NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: City and Regional Deals to unlock growth

    Source: New Zealand Government

    The Government has laid out its expectations for City and Regional Deals (CRDs) as long-term partnerships that will increase economic growth, create jobs, and boost productivity for New Zealanders, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Local Government Minister Simon Watts say.

    The Government has also signed the first Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to negotiate deals with Auckland, Otago/Central Lakes and Western Bay of Plenty.

    “City and Regional Deals will be strategic 10-year partnerships between local and central government to progress joint priorities including economic growth, enabling abundant housing, better management and utilisation of local assets, and closing the infrastructure deficit,” Mr Bishop says.

    “The Government has established five objectives for the City and Regional Deals programme:

    1. Better coordination between central government and regions, including how we work together and align our priorities
    2. Unlocking regions’ unique potential and lifting economic growth, including regional employment opportunities
    3. Making room forhousing growth
    4. Ensuring local governments do a better job at managing and utilising their asset base and make significant progress to close their infrastructure deficits – without new funding from Central Government.
    5. Ensuring Local Governments comprehensively adopt Central Government priority reforms such as Local Water Done Well, Resource Management Act reform, and Going for Housing Growth.

    “Today we are outlining what central government will put on the table during negotiations for cities and regions participating in CRDs. These are:

    1. Improved central government coordination (both internally and with the regions), ensuring the right agencies are around the table. This could include agreement to deploy more senior officials to existing Urban Growth Partnerships and other governance arrangements, and improved Government infrastructure investment and asset management.
    2. Early collaboration with councils on system reforms including undertaking joint-spatial planning ahead of RM reform implementation. We will consider improvements to existing regulatory frameworks including: zoning, fees and charges innovation, streamlined planning and land acquisition processes, regional spatial planning.
    3. Providing councils with new funding and financing tools and incentivising them to better utilise existing ones. This could include considering the use of sharing of mining royalties, mobilising existing government funds to support deals, and providing access to government experts that could help councils use more complex tools such as Infrastructure Funding and Financing Act Levies.
    4. Supporting regions to unlock growth sectors (e.g., technology, biotech, advanced transportation, aquaculture, tourism, cleantech, renewable energy). Central government will consider locating “confirmed/funded” innovation facilities/institutes in regions as part of a CRD. 

    Notes to editor: 

    The three regions:

    • The Auckland region comprises Auckland Council.
    • The Otago Central Lakes region comprises Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Otago District Council and Otago Regional Council.
    • The Western Bay of Plenty region comprises Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

    Regions’ light-touch proposals were assessed by a multi-agency assessment panel against four criteria: 

    • Strategic alignment – Is the proposal aligned with the Government’s priority objectives, does it have economic growth potential, and is there a commitment to housing and development growth?
    • Effective partnerships – How strong and effective are the local and central government partnerships, is there collaboration between councils in the region, is there a history of positive collaboration with central government, and is there a commitment to broader government reforms and work programmes?
    • Deliverability – Is there capacity, capability and readiness to deliver?
    • Economic and financial feasibility – Is the proposal feasible, are projects likely to have a positive cost-benefit ratio, are timelines realistic, and is the risk profile of proposed projects acceptable?

    More information is available at: www.dia.govt.nz/Regional-Deals 

    “The Government expects that local government provides a better framework/structure for regional relationships with central government, and improves asset renewals, maintenance and management including ensuring a pipeline of future infrastructure work.

    “We also expect that councils will go above legal and regulatory minimum requirements to unlock housing growth including around rapid transit corridors and where central government has invested in infrastructure. Further, we want regions to commit to exploring demand management tools like time of use charging.

    “We are eager that regions commit to exploring new and existing tools including (but not limited to): Targeted rates, IFF Act Levies, Development Levies, asset recycling, and become attractive destinations for international investment opportunities.”

    “The Government also expects regions to comprehensively adopt priority Central Government reform including Local Water Done Well, Going for Housing Growth, Resource Management Act and transport governance reform in Auckland,” Mr Watts says.

    “Late last year, councils were invited to submit regional deal proposals to the Government. In total, 18 proposals were submitted. 

    “Following a multi-agency assessment process that included review by independent experts, Cabinet agreed to progress to MOUs with three regions.

    “The Government has now signed MOUs with the Mayors from Auckland, Otago Central Lakes and Western Bay of Plenty.

    “All three regions have existing Urban Growth Partnerships which demonstrate existing collaboration, and all three have economies with significant economic growth potential.

    “These initial regions put together compelling proposals that reflect the Government’s and the regions’ priorities through strong propositions that provide a clear pathway to getting important work done. 

    “The Government will now begin negotiations with the three regions, with a view to agreeing the first Deal by the end of 2025.”

    The MOU signings reflect the National-Act Coalition Agreement to institute long-term city and regional infrastructure deals, allowing PPPs, tolling and value capture rating to fund infrastructure.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Museum Futures Programme launched

    Source: Scottish Government

    £4 million programme to encourage new approaches and collaboration across the museum sector.

    Museums are being encouraged to sign up for a new partnership programme to strengthen and sustain their role as the stewards of Scotland’s cultural heritage.

    Developed in partnership by the Scottish Government, Museums Galleries Scotland and The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the £4 million Museum Futures programme will offer funding and support to transform how museums and galleries operate by enabling them to collaborate and test new ways of working. The funding was announced by First Minister John Swinney ahead of a visit to the Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh.

    Museums will be able to access two funding channels – an open fund focused on building leadership capacity and organisational change, and a targeted fund that will support the testing of collaborative and place-based approaches, focused on the needs of communities, as well as organisations with common issues who would benefit from working together.

    Beyond financial support, participating museums will also benefit from skills development, professional mentoring and specialist advice delivered by trusted partners across Scotland. This includes a new Organisational Health Check tool, developed by Museums Galleries Scotland, to help museums identify their strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities and allow them to make informed decisions regarding priorities and funding.

    The First Minister said:

    “Museums are the stewards of our cultural heritage, preserving the objects and artworks that have shaped Scotland, from its earliest beginnings to the latest trends.

    “Local museums in particular are responsible for bringing the stories behind their communities to life, and the Museum Futures programme aims to give them a solid foundation to build on by helping organisations innovate, collaborate and adapt. I know some are already early adopters of new ways of working and this programme will encourage more of that through the sharing of ideas, practical advice and funding to enable them to test new approaches that will stand the test of time.

    “This programme and the £4 million funding behind it reflects the Scottish Government’s commitment to ensure our museums flourish, having heard the sector’s voices on the challenges they are currently facing loud and clear. I would strongly encourage anyone who might be eligible to consider how they could secure their part of Scotland’s story with this funding and support.”

    Lucy Casot, Chief Executive of Museums Galleries Scotland said:

    “Museum Futures takes a progressive new approach to sector investment and development allowing us to imagine and test what a strong museum sector could look like. It provides capacity to explore how the sector can adapt to meet current and future challenges while removing some of the risks of trying something new. It gives museums a chance to plan for long term sustainability instead of just getting through another year. Museum Futures recognises the hard journey that our sector has had and seeks to offer a positive way to address barriers and support change.

    “This is a momentous opportunity for Scotland’s museums and I would like to thank our partners and sector colleagues who have shaped and will continue to develop this new programme.”

    Caroline Clark, The National Lottery Heritage Fund Director for Scotland said:

    “Since the launch of the Heritage Fund some thirty years ago we have worked closely with Scotland’s museum sector and thanks to National Lottery players we have supported museums of every size and style in every part of the country.

    “As the largest funder for the UK’s heritage our knowledge and experience has helped shape the Museum Futures programme. We now look forward to supporting it in delivery and continuing to be a key funder, project partner and supporter for a resilient, creative and collaborative museum sector in Scotland.”  

     Background

    For more information, see: https://www.museumsgalleriesscotland.org.uk/museum-futures/

    A 2024 survey conducted by MGS and DC Research revealed that 11% of respondents reported that their organisation could be at risk of closure within the next year.

    Museum Futures offers an opportunity to develop and build on new ways of working that some museums are already starting to explore. Examples of this include:

    Scottish Maritime Museum, which has become a valued community asset by using its space to host regular makers’ markets and crafting workshops with local artists. The museum has also established strong links with new audiences through its recent co-produced exhibition with the North Ayrshire Ukrainian Community, which provided a creative outlet for Ukrainians who are now living locally due to the war in their home country.

    Part funded by the MGS Recovery and Resilience Fund, Stirling Smith Art Gallery and Museum opened a biodiversity community garden on their grounds, offering visitors a space to enjoy the outdoors while supporting wildlife and showcasing various Scottish habitats. An events cabin was added in 2021, which has attracted new audiences and provided more opportunities for income generation.

    Grantown Museum created a new income stream by harnessing their skills to create a unique dressing and photography experience. ‘Adventure in costume’ is an MGS-funded initiative that offers visitors the opportunity to try on handmade replica gowns while learning about 18th century fashion. The experience also includes a photo and video package.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Gosar Introduces Legislation Delisting the Mexican Wolf from the Endangered Species Act

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Paul A Gosar DDS (AZ-04)

    Washington, D.C. — Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09), issued the following statement after introducing H.R. 4255, the Enhancing Safety for Animals (ESA) Act, legislation delisting the Mexican wolf from the Endangered Species Act and delinking its populations in the United States and Mexico:

    “Since being reintroduced to the wild in Arizona, Mexican wolves have preyed on cattle, livestock, and even family pets, causing significant financial losses and economic hardship on family-run ranches.

    The Mexican wolf has lingered on the Endangered Species list for nearly 40 years. During that time, there have been numerous accounts of livestock killings and even declines in some big game herds since these wolves were first listed. Much of this can be attributed to failed management by the United States Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) as the uncontrolled and unmanaged wolf populations have been allowed to roam free. In fact, nearly 90% of the wolf’s original habitat falls within the border of Mexico.  Significant attacks by wolves on cattle, elk, moose, and sheep have occurred and have negatively impacted hunters and ranchers throughout Arizona.

    To make matters worse, the USFWS considers recovery within the borders of Mexico in its management goals. American ranchers are being punished for Mexico’s failure to manage its own animal populations effectively.  Immediate delinking is needed to ensure American ranchers are put first.  

    Unfortunately, lawsuits filed by extremist environmental groups have prevented the Mexican wolf from being delisted nationally, even though the Mexican wolf was released into Arizona and New Mexico as part of an experimental program. 

    The Mexican wolf population has grown steadily since being reintroduced to the wild.  In the U.S., the Mexican wolf population now exceeds the original federal recovery goals for wolves in the wild, with hundreds more in captivity for breeding.  Now a stable population, the wolf is no longer in danger of extinction and should be delisted from the Endangered Species Act,” stated Congressman Gosar.

    “The Mexican wolf is destroying the livelihood of western ranchers by slaughtering their cattle. Because of its status as an endangered species–a falsehood perpetuated by the Biden Administration and environmental groups–ranchers cannot protect their herds from these predators,” added Congressman Andy Biggs (AZ-05). “I’m thankful that Rep. Gosar is leading the effort to allow Arizona ranchers to protect their cattle without fear of repercussions from the federal government. Cattle are a vital part of Arizona’s economy, and Congress must ensure that ranchers are able to protect their herds from dangerous predators.”

    “Now is the time to recognize the catastrophic impact that bad federal policy has on local communities.  For too long, ranchers in states near our southern border have shouldered the burden of managing this species with limited tools and little support from the federal government who has imposed all manners of burdens. Ranchers and rural communities face daily challenges such as livestock predation and threats to community safety due to overpopulated wolf packs. We commend Congressman Gosar for introducing the Enhancing Safety for Animals Act and working to bring some relief to these communities,” said Kaitlynn Glover, Executive Director, Public Lands Council. 

    The 10(J) experimental population listing of the Mexican wolf is one of the clearest examples in the country of ESA abuse by the environmental community and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The federal protections have been misused by activists to control landscapes and land managers, and their rhetoric often contradicts established science. The rapid increase in wolf populations, coupled with these federal protections, has restricted management options for producers, leading to an increase in cattle losses that negatively impact their profitability. I would like to thank Congressman Gosar for introducing the Enhancing Safety for Animals Act that acknowledges the abuse of the ESA with the Mexican wolf listing and seeks to provide relief to U.S. cattle producers,” stated National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Senior Vice President of Government Affairs, Ethan Lane.

    “We applaud Representative Gosar for his leadership on efforts to delist the Mexican wolf,” said John Boelts, President of the Arizona Farm Bureau. “For years, our members have dealt with the devastating effects of the reintroduction of this apex predator. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently reported that the Mexican wolf population in the U.S. has surpassed 280. It’s time to delist the species and provide relief to Arizona’s ranchers and rural communities who have dealt with years of negative impacts and complex regulations. State governments should now be given the opportunity to manage the wolf population directly.”

