NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Mukuru and Payfast Deliver on the Promise of Online Shopping for Cash-Paying South Africans

    South Africa’s predominantly cash-based economy is making significant inroads into the e-commerce sector, thanks to the growing success of the partnership between financial services platform Mukuru (www.Mukuru.com) and payment gateway Payfast by Network. For over a year, the two businesses have been enabling access to online shopping for cash-paying South Africans. Through MukuruPay (MPay), cash-first customers can now participate in digital commerce, unlocking new market segments for thousands of local retailers. 

    The partnership’s success stems from its ability to address a long-standing gap in the e-commerce market—the exclusion of millions of South Africans who prefer or rely on cash. A recent Payfast (https://apo-opa.co/4eMSDXX) “State of Pay” report shows that cash is the fourth preferred payment methods for customers and competes with widely used options such as card, open banking/ instant EFT and QR code. Likewise, an SBV Cash Survey 2024 (https://apo-opa.co/40shqdC) white paper outlines that 22% (over 13 million) of South Africans are cash-reliant and are not willing or cannot switch to other forms of payment. The study reveals that this group is vulnerable in the shift to digital services, despite holding immense economic potential.  

    Mukuru’s partnership with Payfast is helping to bridge the gap between cash and digital commerce by making e-commerce more accessible to cash-first consumers in South Africa. Throughout 2024, the company has seen a growing number of businesses adopt its payment option via Payfast, reflecting increased demand across sectors such as internet services, digital goods, fashion, groceries, bill payments, and education.  

    Timothee Dura, Head of Merchant Payments at Mukuru, says, “South Africa’s e-commerce cannot accept only cards and digital payment methods like EFTs or wallets. It needs to work for everyone. We are bridging the digital divide by meeting cash-first consumers where they are—offering them convenience and access to goods and services that were previously out of reach with a payment method that is familiar to them. This is how we build a more inclusive financial ecosystem in South Africa.” 

    For merchants, MPay offers a way to reach customers who have traditionally been excluded from online shopping due to their reliance on cash. The payment method builds on Mukuru’s long-standing experience with cash-first communities and is available through the Payfast by Network dashboard for registered merchants. Once MPay is enabled, a customer shopping on the merchant’s online store selects Mukuru as the payment option at checkout. The system generates a unique order number, valid for 36 hours. The customer can then pay in cash at any of Mukuru’s 11,000+ payment points across South Africa—including major retailers like Spar, Pick n’ Pay, Boxer, and Shoprite.  

    As soon as the customer pays, Mukuru alerts the merchant—enabling swift order fulfilment. MPay also helps merchants reduce operational costs by cutting down on cash handling, removing the need for cash-on-delivery, and minimising the risk of fraud.  

     For consumers, MPay presents an alternative to cash on delivery, particularly relevant in informal or rural areas, where logistical challenges and safety concerns are more frequent. It enables participation in digital commerce while retaining the familiarity of cash payments, facilitated through Mukuru’s established physical network. 

    “The increasing adoption of MPay on Payfast by merchants reflects our conviction that cash-first customers are critical to South Africa’s e-commerce economy. We remain committed to bridging the gap between cash and digital payments, creating safer, regulated, and accessible pathways for unbanked and underserved communities to participate in the formal economy”, concludes Dura. 

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Mukuru.

    MEDIA ENQUIRIES: 
    Kgomotso Hlakudi: 
    Email: kgomotso.hlakudi@mukuru.com
    (+27) 73 333 1672 

    About Mukuru:  
    Mukuru is a leading next generation financial services platform in Southern Africa that offers affordable and reliable financial services to a customer base of over 17 million+ across Africa, Asia and Europe. With over 100 million transactions to date, our core was built providing international money transfers and from this base, we’ve developed a set of services to address the broader financial needs of our customers. We now operate in over 70 countries and across over 570 remittance corridors. 

    We are a business that puts the customer at the centre of everything we do, and for that reason, we serve clients across physical and digital channels, by various payment methods (cash, card, wallet) as well as a range of engagement platforms including WhatsApp, USSD, contact centre, App, website, agents and a branch and booth network. 

    Mukuru has been listed among the top 100 Cross Border Payments businesses globally for the sixth consecutive year in the 2025 FXC Intelligence Top 100 Cross-Border Payment Companies. In 2024, Mukuru won the IAMTN Payments Network Customers Experience Excellence Award for exceptional customer satisfaction and was accredited as a Top Employer in South Africa for 2024 and 2025 by the Top Employers Institute.  

    In 2023, Mukuru ranked sixth on the LinkedIn Top Companies List in South Africa. We aso received the Fintech Innovation of the Year Award at the 2023 Africa Tech Festival Awards for its role in driving economic growth and financial inclusion.  

    Further information can be found at: https://apo-opa.co/44x1h87

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Business-critical mails in spam folders: Why real emails look fake now

    In the fight against phishing, forward-thinking organisations are winning. But there’s a twist. The heightened vigilance that has empowered employees to detect suspicious emails is now creating a new dilemma: legitimate, business-critical messages are being flagged, ignored, or buried in spam folders. And in today’s AI-fuelled cyber landscape, that reaction may be as justified as it is damaging.

    Phishing works and it’s reshaping trust

    The release of generative AI tools has supercharged phishing attempts. KnowBe4’s Phishing Threat Trend Report 2025 (https://apo-opa.co/4kdUXIx) shows that more than 80% (https://apo-opa.co/3TNjJnN) of the analysed phishing emails were augmented by AI, and they’re far more convincing than before. 

    “The gut-check we used to rely on has been gamed – and even the large language models now being explored to help detect suspicious emails are also struggling,” says Anna Collard, SVP of Content Strategy & Evangelist at KnowBe4 Africa. “They’re forced to dig deeper, assessing tone, context, and subtler red flags.”

    The result? Suspicion is now the default

    And it’s not unwarranted. Maturing cybersecurity awareness and phishing simulation programs have helped sharpen employees’ scepticism (https://apo-opa.co/3GpDVcj). But this success has revealed a new problem: overcorrection.

    Emails that are real – from HR, IT, legal, or sales – are now increasingly being misjudged. In some cases, they’re wrongly flagged as phishing by either people or systems.

    In others, they’re simply ignored. The irony is that some of the most common and legitimate corporate communication traits are now the very ones that raise red flags:

    • Urgency: “Sign this by COB today”; or when every email from a colleague is marked “urgent”
    • Unexpected senders: e.g. HR tools or SaaS platforms
    • Calls to action: “Click here to confirm”
    • Stylistic quirks: overly polished copy, too many links or bold phrases
    • Tech misalignments: emails from legitimate senders failing DMARC or DKIM checks

    “Even just using a third-party sender domain can cause confusion,” says Collard. “If staff don’t expect it – or don’t recognise the platform – the message can get flagged.”

    For good reason too, as according to KnowBe4’s Phishing Threat Trend Report (https://apo-opa.co/4kdUXIx) the top 5 legitimate platforms used to send out phishing emails include popular business tools such as DocuSign, Paypal, Microsoft, Google Drive, and Salesforce.

    The cost of false positives

    When real emails get sidelined, the impact is more than a missed message. Delayed IT updates, ignored HR deadlines, and lost sales opportunities can create serious ripple effects across operations. Deliverability issues also erode trust. And in high-stakes environments like healthcare, legal services or finance, false positives can become costly very quickly.

    So, how do you write emails that get read – not flagged?

    To combat this growing challenge, organisations need to stop thinking of phishing risk as purely a recipient problem. Legitimate internal emails need to look legitimate too.

    Here’s how every team – from HR to IT to marketing – can write more trustworthy emails:

    Write Like a Human, Deliver Like a Pro

    Subject lines should set expectations

    Use clear, predictable language. Instead of “IMPORTANT: Read this now!”, try “Reminder: Benefits enrollment closes Friday”.

    Lead with context before asking for action

    Start with a reference point: “You recently submitted a travel claim…” or “As part of your onboarding…”.

    Limit urgency to what’s truly urgent

    Too many “ASAP”s will breed indifference. Use urgency sparingly – and explain why it matters. Remember:
    If everything is urgent; nothing is.

    Minimise links and avoid vague CTAs

    Avoid phrases like “click here” or hyperlinking whole sentences. Provide a fallback path:
    “Or log into your dashboard directly (https://Training.KnowBe4.com)”.

    Be cautious with tone and formatting

    Avoid shouty subject lines, gimmicky language, or inconsistent formatting that can trigger filters.

    Test before sending

    Run your email through spam-filter testing tools to see what might flag it (Mail-Tester.com or GlockApps.com).

    Get your digital paperwork in order

    Even the best-written email may never reach its recipient if your authentication protocols aren’t properly configured. SPF, DKIM, and DMARC are three essential technical settings that help prove your email really came from your domain.

    • SPF tells email providers which servers are allowed to send emails using your domain name — helping stop spammers from pretending to be you.
    • DKIM adds a digital signature to your emails to prove they really came from you and weren’t changed along the way.
    • DMARC brings SPF and DKIM together by setting rules for what to do with suspicious emails (like send them to spam or block them) and sends reports to your IT team so they can spot abuse.

    “These protocols are a bit like a digital passport,” Collard explains. “Without them, even a genuine email may not make it through.”

    But even technically sound emails can fall flat if they don’t look legitimate to the reader. That’s why it’s just as important to consider how your internal teams craft and send messages.

    Internal brand security: don’t just train recipients – train senders too

    Cyber awareness is often focused on detection. But to maintain deliverability and trust, sender behaviour matters too. Teach teams to avoid accidental red flags. Share templates and subject line guides. And ensure that employees – especially those sending to large groups – understand the basics of trustworthy communication.

    Consistency is key. Make sure communications come from the same official addresses, follow familiar formats, and maintain a recognizable tone. This teaches recipients what to expect – and what to be cautious of – building a clearer line between legitimate messages and possible fakes.

    “This is part of internal brand hygiene,” says Collard. “When your team consistently communicates clearly and predictably, you build trust over time – with both employees and clients. That trust makes your emails easier to recognise, safer to deliver, and more likely to be opened.”

    In a world where AI can impersonate your tone and template with ease (https://apo-opa.co/3TPcb3X), your best defence is to sound like yourself – and help others know what to expect when you speak.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of KnowBe4.

    Contact details:
    Anne Dolinschek
    KnowBe4
    Email: anned@knowbe4.com

    TJ Coenraad
    Red Ribbon
    Email: tj@redribboncommunications.co.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Ahead of Vote-a-rama, Durbin Sounds The Alarm On Republicans’ So-Called “One Big, Beautiful Bill”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Illinois Dick Durbin

    June 29, 2025

    In a speech on the Senate floor, Durbin highlights how Senate Republicans’ bill will slash health care coverage for more than 16 million Americans to provide massive tax breaks for billionaires

    WASHINGTON – Ahead of an upcoming vote-a-rama, where Senate Democrats will expose the truth about Republicans’ so-called One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which will slash Medicaid, Affordable Care Act, and Medicare coverage for more than 16 million Americans to provide massive tax breaks for billionaires, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) delivered a speech on the Senate floor where he underscored the dangers of this Republican proposal and called on four of his Senate Republican colleagues to stand up and oppose this harmful legislation.

    “We’re here today debating a clumsily assembled package—still a work in progress—that would rip away health care from 16 million American families to give tax breaks to millionaires, billionaires, and the largest corporations,” Durbin said. “Think about that for a moment. The Republicans have decided that the best avenue to generate revenue that they can then give in tax breaks to wealthy people is to eliminate health insurance coverage for 16 million Americans. That’s going to have a dramatic impact on their lives… The notion of losing your health insurance leaves you as vulnerable as possible in some of the most important moments of your life. And that they would consider this provision—to eliminate health insurance coverage for 16 million families—is unimaginable and cruel.”

    Durbin continued, “Let’s not act like there is a unified Republican front on this issue. Even some of my colleagues on the other side of the aisle don’t want to be here at this moment jamming this unpopular bill through this chamber under arbitrary deadlines… Behind closed doors, my Republican colleagues continued to be consumed with infighting, bickering over the bill’s substance—and for good reason.”

    Durbin outlined how the Senate Republican bill cripples one of the main ways that states fund their Medicaid programs and keep hospitals afloat, especially in rural and low-income areas—the provider tax.

    Earlier this week, a Republican Senator circulated a flyer to his fellow caucus members detailing just how much each state will lose in Medicaid provider tax funding under their proposal. It said: Iowa would lose $4.1 billion; Missouri would lose $6.1 billion; Kentucky would lose $12 billion; Louisiana would lose $20 billion; North Carolina would lose $38.9 billion dollars.

    “This list of states and what they will lose was passed around by a Republican Senator to his own caucus. They know what they are up against here,” Durbin said. “If Republicans have their way and pass this bill, hospitals will be forced to shrink or eliminate services… doctors and nurses will leave, and—in some cases—the hospital will close.”

    Durbin continued, “As it stands today, half of the rural hospitals around the country already operate in the danger zone… If Republicans have their way, we are going to see massive layoffs—fewer nurses, technicians, and doctors—along with decreasing quality of care.” 

    The American Hospital Association estimated how these cuts to Medicaid could impact not just the jobs at these red-state hospitals, but jobs across the entire state economy. Here’s what they found: Maine could lose nearly 5,000 jobs. Kansas could lose 6,200 jobs. Iowa could lose nearly 11,000 jobs. And Missouri could lose 26,600 jobs.

    Durbin then discussed the so-called “rural hospital fund” Senate Republicans concocted, which is designed to mask the harms of their own Medicaid cuts. 

    “They [Republicans] came up with a rescue fund to solve the political problem… [the] overall cut in Medicaid now is about a trillion dollars. $1 trillion… Cutting Medicaid nationwide a trillion dollars. And the rescue plan for the small hospitals that are in danger, the ones I’ve talked about, a trillion dollars cut, how big is the rescue plan? 25 billion dollars. Do the math. It’s a joke,” Durbin said. “If Republican leaders think this is an adequate amount to alleviate the pains all of our nation’s rural hospitals are going to feel, then that’s like trying to put out a forest fire with a garden hose. This simply won’t work.”

