NewzIntel.com

Category: Economy

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Get the Support you Deserve. Start with a Simple Check!

    Source: City of Preston

    Preston City Council is proud to announce the launch of a brand-new Benefits Calculator and Income Maximisation Tool.

    Get the Support You Deserve. Start with a simple check. This easy-to-use, confidential tool helps residents check what financial support they maybe entitled to, from benefits to grants and other forms of assistance.

    The tool has already proven highly effective in other areas such as the London Borough of Barnet, where out of 14,000 users, 95% identified additional support they were eligible for.

    Since going live in Preston just over a month ago, the early results are already encouraging, 72 residents completed the short calculator, with an estimated 87.5% qualifying for an average of £953 per month in additional support. 47 users completed the full assessment journey, qualifying for an average of £677 per month in extra financial support.

    With an estimated £23 billion in unclaimed benefits nationally, Preston City Council is encouraging anyone who thinks they might be missing out to use the tool and see what help is available to them.

    Councillor Martyn Rawlinson, Cabinet Member for Resources, said:

    At a time when the cost of living is putting pressure on households, we want to make sure Preston residents are receiving all the support they’re entitled to.

    This simple tool is a valuable way for people to check what help is available, quickly, easily, and confidentially. I encourage everyone to give it a go or help a friend or neighbour access it if they can.”

    In addition to the support for residents, the benefits calculator allows the Council to gather anonymous, detailed analytics to help evaluate the financial needs of local residents and identify areas where additional support services can be targeted.

    The Benefits Calculator is free to use, takes just a few minutes to complete, and could make a real difference to household incomes across the city.

    Access the Benefits Calculator

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI: Community Savings expands its Union Asset Management division with addition of USW Local 2009

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VANCOUVER, British Columbia / Unceded Territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With a focus on aligning long-term financial strategy with union values, United Steelworkers (USW) Local 2009 has selected Community Savings Credit Union’s Union Asset Management division as its investment partner – continuing to partner with a credit union that the USW helped establish as the International Woodworkers of America in 1944.

    The partnership comes as BC’s forestry and steel sectors face mounting pressures from ongoing tariff disputes and market volatility, making values-aligned investment partnerships more critical than ever for union members’ financial security.

    “This isn’t just about finding another investment manager. It’s about keeping union money working for union values,” said Al Bieksa, USW Local 2009 President. “In forestry and steel, we’re dealing with constant uncertainty from tariff announcements and trade barriers. Community Savings has consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of union values and a thoughtful approach to growing investments for our members. Having an investment partner that understands our industry challenges and won’t ship our capital off to Bay Street makes real sense for our members.”

    Raj Khunkhun, President of Community Savings’ Union Asset Management division, said: “When unions pool their investment power, they can demand better returns for their members. In partnership with NEI Investments, we manage global investments while ensuring profits are retained in Canada, providing returns that matter to the labour movement. Our work with USW Local 2009 will continue through this shared mission and will support the financial security and growth of union members across the region. We’re not just managing money – we’re building the financial foundation that lets working people fight for better wages, safer workplaces, and stronger communities.”

    The Union Asset Management division offers fund management for pensions, benefits, and other investments. It partners with NEI Investments, a Canadian asset manager specializing in responsible investing with over $11 billion under management.

    For Local 2009’s members, many of whom work in industries facing significant economic headwinds, the partnership offers stability through turbulent times. The credit union’s approach prioritizes long-term security over short-term speculation which is crucial for workers in cyclical industries like forestry and steel.

    The move also strengthens Community Savings’ position as BC’s largest fully unionized credit union. Since becoming Canada’s first Living Wage employer in 2010, the institution has demonstrated that financial services can operate on cooperative principles while delivering competitive results.

    USW represents 225,000 members across nearly every economic sector in Canada and is North America’s largest private-sector union, with 850,000 members across Canada, the United States and the Caribbean.

    Union organizations interested in learning more about Union Asset Management services can visit: comsavings.com/assetmanagement

    About Community Savings Credit Union: Community Savings Credit Union is driven by its purpose to unite working people to build a just world. As BC’s largest fully unionized credit union, Community Savings provides banking services while living its values – from becoming Canada’s first Living Wage employer in 2010 to winning the 2022 BCBusiness Workplace Wellness Award.

    Community Savings operates seven branches across the Lower Mainland and Victoria. For more information, visit comsavings.com.

    Media Contact
    Yulu Public Relations
    cscu@yulupr.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: 8 in 10 people support taxing oil and gas corporations to pay for climate damages, global survey finds

    Source: Greenpeace Statement –

    Bonn, Germany, 19 June 2025 – A vast majority of people believe governments must tax oil, gas and coal corporations for climate-related loss and damage, and that their government is not doing enough to counter the political influence of super rich individuals and polluting industries. These are the key findings of a global survey – including responses from South Africa and Kenya – which reflect a broad consensus across political affiliations, income levels and age groups.[1]  

    The study, jointly commissioned by Greenpeace International and Oxfam International, was launched today at the UN Climate Meetings in Bonn (SB62), where government representatives are discussing climate policies, including ways to raise at least US$ 1.3 trillion annually in climate finance for Global South countries by 2035. The survey was conducted across 13 countries, including most G7 countries. 

    Sherelee Odayar, Oil and Gas Campaigner for Greenpeace Africa said:

    “In Africa, people are feeling the heat—literally—and they’re done footing the bill for disasters driven by record fossil-fuel profits. This survey sends an unmistakable message: our governments have a popular mandate to make oil, gas and coal corporations pay their fair share for the floods, droughts and hunger they’ve helped unleash. A polluter-pays tax would turn dirty profits into clean investments for frontline communities, and that’s the climate justice Africa has been calling for.”

    Ali Mohamed, Special Envoy for Climate Change, Kenya, said:


    “African Leaders adopted the Nairobi Declaration during the inaugural Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, which among others, calls for a global carbon taxation regime, including levies on fossil fuel trade. Kenya co-chairs the Global Solidarity Levies Taskforce, which brings together a coalition of willing countries to design and implement progressive levies that reflect the true cost of pollution. The principle is simple, sectors profiting from the increasing greenhouse gas emissions that cause the destructive climate change, must be taxed to support climate impacted vulnerable communities in Africa and other developing world, adapt and recover from the devastating losses and damages being suffered so frequently.”

    Mads Christensen, Executive Director of Greenpeace International said:

    “These survey results send a clear message: people are no longer buying the lies. They see the fingerprints of fossil fuel giants all over the storms, floods, droughts, and wildfires devastating their lives, and they want accountability. By taxing the obscene profits of dirty energy companies, governments can unlock billions to protect communities and invest in real climate solutions. It’s only fair that those who caused the crisis should pay for the damage, not those suffering from it.”

    The study, run by Dynata, was unveiled alongside the Polluters Pay Pact, a global alliance of communities on the frontlines of climate disasters. The Pact demands that – instead of piling the costs on ordinary people – governments make oil, gas and coal corporations pay their fair share for the damages they cause, through the introduction of new taxes and fines.

    The Pact is backed by firefighters and other first responders, trade unions and worker groups, and mayors from countries including Australia, Brazil, Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and South Africa, the US, and plaintiffs in landmark climate cases from Pacific island states to Switzerland.

    The Pact is also supported by over 60 NGOs, including Oxfam International, 350.org, Avaaz, Islamic Relief UK, Asociación Interamericana para la Defensa del Ambiente (AIDA), Indian Hawkers Alliance, Pacific Islands Students Fighting Climate Change, Jubilee Australia and the Greenpeace network.

    The survey’s findings published today reveal broad public support for the core demands of the Polluters Pay Pact, as climate impacts worsen worldwide and global inequality grows.

    Key findings of the survey include:

    • 81% of people surveyed would support taxes on the oil, gas, and coal industry to pay for damages caused by fossil-fuel driven climate disasters like storms, floods, droughts and wildfires.
    • 86% of people in surveyed countries support channeling revenues from higher taxes on oil and gas corporations towards communities most impacted by the climate crisis. Climate change is disproportionately hitting people in Global South countries, who are historically least responsible for greenhouse gas emissions. 
    • When asked who should be taxed to pay for helping survivors of fossil-fuel driven climate disasters, 66% of people across countries surveyed think it should be oil and gas companies, while just 5% support taxes on working people, 9% on goods people buy, and 20% favour business taxes.
    • 68% felt that the fossil fuel industry and the super-rich had a negative influence on politics in their country. 77% say they would be more willing to support a political candidate who prioritises taxing the super-rich and the fossil fuel industry. 

    Amitabh Behar, Executive Director of Oxfam International, said: 

    “Fossil fuel companies have known for decades about the damage their polluting products wreak on humanity. Corporations continue to cash in on climate devastation, and their profiteering destroys the lives and livelihoods of millions of women, men and children, predominantly those in the Global South who have done the least to cause the climate crisis. Governments must listen to their people and hold polluters responsible for their damages. A new tax on polluting industries could provide immediate and significant support to climate-vulnerable countries, and finally incentivise investment in renewables and a just transition.” 

    The Polluters Pay Pact demonstrates popular support for the campaign to make polluters pay. The campaign is being waged throughout 2025 in countries worldwide and in critical international forums, including the 4th International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), and negotiations for a UN tax convention that could include new rules to make multinational oil and gas companies pay their fair share for their pollution.

    ENDS

    Notes:

    [1] The research was conducted by first-party data company Dynata in May-June, 2025, in Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Kenya, Italy, India, Mexico, the Philippines, South Africa, Spain, the UK and the US, with approximately 1200 respondents in each country and a theoretical margin of error of approximately 2.83%. Together, these countries represent close to half the world’s population. Statistics available here. 

    Additional background information available here.

    [2] Learn more about the Polluters Pay Pact: polluterspaypact.org

    [3] Additional quotes here from people around the world who are backing the Polluters Pay Pact, including first responders, local administration, youth, union representatives and people bringing climate cases to courts. 

    Contacts: 

    For Greenpeace Africa:

    Ferdinand Omondi, Communication and Story Manager, Email: [email protected], Cell: +254 722 505 233

    Greenpeace Africa Press Desk: [email protected]. 

    For Greenpeace International: 

    Tal Harris, Greenpeace International, Global Media Lead – Stop Drilling Start Paying campaign, [email protected], +41-782530550Greenpeace International Press Desk: [email protected], +31 (0) 20 718 2470 (available 24 hours). Follow on X and Bluesky for our latest international press releases.

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Secures Digital Asset License in Georgia, Running its Global Expansion Strategy in Eastern Europe

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    VICTORIA, Seychelles, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, has secured regulatory approval in Georgia to operate as a provider of digital asset exchange and custodial wallet services through the Tbilisi Free Zone (TFZ). The new licensing development is a strategic expansion aligned with Bitget’s plans of growing its licensing portfolio in Eastern Europe, a region increasingly dictating the growth of crypto through open regulatory frameworks and progressive economic outlooks.

    Georgia has emerged as a notable hub for crypto innovation, drawing attention with its pro-business stance and supportive environment for crypto and blockchain companies. Ranked among the top countries for crypto mining per capita and blockchain integration, Georgia has actively pursued policies to align with global financial standards while embracing the strong potential of emerging cryptospace. The Tbilisi Free Zone offers tax advantages and has set frameworks and procedures for companies in the digital asset space, making it a hotbed for international players seeking operational flexibility with regulatory clarity.

    “Regions with strong crypto-friendly frameworks are creating the foundation for the next era of finance. Georgia is an example of how strategic policymaking can open doors for growth while guarding users’ safety and increasing accessibility. Bitget’s goal is to work hand-in-hand with jurisdictions that understand the long game—where crypto is a synonym for the new emerging global economic infrastructure,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.

    Bitget’s entrance into Georgia aligns with its broader objective of strengthening its presence in markets that support responsible innovation. As crypto adoption accelerates in Eastern Europe, the region has become increasingly important for digital asset platforms looking to serve both institutional and retail users under compliant structures. Regulatory transparency in jurisdictions like Georgia helps ensure that growth is matched with accountability, a principle that aligns with Bitget’s international expansion approach.

    Bitget currently holds registrations in several key jurisdictions across Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. These include AUSTRAC in Australia, OAM in Italy, and Virtual Asset Service Provider listings in Poland, Bulgaria, Lithuania, and the Czech Republic. In the UK, Bitget operates its FCA-approved platform partnering with an Authorized Person for the purposes of Section 21 of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. In addition, Bitget’s recent licenses in El Salvador and registration Argentina adds depth to its reach across both rising and established economies, marking a deliberate move into markets shaping the next wave of crypto adoption.

    The newly acquired license in Georgia builds on this momentum—signaling a preference for regions implementing crypto-friendly frameworks and regulatory prudence. Each new license marks yet another step towards Bitget’s global strategy to include crypto into everyday infrastructure with high quality products, world-class security and strong compliance towards local regulations.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform. Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

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

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

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

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/595c8101-71b3-4f99-9849-5682104ad6de

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Italian Science Fiction Writer Roberto Quaglia Participates in SPIEF-2025

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    MOSCOW, RUSSIA, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum is in Russia from June 18 to 21. Among the participants is Italian writer and publicist Roberto Quaglia, holder of the title of Europe’s best science fiction writer. He noted the significance of SPIEF as a space where the architecture of the future world is being formed.

    “There are places in time and space where the future is created. This is one of them. Today, a new multipolar world is born—with new connections, centres of power, and initiatives. The economy plays a decisive role here, and that is precisely why the forum in Russia has special significance,” emphasised Roberto Quaglia.