    Original Cosponsors: 

    Representatives Biggs (AZ), Boebert, Crane, Hageman, Hamadeh, Hurd, LaMalfa, Stauber, Tiffany, Zinke

    Outside Group Supporters:

    American Farm Bureau Federation, American Lands Council, Arizona Farm Bureau, Arizona Cattle Growers’ Association, Blue River Cowbelles, Catron County Commission, Coalition of Arizona/New Mexico Counties, Cochise-Graham Cattle Growers’ Association, Eastern Arizona Counties Organization, Graham County Chamber of Commerce, Greenlee County Board of Supervisors, Greenlee County Cattle Growers’ Association, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association, New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau, New Mexico Federal Lands Council, Protect Agriculture Now, Public Lands Council, R-CALF USA, Southeaster Arizona Sportsmen Club

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Youths serve as bridge for Cambodia-China enhanced friendship, cooperation

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

    PHNOM PENH, July 1 — Youths have served and will continue to serve as a key bridge for enhanced friendship, exchanges and cooperation between Cambodia and China, experts and youths said here on Tuesday.

    They made the remarks during a Cambodian and Chinese youth dialogue on their role in building an all-weather Cambodia-China community with a shared future in a new era, which was organized by the Youth House for Cambodia-China Friendship in Phnom Penh.

    “Youths are the future of Cambodia-China relations,” Sok Piseth, secretary general of the Youth House for Cambodia-China Friendship, told some 50 participants at the dialogue.

    “Youths really play a very important role in fostering and promoting ties and cooperation between our two countries,” he added.

    Piseth said the dialogue was vital to promote mutual understanding, learning and trust, and gave an opportunity for youths of both countries to explore mutual culture and civilization.

    Thong Mengdavid, a lecturer at the Institute for International Studies and Public Policy of the Royal University of Phnom Penh, who is a moderator at the dialogue, said youth are one of central pillars of Cambodia-China cooperation, playing a vital role in strengthening long-term bilateral ties.

    “Investing in young people today means laying a foundation for a more connected and cooperative future,” he said.

    “Promoting mutual understanding through cultural exchange programs, educational partnerships, tourism, and open dialogues allows Cambodian and Chinese youths to appreciate each other’s histories, traditions, and contemporary realities,” he added.

    Mengdavid said these engagements not only foster personal connections but also help build trust and empathy between future leaders of both nations.

    Ky Sereyvath, director-general of the Institute of China Studies, a think tank under the Royal Academy of Cambodia, said Cambodia and China have enjoyed fruitful cooperation in all areas, particularly in the economy, trade, investment, digital technology, education, tourism, culture, and agriculture.

    “Cooperation in these areas has provided mutual benefit and win-win results for both countries,” he said at the event.

    Try Thyda, a 20-year-old Cambodian student at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, said she would love to be the bridge of friendship between Cambodia and China when she graduates.

    “I’m very happy with the ties because they have brought benefits in all sectors, from the economy to tourism and agriculture,” she told Xinhua after the dialogue.

    Thyda said she could contribute to advancing Cambodia-China relations in the areas of education and innovation.

    “I think I can inspire students both Cambodia and China to be more connected with one another,” she said.

    Lu Xuanren, a 19-year-old Chinese student at the Royal University of Phnom Penh, was very optimistic over Cambodia-China ties, saying that the relations will be even stronger in the future.

    “We will have more connections,” he told Xinhua at the event.

    “We need to strengthen relationship between youths,” he said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Qatar Affirms Commitment to Enhancing Partnership for Inclusive Development

    Source: Government of Qatar

    Seville, July 02, 2025

    The State of Qatar reaffirmed its commitment to fostering partnerships and mobilizing financing for inclusive development, expressing pride in hosting the Second Global Summit on Social Development this coming November. 

    The summit aims to enhance global dialogue and action toward inclusive social development and achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

    This message was delivered by HE Minister of State for International Cooperation Maryam bint Ali bin Nasser Al Misnad on financing inclusive and sustainable development. The session was co-organized by the State of Qatar and the Kingdom of Spain in cooperation with the International Labour Organization (ILO), as part of the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville.

    HE the minister emphasized that achieving the SDGs requires effective international cooperation, especially to support vulnerable populations affected by poverty, conflict, and climate change. Her Excellency stressed the urgent need for strong partnerships and sustained investment in education, healthcare, and social protection. She added that a real commitment is needed to leaving no one behind, with special attention to women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

    Her Excellency underscored that the State of Qatar continues to pursue its Vision 2030 by building a knowledge-based economy driven by innovation, social justice, and inclusion. She highlighted that sustainable development indicators are being integrated into all national policies, with a strong emphasis on the family and expanding access to quality education and healthcare.

    At the international level, HE the minister reiterated the State of Qatar’s commitment to working closely with UN agencies, particularly the UN Development Programme (UNDP), and to investing in development acceleration labs that support local innovation in over 115 countries. She also noted the State of Qatar’s role in supporting education in emergencies, including a new partnership with the World Bank that converts debt relief into social investment.

    Commenting on the broader global agenda, Her Excellency said that the State of Qatar views the Seville Commitment as a vital stepping stone to the upcoming Doha Summit. She called for joint efforts to reform global financing mechanisms and to strengthen collaboration with international financial institutions like the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and development banks. Her Excellency also called for ensuring that human rights remain at the heart of all development efforts, adding that the State of Qatar looks forward to having everyone work together, in a spirit of partnership and innovation, to develop real solutions that reach those most in need. 

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Scott Applauds Passage of the One Big Beautiful Bill

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for South Carolina Tim Scott

    WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Scott (R-S.C.) released the following statement upon passage of the Senate reconciliation legislation, otherwise known as President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill. This vital and comprehensive reconciliation legislation will produce lasting positive change for the American people through governmental fiscal responsibility, tax cuts, immigration enforcement, and investment in essential sectors of the country’s economy.

    “Results delivered! We’re one step closer to history because Senate Republicans got the job done,” said Senator Scott. “When President Donald J. Trump signs this bill into law, it will be a major success for hardworking American families. We’re delivering tax cuts for families, securing the border, strengthening our national defense, and unleashing American energy dominance. This is a win for Americans chasing opportunity, building prosperity, and fighting for their shot at the American Dream.”

    Senator Scott successfully championed several important provisions in this legislation that will provide economic relief, support small businesses, promote tax fairness, and strengthen various industries. These legislative victories underscore Senator Scott’s unwavering dedication to advancing the interests of the people of South Carolina and the United States.

    Below is a list of key provisions championed by Senator Scott: 

    • The Opportunity Zone Program is now permanent and greatly expanded, paving the way for economic investment and growth in economically distressed areas and maximizing community impact.
    • A permanent school choice tax credit that will benefit millions of middle and low-income children for generations.
    • Coaches and athletic staff can now claim out-of-pocket job-related expenses on their taxes just like classroom teachers.
    • Existing FICA Tax credits have been expanded to cover additional businesses, providing meaningful tax relief for small beauty and grooming establishments.
    • New Market Tax Credit has been permanently extended to attract private capital for projects in underserved urban and rural areas. 
    • The permanent extension of the Excess Business Loss Limitation Section 461(I) to safeguard the tax base and prevent aggressive tax sheltering.
    • The removal of retaliatory tax Section 899 to secure local employment and investment from foreign-owned U.S. businesses.
    • Removal of restrictions allowing employers and employees to contribute towards the fees of direct primary care programs. 

    South Carolina specific provisions can be found below:

    • Extension of critical support for South Carolina Farmers; providing stronger price protections, disaster aid, and new insurance tools. 
    • Extension of the 45X production credit to support the growing EV and lithium sector in the state.
    • Preservation of the tax credits vital for the state’s nuclear industry and eligibility for advanced nuclear technologies, promoting clean energy and economic growth. 
    • Protection of the duty drawback program, supporting small and medium-sized tobacco farmers. 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Senator Hassan Statement on Senate Republicans Passing Budget Bill to Take Away Health Care from Millions of Americans

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for New Hampshire Maggie Hassan
    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) released the following statement after voting against the Republican budget bill that will take health care away from tens of thousands of Granite Staters, make massive cuts to health care, and explode the national debt by trillions of dollars in order to pay for tax giveaways for corporate special interests and billionaires: 
    “Today, Congressional Republicans and President Trump pushed through a budget bill that will hurt Granite Staters for generations to come. This bill takes health care away from tens of thousands of Granite Staters, raises health premiums and other costs on all Americans, and saddles our children and grandchildren with trillions in debt in order to pay for tax giveaways for corporate special interests and billionaires.  
    “From doctors in the North Country to seniors in Nashua, I’ve heard from countless Granite Staters about the devastating impact that this bill will have on our communities. And as this bill now heads to the House, I join the majority of Granite Staters and Americans urging Congressional Republicans to reverse course. 
    “What families need most right now is relief from the high cost of essentials. I’ve joined many of my colleagues in putting forward bipartisan proposals to cut taxes and lower costs for hardworking families and small businesses. But instead of working with us to make life more affordable, the President and Congressional Republicans have doubled down on this bill, which will mean that more people will get sick, our economy will be weakened, and families will be hurt.” 

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Industry Consultation on the Future of the Account-to-Account Payments System

    Source: Reserve Bank of Australia

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and The Treasury welcome the release of a public consultation today by Australian Payments Network and Australian Payments Plus on the future of the account-to-account payments system.

    Formulating a clear vision for the account-to-account payments system that is consistent with public interest considerations is a foundational recommendation of the recent RBA Risk Assessment on the proposed decommissioning of the Bulk Electronic Clearing System.

    RBA Assistant Governor (Financial System) Brad Jones said: “The account-to-account system supports consumers, businesses and government agencies in their everyday economic activities. It is a vital part of Australia’s financial infrastructure. This consultation provides a broad range of stakeholders the chance to provide input into how the system can be modernised to meet the opportunities and challenges of the future, in the public interest.”

    To support the development of the vision, the RBA is publishing a paper outlining our public interest framework for the account-to-account payments system. Central to the success of the future system is its ability to provide all end users with access to payments options that are capable of meeting their needs, and that are cost-effective, reliable and safe. Achievement of these objectives will require effective industry governance arrangements, resilient infrastructure and competition and innovation among participants.

    Background

    Australian Payments Network (AusPayNet) is the self-regulatory body for the payments industry. It administers the framework for the Bulk Electronic Clearing System – Australia’s system for processing batch account-to-account payments, including payroll and welfare payments.

    Australian Payments Plus (AP+) is the provider of Australia’s fast payment system – the New Payments Platform – as well as the BPAY billing service.

    The consultation paper, and details about the submission process, can be accessed at either of the following locations:

    www.auspaynet.com.au/insights/consultations/A2Avision

    www.auspayplus.com.au/stakeholder-engagement/public-consultations

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Industry Consultation on the Future of the Account-to-Account Payments System

    Source: Airservices Australia

    The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) and The Treasury welcome the release of a public consultation today by Australian Payments Network and Australian Payments Plus on the future of the account-to-account payments system.

    Formulating a clear vision for the account-to-account payments system that is consistent with public interest considerations is a foundational recommendation of the recent RBA Risk Assessment on the proposed decommissioning of the Bulk Electronic Clearing System.

    RBA Assistant Governor (Financial System) Brad Jones said: “The account-to-account system supports consumers, businesses and government agencies in their everyday economic activities. It is a vital part of Australia’s financial infrastructure. This consultation provides a broad range of stakeholders the chance to provide input into how the system can be modernised to meet the opportunities and challenges of the future, in the public interest.”

    To support the development of the vision, the RBA is publishing a paper outlining our public interest framework for the account-to-account payments system. Central to the success of the future system is its ability to provide all end users with access to payments options that are capable of meeting their needs, and that are cost-effective, reliable and safe. Achievement of these objectives will require effective industry governance arrangements, resilient infrastructure and competition and innovation among participants.

    Background

    Australian Payments Network (AusPayNet) is the self-regulatory body for the payments industry. It administers the framework for the Bulk Electronic Clearing System – Australia’s system for processing batch account-to-account payments, including payroll and welfare payments.

    Australian Payments Plus (AP+) is the provider of Australia’s fast payment system – the New Payments Platform – as well as the BPAY billing service.

    The consultation paper, and details about the submission process, can be accessed at either of the following locations:

    www.auspaynet.com.au/insights/consultations/A2Avision

    www.auspayplus.com.au/stakeholder-engagement/public-consultations

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: TOMORROW: Governor Newsom to announce $750 million tax credit for film and TV made in California

    Source: US State of California Governor

    Jul 1, 2025

    LOS ANGELES COUNTY — Governor Gavin Newsom will announce a $750 million film and TV tax credit, boosting one of California’s hallmark industries, Los Angeles’ local economy, and thousands of industry jobs.

    WHEN: Wednesday, July 2, at approximately 10:45 a.m.

    LIVESTREAM: Governor’s Twitter page, Governor’s Facebook page, and the Governor’s YouTube page. This event will also be available to TV stations on the LiveU Matrix under “California Governor.”

    NOTE: This in-person press event will be open to credentialed media only. Media interested in attending must RSVP by clicking here no later than 9 a.m., July 2. Location information will be provided upon confirmation.