    Durbin concluded by highlighting how congressional Democrats worked in a bipartisan manner to craft the Affordable Care Act, which has allowed more than 40 million Americans to gain health insurance coverage and led to a historic decline in our nation’s uninsured rate.

    “I want to conclude by saying this: we passed the Affordable Care Act 15 years ago. Of all the things that I’ve worked on in Congress, I think it had more positive impact to help the families across America than anything. We found a way to make health insurance more affordable for families, 15 years ago. And to do it, we held hearings—[Senate Democrats] [held] 100 hearings on theAffordable Care Act, roundtables, [and] walkthroughs. Two Committees spent a combined 21 days holding markups so that everyone could offer an amendment. Do you know how many amendments were made to the Obamacare program? 400 votes in Committee and on the Floor on amendments. 147 Republican amendments were included, though not a single Republican Senator ended up supporting Obamacare,” Durbin said. “At the end of the day, that legislation, Obamacare, allowed more than 40 million Americans to gain health insurance.”

    Durbin continued, “Today, how many hearings have we had on this bill before us, this dramatic, multitrillion dollar bill? None, zero, not a single one. Zero markups for Senators to offer amendments. 400 amendments on Obamacare. None on this one, until it comes to the Floor today. Zero bipartisan input. Our friends on the Republican side have said basically, ‘It’s a big deal. Take it or leave it.’ Should this bill become a law, do you know what it will have done? Thrown 16 million Americans off health insurance and closed many vulnerable, small hospitals all to pay fortax breaks for millionaires and billionaires. Maybe some of my Republican [colleagues] are okay with that. I don’t think the American people are.”

    Durbin concluded, “I’m hoping that sanity and commonsense prevail. We need four [Republican] Senators to step up and say stop this train. We’ve got to sit down and do our homework. We cannot expose the American families and the American economy to do this in the name of preserving tax breaks for the wealthiest people. Elon Musk seems to be doing okay in life, right? The wealthiest man in the world. Do you know what the tax break is for Elon Musk on the bill that is before us on the floor? $346,000. A lot of money. To him, he won’t even notice it. Giving him a tax break he won’t notice and taking away from health insurance from families who will be devastated, 16 million around the country. It’s an important choice.”

    Video of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Audio of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here.

    Footage of Durbin’s remarks on the Senate floor is available here for TV Stations.

    -30-

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA News: 60+ Organizations Sign White House Pledge to Support America’s Youth and Invest in AI Education

    Source: US Whitehouse

    WASHINGTON, DC – Today, over 60 organizations are the first signers of the White House’s Pledge to America’s Youth: Investing in AI Education, which promises to support the goals and mission of President Trump’s executive order Advancing Artificial Intelligence Education for America’s Youth.

    The organizations “pledge to make available resources for youth and teachers through funding and grants, educational materials and curricula, technology and tools, teacher professional development programs, workforce development resources, and/or technical expertise and mentorship” over the next four years, working alongside the White House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence Education. Together, the Pledge will help make AI education accessible to K-12 students across the country, sparking curiosity in the technology and preparing the next-generation for an AI-enabled economy.

    “Fostering young people’s interest and expertise in artificial intelligence is crucial to maintaining American technological dominance. These initial pledges from American organizations will help create new educational and workforce development opportunities for our students. We invite other organizations to join the pledge as we look forward to furthering these partnerships to introduce more of America’s youth to AI,” said Michael Kratsios, Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and Chair of the White House Task Force on AI Education.

    “We are thrilled that so many organizations have signed the Pledge to America’s Youth. It is clear there is a lot of energy about AI and how it can be used responsibly in education. The resources and tools that have been pledged through this initiative will help our teachers and learners leverage AI in classrooms and communities across America,” said Secretary of Education Linda McMahon.

    “AI is reshaping our economy and the way we live and work, and we must ensure the next generation of American workers is equipped with the skills they need to lead in this new era,” said Secretary of Labor Lori Chavez-DeRemer. “By uniting behind this pledge to provide critical resources for students and educators, I’m encouraged to see these organizations are committed to helping young Americans build the skills they need in AI literacy to drive innovation and become empowered leaders of tomorrow.”

    “To secure America’s future, the United States must win the AI race,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright. “That’s why President Trump is investing in the next generation of American innovators and providing students and teachers the tools to lead in this emerging industry. With this President’s bold leadership and the future leaders of America dialed in, America stands to dominate.”

    “The U. S. National Science Foundation is proud to support the White House’s Pledge to America’s Youth: Investing in AI Education. Equipping young people with the tools to understand and shape artificial intelligence is not only a matter of national competitiveness—it is an investment in a more innovative, prosperous and informed future,” said Brian Stone, performing the duties of the NSF director. “NSF has long recognized the importance of nurturing early interest in science and technology. Through our ongoing efforts to fund cutting-edge research, support teacher development, and expand access to STEM education in every corner of the country, we are committed to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to engage with and contribute to the future of AI. We applaud the organizations that have joined this pledge and look forward to collaborating with our partners to deliver the contributed resources to America’s youth and inspire the next generation of AI innovators, researchers, and technology leaders.”

    “President Trump is bringing America into a new Golden Age by harnessing the best tools and innovations America has to offer. At USDA, we are working to give students the opportunities and mentorship they need to continue the legacy of American ingenuity. Our efforts involve leveraging specific training and grant opportunities for students and teachers that encourage the use and development of artificial intelligence in agriculture. Under President Trump’s leadership, this task force is empowering teachers to integrate artificial intelligence into their curriculum as they prepare their students for the future,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins.

    Stay tuned as the Trump Administration works with these and other organizations to announce specific new grants, programs, and technologies towards the Pledge throughout the year ahead. Visit our website for more information on joining the Pledge to America’s Youth, and stay up to date with the latest pledge signers and initiatives.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: L-242 project steps Boilermakers into a new future: Batteries

    Source: US International Brotherhood of Boilermakers

    Boilermaker work has evolved over more than a century from the union’s roots in steam-powered locomotives to shipbuilding, refineries, nuclear power plants, the latest pollution mitigation technologies and more. And while Boilermakers themselves have also evolved with industry changes, they’ve remained constant as the dependable, go-to welders, riggers and fabricators that steep the union’s history.

    That’s what makes a recent Local 242 (Spokane, Washington) project both “new” news and old news at the Sila Nanotechnologies battery materials plant. The job is a move into a new industry for the Boilermakers; but for those on the job, it’s familiar work.

    “I don’t think the scope of work—what a Boilermaker does—is really any different. It’s just the type of equipment and the process of that equipment that’s unique,” says International Rep Luke Lafley. “We’re still welding, we’re still rigging, we’re still doing layout, we’re still refabricating things that came in incorrectly.

    “It’s normal Boilermaker work. It’s just the technology behind the equipment and the jurisdictional issues that come with it.”

    As new industry territory, when Sila, a next-generation battery materials company, announced in 2023 that it was building out its first, auto-scale manufacturing plant in Moses Lake, Washington—and that they intended to use a local workforce—the opportunity for Boilermakers to build it could have been missed.  Fortunately, L-242 Business Manager/Secretary-Treasurer Scott Widdicombe attends local Central Washington Building Trades council meetings, where he learned about the opportunity and long-time contractor-partner Haskell’s plan to bid on the work.

    “It’s important to go to your building trades meetings,” says Widdicombe, who participates in several area building trades groups. “If I had missed one building trades meeting or two meetings, we might not have been involved in this and it would have been playing a lot of catch up.”

    In tandem with building trades involvement, he stresses the importance of the project labor agreements (PLAs) as integral to scoring the work with Haskell, working well with other craft affiliates and the project’s overall success.

    “Without PLAs, we’re not getting this work. It’s the simple fact of the matter,” he says.

    A PLA and early pre-job assignments made for a clear and smooth understanding of jurisdiction from the get-go, which all agree have eliminated inter-craft issues that can halt work, cause friction with contractors and employers and sour future work opportunities. At the Sila project, as Boilermakers work elbow-to-elbow with Ironworkers, Pipefitters and others, it’s been overall harmonious.

    “We got all the stakeholders involved, all the parties, all the different business managers from all the different locals within the building trades of Central Washington, and as the scope developed, we got it agree to and signed, so there’s no drama, or minimal drama, in the field,” says Haskell Site Manager Luke Parham.

    Parham describes the new Sila facility as essentially a chemical plant where Sila will make Titan Silicon (TM), an innovative material that enables a more efficient battery for the auto industry, consumer electronics and other future industries. That means the company is extremely cautious about its proprietary processes and plans—which includes first-of-its-kind equipment built by Boilermakers. It also means Silas’ engineers need to regularly tweak and refine original plans that they must hold tight to their chests right up until go-time. Haskell and the crafts all need to be ready to go and pivot as necessary, making the PLA and pre-job work even more critical—and challenging.

    “There’s nothing to fall back on,” says L-242 Boilermaker and Site Superintendent Jayme Taylor, referring to the craft assignments and processes. “This is all brand new.”

    The tone for fairness was set early in the pre-job phase. Job steward Mark Keffeler said that while Boilermakers claimed their work, they were also vocal about ensuring other crafts’ work was properly assigned.

    “We’d say, ‘no, that’s ours; that’s theirs,’ and some guys were pretty new to the jurisdictional assignment process,” he explains. “[Scott Widdicombe and I] talked about it ahead of time, that if we’re fair from the start, we should be fair for the duration, and that’s really worked.”

    In fact, Keffeler drives a shuttle van every day to and from the jobsite. His passengers: all Pipefitters.

    “You know, we’ve got a new product line so to speak, and if we’re going to move forward getting this done with unions, we’ve got to do it professionally and safely. And that’s what Haskell and Sila have allowed us to do,” he says. “We don’t have to fight about piddly stuff. We might have to make concession here or there, but it’s better than watching across the fence while the work is done nonunion. We’re all getting along good in the sandbox.”

    Boilermakers were assigned to the process vessels, air pollution mitigation equipment, reactors, flare stack, components for an auxiliary generator and work on pressure transfer system for the product. Among highlights of their work at Sila, they set the thermal oxidizer and are building several substantial vessels including multiple massive tanks, some of which may be visible from the road. 

    “[The Boilermakers] have done an excellent job—high quality work on the tanks, the thermal oxidizer setting, and just constantly working through issues we’ve all experienced, whatever the case may be, to stay on schedule the best we can and pull things back in,” says Sila Construction Manager Shannon Denmark.

    Adds Haskell’s Parham: “The craftsmanship here is what I’m used to in the Pacific Northwest, and that’s people show up rough and ready, staunch and steady, ready to go. They take pride in what they do, with Jayme all the way down to his crew.”

    At its peak, the project employed 20 Boilermakers, which has meant a lot to local members who can commute back and forth for the job rather than leaving home for weeks and months. It’s also good for the local Moses Lake economy. Plus, it’s a significant foot in the door for future Boilermaker work in battery plants and other new industries.

    “This really is, basically, like a refining facility, but it’s refining new products, and hopefully it’s on the forefront,” Taylor says. “Moving forward, it’s more work for the Boilermakers and for all crafts really. It’s a new process, and hopefully it takes off.

    “It’s great for us as a whole—away from what we’re used to in the old fossil fuels. It’s stepping into the future.”

    EXTRA: Watch this video interview with L-242 Boilermaker Apprentice Nez Ogle.

    Apprentices learn at battery plant project

    The Sila battery materials plant project has proved to be a great setting for Local 242 apprentices make their mark on a growing new industry, sharpen their skills and learn from seasoned journeymen.

    For apprentice Nez Ogle, the experience has cemented his decision to become a career Boilermaker.

    “It’s been really eye opening for me,” he says. “I’m learning everything that I’ve been wanting to learn.

    Ogle went to welding school at Lewis-Clark State College and had an instructor who was a Boilermaker and talked about the union. So, when he finished school and wasn’t sure what to do next, he thought he’d give Local 242 a try.

    “This job is a lot of fun. A lot of journeymen that are here are really helpful, and any question I ask them, they’re super helpful when answering my questions—and they’re really nice to me. So, it’s been awesome. I love it, and I think I’ll do this for the rest of my life.”

    Journeyman Steven Pollard is among those working with apprentices like Ogle. He says the job has attracted quite a few apprentices, which makes the jobsite both interesting and challenging.

    “You have to keep them with someone who can guide them, but it’s been good,” he says. “We have some really good apprentices coming in right now.”

    Boilermaker Site Superintendent Jayme Taylor agrees.

    “That’s our future. Those are the guys that are going to have to take over for me when I decide to retire,” he adds. “So, train them young, train them right and make sure they know what they’re doing.”

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: Nimanode Presale Skyrockets with over 38% Allocation Scooped, Is this the Next DeFi Mover for Altseason?

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LEEDS, United Kingdom, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The highly anticipated Nimanode (NMA) Presale has so far surpassed expectations, rapidly filling its presale allocation with 38% already scooped so far which has fuelled intense investor FOMO.

    Nimanode is drawing serious attention from early adopters seeking exposure to the next phase of Web3 automation. As more participants secure their share of $NMA, the window for entry is almost closed by the hours as it narrows quickly.

    Analysts have predicted $NMA could deliver high returns with anticipation of a major breakout post-launch, early participants are moving quickly to secure $NMA tokens at presale pricing.

    $NMA Presale

    Presale Participation Surges as Investor Demands Intensifies

    Nimanode is capturing attention for good reason: it’s pioneering zero-code, on-chain AI agents that can automate complex blockchain tasks from deploying smart contracts and managing DeFi strategies to running real-time compliance checks and providing intelligent customer support.

    FOMO is already set in place as the Nimanode Presale momentum already indicates strong confidence from early investors citing a belief in the project.

    Demand for the NMA token has also surged as tokens are set to be listed at an upward 25% price from presale prices at top XRPL exchanges like Magnetic, so instant returns for early investors are expected.

    Pioneering the AI x Blockchain Wave on XRP Ledger

    The platform’s unique value lies in its accessibility. Anyone regardless of coding ability can create and monetize autonomous AI agents, all powered by the speed and cost-efficiency of the XRPL.

    Unlike static automation or off-chain bots, Nimanode agents operate on-chain, interact with smart contracts, and generate on-chain earnings; creating a new form of programmable, decentralized labor.