    One of the main events of the first day of SPIEF was the session “Shaping a New Platform for Global Growth”, which opened the business program. It was organised based on the results of the Open Dialogue of the Russia National Centre. Leading specialists from Russia, Cameroon, Spain, Azerbaijan, and Canada participated in the discussion, as well as authors of the best essays from the Open Dialogue.

    Experts discussed tectonic shifts in the world system, Africa’s potential as a centre of future economic development, demographic challenges, and the role of advanced technologies. Special attention was paid to the theme of the economy’s cultural foundations and business’s social responsibility. Maxim Oreshkin noted that open and substantive dialogue is necessary to develop sustainable solutions.

    Social Links

    Telegram: https://t.me/gowithRussia

    VK: https://vk.com/gowithrussia

    Media Contact

    Brand: Russia National Centre

    Contact: Media Team

    Email: pressa@russia.ru

    Website: https://future.russia.ru/

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Delivering an energy market that works for consumers

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments 2

    Press release

    Delivering an energy market that works for consumers

    New proposals announced to expand automatic compensation schemes when things go wrong.

    • New proposals to expand automatic compensation schemes for when things go wrong
    • working people will be better protected with fairer, quicker, easier access to compensation when they are let down by their energy supplier
    • follows confirmation that 2.7 million extra households will receive £150 off their energy bills next winter as the Warm Home Discount is expanded, easing the cost of living through the Plan for Change

    Working people will have better protections in the energy market through a new package of protection measures announced by the Prime Minister today.  

    The current system makes it too difficult for consumers to access proper compensation.

    Companies have 8 weeks to respond to requests, and if they do not respond or complaints go unresolved, then the onus is on consumers themselves to self-refer to the Energy Ombudsman.

    This produces a situation in which consumers often do not access the compensation they are entitled to due to time pressures or fatigue with a complex system.

    These reforms will take the pressure off consumers and onto the companies to ensure that consumers get the compensation they deserve. Doing so will ensure energy consumers are better-protected and empowered to take action when necessary.  

    These include proposals to make compensation fairer, quicker and easier, and covers areas including:  

    • working with Ofgem to look at expanding automatic compensation to cover more key issues faced by consumers, including excessively long call waiting times, unexpectedly high bills when suppliers fail to adjust direct debits, suppliers not responding to complaints, or suppliers not complying with Energy Ombudsman final decisions
    • government working with Ofgem to look at further increasing the value of base-level compensation from £40, following the first increase since the payments were last set a decade ago
    • strengthening the Energy Ombudsman’s powers so that suppliers must comply with its final decision or pay compensation to the consumer 
    • cutting the time before complaints can be escalated to the Ombudsman from 8 to 4 weeks
    • making referrals to the Ombudsman automatic, instead of people having to do it themselves

    Minister for Energy Consumers Miatta Fahnbulleh said: 

    Through our Plan for Change we are delivering an energy market consumers can trust, putting an end to unfair practices, holding suppliers to account, and ensuring that the consumer always comes first.  

    Today’s announcement is about taking the next steps – helping households to get fairer, quicker, easier compensation when things go wrong.

    This announcement follows confirmation that 2.7 million extra households will receive £150 off their energy bills this winter as the Warm Home Discount is expanded – putting more money directly into people’s pockets. 

    This vital support is the latest in a raft of cost of living support made possible because the government has stabilised the economy, fixed the foundations and repaired the public finances – deliberate choices which are helping provide security and more money in the pockets of working families through the Plan for Change.

    Since last summer, interest rates have been cut 4 times, lowering mortgage costs, free school meals have been rolled out for over half a million more children so that kids can focus on learning rather than hungry bellies, free breakfast clubs are being expanded to every child in the country, school uniform costs have been cut, and the 30 hours of free childcare scheme has been extended to more working parents.

    Work continues on the government’s comprehensive review of Ofgem, focusing on delivering an energy market where the consumer comes first.    

    The review is also considering how Ofgem can better drive the government’s missions for clean power and economic growth.  

    This includes investigating how the regulator can support the private sector to invest in energy infrastructure, and ensuring that families who want to upgrade their homes with clean technology can do so safe in the knowledge that they are protected by robust and responsive regulation.  

    Notes to editors

    Formal recommendations following the conclusion of the Ofgem Review Call for Evidence will be published later this year.  

    Reforms follow Secretary of State Ed Miliband’s letter to Ofgem Chief Executive Jonathan Brearley in February, in which he demanded that Ofgem took quicker and more effective action on consumer protection issues, including compensation for families affected by the forced installation of pre-payment meters.  

    In May Ofgem announced £18.6 million of compensation for the victims of forced pre-payment meter installations, following the Secretary of State’s letter and months of government work with the sector.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China remains the main driver of global economic growth and Russia’s number one trading partner — VTB CEO A. Kostin

    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

    Moscow, June 19 (Xinhua) — China remains the main driver of global economic growth and Russia’s number one trading partner, said Andrey Kostin, president and chairman of the board of Russian bank VTB, in a written interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is being held in St. Petersburg from June 18 to 21.

    Over the past 5 years, China’s contribution to global economic growth has averaged around 30 percent, making China one of the main drivers of global economic growth, noted A. Kostin.

    Speaking about bilateral trade between Russia and China, A. Kostin reported that “last year, trade turnover amounted to almost 245 billion dollars, and in the medium term, it is expected to reach 300 billion dollars per year,” he added.

    At the same time, according to the head of VTB, the interaction between Russia and China in the area of mutual investments is still noticeably lagging behind the dynamic growth in trade. “Their volume today does not correspond to the level and quality of political dialogue,” the banker is sure.

    A. Kostin recalled that in order to develop this area, Russia and China updated their investment cooperation plan in August 2024. In his opinion, one of the promising areas for joint investment is the development of transport and logistics infrastructure, which is important for ensuring further growth of trade and economic cooperation, including cross-border and regional.

    Joint projects in the energy, oil and gas, and agro-industrial sectors have great potential. “Here we can talk about investments in projects in Russia, Russian supplies of raw materials and agricultural products to China, as well as the creation of joint ventures to enter third-country markets with final products,” suggested the Xinhua source.

    In addition, according to A. Kostin, in order to ensure the technological sovereignty of the two countries in modern geopolitical realities, it is important to finance joint developments and projects in the field of developing technological cooperation, including digitalization and the creation of artificial intelligence.

    The head of VTB noted that China has traditionally been one of the most important areas of the bank’s international activities. The branch in Shanghai has been operating in the Chinese market for 17 years and today remains the only Russian bank in the country.

    In addition, VTB has been supporting Russian-Chinese cultural exchanges for many years, because mutual study of culture and traditions helps people from different countries to understand each other better. “In international business, knowledge of the partner’s ‘cultural code’ helps to establish deeper and more trusting relationships, and therefore, it facilitates effective cooperation and the achievement of a more lasting result,” the head of the Russian bank believes.

    As part of the cross-cultural Years of China and Russia /2024-2025/, VTB has become a partner in a series of large-scale tours of Russian art in China, and projects that introduce Russians to Chinese art are being implemented with its support. “We will be glad to continue to take an active part in the development of cultural dialogue between our countries,” concluded A. Kostin. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Global: Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Yuezhou Yang, Research Fellow, London School of Economics and Political Science

    Media coverage of Chinese land investments in African agriculture often reinforces narratives of a “weak African state” and the “Chinese land grab”, highlighting power imbalances between the actors involved in these land deals.

    Are Chinese actors grabbing land in Africa and jeopardising local people’s land rights and food security?

    China’s “Agriculture Going Out” policy, launched in 2007 as part of its broader “Going Out” strategy, was reinforced by the Belt and Road Initiative from 2013. Backed by these policies, Chinese foreign direct investment in Africa rose from US$74.81 million in 2003 to US$4.99 billion in 2021. By 2020, US$1.67 billion was invested in African agriculture, with nearly two-thirds targeting cash crop cultivation. Zambia ranked among the top ten African countries receiving Chinese foreign direct investment and loans.

    My research on Zambian agriculture finds that Chinese land grabbing is a myth. Instead, Chinese investors have preferred different investment models according to the specific rules of land access, transfer and control of three land tenure systems in Zambia.

    What ties the three types of Chinese agricultural investments together is this: land institutions matter. Whether it’s central government rules or traditional authority, these systems shape how foreign investment happens and what impact it has.



    Read more:
    Foreign agriculture investments don’t always threaten food security: the case of Madagascar

    Each of the three models raises new opportunities and challenges for rural development and land governance. These findings matter because they offer insights into the future of land rights, livelihoods and state-building in African countries.

    Not all land is the same

    After independence, all land in Zambia was vested in the president, held in trust for the people. Today, the country still operates under a dual land system, as outlined in the 1995 Lands Act. State land, managed by the central government, includes both private and government leaseholds. Customary land, on the other hand, remains under the authority of traditional chiefs. The exact proportion of state and customary land in Zambia is contested, with estimates of customary land ranging widely from 94% to 54%.

    This tenure distinction is significant because each type of land is governed by different rules regarding foreign access and ownership, which shape how foreign investors choose their investment models.

    Over four months of fieldwork in Zambia, I gathered data on 50 Chinese agricultural projects (41 remained active) through 96 qualitative interviews. These projects were spread across three types of land tenure: private leasehold (37), government leasehold (1), and customary land (3).

    Model 1: Commercial farm on private land

    My fieldwork data showed that the majority of Chinese agricultural investments in Zambia are located on private leasehold land, typically following the commercial farm model. This type of land functions much like private property, held under 99-year leases that can be bought, sold or transferred. Investors use it for large-scale farming operations, such as maize, soybean and wheat production.

    Even in these seemingly privatised spaces, however, state power remains influential. When Zambia proposed a draft National Land Policy in 2017 aimed at tightening rules for foreign land ownership, Chinese investors responded strategically. Many began aligning their projects with Zambia’s development priorities, emphasising contributions to local food security, donating to charities, and promoting themselves as responsible corporate actors.

    Model 2: Farm block on government land

    In northern Zambia, for example, a Chinese company partnered with the government to develop a farm block on state-owned land that had been converted from customary tenure for national development. Unlike the commercial farm model, the government played a central role, selecting the investor, managing the land and negotiating the deal. The project promised infrastructure and jobs, enhancing the political standing of local officials.

    But this kind of state-led development works only when the promises are delivered. In other areas where farm blocks failed to materialise, traditional chiefs reclaimed the land. In the northern case, actual physical infrastructure investment helped reinforce state authority.

    Model 3: Contract farming on customary land

    The third model is very different. For instance, a Chinese agribusiness company arranged contract farming deals with over 50,000 smallholders in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Instead of buying or leasing land, the company provided seeds and bought cotton from farmers after harvest. This let the company access land informally, without triggering the legal and political risks of converting customary land to leasehold.

    Operating on customary land posed challenges for investors. When farmers defaulted on loans or engaged in side-selling, companies had limited legal recourse and often had to negotiate with chiefs and local communities rather than the state. In such contexts, traditional authorities – not the central government – wielded the decisive power over land and its governance.

    Why this matters

    In a world where land deals are often controversial, understanding how local rules shape global investment is crucial. It’s not just about who buys the land, but under what terms, and how those terms are enforced. African governments are not just passive bystanders; they’re active players who use land institutions to negotiate power and development.



    Read more:
    China and Africa: Ethiopia case study debunks investment myths

    This research urges us to look beyond the headlines about “land grabs” and instead focus on the everyday politics of land. If African states want to steer rural development on their own terms, understanding and strengthening land institutions – both statutory and customary – is key.

    This research is developed from Yuezhou Yang’s MRes/PhD project, which is supported by funding from the China Scholarship Council 201708040015.

    – ref. Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth – https://theconversation.com/are-chinese-investors-grabbing-zambian-land-study-finds-thats-a-myth-257644

    MIL OSI – Global Reports –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth

    Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Yuezhou Yang, Research Fellow, London School of Economics and Political Science

    Media coverage of Chinese land investments in African agriculture often reinforces narratives of a “weak African state” and the “Chinese land grab”, highlighting power imbalances between the actors involved in these land deals.

    Are Chinese actors grabbing land in Africa and jeopardising local people’s land rights and food security?

    China’s “Agriculture Going Out” policy, launched in 2007 as part of its broader “Going Out” strategy, was reinforced by the Belt and Road Initiative from 2013. Backed by these policies, Chinese foreign direct investment in Africa rose from US$74.81 million in 2003 to US$4.99 billion in 2021. By 2020, US$1.67 billion was invested in African agriculture, with nearly two-thirds targeting cash crop cultivation. Zambia ranked among the top ten African countries receiving Chinese foreign direct investment and loans.

    My research on Zambian agriculture finds that Chinese land grabbing is a myth. Instead, Chinese investors have preferred different investment models according to the specific rules of land access, transfer and control of three land tenure systems in Zambia.

    What ties the three types of Chinese agricultural investments together is this: land institutions matter. Whether it’s central government rules or traditional authority, these systems shape how foreign investment happens and what impact it has.

    Read more: Foreign agriculture investments don’t always threaten food security: the case of Madagascar

    Each of the three models raises new opportunities and challenges for rural development and land governance. These findings matter because they offer insights into the future of land rights, livelihoods and state-building in African countries.

    Not all land is the same

    After independence, all land in Zambia was vested in the president, held in trust for the people. Today, the country still operates under a dual land system, as outlined in the 1995 Lands Act. State land, managed by the central government, includes both private and government leaseholds. Customary land, on the other hand, remains under the authority of traditional chiefs. The exact proportion of state and customary land in Zambia is contested, with estimates of customary land ranging widely from 94% to 54%.