    Recent news

    Jul 1, 2025

    News What you need to know: After weeks of pressure from Governor Newsom, President Trump finally allowed California’s wildfire crews to return to the frontlines — but nearly 5,000 soldiers, including California National Guard members, remain sidelined in Los Angeles,…

    Jul 1, 2025

    News What you need to know: California has invested billions of dollars to fight fires and treated millions of acres to reduce wildfire risk, while the Trump administration continues to cut resources and neglect its responsibility to manage the 57% of the state’s…

    Jun 30, 2025

    News PLACER COUNTY — As California enters peak fire season, Governor Gavin Newsom will make an announcement with the potential to help prevent wildfires on over half of forest lands in the state.WHEN: Tuesday, July 1, at approximately 10 a.m.LIVESTREAM: Governor’s…

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research—Reframing the On-Chain Narrative: What New Story Is Base Telling?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart Research, the research arm of BitMart Exchange, has released a comprehensive analysis on the resurgence of the Base ecosystem, highlighting its explosive growth, evolving narratives, and rising institutional alignment. As daily active addresses, TVL, and transaction volumes reach new highs, Base is rapidly transitioning from a speculative L2 to a foundational layer for compliant, on-chain financial and content infrastructure. With support from Coinbase’s strategic initiatives and breakout projects like Virtual and Kaito redefining launch dynamics and the attention economy, Base is emerging as a pivotal force in bridging traditional finance and Web3 innovation.

    1. Recent Developments in the Base Ecosystem

    Since the end of May 2025, Base has entered a clear period of ecological “explosion.” Key metrics such as daily active addresses, total value locked (TVL), and daily transaction count have surged significantly. The main driver behind this explosive growth is the emergence of multiple trending narratives within the Base ecosystem, each generating waves of market hype and drawing substantial attention.

    From a macro perspective, the recent IPO of Circle has sparked renewed investor optimism around the concept of stablecoins in global equity markets. This optimism, especially amid expectations of a more favorable regulatory environment, has positioned Base as an increasingly attractive option for traditional institutions.

    • User Growth: The number of active addresses has grown exponentially, recently hitting a record high of 3.6 million.
    • TVL Surge: Base’s total value locked climbed from $2.8 billion in early May to a peak of nearly $4 billion, matching its bull market highs in 2024.
    • On-Chain Activity: Since May, daily on-chain transactions have averaged nearly 9 million, reaching the peak levels of the 2024 bull cycle.

    2. Trending Projects in the Base Ecosystem


    Virtual: Pump.fun + Bn Alpha-Style Launch Mechanism Sparks Market Frenzy

    Among the many trending projects in the Base ecosystem, Virtual has undoubtedly become one of the most closely watched by the market. Leveraging an innovative token launch mechanism, it has rapidly attracted a large influx of capital and users, emerging as the flagship project in Base’s ongoing “launch narrative.” The price of VIRTUAL rose from $0.50 in mid-April to a peak of $2.50 in early June—a 400% gain.

    The key advantages of Virtual’s launch model include:

    • Ultra-low fundraising price: Each new project raises funding based on a fixed valuation of 42,425 VIRTUAL (approximately $224,000), allowing users to participate at extremely low entry prices. This creates substantial profit potential once the token goes live.
    • Linear token vesting: Unlike MEME launches on Pump.fun, tokens in Virtual’s launchpad projects are not fully unlocked at listing. Instead, they follow a transparent vesting model similar to VC-backed tokens, with tokens released in tranches. Moreover, to prevent immediate sell-offs by project teams, all raised funds are injected directly into the initial liquidity pool rather than handed over to the team.
    • Low participation risk: If a launch fails to meet its fundraising target, users receive a full refund. Additionally, Virtual only features a few new launches per day, meaning the overall project quality tends to be higher than most MEME tokens—making user participation relatively low-risk.
    • Reduced rug-pull potential: Virtual imposes a 1% trading fee, 70% of which is returned to the project team. This incentivizes teams to focus on increasing trading volume rather than cashing out quickly, creating a more sustainable ecosystem loop.

    However, as the platform gained popularity, early users frequently adopted a strategy of selling immediately after token launch to capture short-term gains. This behavior led to heavy selling pressure on new projects, undermining overall ecosystem stability. In response, Virtual introduced a “Green Lock” mechanism in mid-June, imposing a mandatory lock-up period on token allocations for launch participants. During this period, users are prohibited from selling their tokens; violating this rule results in a suspension of points accumulation.

    While this mechanism helps curb early dumping and extends project lifespans, it also significantly alters the speculative logic that drove initial enthusiasm. Users now face longer profit cycles and lower capital efficiency, leading to a temporary cooling of market sentiment. Since mid-June, the price of VIRTUAL has entered a downward trend, falling from its peak to $1.69—a decline of over 37%.

    Kaito: The Leading Project in the Attention Economy

    Kaito stands as the leading project in the emerging “Information Finance” (InfoFi) sector. Since May, its token price has surged from $0.79 to a peak of $2.41, marking an increase of nearly 205%.

    At the core of Kaito’s appeal is its Yaps module, which tokenizes user attention by rewarding those who post content on X (formerly Twitter). By incentivizing high-quality content creation around trending projects—such as Berachain, Monad, and Initia—Kaito has built a Web3-native content-driven influence model. This mechanism has significantly boosted community engagement. Coupled with weekly airdrops and leaderboard rewards, users are empowered to both “speak” and “monetize,” attracting a growing number of content creators and thought leaders. This dynamic has played a key role in driving the growth of social and narrative-driven content on the Base network.

    3. Coinbase and the Future Trajectory of Base

    In June 2025, the U.S. Senate passed the GENIUS Stablecoin Act, establishing a formal legal framework for USD-backed stablecoins. This marked the first time that regulatory authorities legally recognized digital assets’ compliance status. Against this backdrop, Coinbase, as a fully compliant U.S.-based exchange, has launched a three-pronged strategic layout around Base:

    1. Enabling Regulated On-Chain Asset Access — Bridging Coinbase Balances to Base

    Coinbase is currently deepening the integration between its centralized trading platform and the Base chain. It has rolled out the Verified Pools feature, allowing KYC-verified users to interact directly with Base dApps using their Coinbase account balances—eliminating the need to switch wallets or perform manual on-chain transfers.

    Uniswap and Aerodrome have already been announced as the primary DEXs supporting this integration. Although the feature remains in its early stages, it aligns with the broader trend of centralized exchanges moving toward on-chain/off-chain convergence.

    2. Building a Compliant Stablecoin Ecosystem with Traditional Finance — Tokenizing Fiat On-Chain

    Following the establishment of an access gateway, Coinbase has partnered with Wall Street giants—including JPMorgan Chase—to pilot the issuance of compliant stablecoins and deposit tokens (e.g., JPMD) on Base. These assets are fully custodied by regulated banks and come with traditional financial benefits such as interest accrual, legal protections, and deposit insurance.

    This initiative goes beyond simply putting USD on-chain—it represents the digitization of traditional financial system infrastructure, positioning Base as a core ledger layer for real-world finance in the Web3 ecosystem.

    3. Building a Diverse On-Chain Ecosystem — Creating Real Use Cases for On-Chain Dollars

    To strengthen actual demand for on-chain USD, Coinbase is simultaneously expanding the Base ecosystem with a wide array of applications:

    • On-Chain U.S. Stock Trading: Coinbase is seeking SEC approval to tokenize U.S. equities, planning to launch products that allow trading of Apple, Tesla, and other stocks directly on-chain—removing geographical barriers from traditional markets.
    • Collaboration with Circle: The launch of Circle Payments Network (CPN) provides USDC with robust clearing infrastructure. As the leading stablecoin on Base, USDC will support DeFi, RWA, and cross-border payment applications—positioning Base as a key hub for compliant blockchain finance.
    • Global Crypto Payments: Coinbase is working with Shopify and Stripe to integrate USDC into e-commerce checkout systems, expanding the real-world use of stablecoins in cross-border settlements.
    • Compliant DeFi and On-Chain Lending: Protocols such as Aerodrome, Uniswap, and Spark are being guided toward KYC-enabled, compliant operations, offering secure and auditable services in trading and lending for both institutions and retail users.
    • AI Agents and InfoFi Applications: New on-chain innovations like AI Agents and attention economy platforms (e.g., Kaito) are being explored to attract traditional users into emerging crypto-native interaction models.

    Through this multi-layered strategy, Coinbase is not only building a regulated on-chain asset highway, but also constructing a value loop for USD stablecoins—from fiat onboarding and token issuance to liquidity, circulation, and real-world application.

    High-Potential Projects in the Base Ecosystem

    • Aerodrome: As the flagship DEX on Base and a key partner in Coinbase’s integration plan, Aerodrome is well-positioned to benefit from stable institutional liquidity flows. This will likely boost trading volume, TVL, and protocol revenues. Holders of AERO tokens stand to gain from enhanced fee-sharing and staking yields, reinforcing user participation in governance.
    • Uniswap: Similarly, Uniswap—another DEX integrated by Coinbase—will gain increased on-chain liquidity and potential platform revenue, thereby enhancing the value proposition of its UNI token.
    • Keeta: A high-performance RWA-focused chain claiming millions of TPS and sub-second confirmation times. Backed by investors including former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Keeta has already validated its performance through independent stress testing. Despite significant token price corrections, it is expected to collaborate with Base on compliant RWA integration.
    • Creator Bid: In partnership with Kaito, Creator Bid launched version 2.0 with new features such as staking-based launches, increasing user engagement and expanding creator economy models. The platform’s BID token recently reached a historical market cap of $150 million, showing early signs of traction. Similar to Virtual’s early-stage momentum, Creator Bid is poised for continued growth as it iterates.
    • Upside: The first socially driven prediction market on Base. Users can tokenize X/Twitter posts, articles, and videos, and use USDC to vote and trade on them. Currently in its second test season with ~20,000 followers on X, the platform has not yet issued a token, but its unique blend of prediction and content mechanics gives it strong potential to become a liquid and narrative-rich application on Base.

    Conclusion

    Base is undergoing a transformation—from being merely a “high-activity trading L2” into a structurally complete financial and content infrastructure on-chain. From innovation-driven projects like Virtual and Kaito, to Coinbase’s efforts in building a robust USD-denominated ecosystem, the narrative of Base is evolving.

    While short-term hype cycles may cool and speculative behaviors persist, Base’s long-term strength lies in its consistent storytelling and institutional alignment. It is increasingly poised to serve as a bridge between traditional capital and Web3, making it not just a rotating narrative hotspot, but a vital reference point for tracking the crypto industry’s broader shift toward compliance, financialization, and utility.

    About BitMart

    BitMart is a premier global digital asset trading platform with more than 10 million users worldwide. Consistently ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, BitMart offers over 1,700 trading pairs with competitive fees. Committed to continuous innovation and financial inclusivity, BitMart empowers users globally to trade seamlessly. Learn more about BitMart at Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Risk Warning:

    The information provided is for reference only and should not be considered a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any financial asset. All information is provided in good faith. However, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of such information.

    All cryptocurrency investments (including returns) are highly speculative in nature and involve significant risk of loss. Past, hypothetical or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of digital currencies may rise or fall, and there may be significant risks in buying, selling, holding or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial situation and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BitMart Research—Reframing the On-Chain Narrative: What New Story Is Base Telling?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Mahe, Seychelles, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — BitMart Research, the research arm of BitMart Exchange, has released a comprehensive analysis on the resurgence of the Base ecosystem, highlighting its explosive growth, evolving narratives, and rising institutional alignment. As daily active addresses, TVL, and transaction volumes reach new highs, Base is rapidly transitioning from a speculative L2 to a foundational layer for compliant, on-chain financial and content infrastructure. With support from Coinbase’s strategic initiatives and breakout projects like Virtual and Kaito redefining launch dynamics and the attention economy, Base is emerging as a pivotal force in bridging traditional finance and Web3 innovation.

    1. Recent Developments in the Base Ecosystem

    Since the end of May 2025, Base has entered a clear period of ecological “explosion.” Key metrics such as daily active addresses, total value locked (TVL), and daily transaction count have surged significantly. The main driver behind this explosive growth is the emergence of multiple trending narratives within the Base ecosystem, each generating waves of market hype and drawing substantial attention.

    From a macro perspective, the recent IPO of Circle has sparked renewed investor optimism around the concept of stablecoins in global equity markets. This optimism, especially amid expectations of a more favorable regulatory environment, has positioned Base as an increasingly attractive option for traditional institutions.

    • User Growth: The number of active addresses has grown exponentially, recently hitting a record high of 3.6 million.
    • TVL Surge: Base’s total value locked climbed from $2.8 billion in early May to a peak of nearly $4 billion, matching its bull market highs in 2024.
    • On-Chain Activity: Since May, daily on-chain transactions have averaged nearly 9 million, reaching the peak levels of the 2024 bull cycle.