    Though independent from Ripple’s official roadmap, Nimanode leverages XRP Ledger’s speed, low fees, and increasing developer adoption to help reignite the bullish energy seen in previous cycles.

    To put it in perspective, XRP once saw an explosive 137,000% surge during the 2017–2018 bull market. Now, as the XRP ecosystem rebounds with the token retracing back to $2.20

    Nimanode’s emergence offers a timely opportunity to capture investor interest around intelligent automation, agent-powered DeFi, and tokenized real-world utilities built directly on XRPL.

    Reimagining the Future of Work Through AI Agents, A Core Value

    Nimanode isn’t just riding the wave of XRP’s momentum, it introduces a suite of pioneering features designed to fuel long-term growth and ecosystem resilience. It is working to be a part of the future of work.

    Zero-Code Agent Builder: Create and launch AI agents through an intuitive drag-and-drop interface
    Autonomous On-Chain Agents: Agents can interact with dApps, execute logic, and respond to events
    Decentralized Agent Marketplace: Allows the community to deploy and monetize AI Agents
    Cross-Chain & Off-Chain Integration: Enable automation across multiple networks and external APIs

    Don’t Miss Out Nimanode Presale

    With early interest accelerating and a powerful utility-driven token model, investor excitement around Nimanode is building fast. As more participants secure their share of $NMA, the window for entry is almost closed, by the hours it narrows quickly.

    Joining in the NimaNode Presale is quite straightforward

    Purchase XRP: Acquire XRP from reputable exchanges like Binance, Coinbase, or Bybit

    Send to an XRP-Compatible Wallet: Ensure you have a non-custodial wallet capable of receiving XRP native tokens Xaman recommended.

    Participate in the Presale: Visit the NimaNode presale page (https://nimanode.com/presale), send your XRP to the provided presale address, and secure your $NMA tokens.

    As Nimanode Presale gains momentum, now is a perfect opportunity to position at the next wave of Blockchain innovation poised for massive gains through the integration of Web3 and AI.

    Connect with Nimanode

    Website: https://nimanode.com

    Twitter/X: https://x.com/nimanodeai

    Telegram: https://t.me/nimanodeAI

    Documentation: https://docs.nimanode.com

    Contact:
    Nick Lambert
    contact@nimanode.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c966a654-21fa-42fb-8f3c-c1bf50b9f66e

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: insightsoftware Brings JustPerform to France, Supporting Finance Teams with AI Powered Financial Companion

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    RALEIGH, N.C. and PARIS, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — insightsoftware, the most comprehensive provider of solutions for the Office of the CFO, today announced that JustPerform is now available in France. This intelligent financial planning, forecasting, and close companion empowers French finance teams to work smarter, not harder. It seamlessly blends human expertise with AI capabilities that feel like having the most insightful colleague always at your side.

    French finance professionals know the frustration: endless hours wrestling with spreadsheets, chasing down data from multiple systems, and scrambling to meet closing deadlines while trying to deliver strategic insights that actually drive business value. JustPerform transforms this daily reality by working alongside teams as an intelligent companion that understands how finance teams think and work.

    Lineos, AI powered by insightsoftware, is woven throughout the JustPerform experience, giving teams a trusted partner that streamlines every process. Lineos delivers critical insights through predictive forecasting that anticipates what’s ahead and anomaly detection that catches what others miss. Lineos is intelligence built into the fabric of how modern finance teams work. It enables collaboration for you to close faster, report with confidence, and make decisions that matter.

    “Finance teams shouldn’t spend their expertise fighting technology – they should spend it solving business challenges,” said Elisabeth Rambert, Regional Vice President of France at insightsoftware. “JustPerform represents our commitment to giving French finance professionals the modern tools they deserve to focus on what matters most. Further, it reinforces our commitment to the French market, which we’ve been honored to serve for more than 20 years with other comprehensive solutions for the Office of the CFO.”

    The solution puts business users in control, enabling them to master any process in under five minutes. French organizations using JustPerform are seeing 40% faster budget preparation, 60% time savings in data transformation, and 2x return on investment delivered in half the typical timeframe.

    In the coming months, JustPerform will also be able to set up multiple customer instances, enabling CPA firms to take advantage of the solution’s capabilities. In addition to France, JustPerform is available in North America, the UK, Ireland, and APAC.

    Discover how JustPerform helps finance teams achieve 40% faster budget preparation, 2x quicker ROI, and 60% time savings in data transformation. Join the ‘How to transform your financial planning in 2025’ webinar on July 2, 2025 at 17:30. Register here.

    About insightsoftware
    insightsoftware is a global provider of comprehensive solutions for the Office of the CFO. We believe an actionable business strategy begins and ends with accessible financial data. With solutions across financial planning and analysis (FP&A), accounting, and operations, we transform how teams operate, empowering leaders to make timely and informed decisions. With data at the heart of everything we do, insightsoftware enables automated processes, delivers trusted insights, boosts predictability, and increases productivity. Learn more at insightsoftware.com.

    Media Contacts
    Inkhouse for insightsoftware
    insightsoftware@inkhouse.com

    insightsoftware PR Team
    pr@insightsoftware.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: $75M for NYS Dairy Manufacturing Facilities

    Source: US State of New York

    overnor Kathy Hochul today announced Lactalis USA will invest more than $75 million to upgrade both its Walton and Buffalo facilities, enabling them to expand capacity and gain efficiencies. The projects in Delaware and Erie counties include the purchase of new equipment and upgrades that will allow the dairy manufacturer to retain more than 800 full time jobs and create more than 50 new jobs. Lactalis USA is part of Lactalis, the world’s largest dairy company, and has chosen to expand in New York State thanks in part to support from the Governor and Empire State Development.

    “New York will continue to work with businesses in the agri-food sectors as they expand and grow to ensure good-paying jobs remain in our communities,” Governor Hochul said. “By investing in the Lactalis USA facilities and assisting with improvements, New York is retaining hundreds of jobs and adding new jobs, as well as helping to support the region’s dairy farmers.”

    The Walton plant, located at 261 Delaware Street, produces Breakstone’s Sour Cream and Cottage Cheese. It will undergo a $15 million modernization, focusing on automating and expanding the cottage cheese and sour cream production lines, enhancing efficiency, capacity, and sustainability. Currently, the facility has limited capacity, while market demand for nutritious high-protein foods is increasing. The facility also relies on technology that requires extensive maintenance, and the improvements will increase versatility for product innovation. The project will include new fillers, HEPA air filtration, advanced lab equipment, new roofing, boiler upgrades, and several other improvements to the facility. The upgrades will result in a 30% boost in output and create more than 20 new jobs.

    The Buffalo plant, located at 2375 South Park Avenue, produces Galbani Ricotta, Mozzarella and Provolone cheese, along with whey powder that is distributed across the U.S. and abroad. The $60 million expansion includes the installation of six 50,000-pound vats, an advanced cheese belt, separators, silos, and a robotic palletizer. Building remodeling will include relocating the cheese lab to maintain production, increasing mozzarella and provolone production by 37 million pounds annually. Ricotta production will also be expanded, and new energy efficient technology will be added. With the addition of this expansion project, Lactalis USA has committed to investing a total of approximately $123 million in its Buffalo facilities from 2020 through the end of 2027.

    In addition to creating jobs, both plants support the region’s agricultural economy by processing more than 800 million pounds of raw milk annually from 236 local dairy farmers.

    Lactalis USA CEO Esteve Torrens said, “Lactalis has two plants in New York State that are key to our growing business in the United States. Our Buffalo plant is home to a significant ricotta and mozzarella production under the Galbani brand. Our Walton plant continues a rich tradition since 1882 of producing Breakstone’s Sour Cream and is essential to strengthening our cottage cheese business in a rapidly growing category. We are committed to supporting the communities of Buffalo and Walton as we continue to grow in those markets and we thank Gov. Hochul and ESD for their support.”

    ESD is offering $750,000 in Excelsior Jobs Program tax credits for the Walton project (which is in an economically distressed community) and $550,000 in tax credits for the Buffalo project in exchange for Lactalis’ job retention and creation commitments. The projects are expected to be completed in 2027.

    Empire State Development President, CEO & Commissioner Hope Knight said, “The direct impact of Lactalis remaining and growing in Walton and Buffalo is hundreds of cheese manufacturing jobs but indirectly the plant also supports area dairy farmers by purchasing more than $180 million worth of milk each year, making the projects a win for both the manufacturing and agricultural sectors.”

    New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “This investment in Lactalis’ existing facilities in Buffalo and Walton is a win-win, retaining hundreds of jobs and adding new jobs, as well as ensuring New York State remains a leader in the dairy industry for years to come. This expansion is great news for the dairy farmers that supply fresh, local milk for the Lactalis cheese manufacturing facilities, which have a long-standing tradition of producing some of New York’s highest quality dairy products. I look forward to seeing these plants continue to grow and bring more fresh, delicious dairy products to families across the state.”

    The largest sector of the agricultural industry, New York’s dairy industry is a critical component of the State’s economy. New York State is home to nearly 3,000 dairy farms with 630,000 cows, producing 16.1 billion pounds of milk. New York ranks fifth in the production of milk and is first in the nation in the production of yogurt and cottage cheese.

    State Senator April Baskin said, “This investment by Lactalis is more than just an upgrade to its facilities, it’s a commitment to the people, the farmers, and the traditions that define New York’s dairy industry. From Walton to Buffalo, this expansion is creating opportunities, preserving livelihoods, and ensuring that New York remains at the forefront of dairy innovation. It’s proof that when we invest in our communities and our industries, we’re building a stronger, more sustainable future for everyone.”

    State Senator Peter Oberacker said, “Generational family-owned farms in the 51st District set the gold standard for dairy excellence nationally and this investment is a powerful testament to that legacy. I’m proud to see Lactalis expand in our region and grateful for their commitment to our family farms, our local workforce, and the future of agriculture in upstate New York,”

    Assemblymember Patrick Burke said, “I’m proud to see continued investment in a facility that has long been part of our neighborhood’s industrial backbone. Lactalis’ expansion secures good-paying jobs, supports local farmers and boosts key sectors of our statewide economy. It’s a big win for South Buffalo, and a sign that our dairy economy remains strong, steady and well cultured.”

    Erie County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz said, “The Lactalis Buffalo facility is not only a large local employer but a vital partner for Erie County’s dairy community, with fresh local dairy products heading there to be processed and sent out to the worldwide community. This investment is great news for the Lactalis plant, its workers and all the ancillary workers in the local dairy field who will benefit from this expansion. I thank Governor Hochul for her work in bringing this investment to fruition and I look forward to the expansion of Lactalis in Erie County.”

    City of Buffalo Mayor Christopher Scanlon said, “Lactalis’ continued investment in Buffalo is a powerful vote of confidence in our city, our workforce, and our role in New York’s dairy industry. This $60 million expansion will not only create new jobs and modernize their South Park Avenue facility, but it will also strengthen the connection between our local economy and family-owned dairy farms across the region. I want to thank Governor Hochul and Lactalis USA for their commitment to Buffalo and for supporting good-paying, sustainable jobs right here in our community.”

    About the Dairy Industry in New York State

    New York State has roughly 3,000 dairy farms that produce over 16 billion pounds of milk annually, making New York the nation’s fifth-largest dairy state. The dairy industry is the state’s largest agricultural sector, contributing significantly to the state’s economy by generating nearly half of the state’s total agricultural receipts and providing some of the highest economic multipliers. New York’s unique and talented dairy producers and processors contribute significantly to the state’s agriculture industry, economy and the health of our communities.

    About Lactalis USA

    Lactalis USA is committed to enriching lives by producing nutritious and great tasting dairy products. The company offers an unrivaled house of beloved dairy brands in the United States including Galbani® Italian cheeses, Président® specialty cheeses and gourmet butters, Kraft® brands in natural and grated cheeses, Breakstones® cottage cheese, ricotta and sour cream, Cracker Barrel® cheese, Black Diamond® cheddar cheese, Parmalat® milk, siggi’s® and Stonyfield Organic® yogurt brands. In the United States the company has approximately 4,000 employees, is present in eight states with 11 manufacturing facilities and corporate offices located in New York City and Buffalo, N.Y., Chicago, Ill., Bedford, N.H., and San Fernando, Calif. Lactalis USA is part of Lactalis Group, the world’s leading dairy company, a French family business founded in 1933 in Laval, France.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI: BAY Miner launches cloud mining platform to help crypto investors earn BTC and ETH passive income every day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Seattle, Washington, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 30, 2025-Amid the volatility of the global crypto market, BAY Miner announced the launch of a new cloud mining platform that supports BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP and DOGE users to achieve daily passive income. Without the need to purchase mining machines and complex operations and maintenance, users only need to open a contract online to view daily income in real time, making crypto investment simpler, helping coin holders seize the market’s rising dividends and obtain stable crypto asset income.

    As the prices of Bitcoin and Ethereum continue to rise, crypto assets have become an integral part of the portfolios of investors around the world. However, traditional mining requires a lot of upfront equipment costs, high electricity costs, and technical management, which sets up barriers for many interested users. BAY Miner aims to break these barriers, allowing more people to participate in crypto mining and easily obtain long-term returns.

    BAY Miner uses a cloud mining platform based on Web3 architecture, allowing users to obtain daily income online without purchasing mining machines. The platform supports multiple mainstream currencies such as BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, and DOGE. Users only need to register and open a contract to view their daily income, flexibly manage funds, and achieve continuous growth of encrypted assets.

    Core advantages of BAY Miner cloud mining

    ·Flexible contract selection: users can choose different mining contracts according to the size of funds and expected returns.

    ·AI intelligent computing power allocation: automatically allocate computing power according to market conditions and on-chain network conditions to ensure stable returns.

    ·Real-time income dashboard: you can view income and market changes every day, and the flow of user funds is controllable.

    ·Security and compliance guarantee: use multi-signature wallets and hot and cold wallets to separate to ensure the safety of user assets.

    “Our mission is to empower every crypto holder to participate in mining and earn stable daily passive income without worrying about equipment or technical barriers,” said a BAY Miner spokesperson. “Whether you’re a BTC holder or an ETH and SOL investor, BAY Miner allows you to effortlessly generate crypto yields every day.”