    This tenure distinction is significant because each type of land is governed by different rules regarding foreign access and ownership, which shape how foreign investors choose their investment models.

    Over four months of fieldwork in Zambia, I gathered data on 50 Chinese agricultural projects (41 remained active) through 96 qualitative interviews. These projects were spread across three types of land tenure: private leasehold (37), government leasehold (1), and customary land (3).

    Model 1: Commercial farm on private land

    My fieldwork data showed that the majority of Chinese agricultural investments in Zambia are located on private leasehold land, typically following the commercial farm model. This type of land functions much like private property, held under 99-year leases that can be bought, sold or transferred. Investors use it for large-scale farming operations, such as maize, soybean and wheat production.

    Even in these seemingly privatised spaces, however, state power remains influential. When Zambia proposed a draft National Land Policy in 2017 aimed at tightening rules for foreign land ownership, Chinese investors responded strategically. Many began aligning their projects with Zambia’s development priorities, emphasising contributions to local food security, donating to charities, and promoting themselves as responsible corporate actors.

    Model 2: Farm block on government land

    In northern Zambia, for example, a Chinese company partnered with the government to develop a farm block on state-owned land that had been converted from customary tenure for national development. Unlike the commercial farm model, the government played a central role, selecting the investor, managing the land and negotiating the deal. The project promised infrastructure and jobs, enhancing the political standing of local officials.

    But this kind of state-led development works only when the promises are delivered. In other areas where farm blocks failed to materialise, traditional chiefs reclaimed the land. In the northern case, actual physical infrastructure investment helped reinforce state authority.

    Model 3: Contract farming on customary land

    The third model is very different. For instance, a Chinese agribusiness company arranged contract farming deals with over 50,000 smallholders in Zambia’s Eastern Province. Instead of buying or leasing land, the company provided seeds and bought cotton from farmers after harvest. This let the company access land informally, without triggering the legal and political risks of converting customary land to leasehold.

    Operating on customary land posed challenges for investors. When farmers defaulted on loans or engaged in side-selling, companies had limited legal recourse and often had to negotiate with chiefs and local communities rather than the state. In such contexts, traditional authorities – not the central government – wielded the decisive power over land and its governance.

    Why this matters

    In a world where land deals are often controversial, understanding how local rules shape global investment is crucial. It’s not just about who buys the land, but under what terms, and how those terms are enforced. African governments are not just passive bystanders; they’re active players who use land institutions to negotiate power and development.

    Read more: China and Africa: Ethiopia case study debunks investment myths

    This research urges us to look beyond the headlines about “land grabs” and instead focus on the everyday politics of land. If African states want to steer rural development on their own terms, understanding and strengthening land institutions – both statutory and customary – is key.

    – Are Chinese investors grabbing Zambian land? Study finds that’s a myth
    – https://theconversation.com/are-chinese-investors-grabbing-zambian-land-study-finds-thats-a-myth-257644

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: “For the Higher School of Economics, teaching AI technologies is a hygienic requirement”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: State University Higher School of Economics – State University Higher School of Economics –

    © Dmitry Orlov / Roscongress Foundation

    “Technologies of the future: a single global space or everyone for himself” – this question was put in the title of the session held on June 19 with the support of Alfa-Bank at SPIEF-2025. The discussion was attended by the rector of the National Research University Higher School of Economics Nikita Anisimov, and the moderator was journalist, TV presenter and public figure Ksenia Sobchak.

    Opening the discussion, Ksenia Sobchak noted that we are currently experiencing a second technological revolution. The first was the universal use of computers and the Internet, and the second is related to AI, which means that we will see a huge number of breakthroughs in the economy, medicine, and in our human existence in general.

    “It would seem that this is a chance to join forces like never before, to face new challenges and opportunities together, but these breakthroughs are happening against the backdrop of a global technological divide, and this presents a huge number of additional challenges for all of us,” the moderator emphasized.

    Vladimir Verkhoshinsky, CEO of Alfa-Bank, said that the policy of technological isolation leads to a dead end, so his bank puts openness first. Previously, in the industrial economy, it was possible to patent a gear, a machine, a robot, but now, in the digital economy, it is impossible to patent a code, any innovation is easily copied, and the speaker believes that this is good.

    “Western countries were great in the 1990s and early 2000s, when they were technological leaders and openly shared technologies with the world,” added Vladimir Verkhoshinsky. In his opinion, now the leaders of many countries are pursuing protectionist policies, trying to close and ban everything.

    Addressing Nikita Anisimov, Ksenia Sobchak stated that the Higher School of Economics, as a source of personnel, must also face these modern challenges, and, in particular, asked how the university adapts its programs to the needs of AI.

    Nikita Anisimov specified that the entire education system can be considered a forge of personnel, while some simply prepare for the workplace, while others create the technologies of tomorrow, think about the future and form the values of the future. “It is important for us, and there are not many such universities in the world, that there is an environment that creates future technologies. There should be universities in the world that are a forge not of personnel, but of the technologies of the future,” he said. Such institutions – universities – exist both in our country and in the world, where AI technologies are introduced into the educational process and taught.

    “For the Higher School of Economics, teaching artificial intelligence technologies is a hygienic requirement. Our students take an exam on digital literacy already in their first year, and if they fail, we expel them,” the rector explained.

    He also said that 1% of the world’s leading universities compete for 1% of the world’s talent, and each person views studying at these universities as entering a special environment and culture, investing in themselves, creating opportunities for self-realization, and not preparing for a specific job. According to Nikita Anisimov, this understanding of the university was initially characteristic of Russia.

    The HSE rector also put forward a hypothesis that the preparation of a student for a specific job today is determined by a strong demographic impact on the labor market. So solving the demographic problem will help preserve the essence of university education.

    “What is a talent pool for? To fill jobs. And then you tell every university, even the one that is supposed to create an environment for creating the future, listen, but we don’t have enough people. Therefore, solving the demographic issue is critically important for technological leadership,” Nikita Anisimov emphasized.

    The moderator’s questions, addressed to Rostelecom President Mikhail Oseevsky, concerned the possibility of transforming various AI solutions for editing, design, visuals, etc. into a single system. “Many different wallets, with different currencies in them. It seems to be in order, but in fact it’s chaos,” Ksenia Sobchak drew an analogy.

    Mikhail Oseevsky responded that it is impossible to create a single universal solution that will be effective for different types of tasks. “That is why we create for ourselves and then bring to market a product called a “neural gateway” that allows employees and clients, depending on the task that needs to be solved, to access different “engines” “under the hood”. These can be global networks,” he explained.

    At the same time, in his opinion, it is necessary to keep in mind that in order to ensure security and sovereignty, not all information can be loaded into solutions that do not belong to us. In corporate activities, interaction should be carried out with those neural networks that are located in our data centers and that are specially trained on our material.

    “We believe that we need to focus on diversity, but within the framework of one product, ensuring personal and corporate security,” concluded Mikhail Oseevsky.

    The discussion was also attended by Deputy Minister of Finance of the Russian Federation Ivan Chebeskov, Chairman of the Board of the Moscow Exchange Viktor Zhidkov, and futurist writer from Singapore, author of the bestseller “AI 2041” Chen Qiufan.

    In conclusion, Ksenia Sobchak invited the session participants to briefly answer the question posed in its title. As it turned out, the speakers were unable to come to a consensus on whether it would be possible to create a single global technology space.

    Vladimir Verkhoshinsky offered an optimistic formulation: “Technology has no borders, especially now, in the digital world, like friendship and love. Perhaps, in the short term of 30-50 years, everyone will be for themselves, and if we look strategically 100-200 years ahead, we will have a single world, I would like to hope, a beautiful, space.”

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Immersive HK exhibition opens in SH

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The “Immersive Hong Kong” roving exhibition, showcasing the charm and vibrancy of Hong Kong through interactive art technology, opened in Shanghai today and will run until June 29.

    With the theme of “Hong Kong – Where the World Looks Ahead”, the exhibition invites visitors from Shanghai and the Yangtze River Delta to explore the unique opportunities and potential for tourism, education, business and investment in Hong Kong.

    The five thematic zones – “Financial Bridgehead”, “I&T Brain Bank”, “Blossoming Creativity”, “Diversity and Greenery” and “Buzzing Sports Action” – feature multiple interactive art projections, light box installations and naked-eye 3D displays, representing the multifaceted appeal of Hong Kong.

    Director of Information Services Apollonia Liu introduced the highlights of the exhibition at the opening ceremony today, saying that the thematic zone “Buzzing Sports Action” was especially set up to serve as pre-event publicity for the 15th National Games to be co-hosted by Hong Kong, Guangdong and Macau in November.

    She also noted that China’s national treasures, giant pandas, are featured in naked-eye 3D displays and interactive games for the first time, inviting visitors to experience the vibrancy of Hong Kong as an “events capital”.

    Mrs Liu hoped that the exhibition could attract people from the Mainland to learn more about Hong Kong and spark their interest in visiting the city, and come to Hong Kong in future for business and investment, employment and entrepreneurship, injecting impetus to the further growth of Hong Kong.

    Visitors may also enjoy Hong Kong’s vibrant and colourful skyline, illustrated by Hong Kong artist Messy Desk (Jane Lee), at a photo corner in the venue. Two young talented Hong Kong musicians will also perform at the exhibition venue.

    There will also be an interactive game where winners will receive will a pair of round-trip business class air tickets or economy class air tickets from Shanghai to Hong Kong.

    Organised by the Information Services Department, this is the sixth stop for the exhibition, following its successful staging in cities in the Mainland, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the Middle East since 2023.

    The exhibition is being held at Xintiandi Style I, a major Hong Kong-based shopping centre in Shanghai. It will also be held in Qingdao and Chengdu, also Mainland key node cities along the Belt & Road, later this year.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Euro Area: IMF Staff Concluding Statement of the 2025 Mission on Common Policies for Member Countries

    Source: IMF – News in Russian

    July 19, 2025

    A Concluding Statement describes the preliminary findings of IMF staff at the end of an official staff visit (or ‘mission’), in most cases to a member country. Missions are undertaken as part of regular (usually annual) consultations under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, in the context of a request to use IMF resources (borrow from the IMF), as part of discussions of staff monitored programs, or as part of other staff monitoring of economic developments.

    The authorities have consented to the publication of this statement. The views expressed in this statement are those of the IMF staff and do not necessarily represent the views of the IMF’s Executive Board. Based on the preliminary findings of this mission, staff will prepare a report that, subject to management approval, will be presented to the IMF Executive Board for discussion and decision.

    Washington, DC: Europe’s economy remains resilient with record-low unemployment, headline inflation broadly at target, and a stable financial system. However, policymakers face mounting challenges, including trade tensions, rising demand for defense spending, and the need to ensure energy security, all while addressing subpar productivity, rapid aging, and weak medium-term growth. The most effective solutions require decisive EU actions. Deepening the EU single market is the key tool available to policymakers to enhance investment, innovation, and productivity. A better-integrated EU single market, in turn, calls for a joint provision of key public goods including for energy connectivity and defense—including through the multiannual financial framework. This can help internalize positive cross-border externalities of investments, leverage economies of scale, and avoid costly duplicative national efforts. Ensuring orderly growth-friendly fiscal consolidations designed to address country-specific risks is critical to preserving fiscal sustainability and managing long-term spending pressures associated with aging and increased spending on security. Diversifying economic ties and expanding rule-based trade integration can further bolster competitiveness and strengthen economic resilience. Safeguarding price and financial stability continues to be the bedrock for addressing these longer-term challenges. 

    Outlook and Risks

    The euro area economy is navigating an increasingly challenging global environment of higher tariffs, elevated trade policy uncertainty, and geopolitical risks. The April 2025 World Economic Outlook (WEO) projected growth to remain moderate at 0.8 percent in 2025, picking up to 1.2 percent in 2026. Trade tensions and elevated uncertainty have dimmed the outlook for domestic demand and exports, outweighing an anticipated boost from higher defense and infrastructure spending. In addition, the geopolitical situation in Europe is expected to dampen sentiment and weigh on investment and consumption, despite looser monetary policy and projected gains in real income.   

    Headline inflation is close to 2 percent and, under staff’s April WEO projections, is expected to remain broadly at target with weak energy and core goods inflation offsetting elevated services inflation. Ongoing nominal wage growth moderation amid subdued activity and firmly anchored inflation expectations is expected to gradually lower services inflation. As a result, core inflation is projected to decline to 2 percent later than headline inflation, in 2026.

    Risks to growth are on the downside. Trade policy uncertainty, further tariff escalation, or geopolitical tensions could weigh on demand and growth more than expected. These would likely outweigh possible positive impacts of unanticipated further fiscal easing if more countries were to boost defense spending. The April 9th announcements of a pause in US tariffs constitutes a small upside risk to the April 2025 WEO projections as they lower the effective tariff rate on EU exports to the US.

    Risks to inflation are two-sided. Lower-than-expected non-energy goods prices because of trade diversion, weaker-than-expected activity and wages, as well as the recent euro appreciation could pull inflation lower than in the baseline. On the other hand, fiscal spending could turn out larger or more inflationary than assumed in the baseline, while geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions and tariff escalation could lead to faster increases in import prices, and wage growth may not moderate as strongly as expected. 