    2. Trending Projects in the Base Ecosystem


    Virtual: Pump.fun + Bn Alpha-Style Launch Mechanism Sparks Market Frenzy

    Among the many trending projects in the Base ecosystem, Virtual has undoubtedly become one of the most closely watched by the market. Leveraging an innovative token launch mechanism, it has rapidly attracted a large influx of capital and users, emerging as the flagship project in Base’s ongoing “launch narrative.” The price of VIRTUAL rose from $0.50 in mid-April to a peak of $2.50 in early June—a 400% gain.

    The key advantages of Virtual’s launch model include:

    • Ultra-low fundraising price: Each new project raises funding based on a fixed valuation of 42,425 VIRTUAL (approximately $224,000), allowing users to participate at extremely low entry prices. This creates substantial profit potential once the token goes live.
    • Linear token vesting: Unlike MEME launches on Pump.fun, tokens in Virtual’s launchpad projects are not fully unlocked at listing. Instead, they follow a transparent vesting model similar to VC-backed tokens, with tokens released in tranches. Moreover, to prevent immediate sell-offs by project teams, all raised funds are injected directly into the initial liquidity pool rather than handed over to the team.
    • Low participation risk: If a launch fails to meet its fundraising target, users receive a full refund. Additionally, Virtual only features a few new launches per day, meaning the overall project quality tends to be higher than most MEME tokens—making user participation relatively low-risk.
    • Reduced rug-pull potential: Virtual imposes a 1% trading fee, 70% of which is returned to the project team. This incentivizes teams to focus on increasing trading volume rather than cashing out quickly, creating a more sustainable ecosystem loop.

    However, as the platform gained popularity, early users frequently adopted a strategy of selling immediately after token launch to capture short-term gains. This behavior led to heavy selling pressure on new projects, undermining overall ecosystem stability. In response, Virtual introduced a “Green Lock” mechanism in mid-June, imposing a mandatory lock-up period on token allocations for launch participants. During this period, users are prohibited from selling their tokens; violating this rule results in a suspension of points accumulation.

    While this mechanism helps curb early dumping and extends project lifespans, it also significantly alters the speculative logic that drove initial enthusiasm. Users now face longer profit cycles and lower capital efficiency, leading to a temporary cooling of market sentiment. Since mid-June, the price of VIRTUAL has entered a downward trend, falling from its peak to $1.69—a decline of over 37%.

    Kaito: The Leading Project in the Attention Economy

    Kaito stands as the leading project in the emerging “Information Finance” (InfoFi) sector. Since May, its token price has surged from $0.79 to a peak of $2.41, marking an increase of nearly 205%.

    At the core of Kaito’s appeal is its Yaps module, which tokenizes user attention by rewarding those who post content on X (formerly Twitter). By incentivizing high-quality content creation around trending projects—such as Berachain, Monad, and Initia—Kaito has built a Web3-native content-driven influence model. This mechanism has significantly boosted community engagement. Coupled with weekly airdrops and leaderboard rewards, users are empowered to both “speak” and “monetize,” attracting a growing number of content creators and thought leaders. This dynamic has played a key role in driving the growth of social and narrative-driven content on the Base network.

    3. Coinbase and the Future Trajectory of Base

    In June 2025, the U.S. Senate passed the GENIUS Stablecoin Act, establishing a formal legal framework for USD-backed stablecoins. This marked the first time that regulatory authorities legally recognized digital assets’ compliance status. Against this backdrop, Coinbase, as a fully compliant U.S.-based exchange, has launched a three-pronged strategic layout around Base:

    1. Enabling Regulated On-Chain Asset Access — Bridging Coinbase Balances to Base

    Coinbase is currently deepening the integration between its centralized trading platform and the Base chain. It has rolled out the Verified Pools feature, allowing KYC-verified users to interact directly with Base dApps using their Coinbase account balances—eliminating the need to switch wallets or perform manual on-chain transfers.

    Uniswap and Aerodrome have already been announced as the primary DEXs supporting this integration. Although the feature remains in its early stages, it aligns with the broader trend of centralized exchanges moving toward on-chain/off-chain convergence.

    2. Building a Compliant Stablecoin Ecosystem with Traditional Finance — Tokenizing Fiat On-Chain

    Following the establishment of an access gateway, Coinbase has partnered with Wall Street giants—including JPMorgan Chase—to pilot the issuance of compliant stablecoins and deposit tokens (e.g., JPMD) on Base. These assets are fully custodied by regulated banks and come with traditional financial benefits such as interest accrual, legal protections, and deposit insurance.

    This initiative goes beyond simply putting USD on-chain—it represents the digitization of traditional financial system infrastructure, positioning Base as a core ledger layer for real-world finance in the Web3 ecosystem.

    3. Building a Diverse On-Chain Ecosystem — Creating Real Use Cases for On-Chain Dollars

    To strengthen actual demand for on-chain USD, Coinbase is simultaneously expanding the Base ecosystem with a wide array of applications:

    • On-Chain U.S. Stock Trading: Coinbase is seeking SEC approval to tokenize U.S. equities, planning to launch products that allow trading of Apple, Tesla, and other stocks directly on-chain—removing geographical barriers from traditional markets.
    • Collaboration with Circle: The launch of Circle Payments Network (CPN) provides USDC with robust clearing infrastructure. As the leading stablecoin on Base, USDC will support DeFi, RWA, and cross-border payment applications—positioning Base as a key hub for compliant blockchain finance.
    • Global Crypto Payments: Coinbase is working with Shopify and Stripe to integrate USDC into e-commerce checkout systems, expanding the real-world use of stablecoins in cross-border settlements.
    • Compliant DeFi and On-Chain Lending: Protocols such as Aerodrome, Uniswap, and Spark are being guided toward KYC-enabled, compliant operations, offering secure and auditable services in trading and lending for both institutions and retail users.
    • AI Agents and InfoFi Applications: New on-chain innovations like AI Agents and attention economy platforms (e.g., Kaito) are being explored to attract traditional users into emerging crypto-native interaction models.

    Through this multi-layered strategy, Coinbase is not only building a regulated on-chain asset highway, but also constructing a value loop for USD stablecoins—from fiat onboarding and token issuance to liquidity, circulation, and real-world application.

    High-Potential Projects in the Base Ecosystem

    • Aerodrome: As the flagship DEX on Base and a key partner in Coinbase’s integration plan, Aerodrome is well-positioned to benefit from stable institutional liquidity flows. This will likely boost trading volume, TVL, and protocol revenues. Holders of AERO tokens stand to gain from enhanced fee-sharing and staking yields, reinforcing user participation in governance.
    • Uniswap: Similarly, Uniswap—another DEX integrated by Coinbase—will gain increased on-chain liquidity and potential platform revenue, thereby enhancing the value proposition of its UNI token.
    • Keeta: A high-performance RWA-focused chain claiming millions of TPS and sub-second confirmation times. Backed by investors including former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, Keeta has already validated its performance through independent stress testing. Despite significant token price corrections, it is expected to collaborate with Base on compliant RWA integration.
    • Creator Bid: In partnership with Kaito, Creator Bid launched version 2.0 with new features such as staking-based launches, increasing user engagement and expanding creator economy models. The platform’s BID token recently reached a historical market cap of $150 million, showing early signs of traction. Similar to Virtual’s early-stage momentum, Creator Bid is poised for continued growth as it iterates.
    • Upside: The first socially driven prediction market on Base. Users can tokenize X/Twitter posts, articles, and videos, and use USDC to vote and trade on them. Currently in its second test season with ~20,000 followers on X, the platform has not yet issued a token, but its unique blend of prediction and content mechanics gives it strong potential to become a liquid and narrative-rich application on Base.

    Conclusion

    Base is undergoing a transformation—from being merely a “high-activity trading L2” into a structurally complete financial and content infrastructure on-chain. From innovation-driven projects like Virtual and Kaito, to Coinbase’s efforts in building a robust USD-denominated ecosystem, the narrative of Base is evolving.

    While short-term hype cycles may cool and speculative behaviors persist, Base’s long-term strength lies in its consistent storytelling and institutional alignment. It is increasingly poised to serve as a bridge between traditional capital and Web3, making it not just a rotating narrative hotspot, but a vital reference point for tracking the crypto industry’s broader shift toward compliance, financialization, and utility.

    About BitMart

    BitMart is a premier global digital asset trading platform with more than 10 million users worldwide. Consistently ranked among the top crypto exchanges on CoinGecko, BitMart offers over 1,700 trading pairs with competitive fees. Committed to continuous innovation and financial inclusivity, BitMart empowers users globally to trade seamlessly. Learn more about BitMart at Website, follow their X (Twitter), or join their Telegram for updates, news, and promotions. Download BitMart App to trade anytime, anywhere.

    Risk Warning:

    The information provided is for reference only and should not be considered a recommendation to buy, sell or hold any financial asset. All information is provided in good faith. However, we make no representations or warranties, express or implied, as to the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability or completeness of such information.

    All cryptocurrency investments (including returns) are highly speculative in nature and involve significant risk of loss. Past, hypothetical or simulated performance is not necessarily indicative of future results. The value of digital currencies may rise or fall, and there may be significant risks in buying, selling, holding or trading digital currencies. You should carefully consider whether trading or holding digital currencies is suitable for you based on your personal investment objectives, financial situation and risk tolerance. BitMart does not provide any investment, legal or tax advice.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: expert reaction to study looking at an ‘inflammatory’ diet during pregnancy and type 1 diabetes risk in children

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    A study published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health looks at an ‘inflammatory’ diet during pregnancy and type 1 diabetes risk in children.

    Prof Claire Meek, Professor of Chemical Pathology and Diabetes in Pregnancy, Leicester Diabetes Centre, University of Leicester, said:

    “While we have known for some time that the mother’s health in pregnancy influences the child’s risk of type 1 diabetes, the role of maternal diet upon children’s diabetes risk is less clear.  This interesting new study suggests that mothers who eat a healthy, “anti-inflammatory” diet have a lower risk of type 1 diabetes in their babies – however, it is not clear if these effects are truly due to reduced inflammation, which wasn’t directly measured in the babies.  The study findings could also be explained by pregnant women eating higher levels of vitamins and fibre, or choosing foods more likely to keep blood glucose levels and weight under good control.  It is also important to remember that people from lower-income families may have less access to healthy food and higher risks of chronic disease, so it may not be a fair assessment of diet.

    “However, this study does support broader guidance about the importance of eating a healthy balanced diet in pregnancy, helping keep mums and babies healthy both during pregnancy and in the future.”

    Dr John MacSharry, Funded Investigator at APC Microbiome Ireland and Senior Lecturer in Virology and Immunology, University College Cork, said:

    “The study by Noorzae et al. is a robust prospective analysis linking a pro-inflammatory maternal diet (Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Index (EDII)) during pregnancy to an increased risk of type 1 diabetes (T1D) in offspring.

    “Their use of a large national cohort and validated registry data strengthens the epidemiological association, and the inclusion of breastfeeding duration as a covariate is a notable strength. 

    Interestingly, longer breastfeeding was more common among mothers with lower EDII scores, consistent with breastfeeding’s well-documented role in promoting immune tolerance and healthy microbial colonization.  Apart from providing early passive immunity wave maternal antibodies, breast milk provides bioactive molecules such as human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which selectively feed beneficial microbes (e.g. Bifidobacterium spp.) and promote the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate by the gut microbiota —key modulators of regulatory T cell development and mucosal immunity.

    “However, the study lacks direct biological validation of the immune or microbiota-mediated mechanisms it hypothesises.  The Empirical Dietary Inflammatory Index (EDII) was based on correlations with C-reactive protein (CRP), a non-specific acute-phase protein that offers limited insight into adaptive immune function or cytokine signalling pathways central to autoimmunity. 

    No maternal or fetal immune phenotyping, cytokine profiling, or microbiota/metabolome data were included, missing the opportunity to explore key mediators such as SCFAs, bile acids, tryptophan metabolites, and gut microbiota population types.  In addition, maternal or early-life infections—known risk factors for pancreatic islet autoimmunity—were not assessed, despite their relevance in immune priming.

    “Future studies should integrate immunophenotyping, longitudinal microbiome and metabolomics analyses, and infection exposure history to map the interplay between maternal diet, immune maturation, and T1D risk.  Such multi-omic approaches, including the postnatal environment shaped by breastfeeding and early feeding practices, are essential to fully understand the developmental origins of immune-mediated diseases.”

    ‘Association between a pro-inflammatory dietary pattern during pregnancy and type 1 diabetes risk in offspring: prospective cohort study’ by Rohina Noorzae et al. was published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health at 23:30 UK time on Tuesday 1 July 2025.

    DOI: 10.1136/jech-2024-223320

    Declared interests

    Dr John MacSharry: “I can declare I have no financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence my opinion of this work.”

    For all other experts, no reply to our request for DOIs was received.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: JAMining Launches Global XRP Cloud Mining Initiative: Scalable, Secure, and Built for the Next Wave of Digital Adoption

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    London, UK, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) —

    JAMining, one of the industry’s most trusted names in cloud-based cryptocurrency mining, has officially launched its XRP cloud mining contracts—marking a new phase in decentralized participation for digital asset investors across the globe. With over 16 years of operational history, JAMining continues to push the boundaries of inclusive, intelligent mining.