    Real user cases and potential income table
    Recently, an XRP holder obtained a stable passive income of about 5% per month through BAY Miner cloud mining, without having to bear the cost of equipment purchase and electricity bills, and easily achieved steady growth of crypto assets.

    The following is an example of potential income based on recent market conditions (different currencies and different investment amounts correspond to different income):

    Mining Model Investment Total Returns
    BTC Mining (Antminer T21) $100 $100 + $8
    BTC Mining (Avalon Miner A1326-109T) $600 $600 + $43
    BTC Mining (S21 XP Immersion) $8,000 $8,000 + $3,100
    BTC Mining (ANTSPACE HW5) $50,000 $50,000 + $36,000

    The above profit examples are based on historical market conditions. Actual profits will fluctuate with market and on-chain network conditions. Users can view daily profits in real time on the BAY Miner dashboard.

    Click here for full contract details

    How to join BAY Miner
    Users can easily start their cloud mining journey by following the steps below:
    1. Visit www.bayminer.com to register for a free account;
    2. Select the currency you want to mine, such as BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, DOGE, etc.;
    3. Choose a flexible contract based on your personal budget and complete the payment;
    4. You can view daily income in real time on the dashboard and manage funds flexibly;
    5. You can apply for withdrawal or reinvest at any time to enjoy continuous income growth
    BAY Miner will continue to enhance its global node deployment and AI computing power management, and plans to launch more flexible contracts, automatic compounding, and alliance incentive programs. This will enable more users to participate in mining with a low threshold and obtain stable long-term returns.

    Visit www.bayminer.com now to register and experience flexible cloud mining, seize the opportunity of the next round of cryptocurrency bull market, and accumulate your daily passive income at the same time.

    Contact Information
    Website: www.bayminer.com
    Email: info@bayminer.com
    App: Download Now

    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. There is a possibility of financial loss. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BAY Miner launches cloud mining platform to help crypto investors earn BTC and ETH passive income every day

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Seattle, Washington, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — 30, 2025-Amid the volatility of the global crypto market, BAY Miner announced the launch of a new cloud mining platform that supports BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP and DOGE users to achieve daily passive income. Without the need to purchase mining machines and complex operations and maintenance, users only need to open a contract online to view daily income in real time, making crypto investment simpler, helping coin holders seize the market’s rising dividends and obtain stable crypto asset income.

    As the prices of Bitcoin and Ethereum continue to rise, crypto assets have become an integral part of the portfolios of investors around the world. However, traditional mining requires a lot of upfront equipment costs, high electricity costs, and technical management, which sets up barriers for many interested users. BAY Miner aims to break these barriers, allowing more people to participate in crypto mining and easily obtain long-term returns.

    BAY Miner uses a cloud mining platform based on Web3 architecture, allowing users to obtain daily income online without purchasing mining machines. The platform supports multiple mainstream currencies such as BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, and DOGE. Users only need to register and open a contract to view their daily income, flexibly manage funds, and achieve continuous growth of encrypted assets.

    Core advantages of BAY Miner cloud mining

    ·Flexible contract selection: users can choose different mining contracts according to the size of funds and expected returns.

    ·AI intelligent computing power allocation: automatically allocate computing power according to market conditions and on-chain network conditions to ensure stable returns.

    ·Real-time income dashboard: you can view income and market changes every day, and the flow of user funds is controllable.

    ·Security and compliance guarantee: use multi-signature wallets and hot and cold wallets to separate to ensure the safety of user assets.

    “Our mission is to empower every crypto holder to participate in mining and earn stable daily passive income without worrying about equipment or technical barriers,” said a BAY Miner spokesperson. “Whether you’re a BTC holder or an ETH and SOL investor, BAY Miner allows you to effortlessly generate crypto yields every day.”

    Real user cases and potential income table
    Recently, an XRP holder obtained a stable passive income of about 5% per month through BAY Miner cloud mining, without having to bear the cost of equipment purchase and electricity bills, and easily achieved steady growth of crypto assets.

    The following is an example of potential income based on recent market conditions (different currencies and different investment amounts correspond to different income):

    Mining Model Investment Total Returns
    BTC Mining (Antminer T21) $100 $100 + $8
    BTC Mining (Avalon Miner A1326-109T) $600 $600 + $43
    BTC Mining (S21 XP Immersion) $8,000 $8,000 + $3,100
    BTC Mining (ANTSPACE HW5) $50,000 $50,000 + $36,000

    The above profit examples are based on historical market conditions. Actual profits will fluctuate with market and on-chain network conditions. Users can view daily profits in real time on the BAY Miner dashboard.

    Click here for full contract details

    How to join BAY Miner
    Users can easily start their cloud mining journey by following the steps below:
    1. Visit www.bayminer.com to register for a free account;
    2. Select the currency you want to mine, such as BTC, ETH, SOL, XRP, DOGE, etc.;
    3. Choose a flexible contract based on your personal budget and complete the payment;
    4. You can view daily income in real time on the dashboard and manage funds flexibly;
    5. You can apply for withdrawal or reinvest at any time to enjoy continuous income growth
    BAY Miner will continue to enhance its global node deployment and AI computing power management, and plans to launch more flexible contracts, automatic compounding, and alliance incentive programs. This will enable more users to participate in mining with a low threshold and obtain stable long-term returns.

    Visit www.bayminer.com now to register and experience flexible cloud mining, seize the opportunity of the next round of cryptocurrency bull market, and accumulate your daily passive income at the same time.

    Contact Information
    Website: www.bayminer.com
    Email: info@bayminer.com
    App: Download Now

    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. There is a possibility of financial loss. It is strongly recommended that you perform due diligence before investing or trading in cryptocurrencies and securities, including consulting a professional financial advisor.

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Byline Bank Included in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byline Bank is proud to announce its inclusion on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 list of the Best Companies to Work For. This list, released annually by the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, ranks companies by how well they support employees. This year, Byline Bank earned recognition in three categories: Best Companies in the U.S. overall, Best Companies in the Midwest, and Best in Finance and Insurance.

    “At Byline, we believe that when you take care of your people, you create a dynamic workplace environment where employees are engaged and committed to serving the needs of our customers and communities,” said Dana Rose, Chief Human Resources Officer at Byline Bank. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported and empowered to grow alongside the business. I am so proud of the culture we have built here and want to thank our incredible employees for making Byline such a great place to work.”

    The U.S. News rankings reflect the evolving criteria that workers consider when evaluating employers, including compensation and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, a sense of belonging and esteem, and opportunities for career growth and development.

    “Workers understand the direct impact of a workplace on their quality of life,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list recognizes companies that received high scores on multiple metrics that make up a positive work environment and everyday employee experience.”

    To compile its annual list, U.S. News considered the 5,000 largest publicly traded companies as of January 2025, each with more than 75 Glassdoor reviews from 2021-2025. Employee sentiment data was analyzed alongside regulatory data from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to assess performance across six key metrics.

    This marks the second consecutive year Byline has been named one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Midwest, and the first year the bank has been recognized on both the National and Finance and Insurance industry lists.

    For more information on the Best Companies to Work For, visit the U.S. News FAQs and follow along on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) using #BCTWF.

    About Byline Bank
    Headquartered in Chicago, Byline Bank, a subsidiary of Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BY), is a full-service commercial bank serving small- and medium-sized businesses, financial sponsors and consumers. Byline Bank operates over 40 branch locations throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee metropolitan areas. Byline Bank offers a broad range of commercial and community banking products and services, including small-ticket equipment leasing solutions, and is one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders according to the national SBA rankings by volume FY2024. Byline Bank is a member of FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Visit bylinebank.com for more information, and follow Byline Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram for the latest news and updates.

    About U.S. News & World Report
    U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.

    Media Contact:
    Allison Roche
    Marketing Communications & Partnerships Manager
    Byline Bank
    aroche@bylinebank.com

    Investor Contact:                                                        
    Brooks Rennie                                                         
    Investor Relations Director                                         
    Byline Bank                                                         
    (312) 660-5805                                                        
    brennie@bylinebank.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cc1c4c0-b441-4169-971d-a4e7f2b9794c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Byline Bank Included in U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 Best Companies to Work For

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    CHICAGO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Byline Bank is proud to announce its inclusion on U.S. News & World Report’s 2025-2026 list of the Best Companies to Work For. This list, released annually by the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, ranks companies by how well they support employees. This year, Byline Bank earned recognition in three categories: Best Companies in the U.S. overall, Best Companies in the Midwest, and Best in Finance and Insurance.

    “At Byline, we believe that when you take care of your people, you create a dynamic workplace environment where employees are engaged and committed to serving the needs of our customers and communities,” said Dana Rose, Chief Human Resources Officer at Byline Bank. “This recognition reflects our commitment to creating a workplace where every employee feels valued, supported and empowered to grow alongside the business. I am so proud of the culture we have built here and want to thank our incredible employees for making Byline such a great place to work.”

    The U.S. News rankings reflect the evolving criteria that workers consider when evaluating employers, including compensation and benefits, work-life balance and flexibility, job and company stability, physical and psychological comfort, a sense of belonging and esteem, and opportunities for career growth and development.

    “Workers understand the direct impact of a workplace on their quality of life,” said Carly Chase, Vice President of Careers at U.S. News & World Report. “The 2025-2026 list recognizes companies that received high scores on multiple metrics that make up a positive work environment and everyday employee experience.”

    To compile its annual list, U.S. News considered the 5,000 largest publicly traded companies as of January 2025, each with more than 75 Glassdoor reviews from 2021-2025. Employee sentiment data was analyzed alongside regulatory data from partners Revelio Labs, Good Jobs First’s Violation Tracker and QUODD to assess performance across six key metrics.

    This marks the second consecutive year Byline has been named one of the Best Companies to Work For in the Midwest, and the first year the bank has been recognized on both the National and Finance and Insurance industry lists.

    For more information on the Best Companies to Work For, visit the U.S. News FAQs and follow along on Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) using #BCTWF.

    About Byline Bank
    Headquartered in Chicago, Byline Bank, a subsidiary of Byline Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BY), is a full-service commercial bank serving small- and medium-sized businesses, financial sponsors and consumers. Byline Bank operates over 40 branch locations throughout the Chicago and Milwaukee metropolitan areas. Byline Bank offers a broad range of commercial and community banking products and services, including small-ticket equipment leasing solutions, and is one of the top U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) lenders according to the national SBA rankings by volume FY2024. Byline Bank is a member of FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Visit bylinebank.com for more information, and follow Byline Bank on Facebook, LinkedIn, X or Instagram for the latest news and updates.

    About U.S. News & World Report
    U.S. News & World Report is the global leader for journalism that empowers consumers, citizens, business leaders and policy officials to make confident decisions in all aspects of their lives and communities. A multifaceted media company, U.S. News provides unbiased rankings, independent reporting and analysis, and consumer advice to millions of people on USNews.com each month. A pillar in Washington for more than 90 years, U.S. News is the trusted home for in-depth and exclusive insights on education, health, politics, the economy, personal finance, travel, automobiles, real estate, careers and consumer products and services.

    Media Contact:
    Allison Roche
    Marketing Communications & Partnerships Manager
    Byline Bank
    aroche@bylinebank.com

    Investor Contact:                                                        
    Brooks Rennie                                                         
    Investor Relations Director                                         
    Byline Bank                                                         
    (312) 660-5805                                                        
    brennie@bylinebank.com

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/2cc1c4c0-b441-4169-971d-a4e7f2b9794c

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: DRC and Rwanda sign a US-brokered peace deal: what are the chances of its success?

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Jonathan Beloff, Postdoctoral Research Associate, King’s College London

    The foreign ministers of Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) signed a new peace agreement on 27 June 2025 under the auspices of the US.

    The agreement aims to foster long-term peace, and increased economic trade and security. The DRC is one of Africa’s largest nations, with over 110 million people. Rwanda has a population of 14 million.

    After three decades of war and tensions between the two neighbours since the aftermath of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, the hope is that this agreement will establish the foundations for progress that benefits both nations.

    It was the Donald Trump administration’s moment to illustrate the effectiveness of its “transactional” foreign policy, focused on exchanges and short-term benefits for each actor.

    Most of the agreement’s details remained undisclosed until its signing. One aspect that’s surfaced was the claim that the DRC abandoned its demand for the removal of Rwandan soldiers from its territory. The Congolese government, research groups and the UN have accused Rwanda of supplying military aid, including soldiers, to the March 23 Movement (M23), which has been at war with the government in Kinshasa since 2021. The Rwandan government denies any active involvement but has some sympathies for the Congolese rebel group.

    Under the June 2025 agreement, each side provided concessions and demands that are perhaps easier said than done. Both countries also want to show the Trump administration their willingness to negotiate and make a deal. This is in the hopes of future deals with the US, which Trump has remained vague on.

    The DRC has immense mineral wealth, including gold, diamonds, tungsten, coltan, tin and lithium. These latter minerals are used in computer chips, batteries and other technologies.

    Read more: Rwandan-backed M23 rebel group seeks local power in DRC, not just control over mining operations

    The question is whether this latest agreement will lead to peace in the DRC. The likely answer is no, based on research on instability in the eastern DRC, Rwandan foreign policy and the security and political dynamics between Rwanda and the DRC for over 15 years.

    This is mainly because

    • key players involved in the crisis were left out of negotiations

    • no provisions are made for enforcement

    • the opportunities for US companies remain questionable given the lack of security in the mining regions.

    The roots of the crisis

    After the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, former genocide perpetrators used the DRC’s vast size as cover to plan attacks on Rwanda. They intended to return to Rwanda to finish the genocide. The consequences led to the First Congo War (1996-1997) and the Second Congo War (1998-2003).

    It was during the bloody second war that the DRC was carved up by multiple rebel groups aligned with various nations and political actors. The UN accuses Rwanda and Uganda of carrying out a massive illegal mineral trade. Both nations deny this.

    The consequences of the conflict are still felt over 20 years later. Despite multiple peace agreements, and disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration programmes, an estimated 120 rebel groups remain active in the Congo.

    One of them, the Democratic Forces for the Liberation of Rwanda (FDLR), aims to return Rwanda to ethnic division and the genocide. The Rwandan government fears the group’s genocide and hate ideology.