    Structural constraints weigh on the medium-term outlook. Risks of persistently elevated trade policy uncertainty, an escalation of tariffs, still high and volatile energy prices, and the shifting geopolitical context all add to pre-existing challenges from aging, skills shortages, and weak productivity trends.

    Policy Priorities

    Given the challenges outlined above, a comprehensive policy strategy for decisive EU level actions on multiple fronts is needed. The goals include strengthening potential growth amidst aging and a more difficult external environment, ensuring new public spending priorities are met without risking fiscal sustainability, and safeguarding broader macro and financial stability.

    Structural and Trade Policies

    To bolster productivity growth and resilience in the EU, it is crucial to enhance innovation and facilitate the scaling up of firms (Draghi 2024; Letta 2024; Adilbish and others 2025). The key lever available to achieve this is deeper integration of the EU single market. Staff analysis finds that remaining barriers within the single market are equivalent on average to a 44 percent tariff on goods and 110 percent on services (Adilbish and others 2025). More integration will unlock gains from specialization within the EU, as global value chains reconfigure and enable firms to capitalize on economies of scale. 

    Staff analysis highlights four key actionable priorities to help complete the single market and realize these ambitions (Arnold and others 2025). First, lowering regulatory fragmentation. For instance, a 28th corporate regime—alternative to national regimes—that establishes uniform regulations and legal rules crucial for not only the formation and operation of firms, but also their dissolution can provide a voluntary EU-wide legal framework to support firms’ expansion without requiring them to navigate divergent national regulations. By offering an alternative viable solution to simplify the regulatory landscape, the 28th regime can facilitate firms’ scaling up and enhance the efficiency of cross-border capital allocation, ultimately fostering innovation. Second, advancing the Capital Markets Union (CMU) to facilitate more efficient channeling of savings to risk capital for firms. For instance, increasing institutional investors’ familiarity with venture capital (VC) as an asset class and addressing remaining undue restrictions on their ability to invest in it can help meaningfully increase VC investment in the EU from a very low level currently (Arnold and others 2024). This, together with continued efforts to complete the Banking Union (BU)—critical for a more resilient and efficient banking sector—will build a well-functioning Savings and Investments Union (SIU). Lowering barriers to cross-border bank mergers and acquisitions would help augment bank finance, address long-standing concerns of structurally low profitability and high costs, and spur competition within the euro area’s banking sector. Third, enhancing intra-EU labor mobility (such as through extending the automatic system of professional qualification recognition) can offer productive firms greater access to talent and improve skills matching. Last, integrating the EU energy market, guided by a coordinated strategy for an energy system transformation, can help provide lower and more stable energy prices. Simulation results suggest that a few actionable steps along these dimensions could jumpstart the process of deeper integration and deliver a meaningful payoff by increasing the EU potential GDP level relative to baseline by around 3 percent over 10 years, benefiting every country. In this regard, the digital euro also has an important role to play. In addition to reinforcing monetary sovereignty in the growing presence of private digital currencies, the digital euro can help deepen the integration of financial services within the European market by streamlining and unifying cross-border retail payments. It can improve payment system efficiency, reduce transaction costs, and complement the SIU and the single market more broadly.

    While deeper intra-Europe integration is one key element in boosting growth prospects, complementary policy actions are needed at the national level. Recently published staff analysis (Budina and others 2025) identifies domestic structural reform priorities for individual European countries. Successful implementation—by which countries aim to close 50 percent of their prioritized policy gaps with respect to the most growth-friendly regulatory settings—would entail sizable gains in GDP level of around 5.7 percent for the EU in the medium term. The prioritized reforms cover labor market and human capital (e.g., education and training), fiscal structural issues (e.g., tax policy), business regulation, and credit and capital markets.

    An escalation of trade tensions poses important challenges to the EU. The EU would benefit from its continued advocacy for a stable, rules-based global trading system. Further diversifying economic ties can help strengthen supply chain resilience and capture efficiency gains from trade. Any new industrial policies should be limited to well-defined market failures and be coordinated at the EU level.

    Fiscal Policy

    Fiscal risks and optimal fiscal policy strategies differ across countries. For countries with high debt and limited fiscal space, significant fiscal adjustments are needed to mitigate risks, while countries with fiscal space can implement a more back-loaded fiscal adjustment. For the euro area economies excluding Germany, staff recommends improving the structural primary balance to a surplus of 1.4 percent of GDP in 2030—a cumulative improvement of 2.9 percentage points from a deficit of 1.5 percent of GDP in 2024. Achieving this requires an additional cumulative deficit reduction of close to 2 percentage points over 2024–30 relative to the baseline (typically predicated on current budgets and specified, concrete measures under consideration).

    The needed deficit-reduction creates challenging tradeoffs because, at the same time, Europe faces high and rising spending pressures that are crystallizing faster than previously anticipated. Pressures from interest costs, an aging population, climate transition and energy security, and defense would reach 4.4 percent of GDP annually for the euro area economies in 2050 (Eble and others 2025). Member states should transparently account for rising spending pressures to lay out trade-offs within the fiscal framework and develop credible plans to ensure sustainability. 

    The use of escape clauses to support member states’ ramp-up in defense spending should be restricted to its initial phase. Member states and the Commission should assess the impact of increased defense spending on debt sustainability on an ongoing basis and develop plans to put debt on a stable/declining path over the medium term. Also, it is crucial that care be taken in implementing the EU fiscal rules to ensure that countries with low fiscal risks that intend to increase spending to boost potential growth and enhance resilience should not be constrained from doing so by the rules. Eventually, a broader reassessment of key parameters may be needed to achieve an optimal balance between allowing countries with low fiscal risks to fulfill spending objectives that can also have favorable EU-wide spillovers, and ensuring that debt remains sustainable.

    Coordinated efforts at the EU level and targeted investments can help address shared challenges in a cost-effective manner, supporting member states in managing fiscal tradeoffs (Busse and others 2025). Identifying existing investment gaps and areas where joint EU-level initiatives would deliver cost-effective solutions can provide a blueprint for priority actions—for instance, public goods investment including on innovation, clean energy transition, and collective defense. To support investments in these areas, the EU budget size will need to increase by at least 50 percent, if existing programs are to be maintained. Coordinated investments that better internalize positive cross-border externalities and minimize duplicative national efforts will generate net budgetary savings for member states. In the area of the clean energy transition, for instance, our recent work estimates that better EU-level coordination and planning can lower investment costs by 7 percent (IMF 2024). In addition, reforms are needed to make the budget more streamlined, responsive to evolving needs, and more effective by incentivizing good performance. A performance-based approach that links financial support to implementing national-level reforms that support EU priorities and enhance growth potential can deliver objectives more effectively, particularly in areas where incentives are currently weak, and outcomes are closely linked to efforts. Lastly, strengthening the financing framework of the budget with borrowing capacity and increased own resources will help meet the growing demand for EU level investment in shared priorities in a timely manner while spreading the fiscal burden over time.

    Monetary and Financial Sector Policies

    Since headline inflation is broadly at target, core inflation is slightly above 2 percent, and the output gap is mildly negative, a monetary policy stance close to neutral is justified. Barring further shocks that materially revise the inflation outlook, maintaining the policy rate at 2 percent will help keep inflation around target in the second half of 2025 and beyond. But the outlook is highly uncertain, and the policy path may need to be adjusted on the basis of incoming data or developments.

    The concurrent Financial Stability Assessment Program (FSAP) found that the banking system generally appears adequately capitalized and liquid, but the authorities should closely monitor the vulnerabilities from the growing NBFI sector. Although financial stability risks linked to past monetary tightening are easing, a deteriorating business environment for corporates, especially those with trade exposures to the US, could weigh on banks’ otherwise healthy balance sheets. Moreover, new systemic risks have emerged, particularly from market volatility due to higher tariffs and banks’ exposures to NBFIs. Authorities should stand ready to address potential liquidity stress, including by preparing a framework for the provision of emergency liquidity assistance to NBFIs, paired with closer oversight.

    Facilitating better data sharing among EU and national authorities will improve risk monitoring, particularly to close gaps that hinder system-wide analyses. A key policy priority is to improve system-wide risk monitoring of the financial sector beyond banks, including by closing data gaps arising from legal restrictions for sharing or timely access by supervisors, which currently limit the ability to undertake complete system-wide analyses.

    Fragmentation continues to hinder the full benefits of the banking union and the development of a more resilient, deeper and integrated EA-wide financial system. Further steps to strengthen the euro area financial architecture include completing the Banking Union with the introduction of a common deposit insurance system; allowing a greater use of national deposit guarantee funds for resolution and making bail-in requirements more flexible; putting in place arrangements for the Single Resolution Fund to provide guarantees to enhance the provision of central bank liquidity in resolution, ideally with an EU fiscal backstop; fully implementing the international capital standard for banks (Basel III); and strengthening the resources and prudential powers of the European authorities overseeing NBFIs, including empowering ESMA to top-up national measures for substantially leveraged investment funds and to enforce cross-border reciprocation.

    IMF Communications Department
    MEDIA RELATIONS

    PRESS OFFICER: Eva-Maria Graf

    Phone: +1 202 623-7100Email: MEDIA@IMF.org

    https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2025/06/18/mcs-06182025-euro-area-imf-cs-of-2025-mission-on-common-policies-for-member-countries

    MIL OSI

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: Tech CU Hires Robyn Zach as VP, Senior Private Banking Relationship Manager

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Technology Credit Union (Tech CU) announced today that Robyn Zach has joined its Wealth Management team as Vice President, Senior Private Banking Relationship Manager. In this role, Robyn will support Tech CU’s Private Banking and Commercial Banking efforts across key growth markets, with an emphasis on the Bay Area. She will also be responsible for building and managing a portfolio of high-net-worth members, identifying new commercial opportunities, and collaborating across divisions to deliver tailored banking solutions.

    Robyn brings over 30 years of experience in financial services, with deep expertise in managing high-net-worth relationships and delivering tailored financial solutions across deposits, lending, and strategic wealth planning. Most recently, she served as Senior Preferred Banker at First Republic Bank. After its acquisition by JP Morgan Chase, she continued on in a similar role as Vice President, Relationship Manager, where she oversaw a diverse portfolio of commercial and consumer clients. Prior to her time at JPMorgan Chase and First Republic Bank, Robyn held positions at City National Bank, Redwood Credit Union, and Bank of America.

    “Robyn’s hybrid background across private and commercial banking, combined with her long-standing client-first approach, makes her uniquely positioned to serve our expanding base of affluent and business clients,” said Robert Reed, Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer at Tech CU. “Her expertise and network will be instrumental as we strengthen our relationships in the Bay Area and expand our presence in emerging markets. We’re excited about the value she will bring to our members and the communities we serve.”

    For more information about Tech CU, visit www.techcu.com.

    About Tech CU
    Tech CU is a $4.7 billion Bay Area credit union. As a federally insured not-for-profit organization, Tech CU has invested its resources to deliver superior rates, lower fees, and outstanding service and member benefits for more than 60 years while also supporting quality of life in local communities. It serves more than 200,000 members throughout the United States and provides financial products for all stages of its members’ lives, including personal banking, wealth management, private banking, commercial lending, and business banking. To learn more, please visit www.techcu.com.

    Contact:
    Linden Kohtz
    Public Relations, Tech CU
    lkohtz@techcu.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Tech CU Hires Robyn Zach as VP, Senior Private Banking Relationship Manager

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SAN JOSE, Calif., June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Technology Credit Union (Tech CU) announced today that Robyn Zach has joined its Wealth Management team as Vice President, Senior Private Banking Relationship Manager. In this role, Robyn will support Tech CU’s Private Banking and Commercial Banking efforts across key growth markets, with an emphasis on the Bay Area. She will also be responsible for building and managing a portfolio of high-net-worth members, identifying new commercial opportunities, and collaborating across divisions to deliver tailored banking solutions.

    Robyn brings over 30 years of experience in financial services, with deep expertise in managing high-net-worth relationships and delivering tailored financial solutions across deposits, lending, and strategic wealth planning. Most recently, she served as Senior Preferred Banker at First Republic Bank. After its acquisition by JP Morgan Chase, she continued on in a similar role as Vice President, Relationship Manager, where she oversaw a diverse portfolio of commercial and consumer clients. Prior to her time at JPMorgan Chase and First Republic Bank, Robyn held positions at City National Bank, Redwood Credit Union, and Bank of America.

    “Robyn’s hybrid background across private and commercial banking, combined with her long-standing client-first approach, makes her uniquely positioned to serve our expanding base of affluent and business clients,” said Robert Reed, Executive Vice President and Chief Retail Banking Officer at Tech CU. “Her expertise and network will be instrumental as we strengthen our relationships in the Bay Area and expand our presence in emerging markets. We’re excited about the value she will bring to our members and the communities we serve.”

    For more information about Tech CU, visit www.techcu.com.

    About Tech CU
    Tech CU is a $4.7 billion Bay Area credit union. As a federally insured not-for-profit organization, Tech CU has invested its resources to deliver superior rates, lower fees, and outstanding service and member benefits for more than 60 years while also supporting quality of life in local communities. It serves more than 200,000 members throughout the United States and provides financial products for all stages of its members’ lives, including personal banking, wealth management, private banking, commercial lending, and business banking. To learn more, please visit www.techcu.com.