    As the market demand for alternative mining methods accelerates, XRP has emerged as a strong contender, thanks to its high throughput, institutional appeal, and low transaction fees. JAMining’s latest integration allows anyone—from institutional investors to first-time users—to mine XRP securely without owning any physical hardware.

    Cloud Mining Reimagined: XRP Mining Without Borders

    JAMining’s XRP contracts remove the complexity and capital-intensive nature of traditional mining. Instead of purchasing ASIC machines or worrying about electricity rates, users can simply register, select a mining plan, and begin earning XRP within minutes.

    The platform offers short- and medium-term mining contracts, such as:

          （Click here for more contract details )

    All contracts are capital-protected and designed for liquidity—ensuring your initial investment is returned at the end of the term, with daily income automatically credited.

    “The idea is simple,” said a JAMining spokesperson. “You don’t need to be a blockchain expert to benefit from blockchain infrastructure. JAMining’s AI-backed mining engine does the heavy lifting while you collect stable daily rewards.”

    Intelligent Systems, Zero Hardware Hassles

    Key Features:

    • AI-Powered Allocation: Mining tasks are dynamically distributed to maximize profitability across XRP pools.
    • No Setup Required: All systems run in high-availability data centers powered by renewable energy.
    • Mobile Dashboard Access: Track earnings, contract performance, and manage settings with full transparency.
    • Real-Time Payouts: 24/7 mining with daily income and instant withdrawals.

    The platform’s backend is hosted across strategically located, environmentally responsible data centers powered by solar and wind energy. By prioritizing sustainability, JAMining positions itself as a rare fusion of financial innovation and ecological responsibility.

    Why XRP and Why Now?

    XRP’s increasing role in cross-border payments, remittances, and institutional banking has made it one of the most discussed digital assets of 2025. With regulatory clarity on the horizon and major financial entities eyeing XRP’s utility, cloud mining it now offers a rare asymmetric opportunity.

    Unlike speculation-based investing, cloud mining provides fixed, predictable income—something that risk-averse investors and institutions increasingly prefer.

    “The shift we’re seeing in the market is clear: users want passive, predictable returns, not emotional trading swings,” said JAMining’s lead analyst. “Our XRP cloud contracts are designed exactly for this new wave of investor demand.”

    Global Impact, Local Accessibility

    With over 11.2 million users across 190+ countries, JAMining’s mission is to make wealth-building tools available to everyone. The XRP launch fits that mission precisely—offering equal access to a growing asset with real-world utility.

    The JAMining platform is currently available in English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese, German, Russian, Italian, Japanese, French, Korean, with more languages ​​coming soon.

    Ready to Join?

    New users receive $100 in mining credits instantly upon registration. No prior experience is needed.
    Start mining XRP, BTC, ETH, and more today at https://jamining.com/
    For partnership or media inquiries, please email: info@jamining.com

     

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Credit Building Apps (2025): Kikoff Recognized for Accessible, Low-Risk Credit Tools in Expert Consumers Report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York City, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expert Consumers has published a new report identifying the leading credit-building app of 2025, with Kikoff receiving top recognition for its consistent performance, beginner-friendly structure, and accessibility for consumers with limited or no credit history.

    The annual evaluation focused on platforms that provide effective credit-building pathways without requiring interest payments, hard credit checks, or complex account structures. Kikoff stood out for its low-cost plans, ease of use, and ability to report to all three major credit bureaus – positioning it as a strong option for individuals starting or rebuilding their credit journey.

    Designed for Credit-Invisible and First-Time Users

    Kikoff’s platform is built to address the needs of the estimated 45 million U.S. adults who are credit-invisible or unscored. Its service model includes:

    • No hard credit checks
    • Monthly plans starting at $5
    • Reports to Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion
    • No interest or hidden fees
    • Built-in financial education tools

    This structure allows users to establish positive credit history in a predictable, low-risk environment – without taking on traditional debt or facing fees for missed requirements.

    How Kikoff’s Model Works

    Kikoff offers users a virtual tradeline – typically starting at $750 – which can be used to make purchases in its online store or access its financial wellness services. Users repay on a monthly schedule, with consistent reporting to credit bureaus to help build payment history and credit utilization metrics.

    Key features include:

    • No prior credit history required
    • Fixed monthly payments
    • Support for credit-building fundamentals

    Plans Available in 2025

    To meet a range of credit goals, Kikoff provides three plan tiers:

    • Basic – $5/month: $750 tradeline, monthly bureau reporting, and access to credit tips
    • Premium – $20/month: Tradeline up to $2,500, includes rent reporting and credit monitoring
    • Ultimate – $35/month: Up to $3,500 tradeline, identity protection, and expanded benefits

    All plans remain interest-free and are designed to build credit gradually over time.

    Performance in Real-World Credit Scenarios

    In testing environments, Kikoff demonstrated a reliable pattern of credit score improvement over a three- to six-month period, especially for users starting from limited credit backgrounds. Its transparency, simple onboarding process, and structured payment model contributed to its top placement in this year’s report.

    Unlike traditional credit cards or installment loans, Kikoff does not rely on user credit scores for approval and avoids common fees and interest charges. This makes it a practical choice for consumers seeking a straightforward entry point into the credit system.

    Evaluated on Key Credit-Building Metrics

    Expert Consumers’ 2025 review assessed leading platforms based on:

    • Ease of access and onboarding
    • Cost structure
    • Credit score impact
    • User experience
    • Bureau coverage

    Kikoff performed strongly in each category, with standout marks in affordability and accessibility.

    Reflecting Broader Trends in Consumer Credit

    The growing popularity of tools like Kikoff reflects broader shifts in consumer finance, including:

    • Increased demand for alternative credit solutions
    • Rising interest in fintech among Gen Z and Millennials
    • A focus on transparency and predictability
    • Expanded use of credit data in housing, employment, and insurance

    Kikoff’s approach – centered on ease, trust, and education – continues to align with these trends, offering consumers a practical path forward in today’s financial landscape.

    Looking Forward

    With continued development in areas like rent reporting and digital identity protection, Kikoff is positioned to evolve alongside the needs of modern consumers. Analysts expect further growth in this sector as more users seek accessible, digital-first tools to navigate the credit system.

    For full evaluation results, visit ExpertConsumers.org.

    About Expert Consumers
    Expert Consumers provides independent reviews and rankings of consumer products and services. As an affiliate publisher, it may earn commissions from purchases made via links in its content.

    About Kikoff
    Kikoff is a credit-building platform helping users establish and grow credit through interest-free, no-fee plans with monthly reporting to all major credit bureaus. Designed especially for beginners, Kikoff supports long-term financial health through simple tools and educational resources.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: XRP surges above $2.2 as investors flock to PBK Miner, XRP mining project officially launched, redefining AI cloud mining

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Carshalton, UK, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — As the XRP price surpassed $2.00 and returned to the spotlight of the top cryptocurrencies, a new wave of investors’ attention turned to a fast-rising but little-known project on the XRP Ledger: PBK Miner (PBKMiner XRP Mining).

    Given XRP’s resilience and strong fundamentals, many XRP holders are now looking to PBK Miner, a next-generation XRP mining program driven by artificial intelligence. By launching a 2-day XRP cloud mining contract, the platform provides investors with a flexible and efficient opportunity to accumulate XRP. The program aims to unlock the market’s strong demand for low-threshold, high-liquidity XRP investment products.

    Why PBK Miner is the XRP mining project everyone is paying attention to

    While XRP continues to dominate headlines in the wider crypto market, PBK Miner is quietly becoming one of the most promising XRP mining projects for 2025.

    PBK Miner fills a much-needed gap in the XRP ecosystem, integrating a powerful computing power leasing service, flexible and efficient contract options, and an AI-driven yield optimization system, and integrating all functions into a user-centric platform. With ultra-low entry barriers, flexible terms, and stable returns, this XRP mining-focused solution quickly won the favor of XRP holders and short-term investors. In just one week, the number of XRP short-term investors on the platform surged by 300%.

    PBK Miner now offers flexible XRP mining plans:

    2-day strategy: return rate +6.7%

    5-day strategy: return rate +6.19%

    15-day strategy: return rate +20.9%

    30-day strategy: return rate +55.7%

    These performance figures are not speculation, but are based on real usage data from millions of users. This is due to PBKMiner’s AI-driven profit optimization engine and result-oriented XRP mining model.

    One of the most attractive aspects of the XRP mining plan is the ultra-low investment threshold and flexible contract period. For example, the 2-day XRP mining strategy starts at only $100.

    Why it’s easy for everyone to start mining XRP with PBKMiner

    No hardware required: Users can leverage the platform’s massive hashing power to mine XRP — without having to purchase expensive equipment.

    Zero maintenance costs: PBKMiner covers all electricity, maintenance, and operational needs. After purchasing a package, users can enjoy the benefits with peace of mind – even a novice can start mining in minutes.

    Newbie-friendly: No technical knowledge required. New users can instantly receive a $10 sign-up bonus.

    Stable daily income: Daily income can be withdrawn, and the principal will be fully returned at the end of the contract to ensure the safety of funds.

    Since its founding in 2019, PBKMiner has expanded its cloud mining business for BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, and SOL in 183+ countries and regions, serving more than 8.5 million active users worldwide. With the launch of 2-day XRP contracts, PBKMiner has now opened access to its high-performance XRP cloud mining infrastructure and has quickly become the first choice for XRP holders and short-term investors.

     

    How to start XRP cloud mining with PBKMiner

    1.Register: Sign up now and get a $10 welcome bonus, plus a $0.60 daily login bonus.

    1. Choose a contract: Select a mining plan that fits your budget and financial goals. All available plans support XRP mining.
    2. Start earning: Once your contract is activated, PBKMiner’s intelligent platform will take care of the rest – ensuring seamless and efficient mining operations to maximize your profits.

     

    About PBKMiner

    Founded in 2019, PBKMiner represents a new generation of AI-driven cloud mining technology, based on data, performance, and trust. The platform supports cloud mining of XRP, BTC, ETH, LTC, DOGE, and SOL. With a rapidly growing global user base, PBKMiner will stand out as one of the most promising cryptocurrency investment opportunities in 2025, especially for investors who seek sustainable long-term returns rather than speculative gains.

    For full details and participation options please visit: https://pbkminer.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.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-Evening Report: New laws to make it harder for large Australian and foreign companies to avoid paying tax

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kerrie Sadiq, Professor of Taxation, QUT Business School, and ARC Future Fellow, Queensland University of Technology

    The Conversation, CC BY

    The beginning of the financial year means for the first time in Australia the public will see previously unreleased tax reports produced by multinational taxpayers.

    These documents, known as country-by-country reports, or CbCR for short, contain information about the tax practices of large Australian businesses and foreign businesses operating in Australia. This information, previously only available to the taxpayer and the Australian Tax Office, will be made public.

    Country-by-country reports, announced in the October 2022-2023 budget, were introduced with other measures designed to improve corporate tax behaviour. The reports will be released from this week as part of corporate reporting practices. Multinationals have 12 months to comply.

    A fairer tax system

    Country-by-country reporting forms part of the government’s multinational tax integrity election commitment package. The aim is to ensure a fairer and more sustainable tax system. Large firms will be required to publish a statement on their global activities plus tax information for each jurisdiction in which they operate.

    Until now, large multinationals only had to prepare annual consolidated financial statements under international financial reporting standards. The traditional reports aggregate results and provide limited geographic reporting information.

    Traditional high-level reporting allows multinationals to conceal their country-level activities. This hides questionable tax practices.

    Country-by-country reporting allows us to better see where a multinational operates. More importantly, the amount of activity in each jurisdiction is reported. The information provides clues as to whether artificial profit shifting has occurred.

    Anyone interested can uncover details about how multinationals structure their global operations. Information may reveal a misalignment between the company’s real economic presence in a country, the profits they book and taxes they pay in that country.

    Bringing Australia into line with the EU

    Country-by-country reporting is not new. It is the requirement that the information be made public that has changed.

    Australian firms have been required to provide such reports to the Australian Tax Office since 2016. However, the information has been confidential.

    The new public disclosure law brings Australia in line with large firms operating in the European Union which brought in the change last year.

    How country-by-country reporting works

    A taxpayer with annual global income above A$1 billion and at least A$10 million of its turnover Australian-sourced will need to produce a report. The obligation to disclose rests with the parent entity no matter where they are located.

    Australia’s largest companies, including mining giants Rio Tinto and BHP, biotech firm CSL, and investment bank Macquarie Group, will be among those expected to report, as will foreign tech behemoths such as Apple, Amazon, Microsoft and Meta.

    These tech giants are the same US firms likely to be excluded from the global minimum tax rules under a G7 agreement reached last week. Under the agreement, US multinationals were exempted from paying more corporate tax overseas. Other G7 members gave in to protect their own companies from the US’s threat of retaliation.