    Additionally, the FDLR and other extremist actors such as Wazalendo target the Banyarwanda. This ethnic group, residing primarily in eastern DRC, is historically related to Rwanda. It has been the target of attacks, which have forced tens of thousands of people to flee into Rwanda.

    Read more: The Banyamulenge: how a minority ethnic group in the DRC became the target of rebels – and its own government

    These attacks led to the resurrection of the M23. Despite its failures in 2013, the M23 scored major advances in late 2021 in response to attacks on the Banyarwanda. The rebel group led a successful military campaign that occupied large swathes of territory in eastern DRC.

    Their success is largely attributed to the Rwandan Defence Forces, despite Kigali denying this claim.

    Concessions from each nation

    The latest peace agreement addresses the security, political and economic interests of both nations.

    The specifics are still unavailable. However, several assumptions based on the framework and leaked reports can be made.

    The first is that both nations must respect each other’s territorial sovereignty and stop aiding rebel forces. This will include joint security coordination, and working with the existing UN peacekeeping mission. Additionally, Congolese refugees who fled eastern DRC – estimated to be over 80,000 – will be allowed to return. Finally, the two nations will establish mechanisms to foster greater economic integration.

    The DRC has also signalled its willingness to attract American investors. DRC’s vast mineral wealth remains largely underdeveloped. American investment could develop mining that’s safer and extracts larger amounts of minerals than current methods. Kinshasa has also agreed to combat corruption and simplify the tax system.

    While most of these incentives would be aimed at mineral extraction companies, they also include private security firms. The Congolese military’s inability to defeat the M23 highlights a problematic security environment that some in the DRC believe can be addressed through foreign intervention. However, these security guarantees are still relatively unknown and face complications that could affect the success of any agreement.

    The weaknesses

    There are a number of reasons this latest agreement is unlikely to lead to peace.

    First, the M23 did not participate in the negotiations. Given that they are the primary military actor in eastern DRC, their commitment to a peace process cannot be guaranteed.

    Second, other rebel forces in different parts of the country will feel left out too. They could see this agreement as an opportunity to press for greater concessions from the Congolese government.

    Third, there are few mechanisms to enforce the agreement. Since the Second Congo War, there have been multiple treaties, agreements and disarmament programmes with little success. The Pretoria Accord between Rwanda and the DRC in 2002 did not lead to long-term peace. The M23’s name is a nod to their anger over a failed 2009 agreement. In 2024, Rwanda and Congo nearly reached an agreement under Angola’s mediation, but Angola stepped down. The process was then taken over by Qatar and later the US.

    Lastly, American investors may be deterred by the security, regulatory and corruption issues that plague the DRC. Even if the Congolese government promises to address these issues, it lacks the necessary capabilities to fulfil its commitment.

    – DRC and Rwanda sign a US-brokered peace deal: what are the chances of its success?
    – https://theconversation.com/drc-and-rwanda-sign-a-us-brokered-peace-deal-what-are-the-chances-of-its-success-260066

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Economic empowerment laws key to redress – President Ramaphosa

    Source: South Africa News Agency

    South Africa’s empowerment laws may be distinct, however such laws are not a unique global occurrence, says President Cyril Ramaphosa.

    The country’s empowerment laws, particularly the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment legal framework, have come under public and media debate over the past few months.

    In his weekly newsletter released on Monday, the President said that the empowerment laws are practical, feasible and responsive to “economic conditions, without deviating from the objective of redressing the economic injustices” of the past when Africans and other people of colour were excluded from meaningful economic participation during apartheid.

    “Empowerment laws are not unique to South Africa. These laws are often referred to as indigenisation or localisation measures. They exist in various forms in other emerging market economies with similar histories of race-based economic exclusion such as India, Zambia, Indonesia, Nigeria, Malaysia and Brazil.

    “A number of these jurisdictions compel foreign investors or multinationals, who wish to invest in the economies of those countries or in certain sectors of their economy, to fully set aside equity stakes in their companies to local entities as a prerequisite for operating in the country. This can serve be seen as a barrier to entry for investment in certain environments. 

    “However, we have found that many would-be investors do embrace these measures as they enhance inclusiveness, lead to broad acceptance of their companies and tend to grow market share,” he said.

    The President explained that South African empowerment laws earn distinction in that the measures are “practical and innovative”.

    “In addition to having a pure equity participation measure, we have introduced the Equity Equivalent Investment Programme (EEIP). 

    “It was created to accommodate multinationals whose global practices or policies prevent them from complying with the B-BBEE ownership element through the ‘traditional’ sale of equity or shares. It allows multinationals to invest in socio-economic, skills and enterprise development in South Africa without selling equity in their local subsidiaries,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He pushed back on suggestions that EEIP is a circumvention of empowerment laws and public assertions that it is a “response to the conditions of a particular company or sector”.

    “Neither are factually correct. Firstly, the EEIP is not new and has been in existence for a decade. It is firmly embedded in our laws and is not an attempt to ‘water down’ B-BBEE.

    “Secondly, there are stringent requirements for multinationals to participate. All EEIP initiatives must be aligned to government’s economic policies and strategic goals. There is firm government-backed oversight over EEIP programmes that must be broad-based in terms of impact. 

    “Since its inception, the EEIP has encompassed a broad range of sectors and onboarded some of the world’s leading multinational firms such as Hewlett-Packard, Samsung, JP Morgan, Amazon, IBM and automotive firms such as BMW, Volkswagen, Nissan and Toyota,” he highlighted.

    President Ramapohosa cited technology conglomerate, Microsoft’s investment as an example of how EEIP can lead to local development.

    “Microsoft announced a R1.32 billion investment over 10 years in skills and supplier and 4IR research and development – under the EEIP.

    “These firms have leveraged the EEIP to direct investment into local development, to incubate black, youth and women-owned businesses, and to fund skills development. This has in turn assisted government in achieving a number of policy and also infrastructure goals.

    “Equity Equivalents have been proven to be a practical B-BBEE compliance tool for multinationals operating in South Africa, and we will continue to leverage them in pursuit of economic growth and job creation,” he said.

    Changing perceptions

    President Ramaphosa reiterated his stance that economic growth and transformation can co-exist.

    “Not only do we have to move away from the perception that we must make a choice between growth and transformation – we also have to shift the mindset that compliance with B-BBEE is punitive or burdensome. 

    “By supporting firms with compliance, they are able to embrace empowerment as a meaningful investment in South African’s long-term economic stability. This is a sound strategy that recognises that a transformed South African economy is one in which their investments are safe and guaranteed,” he said.

    The President highlighted that since the introduction of empowerment laws, the “playing field” has evolved.

    “The emergence of new industries, whether it is digital technology, advanced manufacturing, AI or renewable energy, means South Africa must actively position itself to attract greater foreign and domestic investment in these sectors or risk being left behind.

    “As a country, we have had to adapt and evolve in response to these economic trends, and continue to do so,” President Ramaphosa said.

    He emphasised that even as economies and trends evolve, economic transformation remains a government imperative.

    “We are clear that our empowerment laws remain central to our goal of economic transformation in South Africa and are here to stay. As business and industry, as labour and indeed, as all of society we should remain firmly behind these laws that are integral to undoing the injustices of the past. 

    “Our focus going forward must remain creating an enabling policy environment, driving key structural reforms, supporting innovation, and reducing regulatory barriers to harness the potential of emerging industries and support existing ones. 

    “Beyond the spirited and often heated debates currently underway around B-BBEE and the EEIP, the pursuit of inclusive economic growth that creates jobs and improves the lives of our people remains our overriding goal,” President Ramaphosa said. – SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

    The statement said: 

    We reaffirm our shared commitment to harnessing the power of trade as a driver of global development.

    A well-functioning multilateral trading system remains essential to enabling private sector-led growth — particularly in emerging and developing economies, where local businesses depend on predictable rules, open markets, and efficient trade processes to compete and thrive.

    Yet too many businesses around the world continue to face barriers that hinder their full participation in global trade. From constrained access to trade finance and working capital services, to excessive border delays and customs inefficiencies, these obstacles often hit the smallest and most dynamic enterprises the hardest — undermining both job creation and development impact.

    We call on governments and development partners gathered in Seville to:

    — Reaffirm the centrality of the multilateral trading system as a foundation for global development;

    — Strengthen efforts to identify and address regulatory frictions that inhibit cross-border trade and associated financing — including, as a priority, the erosion of correspondent banking networks and the unintended impacts of financial crime compliance regimes that have led to de-risking, particularly in regions most in need of trade finance.

    — Support coordinated efforts to strengthen trade-related infrastructure, digitalization of trade processes, and targeted capacity building for SMEs to enhance economic and supply chain resilience.

    As the global community focuses on strengthening economic resilience and fostering growth, enabling trade must be a central pillar of any serious strategy for mobilizing private capital at scale. This must be underpinned by a shared effort to modernize core multilateral trade rules in line with the realities of 21st century commerce. 

    We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that trade can deliver on its full potential for people, planet, and prosperity.

    John W.H. Denton AO
    Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
    Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

    Source: International Chamber of Commerce

    Headline: Joint Statement by ICC and WTO heads

    The statement said: 

    We reaffirm our shared commitment to harnessing the power of trade as a driver of global development.

    A well-functioning multilateral trading system remains essential to enabling private sector-led growth — particularly in emerging and developing economies, where local businesses depend on predictable rules, open markets, and efficient trade processes to compete and thrive.

    Yet too many businesses around the world continue to face barriers that hinder their full participation in global trade. From constrained access to trade finance and working capital services, to excessive border delays and customs inefficiencies, these obstacles often hit the smallest and most dynamic enterprises the hardest — undermining both job creation and development impact.

    We call on governments and development partners gathered in Seville to:

    — Reaffirm the centrality of the multilateral trading system as a foundation for global development;

    — Strengthen efforts to identify and address regulatory frictions that inhibit cross-border trade and associated financing — including, as a priority, the erosion of correspondent banking networks and the unintended impacts of financial crime compliance regimes that have led to de-risking, particularly in regions most in need of trade finance.

    — Support coordinated efforts to strengthen trade-related infrastructure, digitalization of trade processes, and targeted capacity building for SMEs to enhance economic and supply chain resilience.

    As the global community focuses on strengthening economic resilience and fostering growth, enabling trade must be a central pillar of any serious strategy for mobilizing private capital at scale. This must be underpinned by a shared effort to modernize core multilateral trade rules in line with the realities of 21st century commerce. 

    We stand ready to work with all stakeholders to ensure that trade can deliver on its full potential for people, planet, and prosperity.

    John W.H. Denton AO
    Secretary General, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

    Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
    Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: County-wide options for council reorganisation: Portsmouth have your say

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    Portsmouth City Council recently asked for comments about Local Government Reorganisation from a purely Portsmouth perspective. Now people’s input is wanted as part of a county-wide survey, as this affects local authorities across the whole of Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

    The government wants to replace the current 15 councils in the region with fewer, single councils, covering bigger areas of around 500,000 people.

    Portsmouth City Council Leader Cllr Steve Pitt said:

    “Our priority is to get the best possible outcome for people and communities in Portsmouth.

    “We’ve said from the beginning that Portsmouth should be left out of Local Government Reorganisation plans, because we already have one council which is financially stable. However, we are being forced to present to government plans to reorganise, so we are working with 11 other councils in our region to develop the best options for how new councils, including ours, could be organised in the future.

    “It’s really important we hear what Portsmouth people think so their views can be included as much as possible in any future plans.”

    Three draft options are available for people to comment on. All options propose that four unitary councils, plus the Isle of Wight remaining a single unitary council, deliver all council services to residents living in those areas.

    As part of these options, people are also asked to comment on potential boundary changes for some towns and villages.

    The options are intended to strike a balance between councils that are big enough to deliver services, but local enough to understand their communities. Key to the survey is understanding how residents, businesses and community groups feel about the changes and what area they think their future council should cover.

    The Hampshire and Isle of Wight-wide survey follows a Portsmouth-wide survey, with results from that to follow.

    The survey is open and will run until Sunday 27 July at midnight. People can take part here: https://ourplaceourfuture.commonplace.is

    Following the feedback, individual councils are expected to submit a preferred option to the government in September.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth: RBI

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Despite an uncertain and challenging global economic backdrop, the Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth, underpinned by sound macroeconomic fundamentals and prudent macroeconomic policies, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) said on Monday.

    The Reserve Bank, in the June 2025 issue of its ‘Financial Stability Report (FSR)’, said that elevated economic and trade policy uncertainties are testing the resilience of the global economy and the financial system.

    “Financial markets remain volatile, especially core government bond markets, driven by shifting policy and geopolitical environment. Alongside, existing vulnerabilities such as soaring public debt levels and elevated asset valuations have the potential to amplify fresh shocks,” it read.

    However, the domestic financial system is exhibiting resilience fortified by healthy balance sheets of banks and non-banks, said the RBI.

    Financial conditions have eased supported by accommodative monetary policy and low volatility in financial markets. The strength of the corporate balance sheets also lends support to overall macroeconomic stability.

    “The soundness and resilience of scheduled commercial banks (SCBs) are bolstered by robust capital buffers, multi-decadal low non-performing loans ratio and strong earnings,” the RBI report mentioned.

    Results of macro stress tests affirm that most SCBs have adequate capital buffers relative to the regulatory minimum even under adverse stress scenarios. Stress tests also validate the resilience of mutual funds and clearing corporations.

    “Non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) remain healthy with sizable capital buffers, robust earnings and improving asset quality. The consolidated solvency ratio of the insurance sector also remains above the minimum threshold limit,” it noted.

    In this global milieu, the Indian economy remains a key driver of global growth. Growth momentum is buoyed by strong domestic growth drivers, sound macroeconomic fundamentals and prudent policies.

    “Nonetheless, external spillovers and weather-related events could pose downside risks to growth. The outlook for inflation, on the other hand, is benign and there is greater confidence in the durable alignment of inflation with the Reserve Bank’s target,” said RBI Governor Sanjay Malhotra.

    Financial sector regulators remain committed to protecting customers, promoting competition and fostering innovation as they strike the right balance between improving efficiency and growth, and safety and soundness.