    Contact:
    Linden Kohtz
    Public Relations, Tech CU
    lkohtz@techcu.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: US protectionism damages economic stability and leads to the destruction of global trade mechanisms – VTB CEO A. Kostin

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    Moscow, June 19 (Xinhua) — U.S. protectionism is damaging economic stability and creating uncertainty in international trade, said Andrey Kostin, president and chairman of the board of Russia’s VTB Bank, in a written interview with Xinhua on the sidelines of the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, which is being held in St. Petersburg from June 18 to 21.

    “The US protectionist measures affect almost all countries in the world. Such policies cause obvious damage to the stability of economic cooperation and lead to the destruction of the mechanisms and principles of world trade. They create uncertainty in international trade, which negatively affects the prospects for global growth,” said the head of VTB.

    According to A. Kostin, the most alarming fact is that in the last few years the US and other Western countries have begun to actively use the instruments of the international economic system to achieve their geopolitical goals. “The degree of this ‘weaponization’ /use as a weapon/ of economic levers continues to increase,” he stated.

    As the banker noted, the current situation is pushing the countries of the Global South and East to search for alternative mechanisms of financial and trade-economic interaction, to create a new model of relationships. “This process is largely objective. The strengthening of geoeconomic competition in the world in recent years only gives it a significant acceleration,” he explained.

    A. Kostin noted the active work of new international development institutions, such as the New Development Bank of BRICS, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and the Eurasian Development Bank. “Their role in solving regional and global problems is constantly growing,” the banker is confident. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: Secretary-General’s remarks to the Security Council Open Debate on the Maintenance of International Peace and Security [bilingual, as delivered; scroll down for All-English]

    Source: United Nations secretary general

    Mr. President, Excellencies,

    I thank the government of Guyana for convening this important debate.

    Your theme highlights a fundamental fact:  

    Sustainable peace requires sustainable development.

    The flames of conflict are too often lit and fed by persistent poverty and growing inequalities.

    Time and again, we’ve seen conflict engulfing lives and institutions, wiping out development gains, and uprooting millions of people.

    At the same time, we’ve seen how poverty, underdevelopment, inequality, injustice, hunger and exclusion can light the fuse of instability and conflict.

    Poverty breeds despair.

    Despair fuels unrest.

    And unrest tears at the fabric of societies — feeding mistrust, fear and violence.

    When people are denied opportunity…when human rights are violated and impunity persists…when crime and corruption thrive…when climate chaos displaces and destabilizes…when terrorism finds fertile ground in weak institutions— peace can quickly become a distant dream.

    It’s no coincidence that nine of the ten countries with the lowest Human Development Indicators are currently in a state of conflict. 

    Forty per cent of the 700 million people living in extreme poverty live in conflict-affected or fragile settings.

    And the situation is only getting worse.

    Conflicts are proliferating and lasting longer, displacing more than 120 million people from their homes — an unprecedented number of individuals with disrupted lives and futures.

    Solutions are in short supply because of rampant geopolitical mistrust and divisions.

    The global economy is slowing, trade tensions are rising and aid budgets are being slashed while military spending soars.

    If current trends continue, two thirds of the world’s poor will live in conflict-affected or fragile countries by 2030.

    The message is clear.

    The farther a country is from sustainable and inclusive development, the closer it is to instability, and even conflict.

    Mr. President,

    Across the 80 years of our organization, the United Nations has worked to advance our three pillars of peace, development and human rights.

    This vital work continues today…

    From our 130 Country Teams supporting national development priorities…

    To our peacekeepers helping countries navigate conflict and recovery…

    To our envoys and political missions mediating and preventing conflicts, and building bridges among communities…

    To our efforts to strengthen national protection systems and support accountability for human rights violations and abuses…

    To our Peacebuilding Commission uniting the international community around our shared cause of peace.

    Through the New Agenda for Peace, and the Pact for the Future that Member States adopted last September, we are strengthening this work.

    Throughout this process of review and reform, we are guided by a simple principle: 

    Prevention is the best cure for instability and conflict. 

    And there is no better preventive measure than investing in development.

    Mr. President,

    Development gives peace a fighting chance.

    It’s the first line of defense against conflict.

    But right now, we’re losing ground.

    After decades of steady progress, we’re facing a development emergency.

    Ten years after the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, two-thirds of the targets are lagging.

    The world is falling short by over $4 trillion annually in the resources developing countries need to deliver on these promises by 2030.

    And developing countries are being battered and bruised by limited fiscal space, crushing debt burdens and skyrocketing prices.

    The engine of development is sputtering.

    The fourth Conference on Financing for Development starting next week will be an important moment for the world to fix and strengthen this essential engine. 

    We must renew domestic and global commitments to get public and private finance flowing to the areas of greatest need.

    We need to provide urgent debt relief for countries drowning in unsustainable debt service.

    And we must reform the global financial architecture to reflect today’s realities and the urgent needs of developing countries.

    At its core, this plan is about supporting countries as they advance both peace and sustainable development.

    To ensure food security, education, health care, decent work and social protections.

    To invest in green technology and resilience to climate disasters and shocks.

    To build roads, and water and food systems.

    To deliver electricity to all.

    To close the digital divide and expand internet access to all — while guarding against the perils of new technologies.

    To build justice and governance systems people can trust.

    And to open the doors of participation so women and young people can build a more equitable, peaceful and sustainable future.

    Monsieur le Président, Excellences,

    La paix ne se construit pas dans les salles de conférence.

    Elle se construit dans les salles de classe, dans les cliniques, dans les communautés.

    La paix se construit lorsque les populations ont de l’espoir, des opportunités et un véritable avenir entre leurs mains.

    Investir dans le développement aujourd’hui, c’est investir dans un avenir plus pacifique.

    Réaffirmons notre attachement à la solidarité et à l’esprit de multilatéralisme qui ont façonné notre Organisation depuis 80 ans.

    Et veillons à ce que les dividendes de la paix, de la prospérité et de la sécurité profitent à toutes et tous.

    ***

    [All-English]

    Mr. President, Excellencies,

    I thank the government of Guyana for convening this important debate.

    Your theme highlights a fundamental fact:  

    Sustainable peace requires sustainable development.

    The flames of conflict are too often lit and fed by persistent poverty and growing inequalities.

    Time and again, we’ve seen conflict engulfing lives and institutions, wiping out development gains, and uprooting millions of people.

    At the same time, we’ve seen how poverty, underdevelopment, inequality, injustice, hunger and exclusion can light the fuse of instability and conflict.

    Poverty breeds despair.

    Despair fuels unrest.

    And unrest tears at the fabric of societies — feeding mistrust, fear and violence.

    When people are denied opportunity…when human rights are violated and impunity persists…when crime and corruption thrive…when climate chaos displaces and destabilizes…when terrorism finds fertile ground in weak institutions— peace can quickly become a distant dream.

    It’s no coincidence that nine of the ten countries with the lowest Human Development Indicators are currently in a state of conflict. 

    Forty per cent of the 700 million people living in extreme poverty live in conflict-affected or fragile settings.

    And the situation is only getting worse.

    Conflicts are proliferating and lasting longer, displacing more than 120 million people from their homes — an unprecedented number of individuals with disrupted lives and futures.

    Solutions are in short supply because of rampant geopolitical mistrust and divisions.

    The global economy is slowing, trade tensions are rising and aid budgets are being slashed while military spending soars.

    If current trends continue, two thirds of the world’s poor will live in conflict-affected or fragile countries by 2030.

    The message is clear.

    The farther a country is from sustainable and inclusive development, the closer it is to instability, and even conflict.

    Mr. President,

    Across the 80 years of our organization, the United Nations has worked to advance our three pillars of peace, development and human rights.

    This vital work continues today…

    From our 130 Country Teams supporting national development priorities…

    To our peacekeepers helping countries navigate conflict and recovery…

    To our envoys and political missions mediating and preventing conflicts, and building bridges among communities…

    To our efforts to strengthen national protection systems and support accountability for human rights violations and abuses…

    To our Peacebuilding Commission uniting the international community around our shared cause of peace.

    Through the New Agenda for Peace, and the Pact for the Future that Member States adopted last September, we are strengthening this work.

    Throughout this process of review and reform, we are guided by a simple principle: 

    Prevention is the best cure for instability and conflict. 

    And there is no better preventive measure than investing in development.

    Mr. President,

    Development gives peace a fighting chance.

    It’s the first line of defense against conflict.

    But right now, we’re losing ground.

    After decades of steady progress, we’re facing a development emergency.

    Ten years after the adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals, two-thirds of the targets are lagging.

    The world is falling short by over $4 trillion annually in the resources developing countries need to deliver on these promises by 2030.

    And developing countries are being battered and bruised by limited fiscal space, crushing debt burdens and skyrocketing prices.

    The engine of development is sputtering.

    The fourth Conference on Financing for Development starting next week will be an important moment for the world to fix and strengthen this essential engine. 

    We must renew domestic and global commitments to get public and private finance flowing to the areas of greatest need.

    We need to provide urgent debt relief for countries drowning in unsustainable debt service.

    And we must reform the global financial architecture to reflect today’s realities and the urgent needs of developing countries.

    At its core, this plan is about supporting countries as they advance both peace and sustainable development.

    To ensure food security, education, health care, decent work and social protections.

    To invest in green technology and resilience to climate disasters and shocks.

    To build roads, and water and food systems.

    To deliver electricity to all.

    To close the digital divide and expand internet access to all — while guarding against the perils of new technologies.

    To build justice and governance systems people can trust.

    And to open the doors of participation so women and young people can build a more equitable, peaceful and sustainable future.

    Mr. President, Excellencies,

    Peace is not built in conference rooms.

    Peace is built in classrooms, in clinics, in communities.
     
    Peace is built when people have hope, opportunity and a stake in their future.
    Investing in development today means investing in a more peaceful tomorrow.

    Let’s re-commit to the solidarity and multilateral spirit that has defined our organization across eight decades.

    And let’s ensure that the dividends of peace, prosperity and security are shared by all.

    ***
     

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Brand Scotland takes centre stage at Royal Highland Show

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    Brand Scotland takes centre stage at Royal Highland Show

    Scottish Secretary to bang the drum for Scotland’s iconic food, drink, agriculture and farming sectors at the Edinburgh event

    Fresh from new Spending Review financial backing, the UK Government’s Brand Scotland campaign to boost exports of Scottish products and promotion of inward investment takes centre stage at the Royal Highland Show from today (Thursday June 19).

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray will be in attendance and later host a reception with the Scotch Whisky Association to promote our iconic national tipple, enjoyed by tens of millions around the world.

    Exhibitors and showgoers will hear how the UK Government is working with Scottish businesses to maximise the benefits of recent trade deals with India, US and the EU to create significant opportunities at home and abroad. 

    The UK-India trade deal slashes tariffs on whisky. Meanwhile the UK-EU deal also means that British farms will be able to sell sausages and burgers to the EU for the first time in five years.

    Scottish Secretary Ian Murray said:

    Scotland is at the heart of the UK Government’s Plan for Change to put more money in the pockets of working Scots by investing in the country’s renewal. That’s why in last week’s Spending Review the Chancellor unleashed a new era of growth for Scotland, confirming billions of pounds of investment and creating thousands of high-skilled jobs.

    Our Brand Scotland campaign is an important part of this commitment and the Royal Highland Show is a fantastic opportunity to bang the drum for our iconic produce and help turbo-charge sales of Scottish goods and services at home and abroad. Following my recent successful trips to Norway, Malaysia, Singapore, Washington and New York – and last week’s all women trade mission to Spain, led by Scotland Office Minister Kirsty McNeill – we’re already seeing positive results from championing Brand Scotland.

    The trio of trade deals sealed by the Prime Minister is a fantastic opportunity for Scotland’s food and drink sector – from slashing tariffs on whisky and gin in India to putting Scottish burgers and sausages back on the menu for the EU. I look forward to continuing to work with Scottish businesses and other key partners as we give our country the global platform it deserves.

    The Scottish Secretary is expected to meet with NFU Scotland President Andrew Connon, Quality Meat Scotland, Lidl executives to discuss the retailers’ ambitions for growth in Scotland and support of Scottish food and drink suppliers and Graham’s Dairies to chat about export opportunities. He is also due to visit Scotland’s Larder where a huge range of Scottish food and drink producers will be in attendance.

    Other stakeholders lined up include Penicuik-based Moredun Institute which employs over 170 scientists, vets  and support staff promoting livestock health and welfare through cutting-edge research and education.

    Showgoers dropping into the UK Government marquee will be able to hear from UK Government departments and agencies about how they are delivering for people in Scotland and for our businesses across the world 

    Also present in the marquee will be exhibits from a number of exciting UK Government funded projects, including The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Scottish Football Association (grassroots football funding), Dramtubes & Project Harmless (British Business Bank funded) and Destination Tweed (National Lottery Heritage Fund).

    Other government departments and agencies in attendance will be:

    • Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (promoting the UK’s extensive overseas network, which works day in day out to promote our country)
    • Department for Business & Trade (direct access to global trade expertise)
    • Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs
    • Department for Work & Pensions
    • Ministry of Defence (Army, Navy, RAF)
    • Department for Transport (with Northern Lighthouse Board – responsible for the waters surrounding Scotland and the Isle of Man)
    • Shared Rural Network (SRN – designed to improve mobile coverage and boost connectivity across the UK, with the biggest uplifts in rural parts of Scotland and Wales. It is jointly funded by the Government and the UK’s four mobile network operators – EE, Three, VMO2 and Vodafone – with the objective of delivering 4G coverage to 95% of the UK by December 2025).

    Further information
    The Royal Highland Show is Scotland’s biggest outdoor event, attracting around 190,000 people. It runs from June 19 to 22.