    Under the law change in Australia, a parent entity will provide its name, the names of all members of the group, a description of their approach to tax, and information about operations in certain countries. Included on the list are countries that attract multinationals due to reduced tax obligations, such as Singapore, Switzerland, and the Bahamas.

    Everyone will be able to see where a multinational is operating. They will also see the types of business activities conducted, number of employees, assets, revenue, and taxes paid. Large profits in a country but little business activity and very few employees may raise questions, especially if a country has a low tax rate.

    Benefits of better transparency

    Access to the extra information will help investors assess the tax and reputational risk of a firm. A multinational that shifts profits to low tax countries may be audited and pay extra tax and penalties.

    Increased transparency allows greater scrutiny. In turn, it is hoped multinationals will reduce aggressive tax planning due to potential risk to their reputation.

    If multinationals shift less taxable profits out of Australia to low-tax or no-tax jurisdictions, this will lead to Australia receiving a greater share of much needed corporate tax revenue.

    Reducing profit shifting

    Recent academic research on public country-by-country reporting reveals it provides additional information to better identify tax haven activity. However, it does not result in a significant drop in corporate tax avoidance.

    Increased tax transparency helps investors and tax authorities to better understand a multinational’s economic and tax geographic footprint. It is also important when it seems that US giants will be excluded from the 15% global minimum tax rules. Transparency by itself, however, does not lead to multinationals paying more corporate taxes.

    By its very nature, tax avoidance is legal but pushes the boundaries by going against the spirit of the law. Indeed, many large multinationals argue tax is a legal obligation and is not voluntary. They maintain they pay the tax required of them according to the law.

    Undoubtedly, Australia’s new public country-by-country regime is a positive step for tax transparency. As a country initiative, it has been applauded as groundbreaking and world leading. However, it is not a panacea to corporate tax avoidance.

    To limit corporate tax avoidance and have multinationals pay more corporate taxes, we must get to the heart of the problem. We must change the law that dictates the way multinationals are taxed.

    Kerrie Sadiq currently receives funding from the Australian Research Council. She has previously received research grants from CPA Australia and CAANZ.

    Rodney Brown has previously received research grants from CPA Australia and CAANZ.

    – ref. New laws to make it harder for large Australian and foreign companies to avoid paying tax – https://theconversation.com/new-laws-to-make-it-harder-for-large-australian-and-foreign-companies-to-avoid-paying-tax-260004

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI: RBB Bancorp to Report Second Quarter 2025 Financial Results

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LOS ANGELES, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RBB Bancorp (NASDAQ: RBB) and its subsidiaries, Royal Business Bank (the “Bank”) and RBB Asset Management Company (“RAM”), collectively referred to herein as the “Company”, today announced that it will release financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2025 after the markets close on Monday, July 21, 2025.

    Management will hold a conference call at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time/2:00 p.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, July 22, 2025 to discuss the Company’s financial results.

    To listen to the conference call, please dial 1-888-506-0062 or 1-973-528-0011, passcode 710803, Conference ID RBBQ225. A replay of the call will be made available at 1-877-481-4010 or 1-919-882-2331, passcode 52690, approximately one hour after the conclusion of the call and will remain available through August 05, 2025.

    Additionally, interested parties can listen to a live webcast of the call in the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s website at www.royalbusinessbankusa.com.  This webcast will be recorded and available for replay on the Company’s website approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call.

    Corporate Overview

    RBB Bancorp is a community-based financial holding company headquartered in Los Angeles, California. As of March 31, 2025, the Company had total assets of $4.0 billion. Its wholly-owned subsidiary, Royal Business Bank, is a full service commercial bank, which provides consumer and business banking services predominantly to the Asian-centric communities in Los Angeles County, Orange County, and Ventura County in California, in Las Vegas, Nevada, in Brooklyn, Queens, and Manhattan in New York, in Edison, New Jersey, in the Chicago neighborhoods of Chinatown and Bridgeport, Illinois, and on Oahu, Hawaii. Bank services include remote deposit, E-banking, mobile banking, commercial and investor real estate loans, business loans and lines of credit, commercial and industrial loans, SBA 7A and 504 loans, 1-4 single family residential loans, trade finance, a full range of depository account products and wealth management services. The Bank has nine branches in Los Angeles County, two branches in Ventura County, one branch in Orange County, California, one branch in Las Vegas, Nevada, three branches and one loan operation center in Brooklyn, three branches in Queens, one branch in Manhattan in New York, one branch in Edison, New Jersey, two branches in Chicago, Illinois, and one branch in Honolulu, Hawaii. The Company’s administrative and lending center is located at 1055 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California 90017, and its finance and operations center is located at 7025 Orangethorpe Ave., Buena Park, California 90621. The Company’s website address is www.royalbusinessbankusa.com.

    Contacts
    Lynn Hopkins, EVP and Chief Financial Officer, (657) 255-3282

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: New Industry Skills Boards will drive better training

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Eight new Industry Skills Boards (ISBs) will give industry a strong voice in work-based learning, ensuring the system delivers the right skills, in the right places, for a growing economy, Vocational Education Minister Penny Simmonds says. 

    “The Government promised to disestablish Te Pūkenga and return decision-making to local providers and industry. The Industry Skills Boards are a key part of delivering on that promise,” Ms Simmonds says.

    “This is all part of our plan to make sure that the training people receive is aligned to what industry needs, and skills are matched to ensure they are fit-for-purpose, paving the way for economic growth.  We want to ensure our workforce across key growth sectors are ready to hit the ground running.

    “The ISBs will be led by industry experts who know their trades and sectors best. They will set training standards, oversee quality, and make sure apprenticeships and traineeships match what employers and students need.”

    The eight Industry Skills Boards will begin operating from 1 January 2026 once the legislation is passed later this year. They will also temporarily manage work-based training currently overseen by Te Pūkenga. Backed by industry consultation, they will cover:

    • Automotive, transport, and logistics
    • Construction and specialist trades
    • Food and fibre (including aquaculture)
    • Infrastructure
    • Manufacturing and engineering
    • Services
    • Health and community
    • Electrotechnology and information technology

    Industry Skills Boards will have three main funding sources. They will receive some core public funding, they can choose to charge fees to fund their quality assurance functions, and industries can also choose to support ISBs through a levy. 

    Around 250,000 learners enter the vocational education system each year — half learning on campus or online, and half through work-based training. 

    “Whether you’re learning on the job or in a classroom, these changes will make your training more relevant and valuable,” Ms Simmonds says. 

    “We want every apprentice and trainee to be confident their qualifications will be recognised by employers. Employers can trust the system to deliver skilled workers ready to step into roles. 

    “This is a win for apprentices, trainees, employers, and the economy. We’re building a modern, connected work-based learning system that supports quality jobs and drives the economic growth powering New Zealand’s future.”

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Invasive carp threaten the Great Lakes − and reveal a surprising twist in national politics

    Source: The Conversation – USA – By Mike Shriberg, Professor of Practice & Engagement, School for Environment & Sustainability, University of Michigan

    Invasive Asian carp are spreading up the Mississippi River system and already clog the Illinois River. AP Photo/John Flesher

    In his second term, President Donald Trump has not taken many actions that draw near-universal praise from across the political spectrum. But there is at least one of these political anomalies, and it illustrates the broad appeal of environmental protection and conservation projects – particularly when it concerns an ecosystem of vital importance to millions of Americans.

    In May 2025, Trump issued a presidential memorandum supporting the construction of a physical barrier that is key to keeping invasive carp out of the Great Lakes. These fish have made their way up the Mississippi River system and could have dire ecological consequences if they enter the Great Lakes.

    It was not a given that Trump would back this project, which had long been supported by environmental and conservation organizations. But two very different strategies from two Democratic governors – both potential presidential candidates in 2028 – reflected the importance of the Great Lakes to America.

    As a water policy and politics scholar focused on the Great Lakes, I see this development not only as an environmental and conservation milestone, but also a potential pathway for more political unity in the U.S.

    A feared invasion

    Perhaps nothing alarms Great Lakes ecologists more than the potential for invasive carp from Asia to establish a breeding population in the Great Lakes. These fish were intentionally introduced in the U.S. Southeast by private fish farm and wastewater treatment operators as a means to control algae in aquaculture and sewage treatment ponds. Sometime in the 1990s, the fish escaped from those ponds and moved rapidly up the Mississippi River system, including into the Illinois River, which connects to the Great Lakes.

    Sometimes said to “breed like mosquitoes and eat like hogs,” these fish can consume up to 40% of their body weight each day, outcompeting many native species and literally sucking up other species and food sources.

    Studies of Lake Erie, for example, predict that if the carp enter and thrive, they could make up approximately one-third of the fish biomass of the entire lake within 20 years, replacing popular sportfishing species such as walleye and other ecologically and economically important species.

    Invasive carp are generally not eaten in the U.S. and are not desirable for sportfishing. In fact, silver carp have a propensity to jump up to 10 feet out of the water when startled by a boat motor. That can make parts of the Illinois River, which is packed with the invasive fish, almost impossible to fish or even maneuver a boat.

    Look out! Silver carp fly out of the water, obstructing boats and hitting people trying to enjoy a river in Indiana.

    The Brandon Road Lock and Dam solution

    Originally, the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River were not connected to each other. But in 1900, the city of Chicago connected them to avoid sending its sewage into Lake Michigan, from which the city draws its drinking water.

    The most complete way to block the carp from invading the Great Lakes would be to undo that connection – but that would recreate sewage and flooding issues for Chicago, or require other expensive infrastructure upgrades. The more practical, short-term alternative is to modify the historic Brandon Road Lock and Dam in Joliet, Illinois, by adding several obstacles that together would block the carp from swimming farther upriver toward the Great Lakes.

    The barrier, estimated to cost US$1.15 billion, was authorized by Congress in 2020 and 2022 after many years of intense planning and negotiations. For the first phase of construction, the project received $226 million in federal money from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to complement $114 million in state funding – $64 million from Michigan and $50 million from Illinois.

    On the first day of Trump’s second term, however, he paused a wide swath of federal funding, including funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. And that’s when two different political strategies emerged.

    A brief documentary explains the construction of a connection between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River basin.

    Pritzker vs. Whitmer vs. Trump

    Illinois, a state that has voted for the Democratic candidate in every presidential election since 1992, has the most financially at stake in the Brandon Road project because the project requires the state to acquire land and operate the barrier. When Trump issued his order, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, a Democrat, postponed the purchase of a key piece of land, blaming the “Trump Administration’s lack of clarity and commitment” to the project. Pritzker essentially dared Trump to be the reason for the collapse of the Great Lakes ecosystem and fisheries.

    Another Democrat, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan, a swing state with the most at stake economically and ecologically if these carp species enter the Great Lakes, took a very different approach. She went to the White House to talk with Trump about invasive carp and other issues. She defended her nonconfrontational approach to critics, though she also hid her face from cameras when Trump surprised her with an Oval Office press conference. When Trump visited Michigan, she stood beside him as they praised each other.

    When Trump released the federal funding in early May, Pritzker kept up his adversarial language, saying he was “glad that the Trump administration heard our calls … and decided to finally meet their obligation.” Whitmer stayed more conciliatory, calling the funding decision a “huge win that will protect our Great Lakes and secure our economy.” She said she was “grateful to the president for his commitment.”

    Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer greets President Donald Trump as he arrives in her state in late April 2025.
    AP Photo/Alex Brandon

    Why unity on carp?

    Whether coordinated or not, the net result of Pritzker’s and Whitmer’s actions drew praise from both sides of the aisle but was little noticed nationally.

    Trump’s support for the project was a rare moment of political unity and an extremely unusual example of leading Democrats being on the same page as Trump. I attribute this surprising outcome to two key factors.

    First, the Great Lakes region holds disproportionate power in presidential elections. Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania have backed the eventual winner in every presidential race for the past 20 years. This swing state power has been used by advocates and state political leaders to drive funding for Great Lakes protection for many years.

    Second, Great Lakes are the uniting force in the region. According to polling from the International Joint Commission, the binational body charged with overseeing waterways that cross the U.S.-Canada border, there is “nearly unanimous support (96%) for the importance of government investment in Great Lakes protections” from residents of the region.

    There aren’t any other issues with such high voter resonance, so politicians want to be sure Great Lakes voters are happy. For example, Vice President JD Vance has been particularly vocal about the Great Lakes. And Great Lakes restoration funding was one of the few things in the presidential budget that Democrats and Republicans agreed on.

    Both Pritzker and Whitmer likely had state-based and national motivations in mind and big aspirations at stake.

    Their combined effort has put the project back on track: As of May 12, 2025, Pritzker authorized Illinois to sign the land-purchase agreement he had paused back in February.

    And perhaps the governors have identified a new area for unity in a divided United States: Conservation and environmental issues have broad public support, particularly when they involve iconic natural resources, shared values and popular outdoor pursuits such as fishing and boating. Even when political strategies diverge, the results can bring bipartisan satisfaction.

    Mike Shriberg was previously the Great Lakes Regional Executive Director of the National Wildlife Federation, which entailed being a co-chair (and, for part of the time, Director) of the Healing Our Waters – Great Lakes Coalition.