    “Financial stability, like price stability, is a necessary condition, and not a sufficient one to boost India’s potential growth. As custodians of financial stability, we must endeavour to develop a well-functioning financial system that not only promotes macroeconomic stability but also provides financial services efficiently,” said Malhotra.

    (IANS)

  • MIL-OSI: Personal Loans for Bad Credit with Guaranteed Approval – RadCred Launches No Credit Check Loans up to $5,000

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Glendale, California, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — RadCred has launched a new platform offering personal loans for bad credit with guaranteed approval and no credit check loans for U.S. borrowers. Designed for those with scores under 600, the platform connects users with licensed lenders offering bad credit personal loans guaranteed approval $5,000 or more, depending on income. RadCred uses only a soft credit check, so applying won’t harm your score. With same-day funding, flexible terms, and zero collateral needed, it’s a reliable option for emergency loan bad credit guaranteed approval seekers who need fast financial help without traditional roadblocks.

    Even borrowers with credit scores as low as 580 or below can find a lifeline through RadCred’s personal loan marketplace, bridging a critical gap in the lending industry by providing near-instant approval and same-day funding options.

    Why Bad Credit Borrowers Turn to No Credit Check Loans

    Millions of Americans with poor credit (typically under 600) struggle to access traditional loans, as banks often use strict credit score cutoffs. This leaves many without financial help during emergencies. The rising need for more inclusive lending has driven demand for bad credit loans, including no credit check loans and options with guaranteed approval. 

    These urgent loans for bad credit allow people to manage financial crises without immediate rejection due to low scores. RadCred steps in by focusing on income and repayment ability rather than credit history. Through RadCred’s personal loan network, borrowers get personal loans for bad credit with guaranteed approval, fast decisions, and a soft credit check making cash access quicker and fairer.

    Key Features of RadCred’s Bad Credit Loan Platform

    RadCred has designed its lending platform with features tailored to bad credit borrowers, ensuring the process is fast, easy, and transparent. Notable features include:

    • Fast Approval & Funding: Applications are processed rapidly – many loans are approved within minutes, with funds often deposited on the same day, giving borrowers quick access to cash when they need it. This speed is ideal for those seeking quick loans for bad credit to handle emergencies immediately.
    • No Hard Credit Check: RadCred’s lenders perform only a soft-pull credit inquiry, which means applying will not affect your credit score. Borrowers can effectively obtain personal loans with no credit check in the traditional sense, avoiding the damage of hard inquiries while still getting the financing they need.
    • No Collateral Required: All loans through RadCred are unsecured, meaning borrowers don’t have to pledge any assets or property as collateral. This feature lowers the barrier to approval for those who lack valuable collateral and makes the process less risky for the borrower.
    • Flexible Loan Terms: RadCred offers flexibility in repayment, with terms typically ranging from 1 to 3 years. Borrowers can choose a repayment period that fits their budget and timeline, whether they need a short-term relief or a longer-term installment plan.
    • Transparent Fees and Rates: There are no hidden fees on RadCred’s platform – all interest rates (APR) and any applicable fees are disclosed upfront. This transparency allows borrowers to understand the total cost of their loan and avoid surprises, making these bad credit loans easier to manage responsibly.
    • Online Convenience: The entire borrowing process is conducted online via RadCred’s user-friendly website. From application to funding, borrowers can complete every step from home, at any time, without the need to visit a bank or storefront. This 24/7 accessibility is crucial for those who need urgent loans for bad credit outside of normal banking hours.

    How to Get an Instant Personal Loan through RadCred

    Applying for a personal loan on RadCred’s platform is a simple, streamlined process. Borrowers can go from application to funding in a matter of hours by following a few straightforward steps:

    1. Apply Online: Visit RadCred’s website and fill out a short online form with your personal and financial details. It takes just a few minutes to complete.
    2. Soft Credit Check: RadCred performs a soft inquiry ideal for no credit check loans so applying won’t impact your credit score, making it suitable for bad credit borrowers.
    3. Lender Matching:  The system instantly matches you with vetted lenders based on your income and requested loan amount. This ensures access to personal loans for bad credit with guaranteed approval in many cases.
    4. Compare Offers: Receive multiple personalized loan offers with details like APR, repayment terms, and monthly payments giving you real options to compare.
    5. Select and Accept: Choose the offer that fits your needs. Most approvals are finalized immediately.
    6. Fast Funding: Approved funds are usually deposited same day, offering emergency loan bad credit guaranteed approval for urgent situations.

    By focusing on a quick and user-friendly process, RadCred enables borrowers with bad credit to obtain funds without long waits or complex paperwork. 

    Eligibility Criteria and Guaranteed Approval Conditions

    One of RadCred’s major attractions is its high approval rate for bad credit applicants. While “guaranteed approval” is subject to meeting basic criteria, RadCred’s requirements are relatively straightforward and inclusive. To qualify for a personal loan through RadCred, applicants should meet the following basic criteria:

    • Age: Must be at least 18 years old (legal adult).
    • Residency: Must be a U.S. resident with a valid U.S. address.
    • Bank Account: Need an active checking or savings account in your name, as approved loans are deposited electronically via direct deposit.
    • Income: Must provide proof of a steady income or employment (e.g., pay stubs or bank statements) to demonstrate the ability to repay the loan.
    • Credit Check: Only a soft credit check is performed for eligibility, so having a low credit score will not automatically disqualify you. Credit history is considered, but it is not the sole determining factor for approval. RadCred’s lending partners are willing to work with borrowers who have poor credit, as long as other criteria are met.

    Because RadCred emphasizes income over credit history, it enables access to bad credit personal loans with guaranteed approval for many applicants. Even those with scores in the 500s often qualify. Through its network, borrowers can secure no credit check loans up to $5,000 and sometimes up to $50,000 based on eligibility.

    Benefits of Choosing RadCred for Bad Credit Loans

    RadCred’s personal loan service stands out in the market of bad credit lenders due to several key benefits that it provides to borrowers:

    • High Speed & Convenience: RadCred offers near-instant approvals and same day cash transfers for bad credit loans. The 24/7 online process ensures fast access to money, unlike traditional loans that often take days or weeks for approval and funding.
    • Flexible Loan Amounts: RadCred’s lender network allows borrowers to access both small loans ($100–$300) and larger personal loans up to $5,000—even higher in some cases. Many lenders offer up to $10,000 based on income eligibility. This flexibility ensures that borrowers with bad credit can request amounts suited to their needs, whether it’s for urgent small payday loan expenses or larger financial commitments, all through a quick and accessible online platform.
    • Competitive Offers via Multiple Lenders: RadCred works as a loan marketplace, not a direct lender, connecting borrowers with multiple licensed lenders. This setup encourages competition, so borrowers can compare bad credit personal loans guaranteed approval $5,000 offers side-by-side. If one no credit check loan doesn’t work, you still have options to secure urgent loans for bad credit that suit your situation.
    • Fair and Transparent Terms: All RadCred’s lenders provide personal loans for bad credit with full transparency. APRs, fees, and repayment terms are disclosed upfront—no hidden costs. This ensures bad credit loans guaranteed approval don’t surprise borrowers later. Each loan offer aligns with responsible lending guidelines, making RadCred a reliable choice for emergency loan bad credit guaranteed approval in the U.S.
    • Credit-Building Opportunity: Personal loans for bad credit instant approval through RadCred can also support long-term financial goals. Repaying a bad credit personal loan on time may help rebuild credit.. So, these no credit check loans aren’t just for emergencies they can support financial recovery too.
    • No Prepayment Penalties: RadCred’s no credit check loans guaranteed approval often come with zero prepayment fees. If you repay early, you save on interest without penalties. This flexibility makes RadCred’s quick loans for bad credit appealing to borrowers who want to clear debt faster. 

    These benefits make RadCred an attractive option for individuals with bad credit who need a safe, fast, and reliable loan solution. RadCred offers a fast, safe, and reliable solution for bad credit loans, no credit check loans, and personal loans for bad credit. By focusing on income over credit score, it helps borrowers access guaranteed approval loans up to $5,000 securely.

    About RadCred

    RadCred is a fintech company and online lending marketplace offering accessible, transparent financial solutions for consumers with subprime or limited credit history. Unlike traditional lenders, RadCred focuses on income and repayment ability over FICO scores, helping those with scores below 600. The platform supports urgent financial needs through fast, flexible options, including no credit check loans and bad credit personal loans across the United States.

    Final Thoughts

    For millions of U.S. consumers with poor credit, RadCred’s personal loans for bad credit offer vital support. With guaranteed approval up to $5,000, no credit check loans, and fast processing, the platform helps borrowers secure urgent funds without traditional barriers. It also creates an opportunity to rebuild credit through timely repayments. Whether facing medical bills or monthly shortfalls, RadCred’s bad credit loans provide flexible, transparent, and accessible financing making it a standout option for those excluded from conventional credit avenues.

    Disclaimer: Loan offers and approvals are subject to meeting RadCred’s lender requirements and state-specific regulations. While RadCred’s platform provides high approval rates for bad credit applicants, no loan is truly guaranteed for everyone. Borrowers must be at least 18 years old, U.S. residents, have verifiable income, and an active bank account. RadCred uses a soft credit check, so your credit score won’t be affected by applying. Loan terms vary by lender and profile. Funds are usually deposited the same day, but exact timing may differ.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Creatd Completes Purchase of 25% of PCG Advisory for $1.25 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    NEW YORK, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Creatd, Inc. (OTC: CRTD), a publicly traded company focused on capital structure arbitrage and building platforms for emerging growth companies, today announced the purchase of a 25% equity stake in PCG Advisory, Inc., for $1.25 million. PCG is considered a leading investor relations firm serving private emerging growth and small-cap public companies. This purchase is one of a larger set of related transactions, set to be announced in coming weeks.

    This transaction and upcoming related ones are together part of Creatd’s ongoing strategy to assemble synergistic, high-impact assets that support public companies through technology, community, and access to capital. Led by founder and CEO Jeff Ramson, PCG has consistently been at the forefront of innovation in investor relations. The firm is widely respected for combining strategic communications with a strong network and a community-focused approach.

    “Jeff is a forward thinker who has built an IR platform rooted in both innovation and trust,” said Jeremy Frommer, Chairman and CEO of Creatd. “Bringing PCG into our ecosystem strengthens the foundation we are building to support emerging growth companies with modern infrastructure and scalable tools.”

    Jeff Ramson, CEO of PCG Advisory, added, “For over a decade, PCG has worked to give emerging growth companies a stronger voice and smarter market strategy. Creatd shares that vision and brings the kind of forward-leaning structure that will help take our mission to the next level.”

    With PCG now part of its portfolio, Creatd continues to expand its ecosystem of companies working to reshape how early-stage and growth companies operate in the public markets. This partnership reflects Creatd’s commitment to empowering founders and investors through smarter systems and collaborative platforms.

    For more information, visit www.creatd.com

    About Creatd, Inc.
    Creatd, Inc. focuses on investments and operations across technology, media, aviation, advertising, and consumer sectors. By leveraging its expertise in structured finance and acquisitions, Creatd identifies and nurtures opportunities within small-cap companies, driving growth and innovation across its diverse portfolio.

    For investor inquiries, contact:
    ir@creatd.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp Partners with Neural Payments to Bring Innovative ID Security to the $3.2 Trillion P2P Payment Sector

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    With 8% of all banking customers saying they’ve been victimized by a P2P scam in the last 12 months, Trust Stamp and Neural Payments partner to decrease the risk of fraud and make banks and their customers more secure

    Atlanta, GA, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp (Nasdaq: IDAI) today announced a partnership with Neural Payments for the integration of Trust Stamp’s low-code Orchestration Platform. Neural Payments provides banks and credit unions with real-time person-to-person (P2P) payments, advanced fraud prevention, and flexible disbursement solutions. This integration provides robust Identity Verification for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and selfie-based reauthentication for payments.

    With the proliferation of popular P2P apps like PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, and Zelle, the global P2P payment market size is projected to hit USD 3.63 trillion this year and reach USD 16.21 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 18.10% from 2025 to 2034. Fraudsters have taken notice and are using combinations of generative AI and social engineering to intercept payments or trick users into voluntarily sending them money.

    Andrew Gowasack, Trust Stamp’s President, commented, “I am excited to partner with Neural Payments to bring our AI-powered technology to the payment sector. Neural Payments has taken a proactive approach by enabling users to enroll using their face and government ID document, then to approve future payments with a selfie. Rather than storing sensitive biometric information, selfies are converted into Irreversibly Transformed Identity Tokens (IT2) which can be compared to future IT2. There is no need for callbacks, insecure one-time passcodes sent via SMS or email, or authenticator apps. Approving a payment is as easy as taking a selfie!”

    Andrew Gowasack added, “Neural Payments already serves nearly 80 financial institutions, bringing the highest levels of security while removing friction for both payee and recipient. The Neural Payments team brings significant payments experience and top-tier technology. Financial institutions now have the convenience of security through Neural Payments, along with the strength of Trust Stamp’s identity fraud detection.”

    Mick Oppy, founder and CEO of Neural Payments, commented, “At Neural Payments, we’re committed to making it easier and safer for banks and credit unions to offer the P2P experiences their customers demand. Fraud mitigation is no longer a passive issue for financial institutions – it’s a top concern that requires real-time and preemptive action. By integrating Trust Stamp’s cutting-edge identity verification directly into the payment flow, we’re equipping financial institutions with the tools to reduce fraud, streamline authentication, and keep their customers’ money and trust exactly where it belongs. With Trust Stamp, we’re signaling our commitment to both our customers and our 2025 growth aspirations as we push towards becoming the FinTech of choice for P2P payments.”

    Both Trust Stamp and Neural Payments are graduates of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) ThinkTECH Accelerator. ICBA exclusively represents the nation’s nearly 4,500 community banks in the United States through its advocacy, education, and innovation pillars.

    “Partnerships like this fulfill the promise of ICBA’s ThinkTECH Accelerator to drive innovation that addresses our industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities,” said Charles Potts, ICBA executive vice president and chief innovation officer. “By combining advanced identity verification with seamless real-time payments, Trust Stamp and Neural Payments are delivering a solution tailored to community bank priorities—strengthening security, simplifying compliance, and elevating the customer experience.”