    The Scotland Office’s Spending Review settlement allocates £0.75 million each year to champion our ‘Brand Scotland’ trade missions to promote Scotland’s goods and services on the world stage and to encourage further growth and investment.  

    As well as the Brand Scotland visits mentioned earlier, we have also supported a trade mission from Glasgow to Shanghai and have plans for more visits during the year.

    Updates to this page

    Published 19 June 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Public service reform strategy launched

    Source: Scottish Government

    Blueprint for enhancing lives and communities.

    A new Public Service Reform Strategy will deliver the public services that people of Scotland deserve and need in the future, Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee has said.

    Outlining the strategy to Parliament, the Minister also announced the intention to reduce spending on corporate functions across public bodies, including the Scottish Government, to deliver £1 billion of savings in five years. 

    The strategy sets out concrete steps that government will take through partnership working, particularly with trade unions, to ensure that every pound of investment is focused on frontline delivery and that there are the right staff in the right roles to deliver real change. 

    More than 80 actions are set out to drive change and make Scotland’s public services fit for the future, by addressing the challenges caused by increased demand, changing demographics and UK Government financial decisions.

    These include leadership and cultural change across the public sector; reducing the number of public bodies to deliver increased efficiency; further review and rationalisation of public sector buildings, working with local partners to remove data barriers that prevent the delivery of programmes; embracing automation and publishing a new Digital Strategy which will set out the acceleration of the digitisation of government.

    Public Finance Minister Ivan McKee said: 

    “This strategy is grounded in the shared belief that Scotland’s public services are an investment — in people, places and our collective future. It builds on the work we’ve done since the Christie Commission which outlined the need for public services focused on prevention, place, partnership, people and performance.

    “Public service reform is an integral part of the government’s response to the challenges we face. The strategy sets out a bold, system-wide approach to change centred around three key priorities: prevention, joined-up services and efficiency.

    “The aim is to do things better, not do less. Public services are an asset and investment in our collective future. They reflect the society we are, and who we aspire to be.

    “We are determined to unlock the full potential of Scotland’s public services — making them more efficient, more joined-up, and more preventative in approach, so that they work better for the people of Scotland. It demonstrates that this Government is ready to go further and faster than we ever have to reform our public services.

    “We must be bold and brave to deliver real, long lasting and meaningful change.”

    Background

    Scotland’s Public Service Reform Strategy: Delivering for Scotland – gov.scot

    The Public Service Reform Strategy is supported by sectoral improvement plans including the NHS Operational Improvement Plan – to tackle immediate pressures on the health service – and the Tackling Child Poverty Plan to reduce the number of children living in relative poverty in Scotland to 10% by 2030.

    It builds on the findings of and subsequent work following the 2011 Christie Commission report, and learning from successful preventative policies such as the roll-out of the Scottish Child Payment. The strategy’s implementation will be evaluated and monitored by the Public Service Reform Board, which brings together scrutiny from public bodies, local government, and the third and private sector. The strategy has also been informed by a summit held in February involving representatives from Scotland’s 131 public bodies, local government and the third sector.

    Learning from 25 years of Preventative Interventions in Scotland – gov.scot

    Examples of previous reforms include:

    • Investment in Early Learning and Childcare: The Scottish Government has invested around £1 billion every year in funded Early Learning and Childcare since 2021. Some 95% of three and four-year-olds are registered for the 1,140 hours funded childcare offer and 74% of parents have said it helped employment prospects.
    • Police and Fire Reform (Scotland) Act 2012: One of the biggest public service transformations since devolution, this created the Scottish Police Authority, the unified Police Service of Scotland (Police Scotland) and the single Scottish Fire & Rescue Service.
    • Childsmile: Between 2003 and 2020, the Childsmile programme has halved tooth decay amongst children and generated significant cost savings for NHS health boards.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Award-winning SEND Next Choices event returns to first direct arena Leeds

    Source: City of Leeds

    The award-winning ‘SEND Next Choices – getting ready for adult life’ event is returning to the First Direct Arena Leeds on Tuesday, June 24.

    Organised by Leeds City Council Employment and Skills service, this year’s event will feature more than eighty exhibitors offering advice on education, training, apprenticeships, support services and career opportunities.

    The fair will also feature a fun zone where visitors can try out exciting activities, including a climbing tower from West Leeds Activity Centre. Visitors to the morning session will also have the chance to meet Henry, Leeds City College’s cava-poo therapy dog. 

    The free-to-attend event, which won the Institute of Economic Development’s Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Award in 2024, is an opportunity for young people with special educational needs and disabilities, their parents, carers, support workers, and teachers to prepare for the next steps in adult life.

    There will also be the opportunity to attend information sessions and meet people from over eighty organisations who can offer transition support as the children move into adult life. 

    This year’s exhibitors include Leeds City College, University Centre Leeds, Disability Action Yorkshire, Lighthouse Futures Trust, JCT600 Limited, The Kings Trust, Specialist Autism Services and many more.

    Leeds City Council executive member for economy, culture and education, Councillor Jonathan Pryor, said: “Leeds is an inclusive city that has a wealth of opportunities for everyone to achieve their full potential. 

    “The SEND Next Choices event is the perfect way for young people with special educational needs and disabilities to plan toward achieving that potential, as was recently recognised at the 2024 National Institute of Economic Development awards.

    “I encourage any young people with special educational needs and disabilities who are looking at what comes next to book tickets and come along to find out the wide range of options available to them.”

    The SEND Next Choices event is free to attend, but tickets are limited. You can find out more information and book your tickets by visiting: https://www.universe.com/events/send-next-choices-getting-ready-for-adult-life-2025-tickets-4FKVW6?utm_source=schools+and+councillors&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=SEND25

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Greens say Glasgow tourist tax will transform the city 

    Source: Scottish Greens

    19 Jun 2025 Finance

    Cities deserve to be a thriving space for tourists and residents alike – tourist tax can make that happen.

    More in Finance

    Glasgow City Council has today agreed on plans for a tourist tax which would raise £16m a year for public services – a decision welcomed by the Scottish Greens to help improve the city.

    The 5% tax is set to be charged on hotel bookings in Glasgow from January 2027. The money raised will be spent on public services, like street sweeping, investing in city landmarks, and improvements to parks, to improve the city for residents and visitors alike.

    Glasgow Green councillors attempted to amend the scheme to include stronger measures like penalties for non-compliance and capping how much was spent on marketing, however these were voted down by the SNP, Labour, & Conservative councillors.

    Passing the law to introduce a tourist tax came as a result of budget negotiations between the SNP and the Greens, and has been a long standing policy that Greens have been raising in Councils since 2011.

    Green Cllr Blair Anderson, whose motion started the process, said: 

    “The tourist tax is going to be a game-changer for Glasgow, delivering more money to tidy up our city and make it even more attractive for visitors and residents alike.

    “A small contribution from tourists will mean we can invest millions more in street sweeping, bin collections, and getting Glasgow looking good again.

    “I’m glad that Greens in Holyrood got this law passed, and I’m grateful to all councillors who have worked with me over recent months to get this tax in place as soon as possible.”

    Scottish Greens MSP for Glasgow, Patrick Harvie said:

    “Glasgow is a global city, drawing visitors from all over the world. But we have seen how over-tourism can damage communities, like in Venice and Barcelona, where the residents end up paying the price. 

    “The tourist tax is vital to delivering sustainable tourism where local residents feel the benefit of our tourism and events sectors. I’m delighted that Glasgow is continuing to benefit from Green policy in action.”

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: China to further enhance trade ties with Central Asia: commerce ministry

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

    BEIJING, June 19 — China’s Ministry of Commerce said Thursday that the country will further deepen its trade ties with Central Asia and promote bilateral cooperation on industrial and supply chains.

    During the just-concluded second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, the ministry signed three documents with the relevant authorities of Central Asian countries to strengthen economic and trade cooperation, enhance trade facilitation, and promote green mineral cooperation, ministry spokesperson He Yadong said at a press conference.

    The ministry has also signed five bilateral cooperation documents with relevant Central Asian countries, focusing on areas such as economic and trade relations, investment, e-commerce, and economic and technological cooperation, according to He.

    Next, the ministry will take measures to implement the key outcomes and consensus reached at the summit, the spokesperson said.

    To enhance bilateral trade cooperation, China will actively expand imports of energy, minerals and high-quality agricultural products from Central Asian countries, while increasing exports of automobiles, home appliances, telecommunications equipment and light textiles to the region.

    China will also expand its cooperation with Central Asia in emerging fields such as electric vehicles, biomedicine, new energy and the digital economy, and make efforts to increase the China-Europe freight trains passing through Central Asian countries, according to He.

    In addition, China will implement the new versions of investment agreements it has signed with Kazakhstan and Tajikistan, accelerate negotiations with Kyrgyzstan on service trade and investment agreement, and support Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan in joining the World Trade Organization, He said.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: EU Ecolabel: small flower, big power

    Source: European Union 2

    Since 1992, the EU Ecolabel has driven Europe towards a clean, competitive and circular economy and become a symbol that consumers trust. To get it, goods and services across 25 product groups must meet various environmental criteria like reuse potential and recyclability. Find out more.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Nations: 19 June 2025 Departmental update Re-building trust and a new financing framework: H20 Summit to set the stage for G20 health priorities

    Source: World Health Organisation

    Leading G20 policy-makers, global health experts and representatives from both the private and public sectors are meeting in Geneva from 19–20 June for the annual Health20 Summit (H20) organized by the G20 Health & Development Partnership and co-hosted by the World Health Organization (WHO).

    The Summit comes at a critical moment for global health amid geopolitical shifts, economic uncertainty, and shock funding cuts to development aid. It will focus on the future of global health and finance, and explore how to build resilience, trust, and sustainability into health systems.

    This year marks the conclusion of the first cycle of G20 meetings, which began in 1999 as a forum for Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors of industrialized and developing countries to discuss global economic and financial stability.

    The H20 Summit, which has been held annually since the first G20 Health Ministers Meeting in Germany in 2017, will explore strategies to secure the role of health and development in the next cycle starting in 2026, under the leadership of the United States of America.

    Outcomes from the two-day deliberations will inform both the upcoming UN General Assembly’s fourth high-level meeting on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in September and the G20 health ministers and leaders’ summit in South Africa this November.

    “WHO thanks the H20 for its advocacy at this critical time in global health. Severe disruptions to funding and changing disease burdens require new partnerships and approaches, including an increased focus on promoting health and preventing disease,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. “WHO is working with all health and development partners, and supporting the G20, to help countries pivot from aid dependency to greater self-reliance in mobilizing domestic resources to deliver the health services their people need.”

    Dr Ghebreyesus delivered the keynote address. Other high-level speakers included: H.E. Dr Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain; H.E. Dr Jean Kaseya, Director General, Africa CDC; H.E. Dr Hanan Al Kuwari, Advisor to the Prime Minister for Public Health Affairs; Former Minister of Health, Qatar H.E. Prof Orazio Schillaci, Minister of Health, Italy; Dr Pakishe Aaron (PA) Motsoaledi, Minister of Health, South Africa; and Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO, GAVI.
     

    Key reports launched at the event

    The first NCDs and Mental Health Global Legislators Report, which offers a toolkit for parliamentarians to advance preventative global health goals; and a second, The health taxonomy report that provides a first framework for a health investment tool aimed at fostering a shared understanding and common language between governments, companies, and investors, to help drive future health financing. This report is pertinent in light of the landmark health financing resolution adopted at last month’s World Health Assembly.

    Under the theme ‘Reimagining partnerships & building back public trust in global health’ participants at the Summit will discuss the status of global health financing and why public-private partnerships are essential for future progress. The H20 Summit is unique in offering an inclusive and collaborative platform where the traditional global health community can intersect with decision-makers from politics and finance, with the purpose of elevating public health within the G20’s broader development agenda.

    NCDs such as cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases account for more than 43 million deaths each year and are on the rise. Mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, psychosis and self-harm, affect close to 1 billion people worldwide and represent a significant long-term risk to economic growth and security. The NCD and health taxonomy reports offer relevant and actionable recommendations for legislators and governments to close the NCD financing gap.

    H.E. Dr Jaleela bint Alsayed Jawad Hasan, Minister of Health, Kingdom of Bahrain, said: “I welcome the NCDs and Mental Health Global Legislators Report launched at the H20 Summit. It is a timely contribution that demonstrates the role of parliamentarians in translating health commitments into lasting impact. As global health systems adapt to complex and evolving challenges, the Kingdom of Bahrain is advancing a model grounded in inclusive governance, robust legislation, and strategic investment.”

    On financing specifically, Dr Agnes Soucat, Director of Health and Social Protection, Agence Française de Développement said: “We must differentiate between health funding and health financing. A health taxonomy already exists for operational costs but not for capital costs, which is what investors are most interested in.”
     

    Note to editors

    The G20 Health & Development Partnership is a not-for-profit advocacy organization representing over 27 global health organizations from across the public and private sector and academia aiming to ensure G20 countries coordinate their current and future health innovation strategies to tackle the growing global burden of communicable and noncommunicable diseases and promote the delivery of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 with a focus on SDG3 ‘health and well-being for all’ and SDG17 ‘strengthening partnerships’.

    MIL OSI United Nations News –

  • MIL-OSI: HTX Executives Go Face-to-Face: Molly Highlights User-Centric Perspective and Trust Built Through Sincerity

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — HTX, a leading global cryptocurrency exchange, recently launched the second episode of its live talk show series, “Real Talk with HTX Executives”. In this edition, Molly, Head of HTX MO Centre, discussed pivotal themes: the legacy of the HTX brand, the platform’s robust performance, user trust-building initiatives, the roadmap for future brand development, and opportunities for women in Web3. She also offered a sneak peek at genuine user benefits planned for HTX’s 12th Anniversary. Molly emphasized that for HTX to become the top choice for both the industry and users, it must adopt a user-centric perspective, act with genuine sincerity, and build trust through steady, practical problem-solving.

    Q: As HTX promotes a “return to a user-centric perspective” for its 12th anniversary, what is its branding strategy in today’s competitive market?

    Molly: We don’t rely on nostalgia to capitalize on past glory. An emotional connection must be built on genuine sincerity. This year, our strategy centers on “sentiment + culture”. We’re rewarding long-term users to cultivate a stronger sense of companionship, while nurturing a dynamic and youthful crypto culture. For example, our slogan for May 20th (a Chinese internet-born Valentine’s Day), “You can share anything but your private key”, is designed to make crypto relatable and engaging, helping it reach a broader audience.

    Q: Amid the fierce competition in marketing and innovation, how will HTX establish a unique user moat? Are there any major marketing campaigns on the horizon?

    Molly: HTX doesn’t employ gimmicks and values genuine sincerity. We genuinely distribute rewards, and our rules are clearly written. From awarding HTX Affiliates to allocating 70% of rewards to regular users, and adopting the slogan “You have the talent, we have the resources”, HTX seeks to transform every sincere effort into lasting user trust. “Co-building” isn’t just a catchphrase — it means actively integrating user feedback into products and providing a platform for their voices.

    Q: Given ongoing regulatory shifts and declining trust in centralized platforms, how does HTX intend to restore user trust via “trust marketing”? What specific strategies will be used?

    Molly: Trust isn’t built with words; it’s earned bit by bit by solving real problems. HTX has its shortcomings, and we don’t shy away from them. We’re not afraid of users raising questions; what we fear is having no one there to respond. We’ll solve what we can immediately and report what we can’t with honesty. “Real Talk with HTX Executives” isn’t for show — it’s a commitment to transparency and making open dialogue the norm.

    Q: Why is HTX continuing to develop the “Miss HTX” program? What are your views on opportunities for women in Web3, and what’s the story behind this year’s theme of “Discover Web3 Future Queen”?

    Molly: I’ve been part of the journey from the first to the third season, watching many women rise from being doubted to being valued. Gold shines, but not everyone has a stage. HTX is willing to build a platform where truly talented and insightful women can be seen and recognized.

    They are not just participants; they have found turning points in their lives on our platform. Women in Web3 should not be labeled but should become builders in this industry, using their wisdom and perspectives to make the crypto world more prosperous.

    Q: As HTX approaches its 12th anniversary, what is the biggest challenge it faces?

    Molly: Our focus is not on existing users within the crypto space but on how to best serve the next wave of newcomers, especially those coming from traditional finance and internet sectors. These users care more about long-term value and effective risk management.

    HTX isn’t just in a user-acquisition race; we’re working to define the framework for a safer, more mature market. A truly trustworthy exchange should take responsibility for managing risks and empower users to achieve sustainable growth.

    About HTX

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

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

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

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

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

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Atos and IGM Financial successfully complete public cloud transformation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Press Release

    Atos and IGM Financial successfully complete public cloud transformation

    Paris, France – June 19, 2025 – Atos, a global leader in digital transformation, today announces the completed data center migration project of Canada’s leading diversified wealth and asset management company IGM Financial Inc., transforming assets to a modern, agile and secure solution built on Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP).

    The new, cloud-native model will help IGM drive efficiencies and business outcomes through enhanced control, speed and scalability. Further, Atos’ expertise in implementing a scalable, agile architecture empowers IGM to mitigate risk and provide enhanced visibility for reporting and remediation.

    Transitioning from the legacy data center to a cloud model provides IGM with the ability to seamlessly scale resources, enabling the testing and introduction of new applications and services without the need for upfront infrastructure investments. IGM can rapidly deploy new solutions and maintain an up-to-date technology stack with greater flexibility and efficiency.

    Further, adopting a cloud-based solution facilitates seamless integration with advanced technologies, such as AI, machine learning, IoT and other innovative tools, positioning IGM to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

    The migration to the new, cloud-native model was successfully completed on schedule, ensuring uninterrupted business continuity.

    “The successful delivery of the data center migration to the public cloud underscores Atos’ proven ability to execute highly complex and mission-critical migration projects with precision,” said Ed Nemes, Head of Canada, Atos Group.

    “We’re pleased to have collaborated with our partner, Atos, whose comprehensive expertise has helped to further modernize our technology infrastructure,” said Sam Burns, Chief Information Officer, IGM Financial. “This achievement marks a significant milestone in our ongoing digital transformation journey that enables us to better serve the financial needs of Canadians while also improving the employee and advisor experience.”   

    Atos has longstanding relationships and expertise with leading public cloud companies, including Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud, allowing for customized digital approaches for its customers who seek various solutions. Last year, Atos announced its five-year partnership with Microsoft to drive digital transformation and empower businesses with advanced technologies, as well as shared plans to help clients across industries move to the cloud and facilitate their use of Azure OpenAI Service.

    With more than 19,500 cloud experts worldwide and four global cloud centers, Atos is a trusted advisor to provide transformation expertise at every stage of the cloud continuum, delivering on the promise of enabling business agility, continual optimization, innovation at speed and growth for its customers. Learn more at Cloud and Infrastructure – Atos.

    ***

    About Atos Group

    Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 72,000 employees and annual revenue of c. € 10 billion, operating in 68 countries under two brands — Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos is a SE (Societas Europaea) and listed on Euronext Paris.

    The purpose of Atos is to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

    Press contacts:

    Northern America: Maggie Wainscott | maggie.wainscott@atos.net

    Global: Isabelle Grangé | isabelle.grange@atos.net

    Attachment

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: BexBack Crypto Exchange Launches No KYC, 100x Leverage, and Double Deposit Bonus for Crypto Futures Trading

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SINGAPORE, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — With the price of Bitcoin (BTC) holding above $100,000 for a long time, many analysts are predicting that the cryptocurrency market will remain in a state of high volatility for a long time. Holding spot positions may struggle to generate short-term profits in such conditions. As a result, 100x leverage futures trading has become the preferred tool for seasoned investors looking to maximize potential gains in this volatile market. BexBack Exchange is ramping up its efforts to offer traders unmatched promotional packages. The platform now features a 100% deposit bonus, a $50 welcome bonus for new users, and 100x leverage on cryptocurrency trading, providing exceptional opportunities for investors.

    Advantages of 100x Leverage Crypto Futures

    1. Amplified Profits: Control large positions with a small amount of capital, capturing more profits from market fluctuations.
    2. Low Capital Requirement: Participate in high-value trades with minimal investment, lowering the entry barrier.
    3. Increased Market Opportunities: Profit quickly from price fluctuations, especially in volatile markets.
    4. High Capital Efficiency: Leverage enables better use of your capital, expanding your investment potential.
    5. Profit from Both Up and Down Markets: Adapt to any market conditions, with opportunities to profit whether the market goes up or down.

    What Is 100x Leverage and How Does It Work?

    Simply put, 100x leverage allows you to open larger trading positions with less capital. For example:

    Suppose the Bitcoin price is $100,000 that day, and you open a long contract with 1 BTC. After using 100x leverage, the transaction amount is equivalent to 100 BTC.

    One day later, if the price rises to $105,000, your profit will be (105,000 – 100,000) * 100 BTC / 100,000 = 5 BTC, a yield of up to 500%.

    With BexBack’s deposit bonus

    BexBack offers a 100% deposit bonus. If the initial investment is 2 BTC, the profit will increase to 10 BTC, and the return on investment will double to 1000%.

    Note: Although leveraged trading can magnify profits, you also need to be wary of liquidation risks.

    How Does the 100% Deposit Bonus Work?
    The deposit bonus from BexBack cannot be directly withdrawn but can be used to open larger positions and increase potential profits. Additionally, during significant market fluctuations, the bonus can serve as extra margin, effectively reducing the risk of liquidation.

    About BexBack?

    BexBack is a leading cryptocurrency derivatives platform offering up to 100x leverage on futures contracts for BTC, ETH, ADA, SOL, XRP, and over 50 other digital assets. Headquartered in Singapore, the platform also operates offices in Hong Kong, Japan, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Argentina. Like many top-tier exchanges, BexBack holds a U.S. MSB (Money Services Business) license and is trusted by more than 500,000 traders worldwide. The platform accepts users from the United States, Canada, and Europe, with zero deposit fees and 24/7 multilingual customer support, delivering a secure, efficient, and user-friendly trading experience.

    Why recommend BexBack?

    No KYC Required: Start trading immediately without complex identity verification.

    100% Deposit Bonus: Double your funds, double your profits.

    High-Leverage Trading: Offers up to 100x leverage, maximizing investors’ capital efficiency.

    Demo Account: Comes with 10 BTC in virtual funds, ideal for beginners to practice risk-free trading.

    Comprehensive Trading Options: Feature-rich trading available via Web and mobile applications.

    Convenient Operation: No slippage, no spread, and fast, precise trade execution.

    Global User Support: Enjoy 24/7 customer service, no matter where you are.

    Lucrative Affiliate Rewards: Earn up to 50% commission, perfect for promoters.

    Take Action Now—Don’t Miss Another Opportunity!

    If you missed the previous crypto bull run, this could be your chance. With BexBack’s 100x leverage and 100% deposit bonus and $50 bonus for new users (complete one trade within one week of registration), you can be a winner in the new bull run.

    Sign Up Now on BexBack — Break the 100x Leverage and KYC Barriers, Get Double Deposit Bonus and $50 Welcome Bonus Instantly

    Website: www.bexback.com

    Contact: business@bexback.com

    Contact:
    Amanda
    business@bexback.com

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

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

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at:

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7dfb4b28-6c1c-4807-b56a-9f0077e16f8a

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1715add7-36d6-4509-991e-e8f9c63d7013

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5cf81239-b590-4b4f-9a04-5e124230c593

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/1a763e64-1502-4c9b-9021-2bf71803e5cf

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Successful Overnight Offering

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    TORONTO, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Canadian Life Companies Split Corp. (“the Company”) is pleased to announce it has completed the overnight marketing of Preferred Shares (TSX: LFE.PR.B) and Class A Shares (TSX: LFE) of the Company. Total gross proceeds of the offering are expected to be approximately $40.0 million.

    The offering is being led by National Bank Financial Inc.

    The sales period of the overnight offering has now ended.

    The offering is expected to close on or about June 26, 2025 and is subject to certain closing conditions including approval by the TSX.

    The Preferred Shares were offered at a price of $10.55 per Preferred Share to yield 6.64% and the Class A Shares were offered at a price of $6.35 per Class A Share to yield 18.90%.

    The closing price on the TSX of each of the Preferred Shares and Class A Shares on June 18, 2025 was $10.70 and $6.50, respectively.

    The net proceeds of the offering will be used by the Company to invest in an actively managed portfolio primarily consisting of four publicly traded Canadian life insurance companies as follows: Great‐West Lifeco Inc., Industrial Alliance Insurance & Financial Services Inc., Manulife Financial Corporation and Sun Life Financial Inc.

    The Company’s investment objectives are:

    Preferred Shares:

    1. to provide holders of the Preferred Shares with fixed, cumulative preferential monthly cash dividends at a rate equal to the greater of: 7.00% OR Prime Rate plus 2% (max of 9%) annually based on the $10.00 original issue price, and;
    2. on or about December 1, 2030 (subject to further 6 year extensions), to pay the holders of the Preferred Shares the original $10 issue price of those shares.

    Class A Shares:

    1. to provide holders of the Class A Shares with regular monthly cash dividends as the directors of the Company may from time to time determine; and
    2. on or about December 1, 2030 (subject to further 6 year extensions), to pay the holders of Class A Shares such amounts as remain after paying the holders of the Preferred shares the amounts owing to them.

    A prospectus supplement to the Company’s short form base shelf prospectus dated May 1, 2024, containing important detailed information about the Preferred Shares and the Class A Shares being offered will be filed with securities commissions or similar authorities in all provinces of Canada. Copies of the prospectus supplement and the short form base shelf prospectus may be obtained from your registered financial advisor using the contact information for such advisor, or from representatives of the agents listed above. There will not be any sale or any acceptance of an offer to buy the securities being offered until the prospectus supplement has been filed with the Securities Commissions or similar authorities in each of the provinces of Canada.

    Investor Relations: 1-877-478-2372 Local: 416-304-4443 www.lifesplit.com info@quadravest.com 

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GPTBots Shines at Super AI: Empowering Enterprises to Meet the Next Wave of AI-Driven Transformation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Super AI, Asia’s largest AI event held in Singapore, GPTBots.ai emerged as a highlight among enterprise AI platforms. The event brought together global industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, all seeking practical, scalable AI solutions to accelerate digital transformation and maintain a competitive edge.

    Spotlighting Real Enterprise Needs
    Throughout the exhibition, GPTBots engaged with top-tier clients whose needs reflected the region’s most urgent business trends:

    • Banking: The bank’s corporate division sought AI assistants for their sales teams, aiming to automatically monitor client news, uncover hidden business opportunities, and intelligently match these with relevant internal products. This approach enables more timely, data-driven, and personalized client engagement—helping banks stay ahead in a dynamic market.
    • Consulting: A leading global consulting firm explored GPTBots to automate customer service, reduce operational costs, and maintain high-quality client support. Their goal was to leverage AI to handle routine inquiries, freeing up human experts for more complex, value-added tasks.
    • Hospitality: A major hotel systems integrator was interested in deploying AI agents to manage guest inquiries—from bookings to room service—and to automatically generate daily operational reports for hotel management, streamlining both customer experience and internal operations.

    How GPTBots Delivers
    GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform is designed for rapid, flexible deployment across industries:

    • Real-time Data Integration & Intelligent Matching: For banking, GPTBots enables AI agents to continuously scan news, financial data, and social media, surfacing actionable insights and matching them with the bank’s product suite.
    • Automated, 24/7 Customer Support: Consulting firms benefit from AI agents that resolve up to 90% of routine queries, ensuring consistent, high-quality service while reducing manual workload and costs.
    • Conversational AI & Automated Reporting: In hospitality, GPTBots powers seamless guest interactions and automates the creation and distribution of daily management reports, providing real-time operational insights.

    Driving the Future of Enterprise AI in Asia
    Super AI Singapore underscored the region’s growing demand for secure, adaptable, and industry-specific AI solutions. GPTBots is committed to bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and real business value—helping enterprises unlock new opportunities, boost efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

    About GPTBots.ai
    GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.

    To learn how GPTBots can accelerate your AI transformation, visit gptbots.ai.

    Media Contact:
    Tanya
    Marketing Director
    marketing@gptbots.ai

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b67ba9d7-360b-4607-a8b5-fd37bff23e82

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: GPTBots Shines at Super AI: Empowering Enterprises to Meet the Next Wave of AI-Driven Transformation

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    HONG KONG, June 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — At Super AI, Asia’s largest AI event held in Singapore, GPTBots.ai emerged as a highlight among enterprise AI platforms. The event brought together global industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, all seeking practical, scalable AI solutions to accelerate digital transformation and maintain a competitive edge.

    Spotlighting Real Enterprise Needs
    Throughout the exhibition, GPTBots engaged with top-tier clients whose needs reflected the region’s most urgent business trends:

    • Banking: The bank’s corporate division sought AI assistants for their sales teams, aiming to automatically monitor client news, uncover hidden business opportunities, and intelligently match these with relevant internal products. This approach enables more timely, data-driven, and personalized client engagement—helping banks stay ahead in a dynamic market.
    • Consulting: A leading global consulting firm explored GPTBots to automate customer service, reduce operational costs, and maintain high-quality client support. Their goal was to leverage AI to handle routine inquiries, freeing up human experts for more complex, value-added tasks.
    • Hospitality: A major hotel systems integrator was interested in deploying AI agents to manage guest inquiries—from bookings to room service—and to automatically generate daily operational reports for hotel management, streamlining both customer experience and internal operations.

    How GPTBots Delivers
    GPTBots’ enterprise-grade platform is designed for rapid, flexible deployment across industries:

    • Real-time Data Integration & Intelligent Matching: For banking, GPTBots enables AI agents to continuously scan news, financial data, and social media, surfacing actionable insights and matching them with the bank’s product suite.
    • Automated, 24/7 Customer Support: Consulting firms benefit from AI agents that resolve up to 90% of routine queries, ensuring consistent, high-quality service while reducing manual workload and costs.
    • Conversational AI & Automated Reporting: In hospitality, GPTBots powers seamless guest interactions and automates the creation and distribution of daily management reports, providing real-time operational insights.

    Driving the Future of Enterprise AI in Asia
    Super AI Singapore underscored the region’s growing demand for secure, adaptable, and industry-specific AI solutions. GPTBots is committed to bridging the gap between cutting-edge AI technology and real business value—helping enterprises unlock new opportunities, boost efficiency, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

    About GPTBots.ai
    GPTBots.ai is an enterprise AI agent platform that empowers businesses to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and drive growth. Offering end-to-end AI solutions across customer service, knowledge search, data analysis, and lead generation, GPTBots enables enterprises to harness the full potential of AI with ease. With seamless integration into various systems, and support for scalable, secure deployments, GPTBots is dedicated to reducing costs, accelerating growth, and helping businesses thrive in the AI era.

    To learn how GPTBots can accelerate your AI transformation, visit gptbots.ai.

    Media Contact:
    Tanya
    Marketing Director
    marketing@gptbots.ai

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b67ba9d7-360b-4607-a8b5-fd37bff23e82

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI USA: ICYMI: NY Times Opinion: “Senator Padilla: The Trump Administration Handcuffed Me, but I Refuse to Stay Silent”

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.)

    ICYMI: NY Times Opinion: “Senator Padilla: The Trump Administration Handcuffed Me, but I Refuse to Stay Silent”

    NY Times Op-Ed

    Padilla: “If this administration is willing to handcuff a U.S. senator, imagine what it is willing to do to any American who dares to speak up.”

    WASHINGTON, D.C. — In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Immigration Subcommittee, published an op-ed in the New York Times this morning following his forcible removal from Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem’s press conference, where he was thrown to the ground and handcuffed after attempting to ask a question.

    Padilla blasted President Trump’s unprecedented militarization of Los Angeles and warned against the immense consequences of the Trump Administration’s increasingly callous anti-immigrant rhetoric and actions, not only for hardworking immigrants essential to our communities and economy, but for the fundamental democratic rights of Americans across the country. He called Trump’s manufactured crisis in Los Angeles a “warning shot” and a “wake-up call” for his Republican colleagues and the American people to speak up against Trump’s egregious continued abuse of power.

    Key Excerpts:

    • If you watched what happened to me or Mr. Lander these past few days and thought this was about any one politician or altercation, you are missing the point. If this administration is willing to handcuff a U.S. senator, imagine what it is willing to do to any American who dares to speak up. If that’s what can happen when the cameras are on, imagine what is already happening in communities across the country when the cameras are off. Today, it’s immigrants on the receiving end of Donald Trump’s outrage machine. Tomorrow, it could be anyone.
    • As the proud son of immigrants from Mexico who came to California to pursue the American dream, I am living proof of the promise this country provides to all of us. Where else can the son of a housekeeper and a short-order cook become a senator? But I also know that America’s promise doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because throughout our history ordinary people have called out our country’s contradictions and called on the government to live up to the principles of equality established at our founding.
    • As we’ve seen in Los Angeles, public safety is not the point — the spectacle is. Americans are living through a historic moment of presidential overreach. With a cabinet of yes-men and underqualified attack dogs surrounding him — from the D.H.S. Secretary to the F.B.I. director to the secretary of defense — Mr. Trump is now testing the boundaries of his power. And he’s using the theatrics around his immigration policies to do it.
    • If you thought any of this administration’s theatrics in Los Angeles these past few weeks was truly about immigrants, it’s time to wake up. If federal troops can deploy to Los Angeles against the wishes of the governor, the mayor and even local law enforcement, they can do the same tomorrow in your hometown. This is a fundamental threat to the rule of law nationwide.
    • Democracy doesn’t fall from any one decision or any one attack. It falls from a thousand cuts that slowly erode our fundamental freedoms. It falls when good people see our democracy sliding backward but still choose to say nothing.
    • To any American wondering if democracy is lost or if they can ever make a difference, I’d say this: If the Trump administration was this scared of one senator with a question, imagine what the voices of tens of millions of Americans organizing will do. No one is coming to save us but us.

    Senator Padilla has been outspoken in calling out the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids in Los Angeles and Trump’s misguided deployment of the National Guard and U.S. Marine Corps. This past weekend, Padilla led the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in demanding that President Trump immediately withdraw all military forces from Los Angeles and cease all threats to deploy the National Guard or active-duty servicemembers to American cities. Last week, Padilla and Senator Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) demanded answers regarding the Trump Administration’s decision to deploy approximately 700 Marines to Los Angeles. Padilla has spoken at a spotlight hearing and on the Senate floor multiple times to blast President Trump for manufacturing a crisis by launching indiscriminate ICE raids across Los Angeles and deploying the National Guard and active-duty servicemembers to the region. He also joined all Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats earlier this week in calling on Chairman Grassley to schedule Department of Homeland Security Secretary Noem for a broad oversight hearing for testimony before the committee.

    Full text of Senator Padilla’s NY Times op-ed is available here and below:

    NY Times: Senator Padilla: The Trump Administration Handcuffed Me, but I Refuse to Stay Silent

    By U.S. Senator Alex Padilla

    Growing up in the northeast San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles in the 1980s and 90s, you know what can happen if you don’t completely cooperate with law enforcement.

    Even so, it was jarring last week when, despite clearly identifying myself as a U.S. senator, I was forcibly removed from a news conference at which Kristi Noem, the secretary of homeland security, promised to “liberate” Los Angeles from our democratically elected mayor and governor. As I was thrown to the ground, handcuffed and walked down a hall while officers refused to tell me why I was being detained, my mind raced with questions.

    Where are they taking me? Am I being arrested? What will a city already on edge from being militarized think when they see their senator has just been handcuffed?

    What will my wife and our three boys think?

    I imagined similar questions were running through the mind of Brad Lander, the New York City comptroller and mayoral candidate, this week when he, too, was handcuffed by federal agents for asking them whether they had a warrant to arrest a migrant he had locked arms with. Like me, Mr. Lander had the audacity to question the legitimacy of federal actions, only to find himself pushed against a wall and detained.

    If you watched what happened to me or Mr. Lander these past few days and thought this was about any one politician or altercation, you are missing the point.

    If this administration is willing to handcuff a U.S. senator, imagine what it is willing to do to any American who dares to speak up.

    If that’s what can happen when the cameras are on, imagine what is already happening in communities across the country when the cameras are off.

    Today, it’s immigrants on the receiving end of Donald Trump’s outrage machine. Tomorrow, it could be anyone.

    We have seen this playbook before. In fact, it’s what drew me to politics in the first place, back in 1994. I had just earned my mechanical engineering degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with my sights set on a lucrative career in engineering, but life had a different plan for me. I returned home from school to find hateful TV ads and a statewide ballot called Proposition 187, a proposal targeting immigrant families and communities like mine. It was the result of a Republican governor who was up for re-election and who had turned to scapegoating immigrants to try to improve his declining political standing.

    As the proud son of immigrants from Mexico who came to California to pursue the American dream, I am living proof of the promise this country provides to all of us. Where else can the son of a housekeeper and a short-order cook become a senator? But I also know that America’s promise doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because throughout our history ordinary people have called out our country’s contradictions and called on the government to live up to the principles of equality established at our founding.

    And so I got involved. Alongside friends and family, I marched against the vile anti-immigrant rhetoric that was growing in California. Because of the movement that started in the 1990s, a generation of diverse leaders have come of age in California. Today, we celebrate immigrants — knowing full well that California has become the fourth-largest economy in the world, not despite our immigrants but because of them.

    So when Mr. Trump began to face a groundswell of criticism a few weeks ago for his unpopular Medicaid cuts, failed tariff wars and embarrassing public breakup with a billionaire adviser, I suspected that it wouldn’t be long before he broke out the same tired anti-immigrant tactics to distract the public. Raids intensified, detentions skyrocketed and Mr. Trump’s narrative of crisis escalated in the hopes of diverting attention from his political failures.

    If the administration were primarily targeting dangerous criminals, as some White House officials have claimed, there would be no debate. But new reporting shows that less than 10 percent of immigrants taken into ICE custody since October have serious criminal convictions. They may be undocumented, but who are they? Oftentimes, they’re hardworking cooks, day laborers, carwash employees, farmworkers and construction workers. Many are the same people Mr. Trump declared essential workers during the Covid-19 pandemic.

    But as we’ve seen in Los Angeles, public safety is not the point — the spectacle is. Americans are living through a historic moment of presidential overreach. With a cabinet of yes-men and underqualified attack dogs surrounding him — from the D.H.S. Secretary to the F.B.I. director to the secretary of defense — Mr. Trump is now testing the boundaries of his power. And he’s using the theatrics around his immigration policies to do it.

    That’s why when Angelenos gathered to protest these injustices, the administration labeled them “insurrectionists,” deliberately twisting dissent into something dangerous to use as a pretext for repression.

    So if you thought any of this administration’s theatrics in Los Angeles these past few weeks was truly about immigrants, it’s time to wake up. If federal troops can deploy to Los Angeles against the wishes of the governor, the mayor and even local law enforcement, they can do the same tomorrow in your hometown. This is a fundamental threat to the rule of law nationwide.

    What’s happening in Los Angeles is a warning shot. But I pray it can also be a wake-up call — for my Republican Senate colleagues who have stayed silent in the face of their colleague’s handcuffing, but also for Americans of every stripe who think they’re insulated from Mr. Trump’s power grabs because they’re not immigrants or because they’re not from a blue state.

    Democracy doesn’t fall from any one decision or any one attack. It falls from a thousand cuts that slowly erode our fundamental freedoms. It falls when good people see our democracy sliding backward but still choose to say nothing.

    Even as I’ve seen the authoritarian instincts of this administration up close, I know America is not past saving. True liberation doesn’t come through military occupation. It comes through democratic participation — participation like what we saw this past weekend, when millions of Americans came out to protest this administration’s abuse of power.

    To any American wondering if democracy is lost or if they can ever make a difference, I’d say this: If the Trump administration was this scared of one senator with a question, imagine what the voices of tens of millions of Americans organizing will do. No one is coming to save us but us.

    MIL OSI USA News –