    – ref. Invasive carp threaten the Great Lakes − and reveal a surprising twist in national politics – https://theconversation.com/invasive-carp-threaten-the-great-lakes-and-reveal-a-surprising-twist-in-national-politics-257707

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Toxic fungus from King Tutankhamun’s tomb yields cancer-fighting compounds – new study

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Justin Stebbing, Professor of Biomedical Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University

    Miro Varcek / Shutterstock.com

    In November 1922, archaeologist Howard Carter peered through a small hole into the sealed tomb of King Tutankhamun. When asked if he could see anything, he replied: “Yes, wonderful things.” Within months, however, Carter’s financial backer Lord Carnarvon was dead from a mysterious illness. Over the following years, several other members of the excavation team would meet similar fates, fuelling legends of the “pharaoh’s curse” that have captivated the public imagination for just over a century.

    For decades, these mysterious deaths were attributed to supernatural forces. But modern science has revealed a more likely culprit: a toxic fungus known as Aspergillus flavus. Now, in an unexpected twist, this same deadly organism is being transformed into a powerful new weapon in the fight against cancer.

    Aspergillus flavus is a common mould found in soil, decaying vegetation and stored grains. It is infamous for its ability to survive in harsh environments, including the sealed chambers of ancient tombs, where it can lie dormant for thousands of years.

    When disturbed, the fungus releases spores that can cause severe respiratory infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. This may explain the so-called “curse” of King Tutankhamun and similar incidents, such as the deaths of several scientists who entered the tomb of Casimir IV in Poland in the 1970s. In both cases, investigations later found that A flavus was present, and its toxins were probably responsible for the illnesses and deaths.

    Despite its deadly reputation, Aspergillus flavus is now at the centre of a remarkable scientific finding. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have discovered that this fungus produces a unique class of molecules with the potential to fight cancer.

    These molecules belong to a group called ribosomally synthesised and post-translationally modified peptides, or RiPPs. RiPPs are made by the ribosome – the cell’s protein factory – and are later chemically altered to enhance their function.

    While thousands of RiPPs have been identified in bacteria, only a handful have been found in fungi – until now.

    The process of finding these fungal RiPPs was far from simple. The research team screened a dozen different strains or types of aspergillus, searching for chemical clues that might indicate the presence of these promising molecules. Aspergillus flavus quickly stood out as a prime candidate.

    The researchers compared the chemicals from different fungal strains to known RiPP compounds and found promising matches. To confirm their discovery, they switched off the relevant genes and, sure enough, the target chemicals vanished, proving they had found the source.

    Purifying these chemicals proved to be a significant challenge. However, this complexity is also what gives fungal RiPPs their remarkable biological activity.

    The team eventually succeeded in isolating four different RiPPs from Aspergillus flavus. These molecules shared a unique structure of interlocking rings, a feature that had never been described before. The researchers named these new compounds “asperigimycins”, after the fungus in which they were found.

    The next step was to test these asperigimycins against human cancer cells. In some cases, they stopped the growth of cancer cells, suggesting that asperigimycins could one day become a new treatment for certain types of cancer.

    The team also worked out how these chemicals get inside cancer cells. This discovery is significant because many chemicals, like asperigimycins, have medicinal properties but struggle to enter cells in large enough quantities to be useful. Knowing that particular fats (lipids) can enhance this process gives scientists a new tool for drug development.

    Further experiments revealed that asperigimycins probably disrupt the process of cell division in cancer cells. Cancer cells divide uncontrollably, and these compounds appear to block the formation of microtubules, the scaffolding inside cells that are essential for cell division.

    Tremendous untapped potential

    This disruption is specific to certain types of cells, so this may in turn reduce the risk of side-effects. But the discovery of asperigimycins is just the beginning. The researchers also identified similar clusters of genes in other fungi, suggesting that many more fungal RiPPs remain to be discovered.

    Almost all the fungal RiPPs found so far have strong biological activity, making this an area with tremendous untapped potential. The next step is to test asperigimycins in other systems and models, with the hope of eventually moving to human clinical trials. If successful, these molecules could join the ranks of other fungal-derived medicines, such as penicillin, which revolutionised modern medicine.

    The story of Aspergillus flavus is a powerful example of how nature can be both a source of danger and a wellspring of healing. For centuries, this fungus was feared as a silent killer lurking in ancient tombs, responsible for mysterious deaths and the legend of the pharaoh’s curse. Today, scientists are turning that fear into hope, harnessing the same deadly spores to create life-saving medicines.

    This transformation, from curse to cure, highlights the importance of continued exploration and innovation in the natural world. Nature has in fact provided us with an incredible pharmacy, filled with compounds that can heal as well as harm. It is up to scientists and engineers to uncover these secrets, using the latest technologies to identify, modify and test new molecules for their potential to treat disease.

    The discovery of asperigimycins is a reminder that even the most unlikely sources – such as a toxic tomb fungus – can hold the key to revolutionary new treatments. As researchers continue to explore the hidden world of fungi, who knows what other medical breakthroughs may lie just beneath the surface?

    Justin Stebbing 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. Toxic fungus from King Tutankhamun’s tomb yields cancer-fighting compounds – new study – https://theconversation.com/toxic-fungus-from-king-tutankhamuns-tomb-yields-cancer-fighting-compounds-new-study-259706

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Why Asos should be wary of banning customers returning unwanted goods

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Nic Sanders, Senior Lecturer in Management and Marketing, University of Westminster

    ‘Now where’s that returns label?’ Cast of Thousands.Shutterstock

    Shopping for clothes online is a risky business. How do you know if that top will be a good fit, or those shoes will definitely be the right colour? One popular solution to this predicament is to order lots of tops and lots of shoes, try them on at home, and send back all the ones you don’t want – often at no cost.

    But that tactic can be expensive for the fashion retailer, which needs to pay for all those deliveries and returns. And now Asos, which sends millions of shipments every month, has started banning some customers for over-returning items – prompting something of a backlash.

    The response by the retail giant, which says it wants to maintain a “commitment to offering free returns to all customers across all core markets”, also raises questions about the sustainability of the online fashion business model which Asos helped to create.

    Many online retailers rely on the emotional highs of shopping. The excitement of placing an order, the anticipation of delivery, and the dopamine hit of unpacking a purchase is central to its popular customer experience.

    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.

    Online shopping generally has thrived on impulsive buying, with the option of returning items treated as a normal part of the process. Of course, even in the days before online shopping there would be customers who routinely returned items.

    But by digitising and simplifying the process, the likes of Asos have helped this to happen on a massive scale. Shoppers have become completely used to ordering multiple sizes or styles with the express intention of returning most of the items they receive. Their homes effectively become fitting rooms.

    And those customers could reasonably argue that online retailers often use digital strategies which encourage multi-item purchases.

    Some sites remind shoppers of recently viewed products and provide suggestions of similar items, for example. There may be are prompts and nudges towards clothes which are frequently bought together.

    Items are then sometimes temporarily reserved in a shopper’s basket for 60 minutes, creating a sense of urgency. Targeted emails and limited time offers drive bulging shopping baskets, encouraging more risk purchases and returns.

    Yet returned items carry a significant cost. They may be unfit for resale and ultimately disposed of, which beyond the financial burden, has an environmental price.

    In addition to creating landfill, each delivery and return has a carbon footprint. And although many younger consumers express support for sustainable practices, their buying behaviour continues to prioritise price and convenience.

    But free returns have become part of the online fashion industry landscape. Research suggests that customers are simply more likely to buy something if returns are free.

    And today’s tricky financial climate, marked by inflation and rising living costs will surely have made consumers even more cautious. Many will be reluctant to buy items that incur delivery and return costs.

    Shopping around

    Frustrations can then arise from unclear return policies, often buried in lengthy terms and conditions documents. Some of those banned by Asos say they were confused about the rules.

    Automated customer service systems offering generic responses may then leave shoppers with no clear way to challenge these decisions.

    Perhaps the wider issue here is that online shopping cannot fully replicate the benefits of shopping in store. In physical shops, customers can try on items before deciding.

    But online, this can’t happen, so returns become fundamental to the decision-making process. For cost-conscious shoppers, avoiding unnecessary spending is essential. But if returns policies become harder to access, they may turn to other retailers which offer more certainty.

    Return to sender?
    A08/Shutterstock

    For example, retailers such as Zara and H&M, with a business model which mixes online convenience with a high street (or shopping mall) presence, offer the option to order online and then return in person.

    This hybrid (or “omni-channel”) model appears to be driving consumers to physical shops for a blended experience which provides convenience and helps reduce return costs.

    For Asos, doing something similar would require major investment (in bricks and mortar) and increased operational costs – so is perhaps an unlikely solution for the company.

    But to balance sustainability, cost and customer satisfaction, Asos could explore other options. These might include clearer, more visible communication regarding “fair use” policies and their consequences. It could aim for more human interactions and better dialogue with customers it plans to ban.

    Offering physical retail locations or return collection points to simplify the process and reduce the environmental impact and costs will provide customer flexibility. Overall, these areas will help create a better customer service experience.

    Ultimately, Asos and other similar online clothing retailers must evolve. With changing consumer expectations, a challenging economic climate and rising operational costs, the model that defined these retailers’ early success cannot remain unchanged.

    If they make adjustments, they may emerge stronger. If they do not, they risk sparking a customer exodus that would be hard to reverse.

    Nic Sanders 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. Why Asos should be wary of banning customers returning unwanted goods – https://theconversation.com/why-asos-should-be-wary-of-banning-customers-returning-unwanted-goods-259952

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Could electric brain stimulation lead to better maths skills?

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Roi Cohen Kadosh, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience, University of Surrey

    Triff/Shutterstock

    A painless, non-invasive brain stimulation technique can significantly improve how young adults learn maths, my colleagues and I found in a recent study. In a paper in PLOS Biology, we describe how this might be most helpful for those who are likely to struggle with mathematical learning because of how their brain areas involved in this skill communicate with each other.

    Maths is essential for many jobs, especially in science, technology, engineering and finance. However, a 2016 OECD report suggested that a large proportion of adults in developed countries (24% to 29%) have maths skills no better than a typical seven-year-old. This lack of numeracy can contribute to lower income, poor health, reduced political participation and even diminished trust in others.

    Education often widens rather than closes the gap between high and low
    achievers, a phenomenon known as the Matthew effect. Those who start with an advantage, such as being able to read more words when starting school, tend to pull further ahead. Stronger educational achievement has been also associated with socioeconomic status, higher motivation and greater engagement with material learned during a class.

    Biological factors, such as genes, brain connectivity, and chemical signalling, have been shown in some studies to play a stronger role in learning outcomes than environmental ones. This has been well-documented in different areas, including maths, where differences in biology may explain educational achievements.

    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.

    To explore this question, we recruited 72 young adults (18–30 years old) and taught them new maths calculation techniques over five days. Some received a placebo treatment. Others received transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS), which delivers gentle electrical currents to the brain. It is painless and often imperceptible, unless you focus hard to try and sense it.

    It is possible tRNS may cause long term side effects, but in previous studies my team assessed participants for cognitive side effects and found no evidence for it.

    Could tRNS help people improve their maths skills?
    Prostock-studio/Shutterstock

    Participants who received tRNS were randomly assigned to receive it in one of two different brain areas. Some received it over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a region critical for memory, attention, or when we acquire a new cognitive skill. Others had tRNS over the posterior parietal cortex, which processes maths information, mainly when the learning has been accomplished.

    Before and after the training, we also scanned their brains and measured levels of key neurochemicals such as gamma-aminobutyric acid (gaba), which we showed previously, in a 2021 study, to play a role in brain plasticity and learning, including maths.

    Some participants started with weaker connections between the prefrontal and parietal brain regions, a biological profile that is associated with poorer learning. The study results showed these participants made significant gains in learning when they received tRNS over the prefrontal cortex.

    Stimulation helped them catch up with peers who had stronger natural connectivity. This finding shows the critical role of the prefrontal cortex in learning and could help reduce educational inequalities that are grounded in neurobiology.

    How does this work? One explanation lies in a principle called stochastic resonance. This is when a weak signal becomes clearer when a small amount of random noise is added.

    In the brain, tRNS may enhance learning by gently boosting the activity of underperforming neurons, helping them get closer to the point at which they become active and send signals. This is a point known as the “firing threshold”, especially in people whose brain activity is suboptimal for a task like maths learning.

    It is important to note what this technique does not do. It does not make the best
    learners even better. That is what makes this approach promising for bridging gaps,
    not widening them. This form of brain stimulation helps level the playing field.

    Our study focused on healthy, high-performing university students. But in similar studies on children with maths learning disabilities (2017) and with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (2023) my colleagues and I found tRNS seemed to improve their learning and performance in cognitive training.

    I argue our findings could open a new direction in education. The biology of the learner matters, and with advances in knowledge and technology, we can develop tools that act on the brain directly, not just work around it. This could give more people the chance to get the best benefit from education.