    To learn more about the capabilities of Neural Payments, visit https://neuralpayments.com/solutions.

    Enquiries

    Trust Stamp – Email: Shareholders@truststamp.ai

    Andrew Gowasack, President: agowasack@truststamp.ai 

    About Trust Stamp

    Trust Stamp, the Privacy-First Identity CompanyTM, is a global provider of AI-powered identity services for use in multiple sectors, including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations with advanced solutions that reduce fraud, protect personal data privacy, increase operational efficiency, and reach a broader base of users worldwide through its unique data transformation and comparison capabilities.

    Located across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI).

    Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks 

    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp Partners with Neural Payments to Bring Innovative ID Security to the $3.2 Trillion P2P Payment Sector

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    With 8% of all banking customers saying they’ve been victimized by a P2P scam in the last 12 months, Trust Stamp and Neural Payments partner to decrease the risk of fraud and make banks and their customers more secure

    Atlanta, GA, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp (Nasdaq: IDAI) today announced a partnership with Neural Payments for the integration of Trust Stamp’s low-code Orchestration Platform. Neural Payments provides banks and credit unions with real-time person-to-person (P2P) payments, advanced fraud prevention, and flexible disbursement solutions. This integration provides robust Identity Verification for Know Your Customer (KYC) processes and selfie-based reauthentication for payments.

    With the proliferation of popular P2P apps like PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, and Zelle, the global P2P payment market size is projected to hit USD 3.63 trillion this year and reach USD 16.21 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 18.10% from 2025 to 2034. Fraudsters have taken notice and are using combinations of generative AI and social engineering to intercept payments or trick users into voluntarily sending them money.

    Andrew Gowasack, Trust Stamp’s President, commented, “I am excited to partner with Neural Payments to bring our AI-powered technology to the payment sector. Neural Payments has taken a proactive approach by enabling users to enroll using their face and government ID document, then to approve future payments with a selfie. Rather than storing sensitive biometric information, selfies are converted into Irreversibly Transformed Identity Tokens (IT2) which can be compared to future IT2. There is no need for callbacks, insecure one-time passcodes sent via SMS or email, or authenticator apps. Approving a payment is as easy as taking a selfie!”

    Andrew Gowasack added, “Neural Payments already serves nearly 80 financial institutions, bringing the highest levels of security while removing friction for both payee and recipient. The Neural Payments team brings significant payments experience and top-tier technology. Financial institutions now have the convenience of security through Neural Payments, along with the strength of Trust Stamp’s identity fraud detection.”

    Mick Oppy, founder and CEO of Neural Payments, commented, “At Neural Payments, we’re committed to making it easier and safer for banks and credit unions to offer the P2P experiences their customers demand. Fraud mitigation is no longer a passive issue for financial institutions – it’s a top concern that requires real-time and preemptive action. By integrating Trust Stamp’s cutting-edge identity verification directly into the payment flow, we’re equipping financial institutions with the tools to reduce fraud, streamline authentication, and keep their customers’ money and trust exactly where it belongs. With Trust Stamp, we’re signaling our commitment to both our customers and our 2025 growth aspirations as we push towards becoming the FinTech of choice for P2P payments.”

    Both Trust Stamp and Neural Payments are graduates of the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) ThinkTECH Accelerator. ICBA exclusively represents the nation’s nearly 4,500 community banks in the United States through its advocacy, education, and innovation pillars.

    “Partnerships like this fulfill the promise of ICBA’s ThinkTECH Accelerator to drive innovation that addresses our industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities,” said Charles Potts, ICBA executive vice president and chief innovation officer. “By combining advanced identity verification with seamless real-time payments, Trust Stamp and Neural Payments are delivering a solution tailored to community bank priorities—strengthening security, simplifying compliance, and elevating the customer experience.”

    To learn more about the capabilities of Neural Payments, visit https://neuralpayments.com/solutions.

    Enquiries

    Trust Stamp – Email: Shareholders@truststamp.ai

    Andrew Gowasack, President: agowasack@truststamp.ai 

    About Trust Stamp

    Trust Stamp, the Privacy-First Identity CompanyTM, is a global provider of AI-powered identity services for use in multiple sectors, including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations with advanced solutions that reduce fraud, protect personal data privacy, increase operational efficiency, and reach a broader base of users worldwide through its unique data transformation and comparison capabilities.

    Located across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI).

    Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks 

    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to revise or update these forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after such date or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: YURU COIN Officially Launches, Bringing Japan’s National Mascot Phenomenon into Web3

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TOKYO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — YURU COIN, the official token of Japan’s beloved Yuru-Chara Grand Prix, has officially launched, marking the first time the country’s largest regional mascot competition enters the blockchain era. With over 738 million page views and 170 million cumulative votes since 2011, the Grand Prix has become a cornerstone of Japanese pop culture — and now, YURU COIN is set to transform this legacy into a decentralized digital economy.

    A Token Built on Scarcity: The Deflationary Model

    YURU COIN operates on a fully deflationary tokenomics model. All tokens were minted at launch — with no additional issuance ever planned. Every time fans vote, participate in official campaigns, or interact with mascot NFTs, YURU COIN is burned or consumed, reducing the available supply. This unique economic structure ensures increasing scarcity and potential value growth as user engagement grows. Unlike speculative tokens that inflate markets with excess supply, YURU COIN’s value is driven by cultural participation and real-world utility.

    Real Cultural Utility: From Votes to Economic Power
    YURU COIN is not just a cryptocurrency—it is a token of participation in one of Japan’s most widely recognized and cherished cultural events. The Yuru-Chara Grand Prix has become a national tradition, allowing hundreds of regional mascots to gain popularity and recognition through fan voting and local promotions. And the results have been more than symbolic—they’ve been economic.

    Consider Kumamon, the bear mascot from Kumamoto Prefecture and the Grand Prix’s first-ever champion. As of 2024, Kumamon’s merchandise sales reached ¥162.6 billion, with a record high of ¥166.4 billion in 2023, and a cumulative economic impact exceeding ¥1.45 trillion ($10 billion USD). This demonstrates the real-world power of character branding—not just for public relations, but for regional economies.

    Winning the Yuru-Chara Grand Prix can literally be worth hundreds of millions of dollars in economic value — and now, YURU COIN gives fans a tokenized way to help make that happen.

    A Decentralized Bridge Between Culture and Crypto

    With the introduction of YURU COIN, voting for your favorite character is no longer just symbolic — it becomes an act of economic support.

    Every vote powered by YURU COIN reinforces scarcity, creates digital demand, and fuels a new layer of community engagement. Fans, municipalities, and businesses alike can align around a decentralized, transparent voting and reward system that reflects real value.

    This marks a major shift: from character branding as passive entertainment to token-driven, participatory economics.

    Cross-Border Potential: Proven in China
    Before the pandemic, the Yuru-Chara Grand Prix had already begun cultural collaboration initiatives in China, including public exhibitions and mascot exchanges.

    Although temporarily paused by COVID-19, these efforts are now set to resume — with YURU COIN acting as the digital infrastructure to support global voting, character campaigns, and NFT-based engagement across borders.

    By combining local culture with decentralized technology, YURU COIN is positioned to expand this unique Japanese character tradition to international audiences, starting with China and the broader Asian market.

    The Future of Mascots is On-Chain

    Mascots like Kumamon have proven that cute characters can generate trillion-yen-level economic value through emotional resonance, strong storytelling, and regional identity.

    With YURU COIN, the next generation of mascot champions will rise not only through votes but through on-chain validation, powered by community support, blockchain transparency, and deflationary mechanics.

    This is more than a token. It’s a cultural infrastructure. It’s a gateway to a new kind of participation economy — where the people decide, and the blockchain records.

    Join the movement. Vote with value. Power the future of character culture.

    Website: https://en.coin.yurugp.jp
     X (Twitter): @yuru_coin
     Telegram: t.me/yurucoin
     Discord: discord.gg/WyBWstXVdV

    Media Contact:
    Taisei Yamaguchi
    Director / Project Lead
    Email: yuru_info@yuruchara.com

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/8204c84c-ef90-47be-8e20-e91a7fda8cb8

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Codere Online Reports Favorable AGM Results and Changes to its Compliance Committee

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, June 30, 2025 – (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) Codere Online (Nasdaq: CDRO / CDROW, the “Company”), a leading online gaming operator in Spain and Latin America, today announced the favorable resolution of all 24 agenda items at the Annual General Meeting (“AGM”) held today at the registered office of the Company, including the confirmation and renewal of all currently serving Board members, thereby maintaining the existing composition of the Board.

    For detailed biographies of the members of our Board of Directors please visit our website.

    Appointment of A.G. Burnett as Chairman of the Compliance Committee

    In the Board of Directors meeting held earlier this month ahead of the AGM, A.G. Burnett was appointed as Chairman of the Compliance Committee, effective July 1, 2025. Rafael Catalá and Yaiza Rodríguez will continue to serve as members.

    Mr. Burnett brings over 20 years of experience in gaming regulation and law, including his service as Chairman and Executive Director of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (“GCB”) from 2012 to 2017. Prior to that, he served as a Board Member and Deputy Chief of the GCB’s Corporate Securities Division, as well as Senior Deputy Attorney General representing the GCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission.

    Mr. Burnett is a recognized professional in gaming law, regulatory compliance, enforcement, legislative affairs, AML, and sports betting law and regulation. He currently serves as a Partner at McDonald Carano, where he advises gaming clients on a wide range of regulatory and compliance matters. A graduate of Gonzaga University School of Law, Mr. Burnett holds leadership and advisory roles with several industry groups, including the International Association of Gaming Advisors, the International Masters of Gaming Law, and the UNLV’s Boyd School of Law Gaming Law Advisory Board.

    Mr. Burnett succeeds Mark Dunn as chairman of the Compliance Committee. We extend our sincere thanks to Mr. Dunn for his outstanding contribution as member and Chair of the Compliance Committee. From his appointment as member of the Compliance Committee in 2022, his dedication and integrity have been instrumental in shaping a strong compliance culture across the Company, and we are very grateful for his service.

    About Codere Online 
    Codere Online refers, collectively, to Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries. Codere Online launched in 2014 as part of the renowned casino operator Codere Group. Codere Online offers online sports betting and online casino through its state-of-the art website and mobile applications. Codere currently operates in its core markets of Spain, Mexico, Colombia, Panama and Argentina. Codere Online’s online business is complemented by Codere Group’s physical presence in Spain and throughout Latin America, forming the foundation of the leading omnichannel gaming and casino presence.

    About Codere Group
    Codere Group is a multinational group devoted to entertainment and leisure. It is a leading player in the private gaming industry, with four decades of experience and with presence in seven countries in Europe (Spain and Italy) and Latin America (Argentina, Colombia, Mexico, Panama, and Uruguay).

    Forward-Looking Statements
    Certain statements in this document may constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding Codere Online Luxembourg, S.A. and its subsidiaries (collectively, “Codere Online”) or Codere Online’s or its management team’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipate,” “believe,” “continue,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “possible,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. Forward-looking statements in this document may include, for example, statements about Codere Online’s financial performance and, in particular, the potential evolution and distribution of its net gaming revenue; any prospective and illustrative financial information; and changes in Codere Online’s strategy, future operations and target addressable market, financial position, estimated revenues and losses, projected costs, prospects and plans.

    These forward-looking statements are based on information available as of the date of this document and current expectations, forecasts and assumptions, and involve a number of judgments, risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing Codere Online’s or its management team’s views as of any subsequent date, and Codere Online does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as may be required under applicable securities laws.

    As a result of a number of known and unknown risks and uncertainties, Codere Online’s actual results or performance may be materially different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. There may be additional risks that Codere Online does not presently know or that Codere Online currently believes are immaterial that could also cause actual results to differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Some factors that could cause actual results to differ include (i) changes in applicable laws or regulations, including online gaming, privacy, data use and data protection rules and regulations as well as consumers’ heightened expectations regarding proper safeguarding of their personal information, (ii) the impacts and ongoing uncertainties created by regulatory restrictions, changes in perceptions of the gaming industry, changes in policies and increased competition, and geopolitical events such as war, (iii) the ability to implement business plans, forecasts, and other expectations and identify and realize additional opportunities, (iv) the risk of downturns and the possibility of rapid change in the highly competitive industry in which Codere Online operates, (v) the risk that Codere Online and its current and future collaborators are unable to successfully develop and commercialize Codere Online’s services, or experience significant delays in doing so, (vi) the risk that Codere Online may never achieve or sustain profitability, (vii) the risk that Codere Online will need to raise additional capital to execute its business plan, which may not be available on acceptable terms or at all, (viii) the risk that Codere Online experiences difficulties in managing its growth and expanding operations, (ix) the risk that third-party providers, including the Codere Group, are not able to fully and timely meet their obligations, (x) the risk that the online gaming operations will not provide the expected benefits due to, among other things, the inability to obtain or maintain online gaming licenses in the anticipated time frame or at all, (xi) the risk that Codere Online is unable to secure or protect its intellectual property, and (xii) the possibility that Codere Online may be adversely affected by other political, economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Additional information concerning certain of these and other risk factors is contained in Codere Online’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements concerning Codere Online or other matters and attributable to Codere Online or any person acting on their behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the cautionary statements above.

    Trademarks
    This document may contain trademarks, service marks, trade names and copyrights of Codere Online or other companies, which are the property of their respective owners. Solely for convenience, some of the trademarks, service marks, trade names and copyrights referred to in this document may be listed without the TM, SM, © or ® symbols, but Codere Online will assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, the rights of the applicable owners, if any, to these trademarks, service marks, trade names and copyrights.

    Contacts:

    Investors and Media
    Guillermo Lancha
    Director, Investor Relations and Communications
    Guillermo.Lancha@codere.com
    (+34) 628 928 152

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: SCO countries seek to jointly expand a new space for cooperation through the development of the digital economy

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    TIANJIN, June 30 (Xinhua) — The 2025 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Digital Economy Forum, themed “New Links in the Digital Economy, Jointly Expanding New Cooperation Space,” will be held in Tianjin, north China, from July 10 to 11, a press conference in the city said Monday.

    The event is aimed at further expanding the new space for the development of the SCO so that the peoples of the SCO region can enjoy the dividends from the development of the digital economy, it was noted at the press conference.

    It will bring together more than 600 Chinese and foreign guests from various circles to discuss issues such as data circulation and transactions, digital transformation of industry, digital infrastructure construction, application of artificial intelligence, smart cities, and training of digital talent.

    According to Zhai Lixin, Deputy Mayor of Tianjin, the forum will bring together politicians, university rectors, and heads of think tanks, enterprises and cities to conduct in-depth exchanges on issues such as the integration of the digital economy and the real economy, educational innovation and the cultivation of transnational talents for the digital economy, data management and joint construction of the ecosystem, innovative development of digital infrastructure and open cooperation.

    “We will deepen the alignment of development strategies of SCO member states, strengthen mutual trust in the field of data, promote the building of closer partnerships and jointly expand new growth points in the digital economy,” said Yu Ying, deputy director of the State Data Administration of the People’s Republic of China.

    As previously reported, the event will be organized by the State Data Administration of the People’s Republic of China and the People’s Government of Tianjin.

    Let us recall that the next SCO summit will be held in Tianjin this autumn. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: New Bohemian Regional Division to be established within the CNB’s Cash and Payments Department

    Source: Czech National Bank

    The Czech National Bank (CNB) is continuing to implement changes in the Cash and Payments Department, aimed at significantly speeding up and simplifying client services. With effect from 1 July 2025, a new Bohemian Regional Division will be established, headed by the current Director of the CNB’s Prague branch Vladislav Jetenský. The Bank Board made this decision at its meeting on 20 March 2025.

    The Bohemian Regional Division will be created through the merger of the Prague and Hradec Králové branches as part of the CNB’s broader strategy for service digitalisation. The aim is to simplify and speed up communication with clients, regardless of their location. Digitalisation will enable faster processing of requests and more convenient access to the CNB’s services.

    Vladislav Jetenský graduated in finance from the Prague University of Economics and Business. He worked at the CNB as banking supervision inspector in 2001–2003 and then in ING as senior auditor, head of internal audit for the Czech Republic and Slovakia and head of the financial controlling team. He returned to the CNB in 2017 and held the post of Director of the Capital Market Supervision and Control Division of the Financial Market Supervision Department II. He served as Executive Director of the Internal Audit Department from 2021 to 2024. He has been Director of the Prague branch of the Cash and Payments Department since June 2024.

    Jakub Holas
    Director, CNB Communications Division

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI: CBAK Energy Forms Strategic Partnership with Anker Innovations to Establish Battery Cell Manufacturing Facility in Malaysia, with Potential Orders Valued at Up to US$357 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALIAN, China, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) (“CBAK Energy” or the “Company”), a leading manufacturer of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and comprehensive electric energy solutions in China, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, China BAK Asia Holdings Limited (“China BAK”), has entered into a significant strategic partnership (the “Partnership”) with Anker Innovations Technology Co., Ltd. (Shenzhen Stock Exchange: 300866, “Anker Innovations”), a global leader in intelligent hardware and one of CBAK Energy’s largest customers. As part of this Partnership, CBAK Energy will establish a new battery cell manufacturing facility in Malaysia (the “Malaysian Project”), with construction beginning immediately. The facility is expected to commence mass production of the Company’s flagship LFP cylindrical battery models, 32140 and 40135, by the end of 2025.

    In recognition of CBAK Energy’s commitment to expanding its global manufacturing presence, Anker Innovations and CBAK Energy have established a long-term cooperation framework, with potential orders valued at approximately US$357 million. Both parties have also expressed a strong mutual intent to collaborate closely on the Malaysian Project. Since 2022, Anker Innovations has steadily increased its procurement of battery cells from CBAK Energy, becoming the Company’s largest customer. The majority of these purchases have centered around the Model 32140 LFP cylindrical batteries, which power Anker’s high-demand portable energy storage products—particularly in the U.S. market. The new Partnership marks a deepening of this long-term collaboration.

    CBAK Energy has completed the registration of its Malaysian entity and expects to begin facility renovation as early as next month.
    Zhiguang Hu, Chief Executive Officer of CBAK Energy, commented, “We are thrilled to enter into this strategic partnership with Anker Innovations, a highly respected and globally recognized brand. This long-term order commitment, along with substantial prepayments, reflects Anker’s strong confidence in our technical capabilities, product performance, and manufacturing quality. We are fully committed to allocating all necessary internal resources to ensure the successful launch of the Malaysian Project and the fulfillment of this transformative order.”

    About CBAK Energy
    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) is a leading high-tech enterprise in China engaged in the development, manufacturing, and sales of new energy high power lithium batteries and raw materials for use in manufacturing high power lithium batteries. The applications of the Company’s products and solutions include electric vehicles, light electric vehicles, electric tools, energy storage, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and other high-power applications. In January 2006, CBAK Energy became the first lithium battery manufacturer in China listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. CBAK Energy has multiple operating subsidiaries in Dalian, Nanjing and Shaoxing, as well as a large-scale R&D and production base in Dalian.
    For more information, please visit ir.cbak.com.cn.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, strategy and plans, and our expectations for future operations, are 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. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “should,” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Our actual results may differ materially or perhaps significantly from those discussed herein, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.
    The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

    For further inquiries, please contact:
    In China:
    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc.
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@cbak.com.cn 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CBAK Energy Forms Strategic Partnership with Anker Innovations to Establish Battery Cell Manufacturing Facility in Malaysia, with Potential Orders Valued at Up to US$357 Million

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    DALIAN, China, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) (“CBAK Energy” or the “Company”), a leading manufacturer of lithium-ion and sodium-ion batteries and comprehensive electric energy solutions in China, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, China BAK Asia Holdings Limited (“China BAK”), has entered into a significant strategic partnership (the “Partnership”) with Anker Innovations Technology Co., Ltd. (Shenzhen Stock Exchange: 300866, “Anker Innovations”), a global leader in intelligent hardware and one of CBAK Energy’s largest customers. As part of this Partnership, CBAK Energy will establish a new battery cell manufacturing facility in Malaysia (the “Malaysian Project”), with construction beginning immediately. The facility is expected to commence mass production of the Company’s flagship LFP cylindrical battery models, 32140 and 40135, by the end of 2025.

    In recognition of CBAK Energy’s commitment to expanding its global manufacturing presence, Anker Innovations and CBAK Energy have established a long-term cooperation framework, with potential orders valued at approximately US$357 million. Both parties have also expressed a strong mutual intent to collaborate closely on the Malaysian Project. Since 2022, Anker Innovations has steadily increased its procurement of battery cells from CBAK Energy, becoming the Company’s largest customer. The majority of these purchases have centered around the Model 32140 LFP cylindrical batteries, which power Anker’s high-demand portable energy storage products—particularly in the U.S. market. The new Partnership marks a deepening of this long-term collaboration.

    CBAK Energy has completed the registration of its Malaysian entity and expects to begin facility renovation as early as next month.
    Zhiguang Hu, Chief Executive Officer of CBAK Energy, commented, “We are thrilled to enter into this strategic partnership with Anker Innovations, a highly respected and globally recognized brand. This long-term order commitment, along with substantial prepayments, reflects Anker’s strong confidence in our technical capabilities, product performance, and manufacturing quality. We are fully committed to allocating all necessary internal resources to ensure the successful launch of the Malaysian Project and the fulfillment of this transformative order.”

    About CBAK Energy
    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc. (NASDAQ: CBAT) is a leading high-tech enterprise in China engaged in the development, manufacturing, and sales of new energy high power lithium batteries and raw materials for use in manufacturing high power lithium batteries. The applications of the Company’s products and solutions include electric vehicles, light electric vehicles, electric tools, energy storage, uninterruptible power supply (UPS), and other high-power applications. In January 2006, CBAK Energy became the first lithium battery manufacturer in China listed on the Nasdaq Stock Market. CBAK Energy has multiple operating subsidiaries in Dalian, Nanjing and Shaoxing, as well as a large-scale R&D and production base in Dalian.
    For more information, please visit ir.cbak.com.cn.

    Safe Harbor Statement
    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding our future results of operations and financial position, strategy and plans, and our expectations for future operations, are 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. We have attempted to identify forward-looking statements by terminology including “anticipates,” “believes,” “can,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “plans,” “potential,” “predicts,” “should,” or “will” or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology. Our actual results may differ materially or perhaps significantly from those discussed herein, or implied by, these forward-looking statements.
    The forward-looking statements included in this press release are made as of the date of this press release and the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law.

    For further inquiries, please contact:
    In China:
    CBAK Energy Technology, Inc.
    Investor Relations Department
    Email: ir@cbak.com.cn 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: LPL Financial Appoints Mike Holtschlag as Executive Vice President of Banking and Lending

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN DIEGO, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — LPL Financial LLC, a leading wealth management firm, has appointed Mike Holtschlag as Executive Vice President of Banking and Lending. In this role, Holtschlag will lead the company’s banking and lending initiatives to drive growth and enhance the full-service experience for both advisors and investors. His team will be responsible for the strategy, design, development, execution and delivery of LPL’s suite of solutions, including cash management accounts (CMA), credit cards and secured credit lending.

    LPL’s strategic focus on developing state-of-the-art banking and lending solutions makes it easier for advisors to provide comprehensive services to discerning investors who desire a singular partner, where they can get personalized financial advice along with flexible options for lending, liquidity and cash management. Holtschlag will also oversee integration of these services with LPL’s trading and investment advisory teams, guiding and advancing the firm’s strength in delivering comprehensive wealth management solutions.

    “Simplification and centralization are key for both advisors and investors,” said Aneri Jambusaria, Group Managing Director of Wealth Management at LPL Financial. “Mike’s deep expertise in financial solutions and his proven track record in driving innovation will be instrumental in advancing our banking and lending initiatives, ensuring we continue to offer exceptional, one-stop solutions that reduce friction and power growth for our advisors. With Mike on board, we look forward to continuing to elevate LPL as the destination of choice in wealth management.”

    Holtschlag brings more than 25 years of financial services experience to LPL. Most recently, he spent 17 years at Fidelity Investments, where he served as Senior Vice President for the Saving, Spending, and Lending Business within Personal Investing. He led a global team of 150 associates providing a broad portfolio of financial solutions to retail clients, including cash management, credit, debit, lending solutions, health savings accounts, 529 plans, fixed income securities and alternatives. Prior to Fidelity, he was a Principal at The Boston Consulting Group, leading critical initiatives for clients ranging from start-ups to multinational corporations.

    Holtschlag holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Harvard University and a Master of Business Administration in Operations and Information Management from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He is based in San Diego.

    About LPL Financial

    LPL Financial Holdings Inc. (Nasdaq: LPLA) is among the fastest growing wealth management firms in the U.S. As a leader in the financial advisor-mediated marketplace, LPL supports over 29,000 financial advisors and the wealth management practices of approximately 1,200 financial institutions, servicing and custodying approximately $1.8 trillion in brokerage and advisory assets on behalf of approximately 7 million Americans. The firm provides a wide range of advisor affiliation models, investment solutions, fintech tools and practice management services, ensuring that advisors and institutions have the flexibility to choose the business model, services, and technology resources they need to run thriving businesses. For further information about LPL, please visit www.lpl.com.

    Securities and advisory services offered through LPL Financial LLC (“LPL Financial”), a registered investment adviser and broker-dealer. Member FINRA/SIPC.

    Throughout this communication, the terms “financial advisors” and “advisors” are used to refer to registered representatives and/or investment advisor representatives affiliated with LPL Financial.

    We routinely disclose information that may be important to shareholders in the “Investor Relations” or “Press Releases” section of our website.

    Media Contact: 
    Media.relations@LPLFinancial.com 
    (402) 740-2047 

    Tracking #: 759379

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Mercurity Fintech Officially Joins Russell 2000 Index

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    New York, NY, June 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (the “Company,” “we,” “us,” “our company,” or “MFH”) (Nasdaq: MFH), a digital fintech group, today announced that it has officially joined the Russell 2000® Index, effective after the U.S. market close on June 27. The inclusion follows MFH’s addition to the preliminary reconstitution list announced on May 23, 2025, as part of FTSE Russell’s annual index review process.

    MFH has also been included in the broader Russell 3000® Index, marking a significant milestone for the Company as it gains access to a broader base of institutional investors who track these widely followed benchmarks.

    “Being included in the Russell 2000 validates our strategic focus on blockchain-based financial infrastructure and reflects our growing market presence,” said Shi Qiu, CEO of Mercurity Fintech. “This inclusion has opened doors to institutional investors—both passive and active—who rely on Russell indexes for their investment strategies, potentially increasing awareness and visibility for MFH among professional investment managers.”

    The Russell 2000 Index measures the performance of the 2,000 smallest companies in the Russell 3000 Index, representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 3000. The annual reconstitution process captures the 4,000 largest U.S. stocks as of April 30, ranked by total market capitalization, with membership determined primarily through objective market-cap rankings and style attributes.

    As of June 2024, approximately $10.6 trillion in assets were benchmarked to Russell U.S. indexes, which FTSE Russell, a leading global index provider, maintains. The indexes serve as benchmarks for investment managers and institutional investors operating both index funds and active investment strategies.

    “This milestone reflects the value we’re creating at the intersection of traditional finance and blockchain innovation,” Qiu added. “As we continue executing our strategy, including our recently announced Bitcoin treasury reserve initiative, we’re well-positioned to capitalize on the increased institutional awareness that comes with Russell Index membership.”

    About Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc.
    Mercurity Fintech Holding Inc. (NASDAQ: MFH) is a fintech group powered by blockchain infrastructure, offering technology and financial services. Through its subsidiaries including Chaince Securities, LLC, MFH aims to bridge traditional finance and digital innovation, offering services spanning digital assets, financial advisory, and capital markets solutions.

    Forward-Looking Statements
    This announcement contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “will,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results.

    Contacts:
    International Elite Capital Inc.
    Annabelle Zhang
    Tel: +1(646) 866-7928
    Email: mfhfintech@iecapitalusa.com

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