital payments ecosystem can play a key role in this journey.

    As a central bank, our responsibility is to accompany and enable this transition. We must ensure that the shift to digital payments enhances accessibility and efficiency, without creating fragmentation or new dependencies.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI USA: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Stakeholder Support for the Big, Beautiful Bill Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: WHAT THEY ARE SAYING: Stakeholder Support for the Big, Beautiful Bill Act

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, President Trump signed H.R. 1, the Big, Beautiful Bill Act, into law. This legislation delivers tax relief for working families and small businesses, protects nuclear energy investments, and strengthens the agriculture industry. 

    Here’s what they are saying about the Big, Beautiful Bill Act (H.R. 1): 

    Michelle Hennings, Executive Director, Washington Association of Wheat Growers, said, “We want to recognize Congressman Newhouse’s efforts to make sure our growers have the support they need to continue supplying the nation and the world with top quality wheat. The increase in the wheat reference price will more closely match the actual cost of production, giving much-needed support to growers who are struggling to make a profit when prices are low. We are also appreciative of the Congressman’s work to protect crop insurance, making it more affordable for farmers to adequately cover their crops in the face of drought or other natural disasters.” 

    Bob Schuetz, CEO, Energy Northwest, said, “I am pleased that Congress acknowledges the key role of nuclear power for America’s energy future. While policymaking involves hard choices, Representative Newhouse has consistently championed the U.S. as a leader in advanced nuclear technology. I am excited about actively pursuing the expansion of carbon-free and reliable electricity, marking the next chapter for nuclear energy in America.” 

    Former Congressman Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, said, “The One Big Beautiful Bill not only prevented the largest tax increase on the American people in history, it made permanent critical pro-growth provisions that will enable businesses of all sizes, especially small businesses, to grow and thrive. This will strengthen America’s economy and result in greater economic prosperity for all. We thank Congressman Newhouse for his leadership and for supporting this crucial legislation.” 

    David Reeploeg, Vice President for Federal Programs, TRIDEC, said, “Congressman Newhouse worked incredibly hard to prevent nuclear energy tax credits from being removed from H.R. 1. Retaining these tax credits will help our existing nuclear energy facilities while also supporting advanced nuclear development, which is an area where we see huge opportunities for the Tri-Cities. Not only do the power plants create direct jobs, they also provide the baseload energy needed to attract industry and create even more family wage jobs. We sincerely appreciate Congressman Newhouse’s understanding of how important these tax credits, and nuclear energy, are for his district.” 

    Ted Tschirky, 2025 President, National Potato Council, and grower from Pasco, said, “We give great credit to Congressman Newhouse and the Chairmen of the House and Senate Agriculture Committees for taking the opportunity to deliver on key priorities for the specialty crop industry. The tax certainty provided by the bill, coupled with the historic enhancements in essential Farm Bill programs serving specialty crops will significantly improve our competitiveness against foreign competition well into the future.” 

    Clay Sell, CEO, X-energy, said, “For next-generation advanced nuclear companies, tax credits are more than just financial incentives—they’re a catalyst for market entry. For early movers, these credits significantly reduce capital risk, unlock private investment, and enable us to compete on a level footing with other energy technologies. Without them, commercialization slows and investor confidence erodes. With them, we’re positioned to scale faster and deliver reliable, always-on abundant power to the market.” 

    Bill Lampson, Chairman and CEO, Lampson International LLC, said, “Congressman Dan Newhouse’s support of the Big Beautiful Bill was essential for all Americans to avoid the Largest Tax Hike in history, which would have crippled future investments of all types. In our case, we have watched the construction industry struggle with the high cost of overly burdensome regulations, costly and lengthy permitting process and high taxes of all types.  The Big Beautiful Bill will allow the construction industry to flourish and create real jobs for many that would have otherwise gone without opportunity.   We are so thankful to have a Congressman who truly cares about the ability of his constituents to make a decent living and care for their families.

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Newhouse Statement on Secretary of Agriculture Joining CFIUS

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

    Headline: Newhouse Statement on Secretary of Agriculture Joining CFIUS

    WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement upon the announcement of a Memorandum of Understanding placing the United States Secretary of Agriculture on the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

    “Over the past few years, we have learned about the significant threat the Chinese Communist Party poses to our supply chains and economy here at home. As a member of the House Appropriations Committee and Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, I have worked to ensure the CCP does not take roots on American farmland and around sensitive national security sites. Today, I’m encouraged to see the Secretary of Agriculture finally take a seat at the CFIUS table, and I look forward to working with Secretary Brooke Rollins to keep the CCP out of our backyards and away from American farms.” 

    This Memorandum between the Department of the Treasury and the Department of Agriculture implements a provision Rep. Newhouse secured in the Fiscal Year 2024 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill to add the Secretary of Agriculture to CFIUS.

    Specifically, it implements Section 787 of the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (P.L. 118-42).  

    Read the Memorandum here. 

    Background 

    Rep. Newhouse has led the effort in Congress to add the Secretary of Agriculture to CFIUS. 

    In addition to securing the provision in the appropriations legislation, Rep. Newhouse passed a bill out of the House of Representatives in September 2024 to add the Secretary to CFIUS. 

    In addition to securing the provision in the appropriations legislation, Rep. Newhouse passed a bill out of the House of Representatives in September 2024 to add the Secretary to CFIUS. 

    Rep. Newhouse is a founding member of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party tasked working on a bipartisan basis to build consensus on the threat posed by the CCP and develop a plan of action to defend the American people, our economy, and our values. 

    ### 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Ponte Vedra Beach Man Pleads Guilty In Fraud Scheme Involving COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment

    Source: United States Department of Justice (National Center for Disaster Fraud)

    Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that James Elliott Davis, II (36, Ponte Vedra Beach) has pleaded guilty to bank fraud, wire fraud, money laundering, and theft of mail. Davis faces up to 30 years in federal prison on the bank fraud count, up to 20 years in prison on the wire fraud count, up to 10 years in prison on the money laundering count, up to 5 years in prison on the theft of mail count and payment of restitution to the victims he defrauded. Davis has agreed to forfeit between $6.7 and $8.8 million, which are traceable to proceeds of the crimes he committed. No sentencing date has been set.   

    According to court documents, from March 2018 through 2022, Davis ran a purported medical supply company named Medisale Inc. Using false representations, Davis enticed individuals and business entities to invest large sums of money in Medisale. He falsely represented to victim-investors that Medisale was making significant profits on the sale of COVID-19 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). He claimed to have contact with CEOs at various hospitals and that Medisale had contracts with hospitals to sell large volumes of N95 masks and other PPE. In convincing victim-investors to give him money, Davis showed fraudulent bank statements with large balances, claiming the money was from the sale of PPE.

    In reality, Medisale had no such contracts and had no true revenue from the sale of PPE. Instead, Davis kited checks and conducted fraudulent ACH/wire transfers between multiple financial institutions in order to artificially inflate the apparent balances on his bank accounts. Utilizing victim-investor funds, Davis paid off previous debts, paid other investors purported profits from the sale of PPE, and paid personal expenses. This included Davis using victim-investor money to purchase a membership at a luxury club in Ponte Vedra Beach and spending more than $27,000 on custom clothing. 

    This case was investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The asset forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.

    Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by visiting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www. justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Identity fraud: BaFin warns consumers about the website allianz-invest.com

    Source: Bundesanstalt für Finanzdienstleistungsaufsicht – In English

    The unknown operators are using the email address info (at) allianz-invest.com to contact consumers, claiming that their offer is from Allianz SE. However, these claims are not correct. This is a case of identity fraud. Allianz SE is not associated with the website allianz-invest.com or the services offered on the website.

    BaFin is issuing this warning on the basis of section 37 (4) of the German Banking Act (Kreditwesengesetz – KWG).

    Please be aware:

    BaFin warns consumers about fraudulent term deposit offers.

    You can view BaFin’s current warnings about companies operating without the required authorisation and find out how to protect yourself from fraudsters on the financial market in the “Recognising financial fraud” section of our website.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Countries urged to urgently step up to transform their HIV responses amid global funding crisis

    Source: Government of South Africa

    The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/Aids (UNAIDS) has today released a report that highlights a significant funding crisis threatening years of progress in the fight against HIV/Aids. 

    The 2025 Global Aids Update report titled, ’Aids, Crisis and the Power to Transform’, emphasises the urgent need for countries to implement radical changes in their HIV programming and funding strategies.

    The report highlights the impact that the sudden, large-scale funding cuts from international donors are having on countries most affected by HIV. Yet, it also showcases some inspiring examples of resilience, with countries and communities stepping up in the face of adversity to protect the gains made and drive the HIV response forward.

    Some 25 of the 60 low and middle-income countries included in the report have indicated increases in domestic budgets for their HIV responses in 2026. 

    The estimated collective rise among the 25 countries amounts to 8% over current levels, translating to approximately US$180 million in additional domestic resources. 

    “This is promising, but not sufficient to replace the scale of international funding in countries that are heavily reliant,” the report says.

    Global emergency

    Although there was significant progress in the HIV response in 2024, UNAIDS reported that a weakening consensus on aid and substantial, sudden funding shortfalls in 2025 caused widespread disruptions in health systems. 

    These challenges led to cuts in frontline health workers, halted HIV prevention programmes, and jeopardised HIV treatment services.

    According to data, in Mozambique alone, over 30 000 health personnel were affected. In Nigeria, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) initiation has plummeted from 40 000 to 6 000 people per month.

    If United States-supported HIV treatment and prevention services collapse entirely, UNAIDS estimates that an additional six million new HIV infections and four million additional Aids-related deaths could occur between 2025 and 2029.

    “This is not just a funding gap – it’s a ticking time bomb. 

    “We have seen services vanish overnight. Health workers have been sent home, and people, especially children and key populations, are being pushed out of care,” said UNAIDS Executive Director Winnie Byanyima.

    Even before the large-scale service disruptions, the reported data for 2024 shows that 9.2 million people living with HIV were still not accessing life-saving treatment services last year. 

    Among those were 620 000 children aged zero to 14 years living with HIV but not on treatment, which contributed to 75 000 AIDS-related deaths among children in 2024.

    In 2024, 630 000 people died from Aids-related causes, 61% of them in sub-Saharan Africa. Over 210 000 adolescent girls and young women, aged 15 to 24, acquired HIV in 2024 – an average of 570 new infections every day.

    UNAIDS said HIV prevention services are severely disrupted, while community-led services, which are vital to reaching marginalised populations, are being defunded at alarming rates. 

    In early 2025, the organisation said over 60% of women-led HIV organisations surveyed had lost funding or were forced to suspend services. 

    The United States President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) reached 2.3 million adolescent girls and young women with comprehensive HIV prevention services in 2024 and enabled 2.5 million people to use HIV PrEP – many of these programmes have now stopped completely.

    “Meanwhile, the rise in punitive laws criminalising same-sex relationships, gender identity, and drug use is amplifying the crisis, making HIV services inaccessible,” UNAIDS said.

    Beacon of hope

    UNAIDS said South Africa currently funds 77% of its AIDS response, and its 2025 budget review includes a 5.9% annual increase in health expenditure over the next three years, including a 3.3% annual increase for HIV and tuberculosis programmes.

    The South African government intends to finance the development of a patient information system, a centralised chronic medicine dispensing and distribution system, and a facility medicine stock surveillance system.

    Meanwhile, as of December 2024, seven countries – Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia, Rwanda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe – had achieved the 95-95-95 targets: 95% of people living with HIV know their status, 95% of those are on treatment, and 95% of those on treatment are virally suppressed. 

    The report also highlights the emergence of unprecedented, highly effective new prevention tools like long-acting injectable PrEP, including lenacapavir, which has shown near-complete efficacy in clinical trials, though affordability and access remain key challenges.

    Byanyima believes there is still time to transform this crisis into an opportunity. 

    “Countries are stepping up with domestic funding. Communities are showing what works. We now need global solidarity to match their courage and resilience.”

    A call for solidarity

    The 2025 Global AIDS Update ends with a call for the international community to unite in addressing the financing gap. 

    It urges support for countries to close the remaining gaps in HIV prevention and treatment services, eliminate legal and social barriers, and empower communities to take the lead moving forward.

    UNAIDS emphasised that every dollar invested in the HIV response not only saves lives but also strengthens health systems and promotes broader development goals. 

    Since the start of the epidemic, 26.9 million deaths have been averted through treatment, and 4.4 million children have been protected from HIV infection through vertical transmission prevention.

    “In a time of crisis, the world must choose transformation over retreat. Together, we can still end Aids as a public health threat by 2030 – if we act with urgency, unity, and unwavering commitment,” Byanyima said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Lummis, WY Delegation Introduce Legislation to Modernize Wyoming School Trust Fund Investments

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Wyoming Cynthia Lummis
    Washington, D.C. –  Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), alongside Senator John Barrasso (R-WY) and Representative Harriet Hageman (R-WY), today introduced the Wyoming Education Trust Modernization Act, legislation to amend Wyoming’s State Act of Admission to provide the state’s permanent school land fund with enhanced investment flexibility, potentially increasing annual returns for K-12 education.
    “Wyoming’s school trust fund represents one of our state’s most valuable assets for supporting public education and the next generation of Cowboy students,” said Senator Lummis. “My legislation would allow Wyoming to modernize our investment policies while maintaining the strong protections that have served this fund for more than a century. I believe we can do better for our kids by investing that money more strategically and increasing Wyoming’s returns. That result would mean millions of dollars more every year for Wyoming classrooms, without raising taxes or touching Wyoming’s principal.”
    “Wyoming has done an incredible job investing in the future of our students,” said Senator Barrasso. “The Wyoming Education Trust Modernization Act will help build on this success by giving our state more flexibility when it comes to investing our permanent school land fund. Diversifying investments of this vital fund will increase resources for students and teachers across Wyoming.”
    “Wyoming’s students deserve every opportunity we can provide, and that starts with strengthening the long-term stability of our education funding,” said Representative Hageman. “The Wyoming Education Trust Modernization Act is a commonsense, forward-looking solution that honors our constitutional protections while unlocking the full potential of our permanent school land fund. By allowing for modern investment strategies, we can responsibly increase returns and better support K-12 education. This is about keeping our promises to future generations and ensuring that Wyoming’s children benefit from the resources entrusted to the state over a century ago.”
    “This long-overdue proposal is a natural extension of some of the reforms I undertook while serving as State Treasurer,” said Governor Gordon. “I support this effort to generate additional returns for Wyoming schools while preserving the permanent trust fund structure.”
    “This is a game-changer for Wyoming’s public schools,” said Superintendent Degenfelder. “By modernizing our investment policies, we are unlocking the full potential of our school trust lands. It is a common-sense solution that is anticipated to provide a sustainable increase in funding for our classrooms, without raising taxes.” 
    “Since Wyoming became a state, financial markets and investment strategies have evolved dramatically,” said Representative Bear, Wyoming House District 31. “Today, responsible and prudent management of public funds requires far more flexibility than was imaginable in 1890. Congress has both the authority and the duty to ensure that Wyoming’s state government can effectively safeguard taxpayer assets and uphold citizens’ freedoms—now and for generations to come.”
    Background:
    Wyoming’s State Act of Admission, established by Congress upon statehood in 1890, governs how the state manages federally granted school lands. Proceeds from school trust land sales, exchanges, or disposals must be deposited into a permanent land fund under strict federal regulation. Current law prohibits investing principal funds, and only accrued interest can be used for K-12 education funding.
    Wyoming’s permanent school trust fund currently holds $5.4 billion. The fund generates approximately 5% annual interest under current investment restrictions. Enhanced investment flexibility could significantly boost annual education funding without touching the principal. Proposed legislation would modernize investment policies to potentially increase returns from 5% to 8.3%.
    The bill preserves all constitutional protections for education funding while maintaining principal protection. Only investment returns can be spent, which keeps all existing controls on land disposal and exchanges unchanged, fully maintaining the longtime permanent trust fund structure. 
    Read the full bill here.  

    MIL OSI USA News –