    In time, perhaps personalised, brain-based interventions like tRNS could support learners who are being left behind not because of poor teaching or personal circumstances, but because of natural differences in how their brains work.

    Of course, very often education systems aren’t operating to their full potential because of inadequate resources, social disadvantage or systemic barriers. And so any brain-based tools must go hand-in-hand with efforts to tackle these obstacles.

    Roi Cohen Kadosh serves on the scientific advisory boards of Neuroelectrics Inc., and Innosphere Ltd. He is the founder and shareholder of Cognite Neurotechnology Ltd. He received funding from the Wellcome Trust, UKRI, the British Academy, IARPA, DASA, Joy Ventures, the James S McDonnell Foundation, and the European Union. He is affiliated with the University of Surrey.

    – ref. Could electric brain stimulation lead to better maths skills? – https://theconversation.com/could-electric-brain-stimulation-lead-to-better-maths-skills-260134

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congresswoman Lauren Boebert’s “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act Passes through House Natural Resources Committee

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lauren Boebert (Colorado, 3)

    WASHINGTON, D.C.— Congresswoman Lauren Boebert (CO-04) successfully passed H.R. 131, the “Finish the Arkansas Valley Conduit” Act, through the House Natural Resources Committee this morning. The bill eliminates interest payments on construction costs endured by non-federal entities and extends the repayment period to 75 years, allowing local communities more flexibility to finish their investments in this critical project. Congressman Jeff Hurd (CO-03) is a cosponsor of the bill, while Colorado Senator Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper have introduced companion legislation in the U.S. Senate.

    Upon completion, the Arkansas Valley Conduit would provide access to clean water to 50,000 residents in Southeast Colorado, including Bent, Prowers, Kiowa and Baca Counties. The project was originally started back in 1962 and has been delayed by bureaucracy and, most recently, rising construction and labor costs. The “Finish the AVC” Act addresses these issues in an effort to make this long-standing vision a finished product.

    “I’m very pleased to see my Finish the AVC Act get through Committee and continue to advance through Congress as a responsible solution for Southeast Coloradans,” said Congresswoman Boebert. “I’ve emphasized the need for every resident in the 4th District to have reliable access to clean water, whether it’s in Morgan County or down in our Southeast region. The Arkansas Valley Conduit has been pushed to the side for too long and it’s time we got this project done. I look forward to getting the Finish the AVC Act through the House and eventually to President Trump’s desk for signing.”

    “Rural water providers in our area often struggle to secure the funding needed to meet the needs of the communities they serve. Completing the Arkansas Valley Conduit (AVC), which has been stalled for decades as labor and construction costs continue to rise, would help reduce the financial burden on these providers and enhance their ability to deliver a higher quality and a more reliable water supply,” said Prowers County Commissioners Ty Harmon, Roger Cook, and Roger Stagner. “In addition to supporting households and businesses, a stable water supply is essential for agriculture — the backbone of our community’s economy. Reliable water access ensures that farmers and ranchers can maintain production, adapt to drought conditions, and sustain the long-term viability of their operations. We’re grateful for Congresswoman Boebert’s work on this project and her efforts to support Southeast Colorado.”

    “In the west, it is critical that we have sound water infrastructure to meet communities’ needs,”said HNR Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman (AR-04).“Rep. Boebert’s legislation will help get the Arkansas Valley Conduit project across the finish line more than 50 years after it was authorized. I thank her for her work to move this important project forward and her leadership on western water issues.”

    The full text of Congresswoman Boebert’s H.R. 131 can be read HERE.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Unlock Financing through UN Joint SDG Fund, Urges Deputy Secretary-General at Sevilla Conference

    Source: United Nations 4

    Following are UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed’s remarks at the side event, “Catalysing Change:  Unlocking Impactful Financing at Scale through the UN Joint SDG Fund”, during the Financing for Development Conference in Sevilla, Spain:

    I am delighted to join you today to showcase how the UN Joint SDG Fund is turning the Financing for Development 4 vision into a reality on the ground.  Ten years into the implementation of the 2030 Agenda [for Sustainable Development], we face a stark reality:  while progress on the SDGs [Sustainable Development Goals] has delivered for millions, it has not kept pace with the scale of global challenges. The financing gap for the SDGs now exceeds $4 trillion annually, while multiple crises and shifting priorities threaten our collective ambition.

    Delivering on the vision of the 2030 Agenda requires finding and scaling-up innovative solutions.  This is the purpose of the Joint SDG Fund.  The Fund is an innovative and powerful instrument to drive change, break siloed approaches, and unlock financing at scale.

    Since its inception, the Fund has committed over $380 million, enabling a whole-of-UN-system response to pressing challenges.  This commitment has leveraged a further $6.6 billion in contributions from the wider ecosystem of development partners at country level.

    This is a clear demonstration of how finite resources, applied strategically, can crowd-in far greater volumes of capital, and result in far greater impact for the SDGs.

    The secret to the Fund’s success is its innovative approach to financing. Through blended and innovative finance mechanisms — from SDG bonds to energy financing facilities to credit enhancement guarantees — the Fund demonstrates how strategic risk-sharing can attract private capital for sustainable development, while bringing partners together to deliver solutions.

    Consider the following five examples:

    In Indonesia, the Joint SDG Fund supported green and social investments, mobilizing $4.6 billion through specialized bonds that benefited over 7.5 million students and restored 50,000 hectares of mangrove forests.

    In Uruguay, the Renewable Energy Innovation Fund achieved a 1:6 leverage ratio by partnering with seven banks that together account for 80 per cent of the country’s financial sector.

    Kenya’s innovative health financing reached over 1.5 million young people through results-based payment mechanisms working with impact investors.

    North Macedonia’s Green Finance Facility channels resources through six local banks, directing $46.5 million toward environmental projects while supporting women-headed households, Roma communities, and persons with disabilities.  This was achieved in partnership with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and others.

    And Zimbabwe’s Renewable Energy Fund showcases how partnerships with private equity funds, such as Old Mutual, can mobilize capital for women and youth-led enterprises in challenging markets.

    These are just a few powerful examples.

    The Fund’s success also stems from its unique positioning within the UN development system, leveraging UN resident coordinators’ convening role and UN country teams’ technical expertise.

    Fundamentally, the Fund represents multilateralism at its most effective — creating a collaborative platform extending beyond the UN system to enable and grow partnerships across the development and finance community.

    But delivering on the Fund’s full potential requires expanded partnership. I call on all Member States, development finance institutions, and private sector partners to deepen engagement with the Fund — not only through financial commitments but through strategic partnerships to keep pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

    Today, we will hear about success stories from Zimbabwe to North Macedonia, from Cabo Verde to Suriname.  These prove that, with the right instruments and partnerships, we can turn global commitments into tangible local transformation.

    The Financing for Development 4 outcome document, the “Sevilla Commitment,” calls for a global SDG investment push.  This is possible by elevating the role of governments in guiding strategic investments; by all development partners, including development banks, working as a system; by removing barriers to private capital; and by ensuring that investments from all partners are designed to deliver the greatest possible impact.

    The Fund stands ready to support and enable this important vision.  With innovation, partnerships, and the catalytic financing that the Joint SDG Fund provides, sustainable development for all remains within our reach.  Let’s get there together.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: Amplify Energy Announces Sale of Non-Operated Eagle Ford Assets

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HOUSTON, July 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Amplify Energy Corp. (NYSE: AMPY) (“Amplify,” the “Company,” “us,” or “our”) announced today it entered into a definitive agreement to sell all of its non-operated working interest in its Eagle Ford assets to Murphy Exploration & Production Company — USA for a contract price of $23 million, subject to certain post-closing adjustments. The sale closed July 1, 2025 and has an effective date of June 15, 2025.

    The net proceeds from the sale will be used to pay down debt which will enhance the Company’s liquidity. With an improved balance sheet, Amplify is considering adding back high-return Beta development wells in 2025 that it had previously deferred in May. The Company expects to provide updated full-year 2025 guidance at the time it provides second quarter operating and financial results.

    Martyn Willsher, Amplify’s President and Chief Executive Officer stated, “The sale of our non-operated Eagle Ford assets is an important step forward in the transformation of Amplify Energy to a more streamlined and focused enterprise. We believe monetizing proved reserves and reinvesting those proceeds in high-return development wells at Beta will be value enhancing to our shareholders.”

    Mr. Willsher continued, “Reducing debt and accelerating Beta development are core tenets of our go-forward strategy. This deal is consistent with both of these objectives, and we believe we are receiving fair value for the divested assets. We will continue to look for other opportunities that align with our strategic intent.”

    About Amplify Energy

    Amplify Energy Corp. is an independent oil and natural gas company engaged in the acquisition, development, exploitation and production of oil and natural gas properties. Amplify’s operations are focused in Oklahoma, the Rockies (Bairoil), federal waters offshore Southern California (Beta), and East Texas / North Louisiana. For more information, visit www.amplifyenergy.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Terminology such as “may,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “project,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “pursue,” “target,” “outlook,” “continue,” the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements. These statements address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the anticipated impact of this proposed sale of assets on the Company’s business and future financial and operating results, the expected use of proceeds of this sale of assets, and the Company’s expectations of plans, goals, strategies (including measures to implement strategies), objectives and anticipated results with respect thereto. These forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause the Company’s actual results or financial condition to differ materially from those expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. These include risks and uncertainties relating to, among other things: the ability to complete this proposed sale of assets on the anticipated terms and timetable; the possibility that various closing conditions for this proposed sale of assets may not be satisfied or waived; the Company’s evaluation and implementation of strategic alternatives; risks related to the redetermination of the borrowing base under the Company’s revolving credit facility; the Company’s ability to satisfy debt obligations; the Company’s need to make accretive acquisitions or substantial capital expenditures to maintain its declining asset base, including the existence of unanticipated liabilities or problems relating to acquired or divested business or properties; volatility in the prices for oil, natural gas and NGLs; the Company’s ability to access funds on acceptable terms, if at all, because of the terms and conditions governing the Company’s indebtedness, including financial covenants; general political and economic conditions, globally and in the jurisdictions in which we operate, including the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, trade wars and the potential destabilizing effect such conflicts may pose for the global oil and natural gas markets; expectations regarding general economic conditions, including inflation; and the impact of local, state and federal governmental regulations, including those related to climate change and hydraulic fracturing, and potential changes in these regulations. Please read the Company’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”), including “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K, and if applicable, the Company’s Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q and Current Reports on Form 8-K, which are available on the Company’s Investor Relations website at https://www.amplifyenergy.com/investor-relations/sec-filings/default.aspx or on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov, for a discussion of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ from those in such forward-looking statements. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date of this press release. All forward-looking statements in this press release are qualified in their entirety by these cautionary statements. Except as required by law, the Company undertakes no obligation and does not intend to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future results or otherwise.

    Contacts

    Jim Frew — Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
    (832) 219-9044
    jim.frew@amplifyenergy.com

    Michael Jordan — Director, Finance and Treasurer
    (832) 219-9051
    michael.jordan@amplifyenergy.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Business Confidence Remains Stationary Despite Early Optimism

    Source: Business Canterbury

    Canterbury businesses confidence is levelling off, according to Business Canterbury’s latest Quarterly Canterbury Business Survey. Despite reaching a high point in December last year, business confidence has not continued its upward trajectory in 2025 as many had hoped.
    Business Canterbury Chief Executive Leeann Watson says, “Business confidence has rebounded significantly since this time last year, but the early optimism late last year hasn’t continued its upward trajectory into 2025, with consumer confidence and demand being slower to rebound than anticipated and continued geopolitical instability taking its toll.”
    “However, while our businesses aren’t getting more confident each quarter, it’s still generally positive out there.
    “When we look at the key indicators, 59% of businesses are expecting to hire staff within the next 12 months and similarly, those expecting to invest in property, plant and equipment sits at 60%, compared to 57% last quarter.
    “So, while the current environment could be described as stationary, it is by no means gloomy.
    “We are seeing different levels of market recovery across different sectors, with businesses falling into three distinct categories: those making significant headway in growth, those in recovery mode but not yet ready to expand, and a sizeable group still struggling with challenging decisions about their future.
    “The big challenges haven’t shifted much, we’re still hearing concerns around consumer confidence and demand, productivity and growth, inflation and interest rates, cashflow, and compliance costs.
    “These remain front of mind for many of our members and the wider business community, and despite drops in the OCR, we are yet to see the full impact of these with many still on fixed rates locked in over the last two years, which is also impacting sticky consumer confidence and demand.
    “Canterbury is positioned well to grow quickly when the market turns. Canterbury is the place to be, and people want to be part of our growth story. Since 2018, over 40,000 people have moved to Canterbury from other parts of New Zealand.”
    “Our regional economy is also highly diversified, 5 th compared to Auckland at 11 th and Wellington at 14 th – contributing to business resilience here, with 82% reporting confidence in their ability to manage disruption.
    About Business Canterbury
    Business Canterbury, formerly Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce, is the largest business support agency in the South Island and advocates on behalf of its members for an environment more favourable to innovation, productivity and sustainable growth.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –